FAQS

The Chilli and Gin Festival is a celebration of all things chilli and gin. Experience a range of chilli-infused dishes from some of the region's top chefs, try unique gin-based cocktails, and enjoy a variety of live music and entertainment throughout the day. Not a fan of chilli or gin? No worries, we've got you covered. We'll have plenty of other options for you to choose from.

Our Portsmouth festival is at Fort Purbrook, Peter Ashley Lane, Portsdown Hill Road, Portsmouth, PO6 1BJ

Yes, there will be limited parking on site (approximately 500 spaces). We strongly recommend car sharing or using public transport wherever possible. All parking will cost £3.50 per vehicle.

A chilli festival is a vibrant celebration dedicated to all things spicy and flavourful. It's an event where enthusiasts and food lovers come together to explore a wide array of chilli peppers, dishes, and products. From mild to fiery hot, these festivals showcase various types of chillies, offering tasting opportunities, cooking demonstrations, and a platform for vendors to present spicy foods, sauces, snacks, and even beverages. It's an immersive experience that celebrates the diversity and heat levels of chillies while fostering a community of spice enthusiasts and culinary adventurers.

At the gate: Anyone aged 18 or under must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 18, therefore, you will only need to show I.D/identification at the gate if you are accompanying a minor/s (someone who is aged 15 or under) and you yourself look Under 25. If you've applied a discount to your ticket(s), we'll require you to show this upon entry. If you forget your ID, you may be asked to pay the difference in ticket price. At the bar: I.D./identification will be required at all bars when purchasing alcoholic drinks. We operate a very strict challenge 25 policy. Accepted forms of I.D. are valid photo driving licence or passport only.

Don't worry about a little rain dampening your fun! We've got you covered (literally!). Several key areas will be under shelter, including a spacious marquee housing our delicious food vendors and a dedicated tent for the exciting cocktail masterclasses. This way, you can keep the good vibes flowing no matter the weather. We'll also have updates and announcements on-site in case of rain. But feel free to bring a raincoat or poncho for extra peace of mind!

Friendly dogs are welcome at the festival providing they are kept on a lead and are well behaved. Please do not leave your dog in your car for any reason. Should your dog constantly bark or annoy any other festival goers you will be asked to leave. Please clean up after your dog.

Yes, that's absolutely fine but please note our 2024 festival will be very busy.

No specific dress code. However, comfortable attire and shoes are recommended as the festival is an outdoor event.

Yes, our vendors will be happy to chat with you about their products and share their passion for chillies and gins.

Limited seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Feel free to bring picnic blankets or camping chairs for your comfort.

Sorry, no ATM facilities are available on site. Please bring cash with you if this if your preferred payment method.

The festival opens at 12PM both days and closes 8PM Saturday and 6PM Sunday. Please check the schedule for specific timings of events and activities.

Yes, your wristband allows for re-entry during the festival day. Our security team reserve the right to refuse re-entry is the wristband is damaged or appears to be tampered with.

Food vendors typically close 30 minutes before the festival ends but may choose to open/close earlier or later. Our bars will serve drinks open til close.

Regrettably, there won't be a fireworks display or a dedicated closing event this year. As a small business, our resources are currently limited, but we aspire to include such attractions in our future festivals as we continue to grow and expand. Your support means the world to us, and we aim to enhance our offerings in the coming years. Thank you for understanding and being a part of our journey.

Tickets will be sent to you from Eventbrite by email within 5 minutes of purchasing them. ​Make sure you check your junk/spam folder. Still not received them? Contact Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/help/en-gb/contact-us/

Unfortunately, all festival tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. We understand that circumstances might change, but our policy ensures fairness and consistency for all attendees. Thank you for your understanding. If you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out.

Yes, we offer discounts for NHS workers, students, veterans and those in groups of 10+. For full details please see our 'Tickets' page.

To get the cheapest price, tickets for the Chilli and Gin Festival can be purchased online through this website. Limited tickets will also be available on the door on the day of the event.

No! Please don't waste paper by printing your ticket. You can show your tickets on your phone. We recommend screenshotting your e-ticket in advance.

No, we've simplified our tickets for 2025 and are no longer offering VIP tickets.

Beware of unauthorised ticket agencies and touts (including EBay, Facebook, Gumtree & Craigslist, Viagogo, Seatwave and Stubhub). Please also beware of scammers and bots targetting people on social media. They have not been supplied with tickets by the promoter and therefore there is a possibility you may end up paying over the odds for a ticket that may not exist or might never materialise. Even the reputable auction sites have been known to let down customers at the last minute. All of our tickets have unique barcodes, and once used – cannot be used again. Please buy tickets from the official Chilli & Gin Website only to ensure a safe purchase.

Yes, as long as you used the tickets page on our website or purchased directly from Eventbrite.

Check out our 'Getting there' page for full details on how to get to the festival

Yes, there will be designated areas for drop-offs and pick-ups. Please follow the signs and directions from our staff.

No, overnight camping at the festival grounds is not permitted.

Yes, we have a designated bicycle parking area. Please remember to bring your own bike lock.

Parking is £3 per vehicle, payable by cash or card.

Expect live music performances, chilli eating contests, axe-throwing, gin tasting sessions and more! Check out our 'What's On?' page for full details.

Absolutely! Sign-ups will be available on-site for those brave enough to take on the challenge.

While we appreciate your enthusiasm, outside musical instruments aren't allowed at the festival.

Yes, there will be a variety of vegetarian and vegan options available.

No outside alcohol is permitted. Our licensed bars will provide a wide selection of alcoholic and soft drinks.

Most vendors will accept both cash and card payments. However, it's advisable to bring some cash as well.

Absolutely! We have a range of refreshing non-alcoholic beverages available.

In order to maintain a smooth event experience for everyone, we kindly ask that you don't bring outside food or drinks. We offer a variety of delicious concessions on-site to cater to different dietary needs and preferences.

While efforts are made to cater to various dietary needs, please be aware of potential allergens. Feel free to enquire with individual vendors about allergen information.

Yes, there will be first aid stations with trained medical personnel available throughout the festival grounds.

Smoking and vaping is not permitted in enclosed areas or near food vendors. In other areas, please be considerate of other festival goers.

Please notify our staff immediately. First aid stations and medical personnel will be available to assist you.