Virginia Highlands Chili Pepper Festival

Need a little spice in your life? Head down to the first annual Virginia Highlands Chili Pepper Festival this Saturday, October 24. Local restaurants The Original El Taco, DBA Barbecue and Mali Thai & Sushi Bar will be there offering chili pepper-loaded foods.

For the real daredevils, there will be a chili pepper-eating contest. Expect live music all afternoon from Delta Moon, My Friend Ian's Band, El Scorcho and Shark Fighter. Cocktails and beer will be available to put out the flames.

The festival will take place at the intersection of North Highland and Amsterdam avenues in the heart of Virginia Highland from 4 p.m. - 11 p.m. this Saturday. Purchase tickets for $5 in advance or $10 at the gate. Tickets do not include the cost of food or alcohol. You must be 21 or older to enter and no dogs are allowed in the festival area.