Returning for its ninth year, this year’s Herb and Chilli Festival packs a punch.
A mecca for iron-tongued spice-lovers, Herb and Chilli Festival is a celebration of all things hot. A two-day buffet of food, music and entertainment, the beloved festival’s 2020 iteration looks to have chilli-lovers salivating (and sweating) with its tantalising program.
If you think you can defeat the heat, head on over to Hot Sauce Alley where you’ll find a huge spread of sauces, relishes, and rubs certain to tickle the tastebuds. You can also put your gob to the test with the ever-popular Stinger Wing Challenge or the Captain Chilli competition, with the latter offering the title of ‘Captain Chilli’ to its winner.
Over in the Food Court, you’ll find the World’s Hottest Dim Sims, along with cooking demonstrations and ice-cream if your tongue is feeling the burn. Spanning over 2,000 square metres and 20 food vendors, there’s bound to be something for every taste.
Once you’ve learnt how to nail some spicy dishes courtesy of the chefs at the Cooking Stage, wander the huge range of herbs and chillies and get ready to cook up a storm – there will be over 40 varieties of chillies on sale.
Sydney-based roots act Psycho Zydeco will also hit the festival with their blend of Cajun, blues and swamp – adding their own kick to an already spicy weekend. Inspired by the sounds of New Orleans and Louisiana, the Psychos – as they’re dubbed by fans – are a melting pot of drums, guitar, sax, washboard, accordion and the occasional industrial-sized triangle.
Along with a ripper set from Psycho Zydeco, there will also be live performances from Inka Marka, whose stunning sound reflects the traditional music and instruments of Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador, and local country, jazz and blues singer-songwriter Garry Marr. Not to mention, performances from Mexican Wrestling Troupe and Peruvian Folkloric Dancers.
There will also be plenty of vegan and other dietary-friendly options available, as well as a massive KidZone bursting with entertainment for the little ones, so everyone can get in on the action.
The Herb and Chilli Festival comes to 125 Quayle Road, Wandin on Saturday March 14 and Sunday March 15. Grab your tickets and find out more at the festival website.
