KILGORE, Texas (KLTV) - Downtown Kilgore will host the annual East Texas Oilmen's Chili Cook-Off Oct. 22, raising money for regional charitable organizations.

The event serves as a major fundraiser, generating six figures annually for its primary beneficiary, the East Texas Treatment Center, along with several other local nonprofits.

Chris Stansberry, director of the East Texas Oilmen's Association, said volunteers and participants spend months preparing for the competition, with many involved for more than three decades.