Annual Our Lady Of The Gulf Crab Festival
The Annual Our Lady Of The Gulf Crab Festival is a seafood lover's dream event. Every year, this festival is held in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, and it attracts people from all over the country. The festival is a celebration of the Mississippi Gulf Coast's seafood industry and has been held annually since 1928.
The History of the Our Lady of the Gulf Crab Festival
The Our Lady of the Gulf Crab Festival began in 1928 as a small gathering of locals celebrating the end of the crabbing season. Over the years, it grew into one of the largest seafood festivals in the country. The festival showcases the seafood industry, which has been a vital part of the economy of Bay St. Louis for many years.
The festival has also raised money for the Catholic church, Our Lady of the Gulf, which is located in Bay St. Louis. The church has been an integral part of the community since 1899.
What to Expect at the Festival
The Annual Our Lady Of The Gulf Crab Festival is a three-day event that takes place during the last weekend of July. The festival features a variety of seafood dishes, including crab cakes, gumbo, shrimp, lobster, and more. There are also carnival rides, games, music, and dancing.
The festival also features a crab race, where live crabs are placed in the center of a circle, and the first crab to crawl out of the circle wins. There is also a crab cooking contest, where local chefs compete to make the best crab dish.
The festival also includes a 5K and 1-mile fun run, which takes place on the Saturday of the festival. The race is open to all ages and skill levels, and it is a great way to burn off some of the calories from all the delicious seafood.
Getting There and Where to Stay
Bay St. Louis is located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, about an hour's drive from New Orleans, Louisiana. The closest airport is Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Bay St. Louis.
There are plenty of accommodation options in Bay St. Louis, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. It is recommended that you book your accommodation in advance, as the festival can get busy, and the best places to stay can fill up quickly.
Conclusion
The Annual Our Lady Of The Gulf Crab Festival is a must-visit event for anyone who loves seafood. It is a celebration of the Mississippi Gulf Coast's seafood industry and its importance to the local economy. With its delicious food, live music, and carnival rides, the festival is a fun-filled weekend that the whole family can enjoy.
So, mark your calendars for the last weekend of July, pack your bags, and head to Bay St. Louis for the Annual Our Lady Of The Gulf Crab Festival. You won't be disappointed!
