New England-style clam chowder is just one of many regional varieties.
Clam chowder festivals celebrate the variety and artistry of these warming soups. New England clam chowder is cream-based and white in color, Manhattan-style clam chowder is usually tomato-based, and Rhode Island-style clam chowder features a clear broth and a cultural tie to the food ways of Portuguese immigrants. Clam chowder festivals take place all over the United States, and some have been annual traditions for more than 30 years.
Santa Cruz Cook Off & Festival
Started in 1981, the Santa Cruz Clam Chowder Cook Off & Festival takes place along a noted California boardwalk. The festival's goal is to raise funds for the City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Department, and in 2010, the festival raised $65,000. Individuals, restaurants and corporations submit their best Boston and Manhattan-style chowder recipes, and awards are given by both judges and by "People's Choice." "Spirit" and "Most Unique" awards are also given.
Knorr Great Chowder Cook-Off
The Knorr Great Chowder Cook-Off in Newport, Rhode Island, also began in 1981. Spectators are treated to all the chowder they can eat, and prizes are awarded in three categories: Clam, Seafood and Creative. The top three chowder winners in each category take home $1,000, $750, and $500, respectively. The June event also includes live music and clamcake-eating contests.
Chowderfest
Chowderfest is a one-day event that during Boston's Harborfest celebrations, a week of activities and celebrations leading up to July 4th. Another noted chowder festival that was founded in the 1980s, the competition is fierce and the field of competitors is limited to the best of the best. Once a restaurant has won Chowderfest three times, it is no longer allowed to compete and its name is added to the Chowderfest Hall of Fame.
Quality Seafood's Clam Chowder Cookoff
Founded in 2009, Quality Seafood's Clam Chowder Cookoff takes place in Redondo Beach, California. Both individuals and restaurants compete, with attendees voting for their favorites. All proceeds from the event go to support the Wellness Community, a local cancer charity/treatment center.
Montauk Annual Fall Festival Clam Chowder Contest
The Montauk Clam Chowder Contest is part of the annual Fall Festival in this town on the tip of Long Island, New York. Local wines, music and other foods are also a part of the festival, along with carnival rides for the kids.
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