FIRST ANNUAL BOCA RATON GUMBO FEST
Boca GumboFest at Red Reef Park West features a full schedule for all to enjoy on Saturday, Oct. 20, noon-6 p.m. at the Red Reef Park West entrance at 1400 North Ocean Blvd.
Local chefs will compete to be crowned the Grand Gumbo Master of South Florida, local restaurants and breweries will offer taste testing, and visitors can dance the day away to music while enjoying the scenery at the first annual Boca GumboFest. The event raises funds for Gumbo Limbo, a Nature Center whose mission is to inspire stewardship of coastal and marine ecosystems.
“I’m so excited that they are having an event like this,” said Grace Allen, West Palm Beach resident. “I’ve been to Gumbo Limbo many times and I think this is supporting a great cause.”
All the activities planned for the GumboFest are aimed to ultimately raise funds for Gumbo Limbo, promote research and heighten environmental education.
“[Gumbo Limbo is o]ne of the best attractions in South Florida, let alone that it is free on a day-to-day basis,” said Sarah Trujillo, Delray resident. “They do great work rescuing sea life nearby, especially turtles. Plus, the grounds are beautiful to walk around.”
Packed with restaurants, chefs, supporters and sponsors, the event surely will please all. The event’s vendors include: E&M Culinary, Events & Creative, Publix Aprons, Henry’s in Delray, Funky Buddha Brewery, TLC Animal Hospital, 4ocean, Boca Raton Resort & Club and JM Family Enterprises.
Admission for the event ranges from $5 to $50; all tickets include parking and at least one Gumbo Buck for use with vendors. Some ticket packages include a bracelet for expedited lines, a packet of five tickets worth $10 and a commemorative steel pint pre-filled with a beverage of choice.
“This event actually sounds cool,” said Tyler Kramer, Boca Raton resident. “I’m usually not that into this type of stuff, but it is hard to pass on raising money for a good cause while having the opportunity to learn about new things.”
Founded in 1984, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center assists in caring for a litany of rare and endangered species. Events including GumboFest help the Nature Center continue to give back to the South Florida community. For more information about the event or and to purchase tickets, please visit www.gumbolimbo.org.
