The 13th Annual Checotah Chili Cook-Off is firing up competition to compete on Saturday, Feb. 29 at the Checotah Senior Citizen’s Center.

This year’s cook-off starts at 5 p.m. and will benefit the Heartland Heritage Museum and Gallery.

The cost is only $6 at the door and that gets you a ticket for the drawing of a weekend getaway in Mena, AR and all the chili you can eat. Plus you get to vote on People’s Choice.

If you want to compete, there’s still time to register. The entry fee is $20. Each entry will have one six-eight foot table provided with two chairs. Entry deadline is Feb. 26.

There will be six different cash prizes for the best chili contestants.

First place will receive $500, a plaque, and some serious bragging rights.

Second place will receive $250 and a ribbon, and third place will receive $100 plus a ribbon.

People’s Choice will receive $250, a ribbon, and bragging rights too.

The Best Table Decor will also win cash prizes of $200 for first and $100 for second place.

Everyone is encouraged to come join the fun, eat some unforgettable chili and enjoy some great fellowship.

Frankie Blagg, curator of the Heartland Heritage Museum and Gallery since 2009, has coordinated the Chili Cook-Off for the past 13 years and she makes sure to round up the best cooks in the county.

If that’s not enough, try your luck on the raffle for a Henry lever action 410 shotgun rifle. Tickets are on sale now $1 each or six for $5. Tickets are available through the Checotah Chamber of Commerce, the McIntosh County Democrat and Frankie Blagg.

Chili Cook-Off t-shirts and hoodies will be available to purchase and there will be an auction too, so don’t miss this exciting event.

For more information or to register call Jerri 918-473-2070 or Frankie 918-916-9015.