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Green Info Bar
Dates & Times
September 11 - September 12, 2026
Location
100 Main St.
Oxford, NC 27565
Cost
Free
Contact
Sabrina Richards
sabrina.richards@oxfordnc.org
(919) 603-1100
View Event Website
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Turn up the heat at the North Carolina Hot Sauce Contest & Festival in historic downtown Oxford. This signature Granville County event brings together bold flavors, local makers and live entertainment for a lively fall celebration - the only festival taking pride in making grown men cry!
Sample award-winning hot sauces and specialty foods from across the state, then test your taste buds with some of North Carolina’s hottest peppers. Watch as brave souls take on the challenge of the Bailey Farms pepper-eating contest. Festivalgoers can also enjoy local food vendors, craft beer and artisan booths throughout the day.
Four stages will feature live music, dance troupes, martial arts demonstrations and other performances. Main Stage highlights currently include Elijah Harris and Bounce! Party Band on Friday and The Band Next Door, Miss Mini and the Sandman Band and Bryan’s Hill Band on Saturday. Check the website for the complete schedule of events and vendors.
Festival rides include a mechanical bull and rock-climbing walls. In the Kids Zone, younger visitors can enjoy rides, cotton candy, face painting and other entertainment.
Sample award-winning hot sauces and specialty foods from across the state, then test your taste buds with some of North Carolina’s hottest peppers. Watch as brave souls take on the challenge of the Bailey Farms pepper-eating contest. Festivalgoers can also enjoy local food vendors, craft beer and artisan booths throughout the day.
Four stages will feature live music, dance troupes, martial arts demonstrations and other performances. Main Stage highlights currently include Elijah Harris and Bounce! Party Band on Friday and The Band Next Door, Miss Mini and the Sandman Band and Bryan’s Hill Band on Saturday. Check the website for the complete schedule of events and vendors.
Festival rides include a mechanical bull and rock-climbing walls. In the Kids Zone, younger visitors can enjoy rides, cotton candy, face painting and other entertainment.
