We actually drifted off at one point, lost midsentence in a fantasy swirling with rich dark-brown roux. If you are prone to similar spells when thinking, talking or writing about gumbo, we suggest you seek treatment at Galveston Island's Wild Texas Shrimp Fest, September 24-26. In addition to professional and amateur gumbo competitions, the weekend-long event will include a 5K, live music, wine tastings and shopping. We provide an overview after the jump.
5K RUN/WALK
Saturday - 7 a.m. @ Moody Gardens
Adult 5K $25 / Child 1K $15
Start the morning off right with a 5K/1K run through the island's crown jewel, Moody Gardens. All proceeds benefit the Justin Hughes Memorial Fund at UTMB. Entry includes a T-shirt, Tasting Cup and a Merchant Walk-About card.
GUMBO COOKOFF
Saturday - 9 a.m. @ Saengerfest Park
Eighty amateur teams submit their entries a panel of judges for the right to be crowned 2011 Amateur Gumbo Champion. If the respect of your peers, adoring fans, swooning women, and bragging rights isn't enough--the winner will be featured on the Yaga's Café menu for an entire year.
Enter Amateur Team Gumbo Cook-off Competition
Events: Shrimp Gumbo (Mandatory), Chicken & Sausage Gumbo, Shrimp Bisque, Open Shrimp.
GUMBO STROLL
Saturday, September 25 - Noon @ Strand St.
Purchase a tasting cup and sample entries prepared by 10 local restaurants. The public determines which restaurant team will walk away with $1,000, a custom trophy--and the right to gloat in the faces of those didn't. Your tasting cup purchase includes a Merchant Walkabout card, making you eligible to enter a grand prize drawing for over $500 worth of gift certificates from 22 downtown merchants.
Enter Professional Team (Restaurant) Gumbo Cook-off Competition
Event: Shrimp Gumbo (*Must contain Wild Texas Shrimp*)
TEXAS WINE, SOUTHERN COMFORT, MUSIC, AND ART
Saturday, September 25 - Noon @ Strand St.
- Sample from a variety of Texas Wineries. Find your favorite and purchase a bottle to take home.
- Hang out in the shade and enjoy a drink at the Southern Comfort Lounge in Saengerfest Park! 21+ only, of course.
- A variety of Galveston bands will be performing throughout the day, including local favorites Centerfold, Crashboat Johnny, and This Side Up to name a few.
- In addition to Galveston's eclectic shopping on the Strand, there will be plenty of local Texas artisans and exhibits at the festival.
WHIMCYCLE SHRIMPCYCLE
"Sunday Funday" - 11 a.m. @ Stewart Beach - 21 & up only
A costumed bicycled ride from East Beach to Float Pool & Patio Bar for a tailgate party as the Texans take on the Cowboys at noon. Costumes must be one of the following: Shrimp, Sea life, Houston Texas, Dallas Cowboys. For contest rules click here.
FOR THE KIDS
LIL' SHRIMP'S KIDS AREA
Saturday - Noon @ Saengerfest Park
Family fun including a Shrimp Toss, Dunking Booth, Moonwalk, Face Painting and tons of games to keep your little shrimps entertained...maybe even get you on the Velcro wall.
LIL' SHRIMPS PARADE
Saturday - 3 p.m. @ Strand St.
Take a break from gumbo tasting for a taste of Mardi Gras in September. Enjoy the music of the Galveston Ball High School Marching Band as the Lil' Shrimp procession of floats rolls down the Strand, tossing souvenir beads.
