COLUMBIA — The Columbia Chamber of Commerce will hold the 31st Annual Fiddle and “Bango” Contest on Saturday, Oct. 5, at the Gazebo in downtown Columbia.

Banjo was accidently misspelled “bango” during the first year of the contest and the event continues the tradition still today.

To participate in the contest, sign-ups will begin at 9 a.m. and space is limited so contestants should arrive early. Entry fee is $12. There will be six categories in the contest: Guitar, Fiddle, Banjo, Mandolin, Vocal, and Miscellaneous. Winners in each category will receive $50 and a chance to take the grand prize of a gold nugget. Runners-up will receive $25, and third place receives free entry to next year’s contest. The contest will run from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is limited to acoustic instruments only. This is an open contest and professionals, amateurs, adults and children will all compete against each other.  Musicians will be judged on pitch, rhythm, musicianship and technique. This event is free to the public so bring a lawn chair and sunscreen to enjoy the music all day.

In addition to the Fiddle and Bango contest, the Columbia Chamber of Commerce will also be hosting a Chili Cook-off. This contest is limited to the first 20 entries, including restaurants and home cookers alike. The entry fee is $20 and the fee to taste is $5 per person. Please contact the Chamber at (209) 536-1672 for more information or to enter your famous chili in the contest.