Business in Galveston has taken quite a blow the past few years thanks to Hurricane Ike and oil refinery mishaps. But organizers of the first ever Galveston Island Shrimp Festival believe good times on the isle are back. Sample gumbo from 100 amateur and professional cooking teams and area restaurants — all entries must use wild Texas shrimp. Other activities at the inaugural shrimp fest include a 5K run/walk, gumbo cook off, children’s parade, merchant walkabout and bicycle ride followed by a tailgate party.
Gumbo Cookoff
Saturday - 9 a.m. @ Saengerfest Park
80 amateur teams submit their gumbo to our panel of brave judges who will determine the 2011 Gumbo Champion. The winner will be featured on the Yaga’s Café menu for one year! Teams and vendors can rent tents from Tour de Tents.
5K Run/Walk
Saturday - 7 a.m. @ Moody Gardens
5K Run/Walk and Children’s 1K benefitting the Justin Hughes Memorial Fund. Entry includes a T-shirt, Tasting Cup and a Merchant Walk-About card.
Gumbo Stroll
Saturday, September 25 - Noon @ Strand St.
Purchase a cup and taste the best gumbo prepared by local restaurants. The public determines who makes the best with $1000, a custom trophy, and bragging rights for the next year to the winner.
Strand Walkabout
Saturday - Noon @ Strand Merchants
All attendees will receive a card to take around to participating merchants and get a stamp. Learn more about the great Strand merchants and get your card punched. Completed cards will be entered into drawings for gift cards from participating merchants!
Lil' Shrimp's Parade
Saturday - 3 p.m. @ Strand St.
Take a break from your gumbo tasting to watch the Lil’ Shrimps Procession roll down Strand. Enjoy the music of the Ball High Marching Band with the whole family while floats cruise by tossing souvenir beads. Mardi Gras in September!
Lil’ Shrimp’s Kids Area
Saturday - Noon @ Saengerfest Park
When the Lil’ Shrimps get antsy, take them over to the kids area. Try your hand at the Shrimp Toss or visit the dunking booth where you may even see a familiar face! Bounce houses, face painting and tons of games will keep them entertained.
Texas Artisan Exhibits
Saturday - Noon @ Saengerfest Park
Stroll through all Texas made artisans and vendors exhibits. With great exhibits from a great group of artists, there’s sure to be something for everyone!
Texas Wine Sampling
Saturday - Noon @ Saengerfest Park
This year, not only are we honoring the Texas shrimp industry, but all Texan artisans. The festival will feature various Texas wineries that will be offering samples of their finest. Find you favorite and purchase a bottle to take home.
Galveston Band Jamz Concert
Saturday - Noon @ Saengerfest Park
Enjoy the afternoon listening to the music of Galveston’s best Jamz Bands! A variety of Galveston bands will be performing in Saengerfest Park throughout the day. Bands include local favorites - Centerfold, Crashboat Johnny, and This Side Up, just to name a few!
Southern Comfort Lounge
Saturday - Noon @ Saengerfest Park
Ready for a break and looking for refreshment? Come hang out in the shade and enjoy a drink at the Southern Comfort Lounge in Saengerfest Park!
Whimcylce Shrimpcycle
Sunday - 11 a.m. @ Stewart Beach - 21 & up only!
Join a casual cruise from Stewart Beach to Float Pool & Patio Bar for a Sunday Funday tailgate party as the Texans take on the Cowboys at noon. The catch? This will be a costumed bicycle ride! Use your noggin’ and come up with the best shrimp or sea life themed costume and you may just win a lil’ somethin’.