Turn up the heat at the North Carolina Hot Sauce Contest & Festival between September 11 & 12, 2026 in historic downtown Oxford, NC. This signature Granville County event brings together bold flavors, local makers and live entertainment for a lively fall celebration. Sample award-winning hot sauces and specialty foods from across the state, then test your taste buds with some of North Carolina’s hottest peppers. Watch as brave souls take on the challenge of the Bailey Farms pepper-eating contest. nchotsaucecontestandfestival.com