Mirror staff reports:

The Federal Way Farmers Market will host the annual Western Round-Up Chili Cook-off from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 28. The event includes covered seating areas and will take place rain or shine.

Federal Way police will battle South King Fire and Rescue firefighters for chili supremacy. Enjoy samples of chili, cornbread, salad, dessert and a drink — then vote for your favorite.

The competitive nature of the charity event has resulted in a chili connoisseur’s paradise: Some batches have beans, some have steak, some come with condiments like diced onions and lime. This year’s cook-off will include a vegetarian chili. The police and firefighters take their chili seriously, fine-tuning every nuance to impress the judges and the public.

Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the event. Proceeds benefit Communities in Schools, the South King Firefighters Foundation and the farmers market. At the 2012 event, a grand total of $3,730 was raised.

The event will include live music along with market vendors. The market is located in the back parking lot of The Commons mall, S. 324th St. and Pacific Highway S., and is open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays through October.

Learn more at federalwayfarmersmarket.com or call (253) 261-0207.