Here’s an update on the Delaware-based chilehead event first mentioned by John Dilley of Defcon Sauces. In John’s words:
“PEPPERS AT THE BEACH EVENT, MAY 15 – 16, 2010
“Greetings. As the year begins, I know everyone is picking and choosing which events they may or may not attend with their products. Well, for about the past month, I have been in contact with the legendary Chip Hearn at Peppers in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. I had received a number of requests from both customers and other manufacturers that we should have some sort of gathering there, considering they carry virtually everyone’s products and are in a pretty good location. Add in the fact it’s always a lot of fun when a bunch of chileheads get together, we decided to plan an event this coming May 15-16 at the Peppers location. The hours will be around 10am until 5pm both days.
“This won’t be a formal trade show, but more of a large-scale demo, where manufacturers can sample their products to the masses, join in a few eating competitions, and just hang for a weekend and have a lot of fun. All products shown at this event will be available for sale inside the Peppers store, so bring extra stock in case they run out. This is also a great way for newer companies to get their name out and to get on the shelves at this very well-known location. We are also toying with the idea of getting sponsors and making up some very cool t-shirts for the event.
“The plans are to have this 2-day event in and around Peppers, in the parking lots outside. It’s only going to be mid-May, so the temperatures should be quite nice. There will also be a Blogger Booth setup for those that are part of the Chilehead Nation, and for specific hot sauce blogsites to get their names out as well. There will be no charge for setting up for this event, unlike the larger trade shows. There will also be discounted rooms at a nearby hotel, and Saturday night, there will be a big party for everyone in attendance at a nearby drinking establishment. Myself and Chip are in contact with various TV networks, and are trying to get a couple food personalities to join in the fun as well, as there will be a few eating competitions throughout the days. Chip is also contacting many local news stations and will be promoting this gig very well.
“This is a good chance to get some cool exposure, not to mention having just a plain old-fashioned fun weekend. I’m trying to get an idea of the number of people/companies that are interested, so please email me at john at defconsauces.com or give Chip a call at Peppers, 800-998-3473 if you are interested, and we’ll put you on the list. If things go as well as I think they will, this may turn into an annual event. If you have any questions, feel free to ask. If interested, I will be sending out updates from time to time, as I find out more information.
“John Dilley
President, Defcon Sauces, LLC”