Call it a saucy standoff or a chip-to-chip challenge — this is the ninth year for Gardengate’s Summer Salsa Challenge.

Tenacious four-person teams from 14 agencies and organizations around town have signed up to produce their best spicy salsa that will be put to the taste test at a public event on Thursday, Aug. 16.

The free event is being held at Gardengate, 915 Southill, from 12:30 to 3 p.m. Gardengate is located across from Overlander Extended Care Hospital.

Gardengate spokesman Matt Klassen said Wednesday each team has to make three litres of salsa, preferably freshly created on the day of the challenge. Veggies are provided by Gardengate, but some secret ingredients are allowed.

Among the judges is the owner of a Mexican restaurant in Kamloops.

Everyone attending gets to vote for his or her favourite salsa. The titles up for grabs include People’s Choice, Chef’s Choice and Team Spirit.

The challenge gathering goes beyond just salsa, offering yoga sessions, garden tours and live entertainment.

Gardengate has been around for 13 years, promoting food and support programs for people with disabilities as well as community health and wellness.