Sunday was a blast at the 32nd annual Encinitas street fair. This was my first time going and it didn't disappoint.
Pros:
* The event is free
* Recycling containers
* Port-a-Potties
* ATMs
* Dog friendly
* Kid friendly
* Most vendors took credit cards
Cons:
* Parking
* Limited seating to eat
* Parking
* Kid Zone
Parking was so bad that on my Pros / Cons list, I had to list it twice. No seriously, it was bad. It's a good thing that I love hiking, because I had to park over on A Street and hike my butt over to the event which started at D Street. I'm guessing though that it's just as crowded each year which speaks to how popular the event is with everyone.
Be prepared to circle the city several times if you come later like I did and to run into frustrated, short tempered drivers - one of the ones I met almost took out a motorcyclist as he wasn't paying attention. In the end, I only scored my spot out of shear dumb luck and timing, as I pulled up just as someone was leaving.
Overall, the event was great. Good food, music, and beer. I came to check out the local art and local handmade crafts, along with antiques. There were dozens of booths to choose from in all categories. Down towards the middle of the event, just before the Stone Brewery beer gardens, there were several food vendors set up as well.
The one vendor that I was hoping to try was "Rollswisserie" as they had some serious barbecue ribs and chicken going on. However, as I got up to the counter after standing in line for a good 20min, it turned out that their internet connection was off line so they couldn't take credit cards which meant I had to pay in cash. But still what I could order was great. I had their grilled potatoes and a bratwurst.
An hour or so later, still hungry, I tried a burger from the Bitchen Burgers food truck. These guys were amazing! Hands down one of the best burgers that I've had in a while. I tried the Cheesy Bacon Burger which had Dijon aioli, aged white cheddar, uncured bacon, veggies, and grilled onions on it. It was amazing! Hands down one of the best burgers that I've had in a while.
Per their signs, all of their beef is 100% grass fed which I really do think makes a difference with the taste. In talking with the guy working the cash register, he explained that they mostly do catering and events like the street fair. The burger went great with a San Pellegrino "Aranciata Rossa" Italian soda. All total, the burger and soda came to $11.50 which seemed a bit pricey, but I'd pay it again for another one.
I was very happy to find the Stone Brewery beer garden and to get some of their Arrogant Bastard - it's as good as its name. On one of several stages at the event, a local band (so I was told) called "Ease Up" was playing. They had a Reggae / Rock sound with a great vibe that went well with my beer - good enough to call for several glasses.
I think the planners did an excellent job deciding on the venues to include as there was something for everyone. The only group that I felt bad for where small kids as the "Kid Zone" was pretty sparse. It had two large jump houses but not a whole lot other than that. Although, there were carnival type rides scattered throughout the event which looked like lots of fun and there were lots of hands on crafts to do.
This was a great event and I'm looking forward to the Oktoberfest in the fall. Next year I will attend both days and get Encinitas early enough to find better parking. read more