Best Bets: Blues ’n’ Buffett Chili Challenge

A tropical heat wave is about to breeze through Cedar Rapids as the Linn County Blues Society and The Isle of Iowa Parrothead Club go nose to beak in Sunday's 18th annual Blues 'n' Buffett Chili Challenge. This friendly competition between two nonprofit clubs has quickly become a premiere fundraiser for each group, raising more than $100,000 for local charities since 2001. This year's proceeds will benefit the H.D. Youth Center and the Community Free Health Clinic. In addition to sampling various chili concoctions, guests can bid on silent auction items. Both host groups promote musical styles, from blues to tropical rock, including the signature sounds of Jimmy Buffett.

Blues 'n' Buffett Chili Challenge

1 to 4 p.m. Sunday (2/11), Cedar Rapids Marriott, 1200 Collins Rd. NE, Cedar Rapids; $5 to $8 advance, $10 door, kids under 7 free, Blues-buffett.com