ST. JOSEPH, Mich. — Whether visitors like their chili mild or fiery hot, meat or in chili-inspired desserts or hot beverages, they will find more than a dozen ways to chase away the chill Jan. 30, from 5 to 8 p.m., in St. Joseph, Mich. During this January “It’s Finally Friday” event, merchants and restaurants will offer samples of their favorite chili recipes in hopes of earning the 2015 Chili Pepper Award that is determined by popular vote.

“This year we are encouraging people to pre-register at the St. Joseph Welcome Center, 301 State St., between Jan. 23 and Jan. 29,” said Jill Stone, executive director of the sponsoring organization, St. Joseph Today. “It will help our chili stop locations plan quantities so there are plenty of samples for everyone.”

Stone said there is a suggested $2 donation, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Benton Harbor Soup Kitchen. Pre-registrants will get a map of chili stop locations and will be entered in a drawing for a $25 St. Joseph Today Gift Certificate good at more than 40 locations. The drawing will be held Jan. 30.

Tasters can also register and get a map on the day of the event at the Welcome Center, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Stone said everyone that completes the chili tour and turns in their maps at the Welcome Center on Jan. 30 will be entered to win in a drawing. The winner will receive a St. Joseph Prize Pack.

Stone added that several non-chili locations are also “must stops” that evening because of their special sales and family-friendly entertainment. For updates about the Chili Tour and future “It’s Finally Friday” events, visit stjoetoday.com, facebook.com/stjoetoday or call 269-985-1111.

St. Joseph Today is a membership-based 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to developing, producing and promoting events and businesses in St. Joseph, Mich. and its surrounding communities.