NILES — Inspired by the lovable Looney Tunes characters, this year’s theme for the Niles-Buchanan Relay for Life is “Toon Out Cancer, Tune in for a Cure.”

The annual event will take place from 10 a.m. to midnight Saturday, July 14, at the Apple Festival Grounds, 1740 Lake St. The event is free and open to the public to attend, though donations will be accepted. Proceeds will support the American Cancer Society, which, in addition to cancer research, helps to fund Berrien County programs that help cancer patients.

Clad in purple shirts, hundreds are expected to rally to celebrate survivors, remember those lost and walk to raise awareness. And while walking is one component, the annual event is also geared to be fun for the community, said Janet Wartman, a community development manager for Relay for Life.

There will be a bounce house and inflatable obstacle course for children. Adults can take part in games like the Frozen T-Shirt Contest, where they will race to unfreeze a T-shirt the fastest. There will also be live music and food.

Already 23 teams have signed up to participate. Each team helps to raise money for the cause and attends the event to help raise awareness. The goal tis year is to raise $60,000.

Wartman said Relay for Life gives community members the opportunity to have fun while supporting a local cause. One example of Berrien County program funded by the ACS is Look Good Feel Better — a program that seeks to provide cancer patients with self-confidence by providing them with beauty and makeup tips.

While people might think of Relay for Life for as a walking event, Wartman said it is so much more.

“People think of Relay for Life as a race, but it is people coming together, walking together and sharing their stories,” Wartman said.

The event also pays homage to cancer survivors and those who died fighting it. A traditional Survivor Victory Lap will take place at 5 p.m., followed by a free dinner for cancer survivors.

There will also be a Luminary Ceremony at dusk to remember those who have died fighting it.

Becky Brown, a financial advisor at Edward Jones, took part in the event last year. She said she and her daughter and had so much that they decided to return again this year with a team of their own. So far, her team has raised more than $600.

“I think it is a really good cause,” Brown said. “Everyone knows someone who has been affected by this disease.”

Brown is no exception and said she has an aunt who is battling breast cancer.

She encouraged people to take part in the event, whether by forming their own team to help raise funds or just by showing up to walk.

“We really want people there,” Brown said. “I’m just hoping to raise money and create awareness for Relay for Life, so we can continue to keep it going in Niles. Of course, our goal is always a cure.”

Those interested can sign up online by visiting relayforlife.org/nilesbuchanami. There is no deadline and signing up is free.