MANSON — Anyone who attends the Manson Chamber of Commerce Chili Cookoff this Saturday will find plenty of chili to sample and a whole lot more.

Chamber member and organizer Kim Hoefing said one of her goals is to make the annual event more fall oriented.

“We’re hoping to integrate some more fall fest stuff,” said Hoefing, who is in her first year organizing the event that has become a Manson tradition.

Some of those new fall things will include caramel apples, kettle corn, an inflatable football toss, and a new photo opportunity. The photo backdrop will be accented with mums and pumpkins from Highway 7 Market.

Also new this year is the cookoff’s extended hours. Saturday’s event will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., which is one hour longer than in years past, but it will still be held on Main Street.

Hoefing said 11 different businesses have signed up to participate in the chili cookoff, but she expects to have a few more by Saturday.

Each person who attends will be able to purchase a spoon and sampling cup for $5, which will also automatically enter that individual into a drawing for a giveaway basket, including some “business swag” put together by Chamber businesses.

In addition, other groups will be selling baked goods, cinnamon rolls, water, and soft-serve ice cream.

“Any vendors are welcome to set up,” said Hoefing.

Children will be able to enjoy a face-painting booth and the chance to paint baby pumpkins.

“The barrel train is also back this year,” she added.

While the temperature is forecast to be around 90 degrees on Saturday, Hoefing hopes people won’t find it too warm to enjoy some chili. She said in past years, the event has drawn upwards of 200 people.

Any time people turn out to support a small-town event, Hoefing said, it’s good for the community.

“I’m hoping people can come and support it and try to have a good time,” she said. “The more people you see, the better it feels.”

Hoefing said if the numbers support it, the cookoff will continue to grow.

“I’m just hoping to make it a bigger and better thing each year,” she said.