Judge Datil Fest

You're welcome to volunteer for one session or both! Simply complete the Judge Sign-Up Form below and let us know about any food allergies, dietary restrictions, or other concerns so we can accommodate you whenever possible. Join the fun, meet fellow Datil enthusiasts, and help crown the 2026 Amateur Datil Showdown Champions!

Love great food and bold flavors? Help decide the winners in the 2026 Amateur Datil Showdown! We're looking for enthusiastic volunteer judges to evaluate homemade Datil pepper creations during one—or both—of our judging sessions. A good tolerance for spicy foods is required, as many entries pack plenty of heat. Contestants will identify the heat level of each entry, and a few days before the event you'll receive a simple judging rubric so you can become familiar with the scoring process. Judges must arrive 30 minutes before their scheduled judging session for a brief orientation and instructions.

Have a blast, meet amazing people, make new friends, and help support our "Save the Datil" mission while celebrating Florida's legendary heirloom pepper.

Choose the session that best fits your taste:

Morning Session - 10-am - 11 am – Savory: Hot sauces, mustards, dry rubs, relishes, salsas, marinades, and other savory creations.
Afternoon Session - 11:15 am - 12:30 pm – Sweet: Jellies, jams, breads, cakes, cookies, cobblers, desserts, candies, and other sweet Datil-inspired treats.

Full Name *

Email Address*

Phone Number*

Tell us about your connection to the Datil Pepper*

Any Food Allergies & Dietary Restrictions*

Judge Participation Agreement & Liability Waiver*

By checking this box, I acknowledge and agree that: I am voluntarily participating as a judge in the 2026 Datil Fest Amateur Datil Showdown and understand that I may be sampling foods and beverages containing Datil peppers and other ingredients that may be spicy or cause allergic reactions. I certify that I am participating at my own risk. I agree to release, indemnify, and hold harmless Revitalize Historic Palatka, Mayhem Brothers, LLC, the University of Florida IFAS, the City of Palatka, Putnam County and its Commission, their officers, directors, employees, volunteers, sponsors, partners, and affiliated organizations from any and all claims, liabilities, injuries, illnesses, allergic reactions, damages, losses, or expenses arising from my participation before, during, or after Datil Fest. I acknowledge that I am responsible for informing event organizers of any food allergies or dietary restrictions prior to judging and understand that all reasonable efforts will be made to accommodate those concerns, but accommodations cannot be guaranteed. I have read and understand the judging requirements and agree to arrive 30 minutes before my scheduled judging session, follow all event instructions, and conduct myself in a fair, respectful, and professional manner throughout the competition. By checking this box, I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to these terms.

Judges Shift Session*

Morning Session - 10-am - 11 am – Savory: Hot sauces, mustards, dry rubs, relishes, salsas, marinades, and other savory creations.

Afternoon Session - 11:15 am - 12:30 pm – Sweet: Jellies, jams, breads, cakes, cookies, cobblers, desserts, candies, and other sweet Datil-inspired treats.

Partner with Purpose

Volunteer

Datil Fest 2026

Volunteer PM Shift

Be part of the team that makes Datil Fest one of Northeast Florida's favorite festivals! Whether you choose a morning or afternoon shift, you'll play an important role in welcoming thousands of guests while enjoying the excitement behind the scenes. Volunteers assist with guest information, event activities, parking, contests, admissions, vendor support, and more.

Have a blast, meet amazing people, make new friends, and help support our "Save the Datil" mission while celebrating Florida's legendary heirloom pepper.

Click the "Volunteer AM Shift" or PM Shift button below to sign up for your preferred morning or afternoon shift on Saturday, November 14, 2026. We couldn't make Datil Fest happen without incredible volunteers like you!

Volunteer AM Shift