The annual Carlo Creek Chili Cook-Off
is an event held at McKinley Creekside Cabins & Café. located approximately 15 minutes south of Denali National Park on the banks of Carlo Creek. The event features live music, dancing, a bonfire, and a chili competition followed by a chili feed. Serving beer, wine, and Creek Cider.
This community event coincides with the opening weekend of McKinley Creekside Cabins. Both locals and visitors come together and celebrate the start of the season.
25th Annual Carlo Creek Chili Cook-Off! Saturday May 17th, 2025
Come up to Denali opening weekend for a fun time with live music, bonfire, beer, wine, and featuring our own Creek Cider! There will be dancing and a chili feed.
Must enter chili (any kind) to win, but not to have a great time. SPECIAL discounted rates starting May 16th!
Come for the party and stay for the park!
Friday-May 16th-Drive to Denali and have dinner at the Creekside Cafe' Prime Rib Dinner Special!
Saturday May 17th (Cafe Hours 7am-2pm, we close at 2pm to set up for the cook-off)
Drive into the park to Teklanika-mile 30 in your own car! *Special access into the park before the tours start thru May 19th.
Visit the DNP dog kennels open 9am-4pm / kennel demo at 2pm.
Take a hike on one of the many groomed trails in the park or book a guided hike.
5pm-Contestants bring your chili!!
6pm-Judging begins, bonfire and happy hour.
7pm-Chili serving beer/wine, live music & dancing,
Sunday May 18th
Breakfast and brunch served 7am-2pm, Lunch 2pm-5pm, Dinner 5pm-9pm
Late Check out at 11am available.
Contestant info:
5PM-6PM: Bring your chili! & Happy Hour
6PM: Judging Begins!
Each entry gets two drink tickets!
Grand prize for best chili!
No cost to enter, just extra chili for the feed!
Bring condiments for the feed after judging if you like