Orange Beach, Ala. — (GSN) — Rooted in 18th-century Louisiana, gumbo is an iconic Southern dish that emerged from a rich cultural blending of West African, Native American, French, Spanish, and German culinary traditions. This hearty stew has evolved into a celebrated symbol of Southern heritage. Today, the Gulf Coast stands as the undisputed epicenter for the nation's finest gumbo chefs, where generations of culinary masters draw on abundant local seafood and time-honored family recipes to continuously elevate and perfect the art of the dish.

CoastAL Orange Beach is set to host its annual Gumbo Festival, offering a day of coastal dining, friendly culinary competition, and live music along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. Taking place on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the beachfront celebration invites seafood lovers and community members to sample original gumbo recipes prepared by regional teams.

Located at 25722 Perdido Beach Boulevard, CoastAL Orange Beach provides a backdrop of sugar-white sands and emerald waters for the festive cook-off.Tasting Tickets and Hospitality Scholarship

General admission tasting tickets are priced at $25 per person, with children ages 6 and under admitted free with an adult. Each ticket includes 10 gumbo tasting cup tickets, 1 People’s Choice voting ticket, and 1 Best Decorated Tent voting ticket.

Beyond providing a taste of Gulf Coast cuisine, the festival directly supports the local community. For every tasting ticket sold, $5 goes toward a scholarship fund supporting Baldwin County students pursuing careers in hospitality. In past years, the event raised thousands of dollars for future industry leaders.Cook-Off Competition and Prizes

Chefs, cooks, and culinary enthusiasts assemble in teams of three to put their best recipes to the test. Registration for competing teams is $150, which includes three official festival T-shirts, a $100 Rouses Market gift card, and a CoastAL gift bag. Teams receive a tent, table, chairs, and serving supplies to prepare at least 7 gallons of gumbo.

Competitors face off for cash awards and custom Gumbo Paddle Trophies:

• 1st Place: $1,000 cash prize plus a Gumbo Paddle Trophy
• 2nd Place: $500 cash prize plus a Gumbo Paddle Trophy
• 3rd Place: $250 cash prize plus a Gumbo Paddle Trophy
• People’s Choice: $500 cash prize, a Gumbo Paddle Trophy, and local bragging rights

Entertainment and Coastal Atmosphere

In addition to the food competition, attendees can enjoy live music, beachside cocktails, and beachfront views at the venue.

For ticket purchases, team registration details, and further information, visit the CoastAL Orange Beach Website.