Labor Day in Malibu: The Chili Cook-Off Returns for 2026

June 26, 2026

Malibu Labor Day Weekend

Labor Day in Malibu: The Chili Cook-Off Returns for 2026

After a year away, one of Malibu’s most beloved traditions returns with great food, live music, local favorites, and a renewed purpose: supporting the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu.

For more than four decades, Labor Day Weekend in Malibu has meant one thing: the Malibu Chili Cook-Off.

This year, the iconic event returns September 4–7, 2026 after taking a year off while the community focused on recovery following the Palisades and Franklin Fires. Its return feels bigger than a festival. It feels like a celebration of resilience, community, and everything that makes Malibu feel like home.

With chili tastings, carnival rides, live music, local vendors, and more than 20,000 guests expected across four days, the Cook-Off remains one of Malibu’s most anticipated annual events, but this year, it carries even more meaning.

When

September 4–7, 2026

Where

23575 Civic Center Way, Malibu

Why It Matters

100% of net proceeds support BGCM

Come Hungry: Local Restaurants Are Bringing the Flavor

Of course, it would not be the Malibu Chili Cook-Off without the chili. This year’s lineup includes returning favorites, new competitors, and local names that make the event especially fun for food lovers.

Returning Favorites

Duke’s Malibu, Irv’s Burgers, Pickles N Peas, and three-time champion The Chili Preppers are among the familiar names returning to the competition.

New This Year

Tacos 1986, Dreamland Chili, and Clark’s Malibu Oyster Bar are joining the Cook-Off lineup, bringing even more variety to the weekend.

Guests can expect meat, vegan, and People’s Choice competitions, making it easy to taste your way through the event and root for your favorite.

More than a chili competition, this year’s Cook-Off is a community homecoming.

What to Expect Beyond the Chili

The Malibu Chili Cook-Off has grown into one of Malibu’s biggest end-of-summer celebrations. It is the kind of event where you come for a quick bite and end up staying until sunset. Whether you are bringing the kids, meeting friends, or making a full day of it, there is something happening around every corner.

Entertainment

Live Music

Enjoy performances throughout the weekend on the brand-new Aviator Nation Dreamland Stage while soaking in Malibu’s coastal atmosphere.

Family Fun

Carnival Rides

From classic rides to midway games, the carnival has become one of the Cook-Off’s most loved traditions for visitors of every age.

Malibu Culture

Skate Contest

Watch talented skaters compete in the Johnny Strange Legacy Skate Contest, a tribute to one of Malibu’s most adventurous hometown heroes.

Shopping

Local Vendors

Browse local artists, boutique retailers, lifestyle brands, food vendors, and unique small businesses from Malibu and beyond.

20K+

Expected Visitors

4

Days of Festivities

40+

Years of Tradition

100%

Net Proceeds Benefit BGCM

Local Finds to Look For

One of the best parts of the Malibu Chili Cook-Off is discovering the mix of local businesses, makers, and California lifestyle brands that show up each year.

This year’s event is expected to feature names like Aviator Nation, Outerknown, Mercado Sagrado, Malibu Suns, Dayme Cosmetics, Sure Good Soft Serve, LaCroix, and more.

Local Tip

If you plan to ride the carnival rides, arrive earlier in the day. Friday evening and Saturday night are often some of the busiest windows for entry, rides, and food lines.

The Heart Behind the Weekend

While the food and entertainment make the Cook-Off fun, the mission is what makes it meaningful. Net proceeds support the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu and its work across three important pillars.

Long-Term Disaster Recovery

Helping provide individualized, trauma-informed recovery support for Malibu families, individuals, and community members.

No-Cost Mental Health Services

Supporting access to mental health care, wellness resources, and social-emotional support.

Youth Programs

Funding after-school programs and summer camps for TK through 12th-grade students in Malibu.

Insider Ticket Note

A Special Local Ticket Is Available for a Limited Time

A $49 local ticket, valid for all four days, is available for a limited time at Aviator Nation Dreamland. Aviator Nation is also offering a gift with purchase while supplies last.

Support the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu

Want to Help Beyond the Cook-Off?

The Boys & Girls Club of Malibu continues to support local youth, families, and community recovery through after-school programs, mental health services, and long-term disaster recovery efforts.

Click Here to Donate Visit BGCM Website

Celebrate Malibu. Support the community. Keep the tradition alive.

Learn more and purchase tickets through the official Malibu Chili Cook-Off website.