Welcome to On the Radar, where we preview up-and-coming arts events to mark your calendar for. Next weekend brings something to heat up those chili, er, chilly autumn nights — the first ever Industrial Arts Center Chili Cookoff.
Hey, hot shot — think you have what it takes to make an award-winning chili? Then whip up two or three gallons of your best and bring the heat to Gulfport. In addition to the mouthwatering main event, the festivities include live entertainment and glass blowing demonstrations, and the top three entrants will win hand-blown chili pepper trophies, along with certificates for use at the Center. If you’re like me, though, you’ll take a pass on all that culinary exertion and bring a hearty appetite instead. Whether you like it con carne or meatless, mild or a little wild, there’s sure to be a chili to thrill your taste buds. Oh, and a note of warning to you amateur firestarters out there: No pulling a Chief Wiggum and spiking your crockpot with a Guatemalan Insanity Pepper. Your grub needs to be edible. Sat., Sept. 26, 6:30-8:30p.m. Gulfport Art Village Courtyard, 2902A Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, Fl 33707. Event tickets are $9 for adults and $5 for kids. Deadline to enter the contest is Sept. 23. Entry fee is $25 and includes an IAC membership and commemorative apron. For more information, go to industrialartscenter.org or call 727-289-9365. –Anthony Salveggi
