Thirty teams of chili chefs are preparing for the 35th Annual Chili Cook-Off to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County and there’s still room for a few more.

This year’s Chili Cook-Off takes place at the Havert L. Fenn Center, 2000 Virginia Ave., Fort Pierce on July 15 from 11 a.m.6 p.m.

“The Chili Cook-Off is a major fundraiser for (Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County and a great tradition in St. Lucie County,” said CEO William Armstead. “We’re hoping a few more community-minded competitors will join our distinguished list of participants.”

The list of teams reads like a Who’s Who of the county, with participants ranging from local businesses to civic organizations and community groups.

“Some of our teams have been a part of the Cook-Off for more than 20 years, while others are brand new this year,” Armstead said.

Teams wishing to participate must pay an entry fee and participate in raising funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs. In the process, they compete for several awards, including those for top fundraiser. The teams prepare their competition chili from start to finish (some prepared from closely guarded recipes) at the Cook-Off. In addition to competing for the Jim Lamb Memorial Award for Best Chili, teams are competing in numerous other categories, including Best Chili Booth, Bes Chili Costume and Best Rookie Team.

The Cook-Off is a popular event, drawing nearly 10,000 visitors throughout the day. In addition to sampling chili, guests can participate in a variety of activities, including some geared especially for kids – including PSL Rocks, an organization that focuses on the positive energy and community-building that can come from painting, hiding and finding painted rocks.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available to local businesses and community organizations. For more information on how to join the fun, please visit the chili page, call Alicia Marshall, director of Marketing & Special Events, at 772-460-9918 or e-mail [email protected].