Fiery Flavours, Local Legends and a Weekend Worth the Burn
Back for its 8th year, heating up the Fleurieu Peninsula, Willunga Chilli Fest is set to sizzle on February 21 and 22, 2026. The annual fundraiser takes over Willunga Recreation Park serving fiery flavours, live music and easygoing festival vibes.
A must-do on the Willunga events calendar, Chilli Fest draws crowds from across South Australia. Over 20 chilli-inspired stalls pack a punch, stacked with tongue-tingling sauces, jams, condiments, dips, chips and chilli lollies. Chilli plants also line the grounds, perfect for anyone keen to grow their own crop at home.
Dialling up the heat all weekend, cooking demos and gardening chats add extra bite. Local experts Kym Syrus appears Saturday, with Sophie Thomson on Sunday, sharing practical tips for chilli growing, backyard produce and smarter home gardens.
Saturday afternoon ups the stakes with the South Australian Chilli Eating Championship, hosted by Chilli Philli. It kicks off at 2.00pm and usually ends with someone questioning their life choices, while the Hot Hat Competitions dish out prizes for the most eye-catching and creative headwear each day.
Chilli fans are well catered for, but this festival keeps things friendly for everyone. Artisan stalls feature handmade knives, boards, jewellery, watercolours and more. Kids activities include face painting and henna art. Food trucks dish up tacos, Indian street food, cheesy classics, vegan options and ice creams for dessert.
Once you’ve filled your shopping bags, settle into the green space with a local beer, wine, sangria or coffee and enjoy live music from regional musicians. Chill out and relax with plenty of shade, chairs and tables under trees and marquees.
Parking is available via Railway Terrace, with public transport stopping right out front on Main Road Willunga. Tickets are available online or at the gate via cash or card.
WILLUNGA CHILLI FEST
WHEN: 21–22 February 2026, 10AM-4PM
WHERE: 5 Main Road, Willunga
TICKETS: Online or at the gate
MORE INFO: willungarecpark.com.au
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