Spice up September with Keremeos’ annual Similkameen Sizzle Festival

Keremeos is bringing the heat to the Okanagan Valley with the return of the Similkameen Sizzle on Sept. 20.

The free annual hot pepper festival, the only one of its kind in Canada, has been a staple of the fall for more than 20 years.

“The Similkameen Sizzle has become one of the most unique events in the area and beyond,” says Vanessa Schwoegler-Abbott, executive administrator of the Similkameen Country Development Association. “It’s a celebration of our agricultural roots, our amazing community spirit, and the bold people who aren’t afraid to live a little spicy – and those who just love to watch.”

The highlight event, which draws people from across the Interior and beyond, is of course the Sear Factor competition.

Starting at 4 p.m., those brave enough to step forward will face the ultimate test of their limits as they chomp down on hotter and hotter peppers until only one remains.

For the Sear Factor, a jalapeno is just a light warm up, especially compared to the likes of 2024’s deciding round, the Yellow Maruga Scorpion Pepper.

There will also be a hot sauce contest and a special kids contest as well this year.

The Sear Factor isn’t the only reason to come down to Memorial Park though. The whole day kicks off with the artisan market and food truck alley.

This year, there will also be a special breakfast served up by Hixzee’s Gourmet where one dollar from each meal goes to support the Similkameen Starfish Pack program. The Starfish Packs provide local children with food to take home over the weekends during the school year to ensure their growing minds and bodies stay fueled up.

The bouncy castle is back at the Kids’ Zone, and this year there will also be pop-up salsa dance lessons for all-ages to take part in.

Guests can also test their taste buds with fiery hot sauce samples, make a splash at the dunk tank or relax with a glass of local wine, cider, spirits, or beer at the returning Sip and Sizzle within the beverage garden.

Local bands and special performances will keep the park buzzing with music all afternoon and into the early evening.

Plan your visit at similkameencountry.org/similkameen-sizzle

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