Just in time to take the edge off the cold, rainy weather blanketing the region, Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation is bringing the annual Clam Chowder Cook-Off back to the Beach Boardwalk this Saturday and Sunday.
Now in its 45th year, the event remains the largest and longest-running clam chowder competition in the United States, drawing thousands of people each year for a weekend of cooking and community.
Rain or shine, over 80 amateur and professional chefs will compete for top honors, serving dishes from classic New England-style clam chowder to Manhattan-inspired recipes. Guests can sample entries and cast their votes.
Credit: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Guests can purchase tasting kits, along with commemorative T-shirts and exclusive souvenirs.
Proceeds from the event go toward Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation programs, supporting local community events and initiatives throughout the year.
“This event is all about great food, local talent and the Santa Cruz spirit — we can’t wait to welcome everyone back for another incredible year,” Annalise Bryant of Parks & Recreation said in a media release.
Event weekend sales tents open at 10 a.m., with chefs beginning to cook at 11 a.m. and the public tasting beginning an hour later.
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by Max Chun
7 hours agoFebruary 18, 2026
Ashley Palma-Jimenez is a junior at UC Santa Cruz, where she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in literature. As a writer, she is passionate about telling stories that often go unrecognized, and her goal…
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Dining and Cooking