The annual Chili and Salsa Cook-Off in Cassville is set for this weekend, and with about twice as many participants as last year. Morgan Williams, director of the Cassville Area Chamber of Commerce said 15 people have signed up for the chili competition, and seven will put their salsas to the test in the “Grease”themed event.

“That’s about twice as many as last year,” Williams said. “I don’t know if that’s an effect of COVID; no new people have said why. I think people are staying closer to home with the economy, too, and being more active in the community.”

While the chilis and salsas will be the main attraction, Williams said the event will offer plenty for those with other interests.

“We have vendors with everything from homemade items to T-shirts and crafts and local businesses, and the YMCA is bringing a bounce house,” she said. “There will be a couple food trucks, and First Baptist will do the pancake breakfast this year, as well as the kids games.”

The pancake breakfast will begin at 7 a.m. on 7th Street between West and Townsend Streets. First Baptist will serve pancakes and sausage, coffee and hot chocolate. Children’s games and crafts will begin at 9 a.m.

A martial arts booth will also have live demonstrations, and carnival games and a sno cone truck will make another area on the west side of the square for youth to enjoy.

The 221 Band is also set to perform from 9:30-11:30 a.m.

“We are suppose to have great weather, so we expect a larger crowd than normal,” Williams said. “With more chilis and all the vendors, we hope for a good turnout, and we hope that is good for the businesses on the square that are open at that time.”

The event kicks off at 8 a.m. For more information, people may reach the Chamber at 417-847-2814.