The seventh annual Chili Cook-Off takes place in downtown Vernon Saturday.
The event, sponsored by Kiss FM and the Downtown Vernon Association, runs from noon to 3 p.m.
“This year will set the record for the most chili’s in the downtown Vernon Chili Cook-Off,” said Hailey Rilkoff, with the DVA.
“There are nine competitors serving up 14 different chili recipes, as some competitors are entering two chilis.”
Competing for the title of best chili in 2016 are Earls, EATology, Grillers Meats, the Kal Sports Bar, Marten Brew Pub, the Naked Pig, Poohs & Beans, Station BBQ and the Sprouted Fig.
“All of Vernon is invited to be a judge for the People’s Choice Best Chili and Chili Spirit awards, while a group of guest judges, including the mayor and the Canadian chili champion, will be out conducting official judging for the Judge’s Choice Best Chili award,” said Rilkoff.
The 2015 winners were Station BBQ for Peoples and Judge’s Choice and Poohs & Beans for Chili Spirit.
Passports for the Chili Cook-Off are $2 each, and can be purchased at the Downtown Vernon Association, Vernon Winter Carnival Society or any participating restaurants.
“Only 400 Chili Cook-Off passports are available for sale so get yours before they sell out,” said Rilkoff.
“All proceeds from passport sales will be donated to the community kitchen program run by the Food Action Society of the North Okanagan.”
For more information, call 250-542-5851 or visit www.downtownvernon.com.