A Southern Illinois farm is the site of the sixth annual Pepperfest, a celebration of all things chile. The spicy event, organized by Jerry and Carol Jimenez, will be 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at Rancho Bella Vista Farm, outside Cobden, Ill.

Enjoy live music and take a walking tour of the "fields of fire" — 2 acres of peppers planted by the Jimenez family. Sample a variety of salsas and jellies produced by Darn Hot Peppers, their family business. Learn about Southwestern-style cooking at demonstrations by sons Xavier Jimenez of Seattle and Victor Jimenez of Washington, D.C., and by family friend Roger Hernandez of Chicago. And save 10 percent on all purchases that day in the newly expanded farm store.

The $3 entry fee covers parking and all the tastings. The farm is at 827 Vines Road, Cobden, Ill. 62920. Cobden is northeast of Cape Girardeau, Mo., and south of Carbondale, Ill. For driving directions, visit DarnHotPeppers.com or call 1-618-893-1443.

Please note that no smoking is allowed on the farm. The Tobacco Mosaic Virus is hazardous for the growing peppers. Also, no alcoholic beverages are allowed.

While you're in the area, check out the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail at ShawneeWineTrail.com or 1-618-967-4006. It's easy to make a weekend getaway in this scenic area, which is part of the Ozark foothills. For information about attractions, lodgings and more, visit SouthernmostIllinois.com or call 1-800-248-4373.

— Barbara Gibbs Ostmann