Chomp & Stomp Chili Cook-Off and Bluegrass Festival is one of Atlanta's most unique fall events held in the eclectic and creative neighborhood of Cabbagetown.
Scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 5— just as the air becomes extra crisp and bright, the 14th annual festival sparks a magic that can only be experienced while walking the charming streets with a chili spoon in-hand and grooving to some live Bluegrass.
Chomp & Stomp, held at Cabbagetown Park, 1777 Kirkwood Ave., is a non-profit festival held to raise money for the area parks, of which they fully fund the maintenance for.
So what do you need to know before hitting the Cabbagetown streets to maximize your experience?
We've got an insider look just for you.
There will be chili. Lots and lots of chili.
Do you have a long-time cherished chili family recipe you've been dying to serve to the masses?
Then sign up to be a chili cooker. If you prefer to just eat your way through, then this year will not disappoint. Arrive at serving time in order to guarantee a taste from each booth. You'll find a wide variety of chili concepts which will leave you inspired and hungry for more.
Prepare to be judged.
If you're making chili, that is. The official Chomp & Stomp judges will be tasting double-blind and via digital scoring this year. That means you can check out the score breakdowns shortly after the official winners are announced.
Want to eat guilt free? Run in the ROMP 5k.
This Chomp & Stomp event takes place before the chili is served, so you can eat to your heart's content. Grab a few friends and create some memories on this fun course.
Volunteer!
The Chomp & Stomp volunteers are certainly well taken care of and their efforts serve a great purpose within the community. Details are still being finalized, but please note that free alcohol and food will not be included as part of this year's experience.
Stay tuned for 2016 volunteer perks or sign up directly on their website.
Credit: Jonathan Phillips
Credit: Jonathan Phillips
Still hungry? Eat more.
A collaborative effort with Hand-Picked Atlanta will feature chili and beer pairings from your favorite restaurants and Sweetwater Brewery. Tickets are on sale through Hand-Picked Atlanta. A panel of high-profile judges will be picking the favorites of the day.
Dance like you are in love with chili and fall festivals.
Chomp & Stomp wouldn't be complete without its full Bluegrass lineup in the middle of Cabbagetown Park. Bring a blanket and set up on the green grass in between dance sessions. Check out the scheduled bands here.
Increase your happiness quotient by ordering tickets and swag in advance.
This year, you can purchase tokens, spoons and t-shirts ahead of time and have them shipped to you before the festival. Aka, you will get to the chili first. Order here.
What's the parking situation?
Cabbagetown is a small neighborhood with limited parking opportunities. Spaces are taken quickly.
Organizers suggest riding MARTA (picking up at either the Inman Park Station or the King Memorial Station) or calling your favorite ride-share company such as Uber or Lyft. You can also ride your bike to the event and ABC will valet.
This will get you to the chili faster instead of scrambling to find a parking spot.
What else is there to do?
Chomp & Stomp also boasts an art market that you can wander through at your leisure. You'll find lots of local goodies to feast your eyes upon and perhaps even take home with you. If the weather is nice, you might consider checking out Historic Oakland Cemetery, Cabbagetown's lovely neighbor to the west. Last but not least, the Forward Warrior murals on Carroll Street are not to be missed.
