The Pueblo chile is iconic. In fact, it’s considered to be one of the most famous crops grown in Colorado. These peppers have a distinctive flavor and range from mild to very hot. They have a meaty flesh and thick skin that makes them perfect for roasting. These unique chiles have helped shape Colorado’s food scene, making green chili one of the most popular and traditional dishes found in our state.
Chiles and Pinto Beans
“The Pueblo Chile & Frijoles Festival was started in 1994 by Rod Slyhoff, then-CEO of the greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce, along with partners of the community, to pay homage to our agricultural roots and to elevate the brand of the Pueblo chile,” says Donielle Kitzman of the Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce. “It was one block long with one farmer, Pete Giadone, who agreed to roast the Pueblo chiles. Thirty years later, it is over ten blocks long with six local farmers, two hundred vendors, four entertainment stages, and 150,000 attendees over three days.”
Along with the Pueblo chile, the festival celebrates another major crop grown in Pueblo: pinto beans. The addition of pinto beans sets the event apart from other chile festivals across the country. According to Colorado Proud, Colorado is ranked ninth nationally in dry bean production.
“Chile and beans are the peanut butter and jelly of Pueblo,” Kitzman says. “’Don’t Forget the Frijole’ social media campaign celebrates the pinto bean and use in our local cuisine.”
Local Cuisine, Artists, Musicians and a Farmer’s Market
The three-day festival celebrates local heritage and traditions. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy a taste of Pueblo that includes local cuisine, artists, musicians and a farmer’s market. There are scheduled events including a jalapeño eating contest, chihuahua parade, chile and salsa competition, and hot-air balloon festival. The complete schedule of events and ticket information can be found in the links following this article.
“You have not fully experienced Colorado if you have not come to the 'spicer side' of the state," Kitzman says. "Colorado is not just beautiful mountains, but it is also the people, plains, rivers, farms, traditions, food and fun.”
Website: https://pueblochilefestival.com/
Instagram @VisitPueblo
Facebook @PuebloChileFestival