LINDEN – ChiLLy Fest 2010 is just around the corner, as is its cornerstone event: the chili cookoff.

Event organizer Suzanne Young said she’s already lined up 12 contestants but was taking all comers in what the city hopes to make its biggest and best ChiLLy Fest to-date.

“Last year, I think we had upwards of 40 contestants,” Young said of the cookoff, which is judged by the public through a taste test, “but the weather just didn’t cooperate.”

Last year was plagued by cold temperatures and thunderstorms, but the forecast thus far appears to be improved this year in Linden’s favor.

“We’re expecting a rush of applicants up until Thursday,” Young said of the deadline to enter.

There is no entry fee for the event.

The chili cookoff will be held between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. and each entry must be cooked on-site. Contestants must prepare 5 gallons of chili for judging, which will take place from noon to 3 p.m.

Those interested in entering should contact Suzanne Young at 289-2878.