The Ultimate Datil Pepper Celebration

Born in Floridian soil, the sweet-and-smoky Datil pepper is our heritage. Datil Fest celebrates this unique legacy, bringing together farmers, chefs, and families along the St. Johns River in historic Riverfront Palatka.

Proudly co-hosted by Revitalize Historic Palatka, UF/IFAS Extension Putnam County, Mayhem Datil Pepper Farms, and numerous community partners, we honor our agricultural roots and foster community spirit.

Succumb to the Datil Pepper's Flavor & Tang

Datil Fest Highlights

Discover the heart of Datil Fest. From fiery chef showdowns to toe-tapping tunes and local treasures, there's something for everyone to savor.

Culinary Taste Experience & Competition

ALL DAY Live Music Riverfront

Amateur Datil Showdown

Experience one of Datil Fest's most popular events as Florida's top chefs compete for the title of Florida's Best Datil Chef. Sample savory dishes, sweet treats, and Datil-infused beverages, then cast your official vote for your favorite chef. With two exclusive tasting sessions, this interactive culinary experience sells out every year, giving you the chance to taste, vote, and help crown the champion while celebrating the incredible versatility of the legendary Datil pepper. Meet the chefs, discover exciting new recipes, and enjoy an unforgettable culinary adventure showcasing Florida's most iconic heirloom pepper.

Get ready to experience the heartbeat of Datil Fest! The 2026 Music Lineup features an unforgettable mix of blues, Southern rock, country, Americana, and classic favorites. Enjoy the electrifying The Sauce Boss & Extra Sauce, the legendary Jeff Howell, the soulful Curtis Willis, powerhouse vocalist Lorri Gill, and Palatka's own Jelly Rollers. Bring your lawn chair, gather your family and friends, and enjoy a full day of incredible live music, amazing food, Datil peppers, and unforgettable memories at Florida's hottest festival!

Think you've got what it takes to create the ultimate Datil masterpiece? The 2026 Datil Fest Amateur Datil Showdown puts home cooks, backyard chefs, and Datil Pepper enthusiasts in the spotlight as they compete for the title of 2026 Amateur Datil Champion! From fiery hot sauces and award-winning mustards to sweet jellies and creative Datil-inspired dishes, this competition celebrates flavor, creativity, originality, and love for the legendary Datil Pepper. Contestants bring their best creations, while judges determine which masterpiece deserves top honors.