Anything goes in the fourth annual Chilly Chili Cook-Off sponsored by Champions Made From Adversity this year. Contestants, who can compete as individuals or as businesses, are free to throw in everything but the kitchen sink when they compete for prizes in the chili contest. Contestants also can win people’s choice awards and showmanship prizes for the best-decorated booths.

This year competitors also can enter their favorite recipes in two new categories – Soups and Stews as well as Cornbread. In addition, local vendors will be on hand to sell goods such as coffee, hot chocolate and desserts.

“We’ll have something for everyone,” says CMFA’s Kelly Garcia.

Patrons can sample chili, soups, stews and cornbread to select the people’s choice winners. They can cast their votes by placing money in a provided jar. Contestants also are encouraged to rally financial support prior to the cook-off or come up with other creative ways to raise funds. Competitors should bring at least 5 gallons of chili, soup or stew and 200 1-inch pieces (about two 13-by-9-inch pans) of cornbread.

Entertainment will include a warrior art exhibition, a wheelchair basketball expo, a free throw contest for adults and children, a performance by Center Stage Dance Academy, raffles and a selfie photo contest.

“We want to raise awareness about disabilities,” Garcia says. “People with disabilities do everything you do. They just have to do it in a different way.”

If You Go: 
What: Chilly Chili Cook-off
When: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday, January 24
Where: Evans Towne Center Park
How Much: $5; free for children 12 and under
More Info: (706) 364-2422 or cmfa.us