Two weeks ago, nearly 50 dangerous hot Carolinaree perchris was consumed by the Cape Town champion rivals, setting the hot standard for Titanium Media South Africa (TMSA), the thrilling third edition of the Great East Coast Chile Festival, held at the Northwood Crusaders Sports Club in Durban North on April 26, 2025.
Known for its spectacular showmanship, the Great East Coast Chile Festival (TGECCF) will return this year with title sponsor Titanium Media South Africa (TMSA) in another fiery edition from 9am to 4pm. The event's headline is the fiercely competitive Chilipod Meal Championship, attracting participants from all over the country.
In 2023, 16 rounds of Chilis were consumed competitively. It started with a mild jalapeño, then a hotter chilis, then a caroliner reaper, “Super Hot.” Also, previously known as the hottest chile on the planet, last year its competitors went to 12 rounds, but this year it hasn't been seen yet.
Well established as Durban's hottest culinary event, the festival will attract local national competitors, spice enthusiasts, food lovers, thrill seekers and families.
“We are excited to not only celebrate Durban's vibrant culinary culture, but also showcase a festival that unites food lovers, chefs, entrepreneurs and industry leaders. It's a vibrant celebration that integrates food, culture and tourism. Nick Papadopoulos.
He added that the festival has contributed to sustainable economic growth, increased pedestrians to hotels, restaurants and retail facilities, creating jobs in multiple industries, including hospitality, logistics, event management and agribusiness.
With over 3,000 participants in the previous edition, it is clear that visitors are keen to indulge in Durban's legendary love affair with various Chilis.
Guests can sample award-winning products featured at the Artisan Sauce Tasting Competition held earlier in the week. By celebrating the creativity of KZN's finest chili pepper artisans, festival attendees will be given the opportunity to experience an array of spicy foods and purchase delicious chili products during sales.
Participants look forward to a wide range of interactive activations, including:
・Fastest Bunny Chow Meal Event
・Chili Demonstration
・Fun children's zone
・Attractive chill zone
・Celebrity influencers appear
・Thrilling stage performance
“We're excited to be able to help you get the most out of our business,” said Sheetal Cross, director of TMSA. “Celebrating chili culture is not just the thrill of the heat, but also the exploration of our diverse culinary heritage and a powerful catalyst for economic transformation. For the unity, empowerment and exponential growth of agribusiness, tourism, hospitality, and the overall local entrepreneurship.”
Papadopoulos also said the festival is more than just “heat” and “flavors” and is a celebration of “community spirit and cultural creativity.”
“We're here to join us to bring in the great East Coast Chile Festival 2025, celebrating the culture of titanium, blending traditions and of course the hottest chili peppers on the planet.
TMSA is a premium, full-service marketing agency based in Durban, Kwazulu-Natal and a web hosting service provider with a global reach. TMSA offers tailored marketing solutions designed to enhance your brand and position your business to succeed in a competitive digital environment.
Tickets for the Great East Coast Chile Festival are available online at Quicket. A variety of ticket options allow you to spend the perfect day, from individual passes to family packages.
To be an event, media invitation, media RSVPS, sponsorship opportunities, become a vendor or take part in the competition, contact Nick Papadopoulos: +27 84 505 0113, hello@thegreateastcoastchillifest.co.za or www.thegreateastcoastchillifest.co.za.
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