We have several festival along the local shores but some may say that this weekend is the tastiest of all. CoastAL Orange Beach is gearing up for the 2024 Gumbo Fest, a celebration of Gulf Coast cuisine and community spirit. The event, set for November 2nd from 11 AM to 2 PM, promises a day filled with homemade gumbo, live music, and friendly competition.

Attendees can sample a variety of gumbo dishes prepared by local culinary teams. For $25, guests receive eight tasting tickets and one People's Choice vote. The event also supports a good cause, with $5 from each ticket going towards a scholarship for a local student pursuing a hospitality career.

CoastAL Orange Beach Marketing Director Tiffany Hammock said, “CoastAL hosts Gumbo Fest to celebrate our community’s love for good food, local flavors, and the rich culinary heritage of the Gulf Coast. It’s an exciting way for us to bring people together, showcase incredible gumbo recipes, and support local chefs and talent.”

Big Al & The Heavyweights will provide live music, creating a lively atmosphere for food lovers and families alike. The beachfront location at CoastAL Orange Beach offers stunning coastal views, adding to the event's appeal.

Competing chefs will vie for cash prizes, with $1,000 for the winner, $500 for second place and People's Choice, and $250 for third place. The competition is open to professional chefs and amateur cooks passionate about gumbo.

Rouses Markets, the title sponsor of the event, is providing competing teams with a $100 gift card. Teams will also receive three festival T-shirts and a CoastAL Orange Beach gift bag.

The festival emphasizes community involvement and giving back. Attendees can make an additional $10 donation or bring non-perishable food items to receive extra tasting tickets and an additional People's Choice vote.

Gumbo, a staple of Southern cuisine, has a rich history dating back to 18th century Louisiana. It represents a blend of various culinary traditions, making it a perfect centerpiece for this community event.

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The team registration is already full so you can come out and cheer for your favorite team and recipe. For more event information you can visit the official Gumbo Festival website.