Get Ready for a Chowder Fest! | Events

What could be better than slurping down a cup of clam chowder while enjoying the sights and sounds of the Monterey Bay?

On Memorial Day Weekend, May 26-28, the Monterey-based Calamari Entertainment Group will host the 1st Annual Great Monterey Clam Chowder & Calamari Festival at the Custom House Plaza by Fisherman's Wharf. People can munch down on everything from fish and chips, pasta, sandwiches, clam chowder and of course calamari. Isn't your mouth watering already? A variety of beverages including beer, wine and Margaritas will also be available.

It's a free, family-friendly fun-filled event packed with a full weekend of food, live music and cooking demonstrations.

"My favorite part of this event is bringing two of the most popular seafood items together served in a variety of ways," said Event organizer JoAnn Crivello. "This event will stand out because the location is a natural setting for serving seafood. When you look at the history of the Monterey fishing industry, it all started right here at Fisherman's Wharf and the Custom House was the only Customs clearance in California, which in turn made Monterey a very busy ship port and fishing."

Crivello said there is no other festival that will compare with the food, cooking demonstrations, local entertainment and games for kids.

On Saturday and Sunday, May 26th and 27th, the Festival hours will be from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, and on Monday, May 28th, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. Local non-profit organizations will participate and benefit, including the Boys & Girls Club of Monterey County, the VNA & Hospice, Community Partnership for Youth, and the Salvation Army.

Three local bands will perform live each day during the entire Festival. There will also be a variety of arts and crafts for the kids, educational displays by marine-oriented organizations, and cooking demos by talented local chefs. Visitors can also enjoy nearby historic Monterey, including the world famous Custom House, Pacific House and Old Fisherman's Wharf, which surrounds the entire Festival.

The bands performing are:

• John "Broadway" Tucker Band

• BTA Band

• Cachagua Playboys

• The IPO's featuring Joy Bonner

• Red Beans and Rice

• Nu-Horizon

• ReUnion Band