The 12th annual Herb and Chilli Festival returns to the picturesque Yarra Valley, promising a fiery weekend of flavour, entertainment, and fun. Mark your calendars for March 16 & 17, 2024, and prepare to ignite your taste buds with an array of scorching delights.
From humble beginnings in 2012, the festival has blossomed into a must-attend event for passionate foodies and chilli aficionados. Founded by Clive and Di Larkman, owners of Romantic Nursery, the festival celebrates their love for exotic flavours and showcases the best Australia has to offer in the world of herbs and chillies.
This year’s edition promises to be bigger and hotter than ever before. Immerse yourself in a scorching lineup of over 100 vendors showcasing an inferno of flavour combinations. Explore sizzling Hot Sauce Alley, where more than 10 vendors unveil brand new chilli concoctions guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. Don’t miss the new honey show, featuring four vendors vying for the title of “Best Hot Honey” with their unique flavour profiles.
Feeling adventurous? Test your mettle in the legendary chilli-eating competitions—the Captain Chilli, Shot n Holler, and the Stinger Wing Eating Race. Witness culinary mastery unfolds at live cooking demonstrations hosted by local chefs, and learn secrets to incorporating fiery flavours into your own dishes.
But the festival isn’t just about heat. A laid-back atmosphere awaits, peppered with live music by the dynamic 6-piece band, Harmaniax. Let loose, groove to the beat, and soak up the vibrant festival spirit.
The younger chilli enthusiasts haven’t been forgotten. A dedicated zone filled with free activities like horse riding, jumping castles, and face painting keeps them entertained while you explore the market or take part in chilli challenges.
The festival takes pride in celebrating multicultural cuisine. Embark on a global culinary adventure as you explore food and drink representing over 20 different cultures. From West African stews to Tibetan dumplings, Cambodian stir-fries to Jamaican jerk, your taste buds will be transported on a flavour odyssey.
“We want to move people from the bland to the exciting,” says Clive Larkman, festival founder. “It’s not just about chilli, but about all that herbs and spices can offer.”
Tickets are now on sale, with options for day or weekend passes, individual tickets, and family packages. Book online and receive a complimentary Herb and Chilli Festival hat! For a hassle-free journey, consider the Chilli Express Bus service offering pick-up and drop-off directly from Lilydale station.
Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and head to the Yarra Valley. The 12th annual Herb and Chilli Festival promises a weekend of fiery fun, unforgettable experiences, and a celebration of flavour like no other. Don’t miss out on the heat!
The Specifics
What: Herb & Chilli Festival
When: Saturday 16 March to Sunday 17 March, 10am to 5pm
Where: 125 Quayle Road, Wandin North
For more information, head to herbandchillifestival.com.au.
