Thank You for Making ZestFest 2026 a Spicy Success!

What an incredible weekend!

As we celebrate the conclusion of the 25th Anniversary of ZestFest and the 30th Anniversary of the Fiery Food Challenge, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make ZestFest 2026 one of the most memorable events in our history.

To our exhibitors, sponsors, celebrity chefs, judges, volunteers, media partners, entertainers, and most importantly, the thousands of passionate spicy food fans who joined us in Fort Worth—thank you for bringing your energy, enthusiasm, and love of bold flavors to this year's celebration.

Throughout the weekend, attendees sampled hundreds of amazing products, discovered exciting new brands, watched outstanding cooking demonstrations, cheered on fiery eating contests, and celebrated the creativity and craftsmanship that make the spicy food industry so special.

A special congratulations goes out to all of the participants and winners of the 30th Annual Fiery Food Challenge. For three decades, the competition has showcased the very best products from around the world, and this year's entries continued that proud tradition of excellence and innovation.

We are also deeply grateful to our sponsors and partners whose support helps make ZestFest possible year after year. Your commitment to the fiery foods community allows us to create an event that brings together producers, retailers, chefs, media, and consumers in a way that few events can.

Most of all, thank you to the ZestFest family—many of whom have been with us for years, and many who joined us for the first time in 2026. Together, you've helped create a community built on friendship, flavor, fun, and a shared passion for all things spicy.

As we look back on an amazing 2026 event, we're already looking ahead to what's next. Plans are beginning for an even bigger, bolder, and spicier ZestFest 2027, and we can't wait to share more details with you in the months ahead.

Until then, keep exploring new flavors, supporting your favorite makers, and sharing the joy of spicy food with friends and family.

Thank you for being part of the ZestFest tradition.

We'll see you next year!

The ZestFest Team

"Bringing together the world's best spicy foods and the people who love them."