Locals chefs are sure to spice up downtown Southern Pines Saturday.

More than 25 individuals will compete in a Chili cook-off to benefit the local chapter of Hugs Across America.

The competition is from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday on New Hampshire Avenue between NE Broad and Ashe streets. Admission is $5 and affords everyone a chance to try all the different chili while supplies last. Children under 12 are admitted free.

Organizers are expecting a wide variety of entries.

"There are so many ways you can make it (chili) that everybody thinks they make the best chili," said Pat O'Donnell, event co-organizer and owner of O'Donnell's Pub. A majority of the cooks will represent local restaurants. Six or seven of the cooks are not affiliated with restaurants.

Seven individuals will judge the contest. The winner will receive $250.

Hugs Across America is a non-profit organization that provides teddy bears to comfort children affected by crisis.

Rain date for the event is Sunday at 1 p.m. if it rains Sunday, the event will be postponed.