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Ocean Beach, CaliforniaJoin San Diego Locals for the OB Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off Fest
Every year in June, thousands of beach-goers, chili cooks, and free-spirited individuals converge in Ocean Beach, CA for the OB Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off Festiival.
Ocean Beach Community Ocean Beach is a community in the county of San Diego, California. OB, as it is referred to by the locals, is popular amongst hippies, free spirits, beach-goers, and antique lovers. The main drag offers restaurants, smoke shops, surf huts, and a variety of antique stores, as well as a weekly Farmer's Market on Wednesday nights. Dog lovers are also drawn to OB because of its leash-free dog beach. In addition, the OB Pier has been a San Diego attraction ever since it was built in 1966. Some sources say it is the longest concrete pier on the West Coast, and others argue that it is the longest in the world. Whatever the case may be, the pier is certainly a popular locale for fishing and many people frequent its restaurant and tackle shop. The FestivalEvery year, in late June, this relaxed community hosts the OB Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off Festival. This event is free to the public and often draws crowds of upwards of 50,000 people. At the festival, there are usually several stages that feature a variety of musicians and musical genres. Festival-goers can also find a rock climbing wall, a skateboarding exhibition, pony rides for the kids, and a beer garden for the adults. But, one of the most important factors in drawing crowds to the festival is the famed Chili Cook-Off. Entrants compete to win the favor of both the judges and the crowd, and in the end, two awards are given. One award is conveyed by the judges and the second is given in the form of a “People’s Choice Award.” The top spots are coveted ones and the competition can be fierce! Yet, nothing outweighs the sense of community in OB. To highlight this sentiment, a mural is also open to the public at the festival and many attendees choose to leave their mark by decorating their own unique portion. These murals are then installed in different locations throughout the county once they are completed, thereby leaving a permanent record of the community’s participation. The Festival in 2008This year, the festival will be held on Saturday, June 28, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and will be located in the general vicinity of Newport Ave. At the festival, there will be five musical stages to showcase acts from a variety of genres. Most of the bands will likely be unfamiliar to the general populace, but even based solely on the band names, it is clear that an air of light-heartedness and intrigue prevails. This June, the line-up will include groups such as School of Rock, Jimmy Dean and the Sausage Kings, Beer Feet, and The Hip Replacements. And, as always, there will be food, games, and plenty of fun for the whole family. So, don’t hesitate! Be sure to mark your calendars now and head out to Newport Avenue on June 28 to experience the charm and excitement of this legendary San Diego event.
The copyright of the article Ocean Beach, California in California Travel is owned by Kristin Krogh. Permission to republish Ocean Beach, California in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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