Capsaicin Fest 2026 — Event Report

Capsaicin Fest has grown from a backyard gathering to one of South Africa's flagship chilli events. The 2026 edition at Greyston Park drew over 3,000 visitors across two days and 40 vendors.

Who was there

Seed sellers: Three dedicated seed sellers, including one specialist in rare chinenses: Chocolate Moruga, Peach Bhut, and a SA-bred hybrid.

Sauce makers: The majority of the floor. The move toward fermented sauces is real — at least 8 vendors had fermented-base products.

Growers: Three commercial growers bringing raw chillies to sell. Bird's eye, habanero, scotch bonnet, and moruga.

What the makers said

Consistent answer: demand is up, especially for fermented products and grow-your-own kits. 'Five years ago I had to explain what a ghost pepper was. Now people ask for specific SHU counts.'

Next year

Organisers confirmed 2027 is planned for the same venue, adding a growing competition and a structured tasting panel.