For pepper enthusiasts or those who just enjoy a fun time, the annual Mangilao Donne Festival is a must-visit for those in Guam.

Donne peppers (pronounced doe-nee) are very important to not only the Mangilao Village but also for the entire island, as the peppers are an essential ingredient in many of Guam’s favorite traditional dishes. Finadene, for example, is Guam’s signature spicy condiment without which no meal is complete.

“Donne is important to Guam and our people because we love to eat hot and spicy food,” said Mangilao Mayor Allan Ungacta. “It is commonly used in our signature dish called ‘Finadene,’ known as hot sauce.”

So, it is no wonder that Mangilao would be where locals can celebrate all things pika (Chamorro for ‘hot’) during its annual September festival.

The festival started in 2011 and was an opportunity for Mangilao farmers, whether professionals or hobbyists, to show off and sell their best peppers and pepper products.

Every year, the festival kept getting larger, Ungacta said, until the pandemic put a hold on it and many other island festivities.

Last year, although super typhoon Mawar hit the island in May, which affected most major summer events on the island, the Donne Festival was held as scheduled in September.

“Last year’s event was truly a success, complete with children’s rides and attractions, carnival, food trucks, hourly entertainment, and fireworks,” Ungacta said.

Mangilao is known for its Thursday Night Market, a bustling place filled with various shops and stands selling local merchandise and traditional Chamorro dishes. And there are also live performances at various stages at the weekly Thursday event.

This year, in addition to the Mangilao Thursday Night Market, there will be more vendor offerings pertaining to the local hot pepper, according to Ungacta.

“All are invited to join us for a weekend full of positive energy, great food, awesome entertainment, and wonderful company!” Ungacta said.

The three-day festivities will take place next to Santa Teresita Church on Route 10 and visitors can expect dozens of booths dedicated to all things donne, including finadene, pika (hot-pepper jelly), barbecue, beverages, clothes, crafts and more.

The event will feature food and game booths, cultural artisans and entertainers. Enjoy music at the event on the main stage, including cheerful music and dancing by Talent Box dancers, Mix Plate Band, Taj, Isa i Isla-Ta, and other cultural performances. You can also enjoy kiddie rides, carnival games, rock wall, petting zoo, slinging competition and fireworks display, perfect for the entire family.

“The highlight of the festival is the donne food competitions - best kadun pika, best dessert, and best dinanche!” Ungacta said.

The unique festival spotlighting delicious donne peppers is something that you won’t want to miss. Mark your calendar and head to Mangilao on Sept. 13-15!

Things to know

• Period: Sept. 13- 15

• Hours: Friday 5-9 p.m., Sat. & Sun. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

• Location: Mangilao Village, next to Santa Teresita Church on Route 10.

• Tel: 671-734-2163/5731 (Mangilao Mayor’s Office)

• Facebook

- Sep. 13, 5 – 9 p.m.

Food trucks and pop-up vendors open at 5 p.m. “That’s Hot Par” Pika Wings Segment, Welcoming Remarks, Bendision and Cultural Show, “Isla I Isla-ta” Live CHamoru Band, and fireworks.

- Sep. 14, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Food trucks and pop-up vendors open at 11 a.m. Talent Box Contemporary Dance Group, food contests, and other entertainment throughout the day.

- Sep. 15, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Food trucks and pop-up vendors open at 11 a.m. Food Contests, Mix Plate Band and other entertainment until the festival ends.