Gumbo Gala returns for 13th installation

Get your taste buds ready for this year’s 13th annual Gumbo Gala.

The family-friendly event, which draws thousands of people each year, will be hosted at Sloss Furnaces on April 21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. People are invited to stop by and try more than 50 homemade gumbo samples ranging from chicken and sausage to gator and seafood.

Winning teams have the opportunity to compete for various trophies, bragging rights and monetary awards in categories like Spirit, People’s Choice, Best Gumbo, Divine Gumbo and Chef’s Choice. Award-winning chefs and food experts will judge the gumbos based on aroma, consistency, color and taste. 

Themed activities will include Cajun bands and dancing, a kid’s zone called Pogo’s Playground, the Muskrat Art Ramble area where art is for display and sale by local artists, additional food trucks and beverages, a line parade and music by Margeaux and the Cat’s Meow. Pets are welcome at the event.

Event proceeds go to raise money to support the residents of Episcopal Place. Jamie Whitehurst, development director for Episcopal Place, said it is a nonprofit that provides affordable, independent living for low-income senior citizens and adults with disabilities. They have 141 apartments in the Birmingham area.

“If it weren’t for Episcopal Place, many seniors would face living in a nursing home or face homelessness,” Whitehurst said.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for kids. Go to gumbogala.com to purchase tickets, donate or register a team for the gumbo competition. Teams can be registered up until a week prior to the gala.