Spice enthusiasts traveled to the 29th annual Chile Pepper Festival in William DeLong Memorial Park, Bowers, Sept. 5 and 6. The event included a jalapeño pepper eating contest, food vendors, music performances and more. ABOVE: Darren Shefter of restaurant The Wherehouse of Hamburg prepares to cook ribs, turkey legs and pulled pork meals at the festival.

RIGHT: Mike and Linda Hertzog entertain visitors with country and bluegrass music.Press Photos by C. Richard Chartrand

Carolyn Boone and Maria LaForte staff the stand for Nutty Novelties, which offers spiced peanut butter varieties.

Garlic vinegar shots, along with honey and garlic shots, are among unique items offered.