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Enter the 2026 Gumbo Cook-Off at NOLA Zydeco Fest
The 3rd annual Gumbo Cook-Off is Saturday, Oct 31, 2026 at Heritage Park in Slidell. $100 per team, up to 6 cooks, and $800 cash plus awards for first place.
Think your gumbo is the best on the bayou? Prove it. The 3rd annual Gumbo Cook-Off takes place Saturday, October 31, 2026 at NOLA Zydeco Fest, Heritage Park, 1701 Bayou Lane in Slidell.
How it works
- 6:00 AM: teams arrive
- 8:00 AM: everyone is cooking
- 10:30–11:00 AM: tastings begin as festivalgoers enter the park
- 3:30 PM: winners are announced
Prizes
- 1st place: awards plus $800 cash
- 2nd place: awards
- 3rd place: awards
What teams get
Each team gets a 10×10 space, 400 sample cups (4 oz) and spoons, and general admission credentials for up to 6 team members. Tables and chairs aren't included, so bring everything you need to cook and serve.
How to enter
Team registration is $100, a tax-deductible contribution to the New Orleans Zydeco Foundation. Register your team. Questions? Email marcia@nolazydeco.org.
