New England Hot Sauce Fest returns to Smuttynose Brewery in Hampton
HAMPTON — The third annual New England Hot Sauce Fest is returning to Smuttynose Brewery in Hampton on Saturday, July 27, to delight heat seekers and hot sauce enthusiasts alike.
The event presented by Spicy Shark will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the outdoor field behind the brewery at 105 Towle Farm Road in Hampton.
Organizers said this year's festival promises an even hotter experience, featuring a wide range of attractions and activities.
Attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in an array of hot sauce samples and eating contests with music throughout the day. Nine unique food trucks will offer a way to put out the palate fires, while a variety of local crafters showcase their specialty products.
The main event of the festival will feature hot sauce celebrities from the USA and Canada, who will compete against each other in a timed Carolina Reaper pepper eating contest. This high-stakes challenge involves blistering hot Carolina Reaper peppers created and grown by challenge sponsor and creator of the Carolina Reaper pepper, Ed Currie of Puckerbutt Pepper Co.
Adding to the excitement, Bella and Dark from Heat 101 will return as the event MCs, keeping the energy levels high and walking attendees through the festivities.
More than 35 Northeast-based hot sauce companies will be on hand, offering samples of their products.
Attendees can also partake in food challenges, including hot pepper eating contests and a hot wing contest that will test their endurance and taste buds. As an additional treat, award-winning beer from Smuttynose Brewery will be available, providing the perfect complement to the fiery flavors.
The family-friendly event includes bouncy houses, face painting, and magic shows.
Organizers said a majority of the proceeds will be donated to the Blue Ocean Society and the Seacoast Science Center, supporting both groups' efforts to protect our oceans and foster environmental education. The event is made possible by local sponsors, including New Hampshire Lottery, Port City Veterinary Referral Hospital, Avery Insurance, Bangor Savings Bank, The City Beverage Centers, and Great Island Realty.
Limited tickets are still available.
The rain date for the event will be on Sunday, July 28. To secure your spot and learn more about the festival, please visit www.newenglandhotsaucefest.com.
This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: New England Hot Sauce Fest returns to Smuttynose Brewing Co. in Hampton
