International Chili Society Announces Casino Arizona as Official Host for the 59th World Championship Chili Cook-off

SCOTTSDALE, AZ – (June 19, 2026) – The International Chili Society (ICS) today announced that Casino Arizona has been selected to host the 59th World Championship Chili Cook-off® (WCCC) on January 14-17, 2027. Casino Arizona, an enterprise of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, is one of the Southwest's leading entertainment and hospitality destinations.

Along with its sister property, Talking Stick Resort, Casino Arizona offers a world-class combination of gaming, dining, accommodations, and live entertainment. The partnership establishes an exciting new home for the world's most prestigious chili competition, bringing together championship-level culinary talent and one of the region's most respected destination brands for an unforgettable celebration of chili and community.

The announcement follows ICS's January commitment to return the World Championship Chili Cook-off to a standalone format, providing the world's most accomplished chili cooks with a dedicated championship experience focused entirely on the traditions, competition, and community that have defined Chili Nation for nearly six decades.

The move to Arizona reflects extensive feedback from competitors, judges, organizers, and partners who expressed a desire for a western destination with favorable winter weather, strong accessibility, and a deep appreciation for southwestern food culture.

"From the beginning of this process, we listened carefully to the voices of Chili Nation," said Mike McCloud, President of the International Chili Society. "The overwhelming message was clear: our cooks wanted a destination that celebrated the heritage of championship chili while creating new opportunities for fellowship, competition, and growth. The Phoenix and Scottsdale area delivers all of that and more."

“Casino Arizona is honored to welcome the World Championship Chili Cook-off,” said Don Ayers, Chief Executive Officer of Casino Arizona. “Bringing people together is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re excited to showcase our unmatched entertainment and hospitality offerings while creating an unforgettable experience for every guest.”

For generations, the American Southwest has been synonymous with bold flavors, outdoor gatherings, and culinary traditions that helped shape the story of chili itself. Now, the region will welcome hundreds of qualified cooks, judges, volunteers, sponsors, and chili enthusiasts from across the United States and beyond as they compete for World Championship honors and a share of the coveted prize purse.

“The World Championship Chili Cook-off is a natural fit for our property, said Trenni Martinez, General Manager of Casino Arizona. “We pride ourselves on offering our guests a variety of entertainment experiences, and from the excitement of the competition to the camaraderie among guests, this event has something for everyone.”

The four-day event will feature the world's best competitors battling in ICS-sanctioned championship categories (Homestyle, Traditional Red, Veggie, and Verde). As previously announced, People’s Choice sampling and fan engagement will once again be a centerpiece of the event, welcoming chili fans back to taste, vote, and celebrate alongside the world’s top cooks. Additional details regarding programming, registration timelines, lodging options, and special events will be announced throughout the summer and fall.

The return to a standalone championship format represents a significant milestone for the organization. After successfully showcasing chili competition alongside the World Food Championships in Indianapolis during the 58^th World Championship Chili Cook-off, ICS leadership determined that the time was right to once again place the spotlight squarely on the cooks and traditions that have fueled the organization since its inception.

Founded in 1967, the International Chili Society has sanctioned thousands of cook-offs, helped charitable organizations raise millions of dollars, and crowned world champions across multiple chili categories. Today, the organization remains the premier sanctioning body for championship chili competition worldwide.

The countdown to WCCC59 has officially begun, and Chili Nation is headed west.

Competitors, partners, and fans of Food Sport can stay up to date on all things related to the World Championship Chili Cook-off by visiting eatgreatchili.com. They can also follow the International Chili Society/World Championship Chili Cook-Offs on Facebook and Instagram (@icschili and @worldchampionshipchilicookoff).

About the International Chili Society

Legendary race car driver and automotive icon Carroll Shelby started the International Chili Society (ICS) in 1967 as a fun way to compete against his friends. Today, ICS sanctions more than 100 events a year nationwide with one mission – to continuously celebrate chili while raising money for charities and nonprofits. More than $100 million has been raised for charities by ICS over the past five decades and has been bringing people together over one of America's greatest culinary creations. For more information, visit eatgreatchili.com.

About Casino Arizona

Located in Scottsdale, Arizona at the Loop 101 Freeway and McKellips Road, Casino Arizona is independently owned and operated by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community; and

offers visitors more than 100,000 square feet devoted to gaming and entertainment. Call (480)

850-7734 or visit www.casinoarizona.com for more information.

###

For media inquiries, please contact:

Michael Hand

Chief Marketing Officer, World Food Championships Holdings

Phone: 585.348.1287, Email: mhand@worldfoodchampionships.com