Things will heat up inside Switchboard Studios & Gallery in Columbia when Columbia's Movers and Shakers Society hosts the second annual Chili for Charity Cook-Off.

The event will be held on Saturday, Sept. 16, from noon to 4 p.m. at the studio, 40 N. Third St., Columbia, on the second floor.

Professional and amateur cooks are invited to enter their chili for a chance to win one of four categories - most spicy, most unique, most traditional and best overall. Each category winner will receive a handcrafted trophy created by artists at Switchboard Studios & Gallery. Event attendees will vote on the winners. Additionally, each competitor will have the chance to be chosen by one of the event's Gold Sponsors to receive a judge's choice plaque.

The event is an opportunity to sample tasty chili, while raising funds for community projects, said Rebecca Wright, representing Columbia's Movers and Shakers Society. "Proceeds from this charitable event will go directly to the Columbia Food Bank to provide some extra relief during their most needed time of year," she explained.

Along with sampling chili, people will have the opportunity to enjoy live music and time for socializing at the event, Wright remarked. "This family-friendly event is full of tasteful food as well as tasteful live music," she said. "Attendees can expect a variety of chili dishes that will have them begging for the recipe."

Last year's inaugural Chili for Charity Cook-Off raised $500 for the Columbia Food Bank, and organizers hope to exceed that number this year.

Columbia's Movers and Shakers Society formed to promote events and activities in the town. "The mission of Columbia's Movers and Shakers Society is to support organizations and our community through events and outreach programs," Wright commented. "We are a group of committed like-minded individuals who all have a passion for helping others through events in our community."

Entries for the chili cook-off will be accepted until space runs out, Wright said. To enter the contest or to purchase tickets to attend, search for "The 2023 Chili for Charity Cook-Off" on Facebook. Tickets will be available at the door, but there is a discount for purchasing tickets in advance.

For more information on the event, email cmss17512@gmail.com.