SoNo Fest & Chili Cook-Off 2021

Join us for SoNo Fest & Chili Cook-Off's victorious return to the streets of North Park on Sunday, December 5th! 

FAQ: 

Q: What is SoNo Fest?

A: SoNo Fest & Chili Cook-Off is an all-volunteer run, locally-focused street festival featuring a restaurant chili cook-off, huge craft beer & beverage garden, local handmade vendors, food truck court, live music on three stages all day, and fun activities for the kids! Check out the chili makers here: 2021 CHILI MAKERS

Q: When and where is it?

A: It’s Sunday, December 5th, 2021 from 11 am to 5 pm at the intersection of 32nd & Thorn Streets in North Park, San Diego. It’s always the first Sunday in December.

Q: Do I need a ticket?

A: If you want to taste the chili, there are 3 options:

Option 1: Purchase a handmade ceramic bowl and tasting pass from San Diego Ceramic Connection at 32nd & Thorn for $25. You can purchase from San Diego Ceramic Connection on Friday 12/3 from 6-8p; Saturday 12/4 from 11-4p; or Sunday 12/5 from 10:30 am until supplies run out (supplies are limited, so get them early!)

Option 2: Skip the line and buy tickets online before the event. You can buy a SoNo Commemorative MUG and tasting pass for $25 or a paper bowl and tasting ticket for $22. NOTE: You cannot buy a handmade ceramic bowl online, they are only available from San Diego Ceramic Connection (see option 1).

Option 3: You’re a procrastinator? Good on ya, get your tickets the day of SoNo at the main sales booth at 32nd & Thorn streets – SoNo Commemorative MUG and tasting pass for $25 or a paper bowl and tasting ticket for $22 while supplies last (sells out fast).

Q: What if I don’t eat meat? Doesn’t all chili have meat?

A: Don’t worry, cows, pigs, chickens, and sheep everywhere thank you. And no, all chili doesn’t have meat. You can still enjoy SoNo Fest as a vegetarian, as there are plenty of vegetarian and even vegan chili options!

Q: I Can’t get enough chili – how can I get MORE chili?

A: We do sometimes run out of chili during the event (usually by 3 pm) – if you want choices, get there EARLY. If you really want MORE CHILI, you can purchase an additional tasting pass for $22.

Q: What are the Covid safety protocols at SoNo Fest this year?

A: As of right now (this info will be changed here if rules change), the City and County of San Diego are not requiring the enforcement of covid-precaution measures at completely outdoor events of our size. SoNo Fest will not be enforcing mask-wearing or checking the vaccination status of our attendees. Please use common covid-safety sense at this event. 

Q: What do you do with the money you make at SoNo Fest?

A: That’s the best part – 100% of the proceeds go to the McKinley School Foundation to support the arts, dance, language, and gardening programs at McKinley Elementary School in North Park, and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Our kids (and parents and teachers) thank you for your support. All you have to do is eat chili, drink beer, and have fun – and you’re doing something good for the world.

SoNo Fest is presented by the McKinley Elementary PTC and the San Diego Ceramic Connection (SDCC). This event brings together the community and local businesses for a good cause and a good time – together we are building a sustainable future for the next generation of our neighborhood.