Cabbagetown Chomp & Stomp

Chomp & Stomp began in 2003, when Cabbagetown neighbors started a fall festival to pay for the upkeep of their parks, and it still funds the Cabbagetown Initiative Community Development Corporation in this Atlanta historic district. The heart of the day is a fiercely competitive chili cook-off, with more than 100 chilis from mild to wild made by amateur cooks and local restaurants, and a People's Choice vote. Bluegrass and traditional bands play stages around the neighborhood, an artist market sells everything from macrame to jewelry, and the Romp 5K starts things off. Parking is scarce, so come by transit, the Beltline, bike or rideshare.

Our take: Get in line before the chili airhorn sounds, since cooks can't serve before it, and stack your tasting cups as you go to save trips.