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Chili festivals, Friendsgiving events abound in metro Atlanta in November

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  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, October 31st 2025 at 6:47 GMT by Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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November’s Chili and Friendsgiving Festivities Light Up Metro Atlanta

As the leaves turn to fire‑colored gold and the air grows crisp, Metro Atlanta is abuzz with a wave of culinary and community events that promise to keep the holiday spirit alive before Thanksgiving even arrives. The Atlanta Journal‑Constitution’s latest roundup of food‑and‑dining happenings lists a series of chili festivals, Friendsgiving celebrations, and other seasonal gatherings that will have residents sampling spicy stews, enjoying potluck feasts, and giving back to the community. The events, spanning from early November through the end of the month, cater to a wide spectrum of tastes and interests—making the entire metro area a vibrant tapestry of flavors and fellowship.

Chili Festivals: A Spicy Showcase of Southern Hospitality

The centerpiece of the lineup is a cluster of chili festivals that bring together some of the region’s most celebrated chefs, food trucks, and home‑grown recipe creators. A highlight is the Atlanta Chili Fest in Midtown, which takes place on November 10–12 at the historic Hyde Park Pavilion. The festival features over 30 booths showcasing everything from classic beef chili and spicy turkey variations to vegetarian and vegan options that satisfy even the most discerning palate. Visitors can watch live cooking demonstrations, sample small bites, and participate in a chili‑taste‑off competition where local diners cast votes for the best bowl.

Another standout is the Chili Fest at Peachtree Corners on November 17, held in the expansive Peachtree Corners Square. This event, which has been running annually for 15 years, offers a more intimate, family‑friendly atmosphere with kid‑friendly chili options, live music, and a dedicated “Chili & Corn” cooking station where attendees can learn to pair chili with cornbread, corn on the cob, and other Southern staples. The organizers, a coalition of local food vendors and the City of Peachtree Corners, emphasize the festival’s role in celebrating the area’s diverse culinary heritage and fostering community connections.

In addition to the two flagship festivals, the article highlights a series of smaller, niche events that cater to specific communities. For example, the Cobb County Chili Cook‑Off—held on November 27 at the Cobb Community Center—invites local home cooks to compete for the coveted “Cobb Chili Champion” title. The event is free, open to all ages, and offers a chance for families to bond over shared traditions. A separate Chili & Jazz Night on November 21 at the Fox Theatre blends gourmet chili with live jazz, showcasing the intersection of food and music in the Atlanta arts scene.

Friendsgiving: Food, Fellowship, and Volunteering

While the chili festivals celebrate the region’s love of heat and hearty meals, Friendsgiving events offer a heartwarming alternative to the traditional holiday gathering. The article lists an impressive roster of Friendsgiving celebrations that emphasize shared meals, community outreach, and gratitude. One of the most talked‑about events is the Friendsgiving at the Atlanta Public Library on November 12. In partnership with the Friends of the Library, the event hosts a potluck dinner where attendees bring dishes to share, complete with a “gratitude wall” where participants write notes of thanks. The library also offers a cooking demonstration on “Making the Perfect Turkey Roast” to help first‑time hosts navigate the holiday’s most iconic dish.

Another notable event is the Friendsgiving at the Kirkwood Community Center on November 20. The center partners with local nonprofits to serve a “Community Feast” that feeds over 200 residents in need. Volunteers are invited to help with meal prep, serving, and cleanup, turning the event into a powerful model of civic engagement. According to the article’s quotes from center director Maria Lopez**, “Friendsgiving is a chance for everyone to celebrate together, regardless of family structure. It’s about giving back and showing the city that we’re all in this together.”

The article also points readers to a Friendsgiving Mobile App, an initiative that connects volunteers, donors, and recipients through a single platform. By using the app, users can find nearby events, track their volunteer hours, and receive updates on the next gathering. The initiative is supported by the Atlanta Community Foundation, which seeks to expand Friendsgiving programs into underserved neighborhoods.

Other Seasonal Highlights

Beyond chili and Friendsgiving, the roundup includes a variety of other food and cultural events. The Atlanta Harvest Fair, slated for November 24, showcases seasonal produce, crafts, and local artisans. It features a “Pumpkin Patch” and a “Turkey Trot” run that encourages fitness and community. The article also highlights the Gothic Food Truck Festival, a pop‑up event that brings together 15 food trucks in the West End for a night of live music and a potluck of regional dishes.

How to Join

All of these events are listed with dates, times, locations, and contact details on the City of Atlanta’s official event calendar. Most festivals are free or accept donations, with a few requiring tickets or reservations. In addition, each festival page includes a map, parking info, and guidelines for guests with dietary restrictions or mobility concerns. The article’s author encourages readers to plan ahead, arrive early for the best seating at popular spots, and bring reusable containers to minimize waste.

As November rolls into full swing, Metro Atlanta’s chili festivals and Friendsgiving celebrations are set to become a highlight of the holiday season. Whether you’re a chili connoisseur, a food‑sharing enthusiast, or simply looking to spend the holidays with new friends, the city’s festive lineup offers a flavorful and heart‑warming way to celebrate. The article’s comprehensive overview ensures that no one misses out on the culinary and community experiences that define Atlanta’s unique holiday spirit.