No two gumbo recipes are quite the same, a culinary fact that makes this Creole and Cajun favorite as versatile as it is delicious. The stew gets its biggest chance to shine at the 17th Annual Gumbo Gala, a one-day cook-off held by Birmingham’s Episcopal Place. Gumbo teams from the region gather around their simmer pots, with each one attempting to impress both crowds of samplers and the panel of judges who crown each year’s winners. Visitors are allowed to taste as many samples as they wish while supplies last. Come early for the best selections. Gumbo Gala is a family friendly & dog friendly event. Proceeds benefit Episcopal Place, which is a local nonprofit that provides affordable housing and independent living for low income senior citizens, as well as adults with disabilities. For more info, tickets, and team registration visit gumbogala.com.