Chili Cook-Off Rolls Back Boozy Update

Drinks will stay confined to the Beer Garden, after all.

August 5, 2026

Just a month after the city approved a broader consumption area at this year's Malibu Chili Cook-Off, the old alcohol rules are back.

Event organizers reversed course on a plan that would have allowed alcohol throughout the event grounds for the first time in the fair's 44 years, city staff told the Planning Commission recently.

Instead, the event will revert to its previous setup. Beer and wine can be purchased and consumed only within the fenced Beer Garden, with security stationed at its entrance and exit.

The Planning Commission approved an expanded drinking plan in June, after some debate with organizers over underage drinking and crowd safety.

The rollback required no new vote, after the city's Community Development Director determined the scaled-back plan conformed with the fair's existing permit.

The Cook-Off returns to Civic Center Way over Labor Day weekend, September 5–7, with the carnival opening September 4.