Get ready for a spicy weekend as the Great Dorset Chilli Festival announces its dates for 2025, promising fun and flavor!
Sturminster Newton: The Great Dorset Chilli Festival is back for its 14th year! Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 2, and Sunday, August 3, 2025. It’s going to be a blast!
This festival is known for its amazing variety of chilli sauces. It’ll be held at the beautiful Stock Gaylard Estate, where you can enjoy delicious food, live music, and fun competitions. There’s something for everyone, even if you’re not a fan of spicy food.
If you think you can handle the heat, don’t miss the traditional chilli eating contest happening both days. You can sign up for that in July, so keep an eye out!
And if you’re into gardening, there’s a chilli plant growing competition too. It’s a great way to show off your green thumb and maybe win a prize!
Festival Director Miles Halton says it’s all about having fun. “It’s a level playing field,” he explains. Even beginners can win, so don’t be shy about entering!
Make sure to start growing your chilli seeds now to have ripe fruit by August. There are two classes to enter: one for the stunning Bolivian Rainbow variety and another open class for any chilli plant.
Plants will be judged on their appearance and health by Matt Simpson, a well-respected chilli seed grower. The winners will snag a £50 gift voucher from Harts of Stur, a local cookware and gardening shop.
Plus, there are free ‘Bolivian Rainbow’ chilli seeds available, thanks to Sea Spring Seeds. Just email for your copy of the rules and to claim your seeds!
