I know, I know: when it comes to brutal New England winters, this year’s has been as docile as a rabbit and as warm as a puppy. We haven’t experienced a raging case of cabin fever, nor have we felt compelled to curl up by the fire and console ourselves with a steaming cup of chowder.

But that doesn’t mean we still can’t enjoy some delicious chowder at an event that references cabin fever.

Which brings us to the ever-popular Cabin Fever Festival and Charity Chowder Cook-Off, which hits year 16 when it does its annual thing on Saturday. Fest-goers sample various types of chowders whipped up by area restaurants and caterers, which are served in sponsoring shops in Olde Mistick Village. A 3-ounce cup of chowder costs one of the $1 tickets that are sold at the event.

Judges weigh in on who has the most creative chowder, the heartiest chowder, and the best use of regional ingredients. Members of the public get to make their opinions heard, too, by voting on the People’s Choice Award for best chowder.

Entertainment abounds, and in the past it has included a capella groups and birds of prey demonstrations (not together — don’t worry).

The event, which last year raised over $28,000, benefits Always Home, which used to be called Mystic Area Shelter and Hospitality. It’s a non-profit service agency dedicated to preventing family homelessness in southeastern Connecticut.

Cabin Fever Festival and Charity Chowder Cook-Off, noon-4 p.m. Saturday, Olde Mistick Village, Coogan Boulevard, Mystic; chowder tickets $1 for each 3-ounce cup; 12 tickets can be bought for $10; www.oldemistickvillage.com.