Each September, the air around Payson, Arizona, fills with the enticing aromas of smoked meats and spicy chili, inviting adventurers and food lovers alike to the Rim Country BBQ & Chili Cookoff. Set against the backdrop of tall Ponderosa pines and crisp mountain air, this event blends culinary competition with a vibrant community experience. Beyond simply tasting, visitors engage with fiery pits where grills relentlessly warm, and chili pots bubble like small cauldrons calling challengers to take a sip.

The event takes place in Green Valley Park, a broad, open space that offers easy access and plenty of seating, suitable for both families and seasoned contest-goers. Expect a festival atmosphere where music and laughter play off the crackle of wood fires. More than 40 teams participate, each eager to earn bragging rights and trophies, representing a variety of barbecue styles—from Texas beef brisket to Arizona-style pork ribs—and chili recipes that range from mild to aggressively hot.

Planning your visit? Keep in mind the event spans two days, with peak activity and tasting opportunities on Saturday. Arriving early allows you to see chefs firing up smokers and stirring chili pots, giving a glimpse into the labor behind every bite. Comfortable footwear is recommended; the area covers uneven grassy terrain that can be slick with early morning dew or after a light rain.

Hydration is key too—Arizona autumns still carry warmth, and sampling smoky, salty dishes alongside spicy chili can quickly parch the throat. Vendors do offer drinks, but bringing a refillable water bottle will keep you steady and ready for more rounds.

For those looking to make a full day of it, several local trails wind nearby, inviting a balance of smoky indulgence and outdoor exercise. The nearby Tonto National Forest stretches wide, its trees stretching tall and rivers pushing forward, daring hikers to explore. Whether you stay within the festival zone or chase longer adventures, the Rim Country BBQ & Chili Cookoff delivers a grounded, energetic taste of Arizona’s outdoor and culinary culture.

Come equipped to engage—with your appetite, your camera, and your spirit. The experience rewards curiosity and a readiness to savor each fiery and smoky flavor while sharing community energy that pulses as strongly as the coals beneath the grills.