It all started as a Sigma Alpha Epsilon charity fundraiser at Texas A&M University. Today, Chilifest is one of the most anticipated annual events in the Brazos Valley, drawing in tens of thousands of people plus some of country music’s top performers. In fact, Miller Lite now sponsors the event and even creates a specially-designed can just for Chilifest. But just because Chilifest has gone big-time doesn’t mean it has strayed from its charitable roots. All Chilifest proceeds still benefit the surrounding communities, and the last few years alone have brought in over $1.5 million.

The festivities take place each April in the Starlight Ballroom in Snook, Texas (just 20 minutes outside of College Station). Of course the Starlight Ballroom is actually just 15 acres of pastureland, perfect for the biggest party of the season. Teams compete in a chili cook-off, which is judged on Saturday morning on taste alone (no points for presentation here), and performers take the stage on Friday night and all day on Saturday.

Past musical lineups at Chilifest have included Willie Nelson, Dwight Yoakam, Pat Green, Roger Creager, Corey Morrow and Jack Ingram—just to name a few.

This event sells out fast, so if you’re planning on attending, get your tickets early!