Ireland’s hottest pub competition is coming to Irish Chili Festival
Think your local has the toughest crew in Ireland? Prove it at the inaugural Great Irish Pub Heat-Off, taking place Sunday, June 28, 2026 at the Irish Chili Festival.
We’re inviting pubs from across Ireland to compete for the title of Ireland’s Spiciest Pub in an intense chili-eating showdown hosted by the legendary Clifton Chili Club (as seen on Netflix’s “We Are the Champions”).
⚠️ WARNING: This competition is NOT for the faint of heart! Carolina Reaper peppers rate between 1.6-2.2 million Scoville Heat Units, making them among the world’s hottest chilis. All contestants must sign a disclaimer before participating. Competition chilis will be supplied by Westland Peppers.
Competition Format: Teams of 2 representing their pub (staff members or regulars) will compete in a 3-minute time trial to eat as many fresh Carolina Reaper chili peppers as possible. Only the stalk can remain—everything else must be consumed.
The Rules:
- Contestants cannot leave the table during the 3 minutes
- No drinking fluids during the competition
- No getting sick (you know what we mean)
- A chili is only counted when just the stalk remains
- The team with the most combined chilis eaten wins
Prizes & Recognition:
- Entry fee: €50 per team of 2
- All entry fees will be donated on behalf of the winning team to the Irish children’s charity of their choice
- The winning pub receives a certificate from the charity to display with pride, along with the competition trophy
- Certificates for all participating teams showing their quantities eaten and their place in the competition
How to Enter: Teams must register in advance and must be representing a pub. All contestants must sign a disclaimer before competing. Contact us to secure your spot and show Ireland which pub has the spiciest spirit.
Venue Address: Marina Market, Centre Park Road, Ballintemple, Cork. T12 YX76
Date: Sunday, June 28, 2026
Entry Fees: The below form includes payment for entry
Will your pub take home the title? Sign up now and bring the heat!