The Eighth Annual Alabama River Chili Cook-off has been postponed.

Originally scheduled for this Thursday, the date has been moved to Thursday, April 18 due to the possibility of rain and thunder storms.

According to Blackbelt Benefit Group (BBG) President Josh Wilkerson, the decision to postpone the event was reached at a meeting Tuesday night between the BBG, sponsors and team captains.

“Our goal is to have a successful event that raises money to support and benefit Easterseals West Central Alabama, a worthwhile organization, and after a thoughtful discussion with the team captains and sponsors we decided that rescheduling is the best option. Anything else would be doing a disservice to both our supporters and sponsors as well as the beneficiary organization [Easterseals],” said Wilkerson.

Though the date of the cook-off has been changed all the details remain the same.

The event will still be held along Water Avenue in front of the historic St. James Hotel from 4-9 p.m. and will cost $5 to enter.

Though some may be disappointed about the event’s postponing, this later date provides more time for teams to enter the cook-off.

“We’re glad for all the teams we can get,” said Wilkerson.

Team entries for the Alabama River Chili Cook-off are $50. To register, email BBG at blackbeltbenefitgroup@gmail.com.