Can you guess who is in this Photo? Here’s a hint: It’s from Shrimpfest, 1981.

Jammin’ on the Bay Front, Part 1

As the days of May quickly go by the excitement grows, Shrimpfest is upon us. I remember the first time I heard about the event three years ago, while I wasn’t sure what to expect – the explicit preparation gave way to a rockin’ good time. I could already feel the bay breeze on my face.

“The Cowographers Wild West Show and Shootout is sure to be a daytime highlight. The headliners and night entertainment is an awesome combination with all five bands,” said Chamber president, Jason Jones. “I have never gone to Shrimpfest, only worked it, and have been doing so for six years. My favorite memory was last year when the bayfront was packed solid with people and vendors and I’m thinking, ‘Wow we put on an awesome event. This is the place to be!’”

Jason isn’t kidding, the two-day festival held on the bay front overlooking San Antonio Bay had about 3,200 attendees – based on the gross collections from the ticket booth – over the age of six. In addition, an estimated 500 kids attended the event free of charge. This year the gate fee will be $5.00 from noon to 8:00 p.m. and $10.00 from 8:00 p.m. until close. Kids under six are free, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

The delicious smell of fried food, the laughter coming from the teams playing horseshoes and washers and the sound of the bands jammin’ out on the bay front in Seadrift — let me tell you, it’s one heck of a party.

“We have been going since 2005; my favorite thing about Shrimpfest is…the food, in particular the shrimp and onions on a skewer battered and deep fried,” said Susan Rossello.

And like many residents from Seadrift, Susan and her husband, John volunteer their time. Throughout the years during Shrimpfest, they have sold beer, soda and taken tickets at the gate, John has also helped set up and take down. It goes to show you that the event truly is a community effort.

Mark your calendars; see you on the bay front in Seadrift on June 8th and 9th! I will leave you with my favorite memory: it was the second year which I volunteered. I was walking around snapping away, taking photos and people would stop and ask me if I was the lady from the paper. I would simply nod and they would quickly strike a pose. Once I would tell them the photos would be used on the Seadrift Chamber of Commerce website their excitement grew further. It made the countless hours of volunteer time worth it to know that everyone was having such a good time and enjoying the beautiful sunsets we see each and everyday.

Till next time. For more info go to: www.seadriftchamber.com.

Friday’s entertainment:

● Opener: 2011 Battle of the bands winner 24-7
● Headliner: Cody Johnson
● The Brazos Bottom Cowographers will be performing one show Friday night.

Saturday’s entertainment:

● Opener: Jarrod Birmingham
● Headliner: Jason Boland & the Stragglers
● House Band: Rhythm of the Road
● The Brazos Bottom Cowographers will be performing four shows Saturday.