Chowder for a Cause

Charity Chowder Cook-Off

Guests Enjoy Amazing Chowder. Photo Credit Justin Mashuta

Clear your calendars for February 23rd and join the Olde Mistick Village at their 16thAnnual Cabin Fever Festival and Charity Chowder Cook-Off from 12-4pm when you stay with us at The Whaler’s Inn!

This chowder for a cause event will feature over a dozen restaurants serving up their best chowder in hopes of being crowned a winner and benefiting local charitable organization “Always Home“.

Local celebrity judges will select the best recipes in four categories: most creative, heartiest chowder, best use of regional ingredients, and best overall flavor. Don’t forget to vote for the People’s Choice during your “Chowder Crawl”!

As one of my favorite events, I eagerly await the cook-off each year to indulge in delicious chowders. The Olde Mistick Village Cabin Fever Festival Charity Chowder Cook-Off offers an upbeat atmosphere that is perfect for families, couples, or friends.

Year after year, participants change their recipe and new vendors are introduced, providing the opportunity to taste new chowders. And while you’re at the festival, make sure to do a little bit of shopping! With a variety of shops to explore, Olde Mistick Village is a great spot to find gifts to bring home or something special for yourself.

Photo Credit Justin Mashuta

 

Other Food Options

If your tummy is still rumbling after choosing your favorite chowder dinner may be in order!  From a German Beer Garden to high-end Seafood, the restaurants are Olde Mistick Village, offer a bit of something for everyone.  My personal favorite stop is Mango’s Wood-Fired Pizza Co.

We know that when you think of pizza in Mystic your mind may think of another local restaurant.  However, the wood-fired pizza at Mango’s has quickly become a highly recommended local favorite.

The Cause

Always Home Staff and Board Members enjoy the event. Photo Credit Justin Mashuta

As you are visiting the variety of vendors, know that you’re eating all that chowder for a cause!  Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit “Always Home”.

Founded in 1998 and formerly known as Mystic Area Shelter and Hospitality (MASH), their mission is to “help prevent parents and children avoid the lasting trauma of homelessness.”

In 2018 alone, the organization came to the aid of 231 families at risk of homelessness.  Through education, rental assistance, help with childcare options, and the Wheels to Work program, “Always Home” believes that the best way to help these families is to ensure that they have the means the ability to stay out of shelters and in their homes, always.

The Facts

Food tickets are $1 each or 12 tickets for $10 and are available on the day of the event in Village shops. Visit the event website for more information.

If you love chowder of any kind this is the perfect event for you!  A special thank you to Justin Mashuta and the wonderful folks from “Always Home” for the photographs from 2018’s event!

About the Author

Emily Gardiner is a senior in college and an intern here at The Whaler’s Inn. Her favorite local activities include boating, fishing, and day trips to nearby Block Island, RI.