The Central Coast’s celebration of flavor returns Sunday, March 15 with the Buellton Wine & Chili Festival, noon-4:30 p.m. at Flying Flags RV Resort. This year’s theme is Uncorking the Heat.

“The beloved annual community favorite brings together the best in wine, craft beverages, and mouthwatering chili and salsa showcase right in the heart of Buellton,” organizers said.

The lineup of live entertainment is led by Maclovia, an Ojai-based band, known for its mix of Latin rock, psychedelic influences, and emotionally driven sound.

Also performing will be Salty Strings, a Santa Barbara band that blends traditional bluegrass with coastal inspiration; and DJ F.I.U., a veteran DJ with some 20 years of experience spinning across California and Nevada.

Attendees can try a wide selection of wine, craft beer, seltzers, ciders, and spirits while sampling unlimited chili and salsa.

Attendees are also encouraged to watch and take part in the Chili Cook-Off, a friendly competition where local businesses, residents, and home cooks go head-to-head for bragging rights and the title of best chili and salsa in the area.

Restaurants, nonprofit groups, community members, and those eager to showcase their culinary skills can register at https://buelltonwineandchilifestival.com/.

Visitors can choose from the following ticket options:
• The Hot Chili Ticket ($65): General admission for guests 21 and over; includes a souvenir wine glass, unlimited wine tasting, craft beer, seltzers, ciders and spirits, along with unlimited chili and salsa. 
• The Mild Chili Ticket ($25): Available for guests 20 and under; includes unlimited chili and salsa with no alcohol consumption.
• Children ages 6 and under enter for free.
• At-the-door tickets: $75 for the Hot Chili Ticket; $35 for the Mild Chili Ticket. (Chili and salsa available while supplies last.)

For convenience, the festival offers the Brew Bus, a round-trip shuttle from Santa Barbara, Goleta, Lompoc and Santa Maria for $30. Shuttle tickets must be purchased in advance; pickup and drop-off details available at https://buelltonwineandchilifestival.com/.

Nearby parking will also be available at Pea Soup Andersen’s, with signage directing attendees. The festival grounds are a short walk from the designated lot. 

For event information and for tickets, visit https://buelltonwineandchilifestival.com/, or call the Buellton Chamber of Commerce, 805-688-7829.