Every first Saturday in November, the historic mill village of Cabbagetown transforms into one of Atlanta’s most beloved neighborhood festivals.
Chomp & Stomp blends competitive chili tasting, live bluegrass and roots music, an artist market, food vendors, and community spirit into a free, day-long celebration that draws tens of thousands of visitors.
Cabbagetown Chomp & Stomp: Atlanta’s favorite fall chili cook-off and bluegrass festival
In 2026 the festival takes place on Saturday, November 7, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (official hours are sometimes listed as closing a bit earlier, so check the site closer to arrival). Admission is free. Chili tasting begins around 12:30 p.m. sharp—signaled by the air horn—and requires a purchased official spoon. Expect more than 100 chilis ranging from mild to wild, prepared by amateur teams and local restaurants. Live music fills multiple stages (and porch jams) throughout the day, an extensive artist market lines several streets, and food vendors offer options beyond chili. Earlier in the morning, the Romp & Stomp 5K winds through the neighborhood.
A neighborhood tradition with roots
Founded in 2003 by local neighbors, Chomp & Stomp has grown into Atlanta’s most highly anticipated fall festival while remaining volunteer-run and true to its Cabbagetown roots. The event raises funds for the Cabbagetown Initiative, which maintains and improves neighborhood parks, green spaces, the community center, murals, and related public amenities. Roughly three-quarters of the proceeds support park maintenance—a meaningful investment in a National Landmark Historic District that began as a mill village.
The chili cook-off sits at the center of the day. Teams and restaurants compete in categories that typically include meat and vegetarian options, with awards for top placements and creative “spirit” categories such as best costumes or clever themes. Attendees sample with the official spoon (available in advance at neighborhood spots such as Little’s Food Store and Sweet Cheats, or on-site) and can vote for People’s Choice. Official guidance notes that tasting cups are compostable and should not be reused from booth to booth.
Music leans heavily into bluegrass, old-time, and roots sounds across multiple stages, with additional porch jams adding to the neighborhood feel. The artist market spans several streets and features local makers offering jewelry, home goods, art, and more. Food vendors and beverage options (including beer and cocktails for those 21+) round out the experience.
Practical tips for a smooth visit
Parking is extremely limited—even on ordinary days—and becomes nearly impossible during the festival. Organizers strongly recommend MARTA (nearby stations serve the area), rideshare, the Eastside BeltLine (scooters or walking/biking are popular), or arriving on foot. A suggested rideshare drop-off point is near 97 Estoria on the south side of the Krog Street Tunnel.
Other useful notes: Pets are not allowed due to the large crowds and city ordinance. Outside food and beverages are discouraged because the event is a fundraiser. All ages are welcome, though alcohol purchases require valid ID and are restricted to those 21 and older. Bags and chairs are permitted. The Romp & Stomp 5K starts early (around 8 a.m.) and participants often receive a free tasting spoon for the festival later in the day.
Chomp & Stomp succeeds because it feels like a genuine neighborhood gathering that the whole city is invited to join. Whether you’re chasing the perfect bowl of chili, stomping along to live bluegrass, shopping local makers, or simply soaking up the fall atmosphere in one of Atlanta’s most distinctive historic districts, it delivers a memorable day. Check chompandstomp.com for the latest details on spoon sales, music schedules, the 5K, and any last-minute updates.