Plans are cooking for the Railroad Days Chili Cook-off coming up on Saturday, Aug. 28. Teams will start mixing their secret recipes early Saturday morning in preparation for the tasting that goes on from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

This year the cook-off, along with the bandstand entertainment, the craft and vendor show, is being held on 3rd St. NE near Staples Elementary.

Two different titles along with cash will be awarded this year to deserving cooks: the Judge’s Choice and the People’s Choice.

Beginning at 11:30 a.m., people can buy sample cups to taste the different types of chili. Anyone who buys enough sample cups to taste every kind will get a chance to vote for the People’s Choice which will be awarded by popular vote. One can also purchase a bowl of chili if they’re really hungry, or have found their favorite.

Eighty percent of the proceeds goes back to the teams to reimburse them for the cost of the food. Registration to participate in the Cook-off is still open; it’s not too late to sign up.

“We’re looking for more teams and we’re looking for anyone who loves to cook,” said Autumn Pechan, the cook-off chair. “We’d also like to encourage individuals to participate, not just businesses.”

Teams can be one person or as many as the group would like. Each team must make 10 gallons of chili, and it needs to be prepared either on site or in an approved kitchen. This year equipment and the necessary items can be brought in the night before and the site will be monitored throughout the night.

Anyone interested in registering can call Pechan for an entry form or stop by the chamber office. She can be reached at 218-894-1915.

Entertainment on the bandstand will include a Just for Kix performance at 11 a.m. Starting at noon until 3 p.m. will be a karaoke contest.

Anyone can participate by contacting Jolene Youngbauer at 218-895-6000, or by signing up at the chamber office. The winners of the karaoke contest will win “Chamber Bucks” redeemable at any of the local business. After the contest a DJ will be playing music.

A hot pepper eating contest will held about 1 p.m. with the sign up at that time. This year the contest will be timed and the winner will be the one who can eat the most peppers in five minutes. Chamber Bucks will also be given as prizes.

A craft and vendor sale, with a variety of booths including informational, food and market vendors, will be found east across 3rd St. NE on the grounds of Twin City Optical parking lot. Registration is on a first come first serve basis. Rent a booth by contacting the Staples Motley Chamber at 218-894-3974.