FAQs

A world ignited by wonderment. Where artistry, sound, taste, light and flame converge into a single, ever-shifting story. It’s not about watching the fire, it’s about feeling it. Transformation, wonder and connection form its core. Every moment a spark, every spark a memory. 

The gates glow open at 12:00, and the final flames bow to the stars at midnight. A world of rhythm, flavour and firelit discovery, a journey that moves from day into dream while unfolding waves of experience – dining, performance and firelit wonder.

At The Ostrich, Cape Town — a vast, open canvas surrounded by nature and where sky meets story. By day it hums with flavour and sound; by night it glows into an elemental theatre of light, fire, performance, art and connection.

For the seekers. The curious, the passionate, the ones who crave something that feels alive. An adult-only experience, curated for those who prefer meaning to noise, magic to notion, experience to just attendance. Designed for those ready to be transformed, firelit and elevated.

Fire. As symbol, as story, as mirror.
It transforms, renews, and wonderfies everything it touches. Festival of Fire exists to celebrate that transformation — where art, people, and possibility all burn brighter together.

A sensory-rich journey through art, music, fire, performance and culinary mastery. Each corner invites a new encounter, whether it’s tasting flame-kissed creations, dancing under embered skies, or standing still in quiet awe. Every spark transforms the ordinary into the unforgettable. Expect performance spectaculous, dining flavourwoven, sound symphonious, and design storylit.
Every sense is invited; every moment prestigified.

Each path offers a different perspective of the flame:

• Ember Fields — the pulse of the people; open, radiant, alive.

• Flame Court — elevated energy, closer to the fire’s rhythm.

• Inferno Lounge — celebrified reserved comfort, with crafted indulgence and intimate atmosphere.

• Blaze Royale — the summit of splendour; prestigified dining, private service, and view of the flame’s crescendo.

Each experience burns with its own brilliance. Wherever you stand, the fire finds you.

Yes — an entire culinary inferno. Chefs, artisans and alchemists of flavour come together to ignitify the palate. From smoke-kissed feasts to crafted cocktails and ember-aged spirits, every taste is storified through the language of heat and imagination.

Music, movement and spectacle firelit into story awaits. Though not always on stage. The day and night itself performs: dancers between lanterns, voices under stars, rhythms rising from nowhere and everywhere. You’ll feel the story before you see it.

From genre-bending live acts to theatrical displays and visual artistry, every performance is chosen for its ability to transflame emotion into experience.

A spectacular moment within the flame: the 2nd League of Fire Africa Chilli Eating Belt Match exclusively at Festival of Fire. It’s an internationally recognised heat challenge, a test of spirit, endurance and celebration. Those interested in participating can reach out directly to inquire about entry.

We thrive on collaboration and co-ignition. If you create through food, art, fashion or experience — let’s connect and amplifire your vision together.

Personal moments are welcome. But remember, the most powerful memories are firelit within, not only captured through lens. Professional media and press may apply for Firelit Media Access.

It’s a one-of-a-kind celebration of bold flavours (celebrating chilli peppers in all its forms), electrifying music, and fiery fun for the whole family. Join us for an unforgettable experience filled with food, hot music, entertainment and carnival energy.

The Ostrich – Cape Town, is a short 30 minutes drive outside Cape Town. It is a spacious and scenic outdoor space ready to host the spiciest event of the year!

Gates open at 11h00, and the fun keeps going until 22h30. It’s a full day of fiery excitement!

Absolutely! There’s something for everyone, from kids’ activities to delicious food, dazzling performances, and live music. Bars and adult-only areas will be off-limits to under-18s.

• General Admission: Access to all stages, performances and activities.
• VIP Tickets: Exclusive access to the VIP Spice Lounge (for reserved tables), VIP area, VIP parking and Fast-track VIP entry, private bar, restrooms and special experiences. 

VIP tickets provide access to the exclusive VIP area, dedicated bars and VIP toilets. VIP tickets do not include a specific seating arrangement, however there are limited shaded seating on a first-come first-served basis. PLEASE NOTE: personal belongings cannot be used to hold seats—if you step away, the seating becomes available to others. Any unattended items left to reserve seating may be removed by event organisers.

VIP and VVIP table reservations, on the other hand, are for guests who wish to secure a dedicated table within the VIP Spice Lounge and have access to amenities. These reservations include extra perks such as bottles of champagne, mixers and canapés.

To reserve a table, start by deciding the type of table you’d like to book i.e. VIP 4-seater, 6-seater, 8-seater, or a VVIP Cabana 8-seater. Reserved tables are positioned next to the dance floor and stage. During the Ticket Passport selection process, click the relevant “Select Table” button to proceed. Once clicked, you’ll be presented with a list of available tables, select your table choice. After selecting your preferred table, the pop-up will automatically close and your table booking will be listed under the “Selected Tickets” listing. Please note that you can only select one table at a time.

If you need to book additional tables, you will need to repeat the above process for each one. Table reservations are time-sensitive and will expire if the transaction is not completed within the allotted time frame. Availability shown during selection does not guarantee availability at the time of purchase. All tickets and table reservations are subject to availability, and all sales are final.

Changed your mind on a table or tickets? You can remove it within the Cart section.

This secure, access-controlled section is perfectly positioned next to the dance floor and stage, giving you prime access to all the action. Enjoy the luxury of shaded seating, a dedicated VIP bar serving your favourite drinks, and private VIP restrooms for men and women. It’s the perfect way to elevate your festival day with comfort, convenience and an unbeatable vibe!

Yes! Reduced-price tickets are available for teens (age 13-18), and kids (12 and younger) enter for FREE.

Yes, tickets will be sold at the gate (CARD TRANSACTIONS ONLY), but we recommend purchasing in advance to secure your spot and take advantage of special ticket rates.

The festival offers a variety of spicy challenges for attendees:

League of Fire – Africa Belt Match
A premier chilli-eating contest where participants compete in the first ever and prestigious Africa Belt match (a globally recognised title). Hosted by the UK Chilli Queen, and ambassador of League of Fire International. Open to all ready to test their heat tolerance.

---

Hot Chip Challenge – Trio Triangles of Death
Dare to devour three intensely spicy tortilla chips in succession. Each chip packs a fiery punch generously coated with Carolina Reaper and other super hot chilli powder, and only the boldest will conquer all three.

---

Kids Candy Challenge – Fiery Sweets and Chocs
A fun and spicy twist for the younger spice enthusiasts. Children can sample a selection of mildly spicy candies and chocolates, introducing them to the world of heat in a daring, safe and enjoyable way. 

---

Hot Shots Challenge – Hot Sauce Chug
Participants take on the challenge of consuming multiple shots of blazing hot sauce. It’s a quick test of courage and heat endurance.

---

Hot Wings Challenge
Savour a selection of spicy wings drenched in artisanal hot sauces crafted by local producers. Available at the Food Court, this challenge tests your ability to handle progressively hotter flavours.

---

More to be announced…

While most competitions are open to participants aged 18 and above due to the intense heat levels, the Kids Candy Challenge is specifically designed for children aged 16 and under, offering a milder but still spicy experience.

Think you have what it takes? Simply purchase a competition ticket here and secure your spot in the challenge of your choice.

But remember, a Competition Ticket only confirms your participation in the challenge—to gain access to any of the festival grounds you’ll need a Festival Passport ticket.

The League of Fire Africa Belt Match is an open invitation to all chilli warriors—from seasoned competitors to fearless festival-goers, ready to take on the ultimate test of heat! This premier chilli eating showdown will crown the first-ever Africa Champion, marking a historic milestone in the continent’s competitive chilli scene.

A true battle of endurance, fire and mental grit, this contest pushes participants to their limits as they devour some of the world’s hottest peppers in a quest for glory and global recognition. 

Think you can handle the heat? Step up, push your limits and take your shot at the prestigious League of Fire Africa Belt title!

Competition slots are limited! To secure your spot, we recommend booking online in advance to avoid missing out. However, if you’re lucky and there are open slots on the day, you may still be able to grab a ticket.

Absolutely, if you’re brave enough. You can sign up for as many competitions as you’d like, as long as you think you can handle the heat!  

Yes! The competitions are a major highlight of the festival, alongside musical acts and performances. With a Festival Passport, you’re not just a spectator—you’re part of the experience! Your cheers and energy help fuel the competitors, pushing them to go further and making each challenge even more exciting. So bring the vibes and be part of the action on the sidelines!

Given the extreme spiciness of some challenges, it’s essential to assess your own tolerance levels. Participants with underlying health conditions, especially those related to the stomach or heart, are advised to consult a medical professional before taking part. Remember, participation is voluntary and personal discretion is encouraged. 

Yes! Participants will be provided with milk to help ease the burn from spicy challenges. Medics will also be on-site for anyone in need of medical assistance. If you’re looking for additional relief, ice cream based options and refreshing drinks will be available for purchase.

Get ready for the Festival of Fire’s Chilli Carnival™—where the heat is intense, and the challenge is real!

Expect a chilli feast! Every food vendor and food truck will feature chilli-inspired dishes, from mild to mouth-scorching. Sweet and non-spicy options will also be available. You will also find artisanal chilli-based vendors offering unique hot sauces, jams and other fiery creations for purchase.

Some of South Africa’s hottest bands and DJs will light up the stage! Stay tuned for the full lineup.

From chilli-eating competitions to interactive games, cooking demos, photo ops, and electrifying performances, there’s no shortage of fun to be had.

The Ostrich features wide lawn areas and organic paths, making the venue generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. However, due to the natural terrain, some areas may require assistance for smoother navigation. We recommend bringing along a companion for added support.

Your safety is our priority. We will have first-aid stations, security personnel, and strict crowd control measures in place.

Comfortable shoes to dance into the night, sunscreen & hat, your brightest and boldest outfit and your sense of adventure! A picnic blanket is welcomed. Outside food, drinks, and weapons are not permitted.