ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The New Mexico State Fair is now accepting applications for its annual Original Green Chile Cheeseburger Challenge, a competition that highlights one of the state’s most iconic foods.
Restaurants interested in competing have until noon on July 17 to submit their applications. Fair officials say eight restaurants will be selected to compete for the title of New Mexico State Fair Green Chile Cheeseburger Champion.
The competition is scheduled for Sept. 14 on North Main Street during the 2026 New Mexico State Fair.
State Fair General Manager Dan Mourning said the event has become a long-standing tradition and showcases the green chile cheeseburger’s place in New Mexico culture.
“New Mexico is world famous for our green chile cheeseburgers and the State Fair is home to the Original Green Chile Cheeseburger Challenge,” Mourning said in a statement.
The annual contest brings together restaurants from across the state to prepare their signature burgers for judges and fairgoers. The event has become one of the fair’s most popular culinary attractions.
The challenge is open to established brick-and-mortar restaurants in New Mexico.
More information, including contest rules and application details, is available on the New Mexico State Fair website.
