Get ready to feel the heat, Sydney! The SuperHot Chilli & BBQ Festival is back for 2026, and it’s going to be bigger, spicier, and more deliciously intense than ever before. Whether you’re a fearless chilli warrior or just someone who enjoys a good BBQ with mates, this festival has something special waiting for you.
When and Where the Magic Happens!
Mark your calendars now – Sunday, March 8th, 2026 is the date you absolutely cannot miss! The festival runs from 12pm to 7pm, giving you seven solid hours of spicy adventures and smoky BBQ goodness right in the heart of Sydney.
We’re setting up camp at the Market Canopy, Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park – the perfect spot for a day of fiery fun. The venue’s covered areas mean you’ll be comfortable whether the Sydney weather decides to cooperate or not, and the central location makes it super easy for everyone to join the party.
The Spicy Challenges That’ll Test Your Limits
Here’s where things get seriously hot! Our eating contests are legendary, and 2026 is bringing four mind-blowing challenges that’ll separate the chilli champions from the mild-mannered crowd:
The Pod Challenge is our signature event – think you can handle the world’s hottest peppers without breaking a sweat? This isn’t just about surviving; it’s about conquering those superhot varieties that make grown adults cry (happy tears, we promise).
The Flaming Wing Challenge brings the heat with sticky, spicy wings that pack more punch than a heavyweight boxer. It’s messy, it’s intense, and it’s absolutely worth bragging about if you make it through.
And then there’s the Jerky Challenge – because apparently we thought regular jerky wasn’t challenging enough. This dried meat packs heat that builds with every bite, creating a slow burn that’ll test your endurance like nothing else.
And the very fast, spicy and loud Sip n Shout Challenge sponsored by 7K Distillery, makers of the World’s Hottest Gin.
Family Fun That Everyone Can Enjoy
Don’t worry if your family includes some heat-sensitive members – we’ve got you covered! The festival is designed to be the perfect day out for everyone, from tiny tots to grandparents who prefer their food on the milder side.
Our kids’ events include face painting (with chilli-themed designs, naturally), craft activities, and even a Cutest Chilli Kid Competition where little ones can dress up and win some fantastic prizes. There’s also an animal nursery where children can meet and interact with friendly farm animals – a great way to cool down after watching the spicy action.
Live entertainment keeps the energy pumping throughout the day. We’re talking local bands, acoustic sessions, and maybe even some surprise performances that’ll have you dancing between your chilli tastings. The music creates the perfect backdrop for what’s essentially one giant community BBQ party.
Food Stalls and BBQ Heaven
The festival isn’t just about the contests – though those are pretty spectacular. We’ve got an incredible lineup of food vendors serving everything from traditional BBQ classics to innovative fusion dishes that’ll blow your mind (and maybe your taste buds too).
Each vendor brings something unique to the table. You’ll find authentic pit-smoked brisket sitting alongside Korean-style BBQ, spicy pulled pork sliders next to gourmet sausages, and vegetarian options that prove plant-based doesn’t mean boring. And yes, every vendor has milder options for those who like to keep their tongues intact.
The Hellfire Alley section is where the serious heat enthusiasts hang out. This is your chance to discover a record-breaking 34 small-batch hot sauce artisan chilli products, and specialty BBQ rubs that you won’t find anywhere else. Chat with the makers, learn about their craft, and stock up on goodies to take home.
VIP Experiences Worth Every Dollar
For those who want to take their festival experience up a notch, our VIP packages offer exclusive perks that’ll make your day even more special. VIP ticket holders get priority seating for all contests, access to a dedicated bar area with craft beer and cocktail pairings, and complimentary tastings from premium vendors.
The VIP area also includes meet-and-greet opportunities with celebrity chefs and chilli experts who’ll be sharing their knowledge through cooking demonstrations and workshops. It’s like getting a masterclass in spice while enjoying the best festival atmosphere.
Bring Your Four-Legged Friends Too!
Here’s something that makes our festival extra special – it’s pet-friendly! Your furry companions are welcome to join the fun, but there’s one adorable requirement: they need to be dressed in chilli, red, or BBQ-themed gear. Don’t have anything suitable? No worries! You can grab a festival bandanna at the gate for just $5, and your pet will be the coolest attendee there.
This policy isn’t just about looking cute (though your Instagram feed will definitely benefit). It helps create a sense of community and shared enthusiasm that makes the whole event feel like one big, spicy family gathering.
Getting There and Practical Details
The Entertainment Quarter at Moore Park is super accessible, whether you’re driving, catching public transport, or getting dropped off. Moore Park Light Rail station is just a five-minute walk away, and if you’re driving, there’s plenty of parking in the multi-story car park with reasonable rates.
For those using ride-share apps, the best drop-off point is Errol Flynn Boulevard. The venue is fully accessible, with smooth pathways and facilities designed to accommodate everyone comfortably.
Vendor and Sponsorship Opportunities
Thinking about joining us as a vendor or sponsor? We’d love to have you as part of the family! The festival is always looking for passionate food producers, innovative chilli makers, BBQ masters, and local businesses who want to connect with our amazing community.
The application process is straightforward – just reach out through our website, and we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about becoming part of Sydney’s hottest food festival. Whether you’re an established business or just starting out, there’s a place for you at our event.
What Makes This Festival Different
The Sydney SuperHot Chilli & BBQ Festival isn’t just another food event – it’s a celebration of community, courage, and culinary creativity. Organized by My Chilli Festival, we bring years of experience creating events that balance serious spice with serious fun.
What sets us apart is our commitment to inclusivity. While we celebrate extreme heat and the brave souls who tackle our challenges, we also make sure there’s something for everyone. Families can spend quality time together, food lovers can discover new flavors, and adventure seekers can push their limits in a safe, supportive environment.
The festival has grown from a simple idea – bringing people together over their shared love of good food and friendly competition – into Sydney’s most anticipated spicy food event. Every year, we see familiar faces returning alongside newcomers ready to discover what all the fuss is about.
Planning Your Perfect Festival Day
To make the most of your visit, arrive early to beat the crowds and secure good spots for the contests. Bring comfortable shoes (you’ll be doing plenty of walking), sunscreen, and maybe a backup shirt in case things get messy during the eating challenges.
Don’t forget to pace yourself – with seven hours of activities, there’s no need to rush through everything in the first hour. Take time to chat with vendors, watch a few contests before jumping in yourself, and enjoy the live entertainment between your spicy adventures.
Most importantly, bring your appetite for fun and your sense of adventure. The Sydney SuperHot Chilli & BBQ Festival 2026 promises to be an unforgettable day of heat, flavor, and community spirit that’ll have you counting down the days until next year’s event.
See you there, Sydney – let’s turn up the heat together! 🌶️