Quick Info
When: Third weekend in September (typically). Where: Downtown Pueblo, Riverwalk area. Admission: Free. Attendance: 100,000+ visitors. Must-do: Watch chile roasting, try a slopper.
The Chile & Frijoles Festival is Pueblo's signature event, a celebration of the Pueblo chile harvest that draws over 100,000 visitors each September. The festival transforms downtown into a massive outdoor food fair, with the smell of roasting chiles permeating the air.
For one weekend, Pueblo becomes the chile capital of Colorado. It's the best time to experience the city's unique food culture in one concentrated dose.
What to Expect
Chile roasting: The main attraction. Multiple roasting stations tumble fresh peppers in large rotating drums over flames. The sight and smell define the festival. You can buy freshly roasted chiles by the bushel to take home.
Food vendors: Dozens of booths serve chile-centric dishes - green chile stew, chile rellenos, sloppers, and creative variations. This is the time to sample everything.
Cooking competitions: Local chefs and home cooks compete in salsa, green chile, and other categories. Watching (and tasting) is part of the fun.
Live entertainment: Multiple stages feature music throughout the weekend. Local bands, regional acts, and headliners perform.
Arts and crafts: Vendors sell chile-themed art, pottery, and crafts alongside the food.
Food to Try
- Green chile stew (every vendor has their version)
- Slopper (Pueblo's signature dish)
- Chile rellenos
- Smothered burritos
- Chile-infused everything: ice cream, chocolate, beer
Come hungry. Plan to eat your way through the festival over several hours.
Tips for Visiting
Arrive early: Parking fills up. Morning crowds are smaller if you want to eat without long lines.
Bring cash: Many vendors are cash-only. ATMs are available but have lines.
Wear comfortable shoes: You'll walk a lot on pavement.
Pace yourself: Don't fill up at the first booth. Sample widely.
Buy chiles to take home: Freshly roasted chiles freeze well. Stock up for the year.
Stay overnight: Hotels fill up - book in advance if you want to stay in Pueblo. See our lodging guide.
Getting There
The festival centers on downtown Pueblo near the Riverwalk. Street parking fills early; shuttles run from remote lots. The festival is about 2 hours from Denver via I-25. See our transportation guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is admission free?
Yes, the festival grounds are free to enter. You pay for food and drinks.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, it's a community event with activities for all ages. Kids' areas and entertainment are included.
How spicy is the food?
Pueblo chile is milder than Hatch, but there's still heat. Ask vendors about spice levels - they'll guide you.
Can I buy fresh chiles to take home?
Yes, that's a big part of the festival. Buy freshly roasted chiles by the bushel to freeze for the year.