TODAY'S annual Chilli Festival will bring people of all ages, interests and tastes to Sawtell.

The festival is set to be a fun day out for the whole family, with more than 7000 people expected to attend.

Sawtell's, First Avenue will be lined with 68 stalls and a wide range of chilli products will be available to sample and buy.

Australia's leading chilli manufacturers and local restaurateurs will be on hand to showcase the international diversity of chilli cuisine.

If hot and spicy isn't for you, the live music, dancing, cooking demonstrations, competitions, face painting and rides for the kids are sure to keep everyone happy. President of the Sawtell Chamber of Commerce, Jenny Croot expects this year's festival to be bigger and better than ever.

“This is the eleventh year we've had the Chilli Festival in Sawtell and each year it grows,” she said

“We have around 30 local businesses sponsoring the event compared to just six last year and we've got an extra eight stalls this year.”

The famous annual Chilli Eating Competition gets underway at 1.30pm and plenty of milk will be on hand to soothe burning tastebuds.

“As long as the weather stays fine, it should be a great day for everyone that comes,” Mrs Croot added.