Santa Cruz Chowder Cookoff Soon: Mark Your Calendar

SANTA CRUZ, CA — Surf City's clam chowder extravaganza is just around the corner.

Registration remains open for the Santa Cruz Clam Chowder Cook-Off Feb. 26 and 27. The event is organized by and held at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which said its chowder cookoff is the largest and longest-running in the nation.

Admission is free, but tasting kits cost $12 for six taste tickets plus a spoon, cup and ballot. Proceeds benefit Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation, according to the boardwalk.

Amateur chefs compete on the first day of the competition and professional chefs will vie for the title Sunday. Both days will feature competitions for best Boston- and Manhattan-style chowder.

The event will be held rain or shine.