SAN ANTONIO – A tradition with roots stretching back more than a century is set for a milestone year as The Chili Queens Chili Cook-Off marks its 18th anniversary.
Organizers say the Chili Queen tradition dates back more than 100 years and is tied to San Antonio’s cultural history.
The event runs from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, April 19, at The Bonham Exchange. The event is open to the public.
The event is put on by The Happy Foundation, named after San Antonio “mover and shaker” Arthur “Hap” Veltman. The foundation’s mission includes preserving history while giving back to the community.
The Happy Foundation has also collected an extensive LGBTQ+ archive, which it says helps safeguard important stories and milestones.
This year’s cook-off will be hosted at the Bonham Exchange, a venue with its own historic ties.
Organizers say the Bonham Exchange was once one of the first USO clubs, and that the cook-off continues a legacy of service by benefiting local charities.
Admission to the event is free. More information can be found on the Fiesta San Antonio Website, as well as the Bonham Exchange website.
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Bonham Exchange said it aims to be an inclusive space. “At the Bonham Exchange, we strive to not only provide a safe venue for music and dancing but to change with the times,” the venue said. “We hope to expose people to new ideas and to maintain a space where ALL individuals can get along and enjoy each other’s company, regardless of sex, race, ethnicity, age, or sexual orientation.”