It’s back! The Colchester Chilli Challenge returns to Colchester High Street Market this Saturday, 4 March.
Between 10am and midday, competitors aged 18+ will be put through their paces in a fiery eating contest. The challenge is to eat through a series of HOT dishes freshly prepared by regular Colchester Market food vendors Manna Grill, Mex Appeal and Peck. Competitors are eliminated, round by round, until we have our champion for 2023!
Entry costs £10 per person, up to 10 competitors, who can register on the day. Every competitor will receive a free Colchester Chilli Challenge t-shirt by Cult Zeros (@cultzeros). Come along to support your champion or even join in (you can even send us a message via @colchmarket on Facebook or Instagram). Arrive at 10am to register to take part.
The winner will take home our bespoke trophy made by local trader 3DPrints4U, along with a voucher from Other Monkey Brewing. The runner-up prize is a Chilli Plant from Roots and Grooves café. Colne Radio will provide the music and present the prizes.
This is the fifth challenge since the competition began in 2017. The last winner was crowned in 2020.
This year’s dishes include:
1st round – Jamaican Patties by Manna Grill
2nd round – Birria Beef Tacos and Consome by Mex Appeal
3rd round – Hot Wings by Peck
There will be an eliminator round in event of a tie.
Cllr Martin Goss, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services & Waste, said: “The year’s Chilli Challenge once again promises to be great fun and I would encourage anyone in town to come along, take a look and if they’re brave enough, take part themselves.
“Our market has a thriving food scene, with an excellent choice of dishes from all over the world.
“We want to attract visitors and residents to our market, which is why we put on a variety of events throughout the year. The market is a great place to pick up unique gifts and enjoy a great variety of foods.”
Find out more on the @colchmarket Facebook page.
Page last reviewed: 2 March 2023