Rimbey Elementary School’s annual Chili Cook Off is coming up on Sept. 21.

“We have 21 businesses that have entered, which is almost double what they’ve had in the past,” said Kelly Leblanc, organizer of this year’s event.

Local businesses bring down a pot of chili, serving up samples to those in the community.

“We sell sample cups and people just sample it and vote on their favourite,” said Leblanc, adding that the top three chilis are awarded a trophy, sponsored by Alberta Laser Engraving.

The refillable chili bowl is $5 along with a ticket, and smokies, hot dogs, pie and beverages will also be available for purchase.

People will receive a ticket with their chili, and at the end will have the opportunity to put their ticket in their favourite chili.

Tickets are also separated, so kids get a different colour for the Kids Choice Awards, while adults get one for the Adults Choice Award.

This year the money raised will go toward purchasing a large covered sandbox structure at Rimbey Elementary School to provide shade and beautify their existing sand pits.

The event will run from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at PasKaPoo Park.

They will also be collecting donations of new, unused stuffed animals to give to pediatric patients at the Rimbey Hospital.