OK, so maybe the weather isn't exactly getting Hot! Hot! Hot! very quickly, but this weekend there's plenty of heat to go around at the 25th annual Chili Cook Off being held from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 19, rain or shine, at the Richmond Raceway Complex.

For years this event has been a Richmond tradition, boasting multiple stages of entertainers, a fun-loving crowd and all the chili one can eat.

Those participating in the cook off have a challenging task ahead. Each participating group, family or business must cook a minimum of 60 gallons of chili onsite and, of course, have an impressive booth to match. After the crowd votes, awards and prizes will be given and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

And what goes better with delicious chili than some impressive music to rock out to?

This year, 102.1 The X welcomes six bands to the stage, all who promise to rock your Saturday from start to finish. Core 87 fires up the stage at noon followed by Safeysuit and alternative-indie rockers Sick Puppies.

Rounding out the performance schedule are "rockers with a message," 10 Years, Theory of a Deadman and the all popular rock band, Puddle of Mudd.

Want to get up close and personal? Members of each band will sign autographs under the Plan 9 tent after their set, save Puddle of Mudd, who will sign at 3:45 p.m.

This may be a festival, and it may be Richmond, but there are some restrictions patrons should consider before attending. Above all else, leave the video and audio recording devices at home along with your pets, umbrellas, lawn chairs, coolers and strollers. Event organizers stress that while this is an all-ages concert event, remember to use your best judgment.

As with any great Richmond event, food and drink will be available for purchase. Drinks are based on a ticket system with ticket sales cutting off at 5:45 p.m. and beverage sales ending at 6:15 p.m.

Of course, after the party, it's the after-party and just because the gates close at 7 p.m., doesn't mean you have to go home; you just can't stay there.

The Canal Club will open its doors directly after the cook off, also as an all-ages concert event. The first band takes the stage at 8:30 p.m. and includes the talents of Meriweather, Deepfield and Saving Abel. Hold on to your Chili Cook Off ticket stub and admission to the after-party is only $1.02.

Now that's something to celebrate.

• The 25th annual Chili Cook Off will be held from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 19, rain or shine, at the Richmond Raceway Complex. Tickets for the event are $20 in advance and may be purchased at Plan 9, BK Music, The X Studio or online at 102thex.com. Tickets on the day of the event are $25. Children ages 10 and under are free. Open to all ages. For more information, call (804) 474-0000.