Major Texas event
Austin Chronicle Hot Sauce Festival
August 30, 2026 · Austin, Texas · Travis County
The 36th annual festival is scheduled for Sunday, August 30, 2026 from 3-9 p.m. at Radio/East. The organizer says the event benefits the Central Texas Food Bank.
Why plan around Austin Chronicle Hot Sauce Festival?
The Austin Chronicle Hot Sauce Festival combines one of Austin's long-running food traditions with a major tasting competition, live music and a charitable mission supporting the Central Texas Food Bank.
Verified event details
Organizer: The Austin Chronicle ↗
Verified admission options
Announced performers
Lauren Lakis, Latin Dukes, Libby and the Loveless, DJ Mahealani
Official-source details checked 2026-09-01. Ticket prices and lineups can change; confirm the linked official source before purchasing or traveling.
Plan the visit
Plan around the confirmed six-hour window
The organizer lists the 2026 festival for Sunday, August 30 from 3-9 p.m. at Radio/East. Arrive early if broad tasting access and People's Choice voting are priorities, then use the published stage and awards times to shape the rest of the visit.
Know the entry rules before going
The organizer identifies the event as cashless and says dogs, coolers and walk-up hot-sauce entries are not permitted. Check the festival FAQ again before departure for any operational changes.
Make it an East Austin stop
The festival can anchor an afternoon and evening in Austin rather than consuming an entire weekend. Pair it with nearby food, music or other Travis County stops while leaving enough time for lines and tasting.
Keep exploring
- Explore Travis County — Connect the festival to a wider Austin itinerary.
- Texas events calendar — Compare other Texas food festivals and summer events.