Sarah Wain, gardens supervisor and chilli expert at West Dean Gardens
Want to guarantee a hot August? Why not visit one of these chilli events? It may not make the weather sunny, but it’ll definitely be hot…
West Dean Gardens Chilli Fiesta
When: 5th – 7th August 2016
Where: West Dean, Nr Chichester, West Sussex PO18 0QZ
£: Adult day tickets cost £11.20 – £16. An adult three-day pass with camping costs £80 – £100
What is it?
Possibly the biggest and best of the chilli-themed events taking place this August, West Dean Garden’s Chilli Fiesta is a well-established festival. This year’s event will have cookery and gardening demonstrations, a chilli plant competition, live music, entertainment for children and teenagers, and stalls. Visitors will be able to quell any chilli burns by visiting one of the fiesta bars, including Los Amigos and the Potting Shed, which will be selling a range of beer, cider and wine. Camping is available for those wishing to make a weekend of it.
More info: www.westdean.org.uk
Warrington Chilli Fiesta
When: 6th & 7th August 2016, 10am – 5.30pm
Where: Walton Hall & Gardens, Walton Lea Road, Higher Walton, Warrington, Cheshire WA4 6SN
£: Free
What is it?
Warrington’s Chilli Fiesta is held in the grounds of Walton Hall and admission is free. The fiesta promises some of the best chilli producers, with plenty on offer to eat, try, and buy. Exhibitors this year will include Mr Vikkis, Redwolf Vodka, and the Chilli Cheese Man. There will also be live music, a beer tent, and children’s rides.
More info: www.chillifest.net/warrington-chilli-fiesta
Barnet Chilli Village Fiesta
When: 13th August 2016, 10am – 5pm
Where: The Spires, 111 High Street, Barnet, London EN5 5XY
£: Free
What is it?
The Barnet Chilli Village Fiesta will offer a day of food, drink and music at The Spires shopping centre. Expect everything chilli-themed including hot curries, snacks, sauces, plants, and beer. There will even be a chilli bar serving chilli mojitos, for the bravest of visitors. Admission is also free for this event.
More info: www.chillifest.net/barnet-chilli-fiesta-event-2