Bryson City

The 20th annual Bryson City Chili Cook-off will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 16 at the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad Depot.

The contest includes awards for both professional and amateurs and a people’s choice winter. The festival — which includes arts, crafts and entertainment —annually attracts about 3,000 to the downtown area.

For more information contact the Swain County Chamber of Commerce at 828.488.3681 or visit www.greatsmokies.com.

Sylva

The Downtown Sylva Association’s 3rd annual Chilly Fest is set to begin at 12 p.m. on Nov. 6, at the Bridge Park and Poteet Park in Sylva.

The event is in need of both professional and amateur Chili Cook-off contestants as well as crafters. For an event application visit www.downtownsylva.org, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 828.586.1577.

Live music from Ian Moore’s Mountain Music Miscellany and The Vinyl Brothers Big Band, children’s activities and host crafters will provide entertainment during the cook-off.

An after party will be held from 5 p.m. to 11p.m. at The Village at Sapphire Mountain Brewing Company featuring beer from Heinzelmannchen Brewery, live music and food and drink specials. Chilly Fest crafters are invited to move their booths to The Village at Sapphire Mountain Brewing Company during the after party.