Celebrate 50 years of chili, craft beer, classic cars, live music, and family fun at the Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off in Conejo Valley.
The Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off, Car Show & Craft Brew Festival is one of the Conejo Valley's most popular annual events. Held at Conejo Creek North, located at 1379 East Janss Road in Thousand Oaks, this family-friendly festival brings together chili lovers, craft beer enthusiasts, classic car fans, and local families for a day of entertainment and community spirit.
As the event celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2027, attendees can look forward to another exciting year of award-winning chili, live music, local craft breweries, classic automobiles, food vendors, and activities for all ages.
Photo by Artur Kornakov on Unsplash
A Long-Standing Conejo Valley Tradition
For nearly five decades, the Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off has been a signature community event benefiting local charities throughout the Conejo Valley. Organized by the Rotary Club of Thousand Oaks and supported by hundreds of volunteers, the event has raised significant funds for local nonprofit organizations while providing a fun and affordable experience for residents and visitors alike.
What began as a local chili competition has evolved into one of Ventura County's premier annual festivals, attracting thousands of attendees each year.
What to Expect at the Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off
Chili Competition
The heart of the event is the chili competition, featuring dozens of chili teams serving a variety of recipes. Visitors can sample traditional beef chili, spicy competition-style chili, unique specialty recipes, and other creative entries from experienced cooks and first-time competitors alike.
The event is sanctioned by the International Chili Society (ICS), giving competitors an opportunity to qualify for higher-level chili championships.
Craft Brew Festival
Beer enthusiasts can enjoy a wide selection of craft beers from local and regional breweries. The Craft Brew Festival has become one of the most popular attractions of the event, offering attendees the opportunity to discover new breweries and sample a variety of styles.
Classic & Custom Car Show
The car show features an impressive collection of classic cars, hot rods, muscle cars, custom vehicles, trucks, Corvettes, and specialty vehicles. Many attendees consider it one of the best car shows in Ventura County, with vehicles ranging from vintage classics to unique movie and television cars.
Live Entertainment
Festival guests can enjoy live music throughout the day on multiple stages featuring local bands and musicians performing a variety of musical styles.
Family Activities
Families with children will find plenty to enjoy, including a free Kid Zone featuring bounce houses, obstacle courses, slides, face painting, and other activities designed for younger visitors.
Attendance and Community Impact
The Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off attracts thousands of attendees annually and continues to be one of the Conejo Valley's most successful fundraising events. Proceeds support local charities and community organizations, helping fund programs and services that benefit residents throughout the region.
Location
Conejo Creek North
1379 East Janss Road
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
The park provides ample space for the chili competition, car show, craft brew festival, live entertainment, food vendors, and family activities.
Directions
From U.S. Highway 101, take the Moorpark Road exit and head south. Turn left onto Janss Road and continue east toward Conejo Creek North. The event venue is located adjacent to Highway 23 and is well-marked on event day.
Planning Your Visit
Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance when available and arrive early to enjoy the full range of activities. Popular chili tasting booths and craft beer vendors often attract longer lines later in the day.
Before attending, check the official event website for the latest event dates, ticket information, brewery participation, entertainment schedules, vendor announcements, and car show registration details.
Why You Should Attend
Whether you're a chili enthusiast, craft beer fan, car collector, or simply looking for a fun family event in Ventura County, the Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off, Car Show & Craft Brew Festival offers something for everyone. With great food, live entertainment, community involvement, and a long-standing tradition of supporting local charities, it's one of the most anticipated annual events in the Conejo Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thousand Oaks Chili Cook Off
When is the Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off?
The Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off is typically held annually in the spring at Conejo Creek North in Thousand Oaks, California. Check the official event website for current dates and schedules.
Where is the Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off held?
The event takes place at Conejo Creek North, located at 1379 E. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362.
How much are tickets to the Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off?
Ticket prices vary from year to year. Children may receive discounted or free admission depending on the event's current policies. Visit the official event website for the latest ticket information.
Is the Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off family friendly?
Yes. The event offers activities for all ages, including a Kid Zone with games, bounce houses, face painting, and family entertainment.
Can I sample chili at the event?
Yes. Attendees can sample a variety of chili recipes prepared by competing teams, ranging from traditional recipes to unique specialty creations.
What breweries participate in the Craft Brew Festival?
The brewery lineup changes each year and typically includes local and regional craft breweries from throughout Southern California.
What types of vehicles are featured in the car show?
The car show features classic cars, muscle cars, hot rods, custom vehicles, trucks, Corvettes, and specialty automobiles.
Does the event support local charities?
Yes. Proceeds from the Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off help support local charities and community organizations throughout the Conejo Valley.
Is parking available at the Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off?
Parking is generally available near the event venue. Visitors should review event-day parking instructions and arrive early for the best parking options.
Can I bring my dog to the Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off?
Pet policies may vary by year and venue regulations. Check the official event website before bringing pets to the event.
How do I enter the chili competition?
Chili cooks can register through the event organizers. Competition categories and registration requirements are typically announced before the event.
What should I bring to the Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, cash or credit cards for vendors, and a reusable water bottle are recommended for a more enjoyable experience.