The Herb and Chilli Festival returns for a fiery weekend in the Yarra Valley this March
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08.02.2024

The Herb and Chilli Festival returns for a fiery weekend in the Yarra Valley this March

Words by Staff Writer

Spice up your life at the 2024 Herb and Chilli Festival.

Prepare for a weekend of fiery flavours and scorching entertainment as the Herb and Chilli Festival gears up for its 12th annual weekender.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Yarra Valley, this sizzling event promises two days packed with mouth-tingling experiences, live music, and spicy delights on March 16th and 17th, 2024 in a celebration of all things hot.

Herb and Chilli Festival 2024

  • The Herb and Chilli Festival returns March 16 & 17 2024.
  • With spicy eats, thirst-quenching beverages, cooking demos, eating competitions, a market and a kid zone, there’s something for all.
  • Tickets for the weekender are on sale now.

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.

Founded in 2012 by Clive and Di Larkman, owners of Romantic Nursery, the Herb and Chilli Festival has evolved into a dynamic celebration of Australia’s finest herb and chilli products. It’s not just about indulgence; it’s also about education, offering attendees the chance to explore the vibrant world of exotic flavours and spices.

Clive Larkman, the festival’s founder, remarks, “Our event is about bringing people together who have a love for flavour and spice. It introduces people to the world of herbs and chillies; not just in their food but also in drinks, general health and the many cultures for which they are basic parts of life.”

This year’s event promises a diverse lineup of food trucks and market stalls, showcasing an array of sweat-inducing products and unique flavour combinations. New additions include chilli-infused ice creams crafted by Bill Choi from Mrs C Chilli Oil, offering festival-goers the chance to test their taste buds with chilling but thrilling delights.

With nearly 100 vendors participating, including established favourites and innovative newcomers, the festival invites visitors to explore sauces, rubs, herb mixes, and more, all exploring the vast spectrum of flavours on the Scoville scale. The festival also extends beyond consumable products, featuring stalls offering Renaissance Herbs, clothing, accessories, and more.

The weekend will be brimming with entertainment, including live music from the six-piece band, the Harmaniax, and a new addition to the lineup for 2024. Attendees can also look forward to a honey show, cooking demonstrations from local chefs, and chilli-eating competitions for those brave enough to test their spice tolerance.

Celebrating multicultural cuisine, the festival invites visitors to sample dishes from 20 distinct cultures, representing both Australian-grown and imported goods. From West Africa to Tibet, Cambodia to Jamaica, the festival encourages exploration beyond familiar tastes, promising a feast for the senses.

Tickets for the Herb and Chilli Festival are available for purchase online, with options for day passes, weekend passes, individual tickets, and family packages. For added convenience, guests can opt for the Chilli Express Bus, offering a hassle-free journey from Lilydale Station to the festival grounds.

The Herb and Chilli Festival comes to 125 Quayle Road, Wandin on Saturday, March 16 and Sunday, March 17. Grab your tickets and find out more at the festival website.