HILLMAN — Whether it is chili that makes your eyes water or a mild but delicious blend, the 11th annual Hillman VFW Chili Cook-off will provide a variety of chilis with the addition of entertainment and raffle drawings.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2356 of Hillman will be hosting the event Saturday to raise money for any need that may arise for the group. Commander Darrell Hurd said many times it may be medical supplies but it also can go toward anything else the group may need.

“We just raise the money to put it in the general fund,” he said. “If someone needs something then we have the money to do (projects).”

Each year the number of people who come and also who bring their own chili fluctuates, Hurd said. But generally, he said, the event has grown over the years.

“It’s kind of expanded over the years, it is getting more and more people,” he said.

Hurd said over the years he has seen several different types of chili come through the contest. Whether it was the type of meat used or the hotness of the chili itself.

“It can vary from anywhere between a one and 10,” he said. “It is kind of like the best chili in the beginning and can go all the way up to hot enough to make your toes curl.”

Hurd will be bringing in his southern cornbread again, this time three pans, for attendees to try with their chili. He said it usually has disappeared quickly as it has become a favorite for some.

The event, which starts at 5 p.m. and ends at 7 p.m., will feature entertainment, 50/50 drawings. Contestants in the chili cookoff can win one of several prices. This included the overall best tasting entry and then three prizes for the hot, regular and mild categories, Hurd said.

To enter in the contest contestants only need to bring in a one gallon electric crock pot with the ingredients on paper next to the chili for people who may have allergies. Hurd said people may register up to 4:45 p.m. on Saturday before the event.

Hurd is trying to finalize some live music for the event which is open to the public and only cost $3 for a ticket with children under 12 getting in for free. He encouraged everyone to attend and bring with them an empty stomach.

For more information or to register call the Hillman VFW at 742-3670.

Tyler Winowiecki can be reached via email at twinowiecki@thealpenanews.com or by phone at 358-5688. Follow Tyler on Twitter tw_alpenanews.