Seafood will be served with purpose for the third Louisiana Shrimp Festival & Shrimp Aid this weekend.
The festival aims to raise funds for struggling shrimp farmers. Festival organizers say that in recent years, the multimillion-dollar industry has taken a major hit due to an influx of foreign product. In addition, rising costs of fuel and boat repairs are making it difficult for farmers to make ends meet.
The Louisiana Shrimp Festival reports that in 2000, the state had 11,592 fishing vessels landing shrimp at docks. Now, that number is down to about 2,900, marking a 75% decline.
“The LA Shrimp Festival not only offers the best-tasting shrimp in the world but, more importantly, gives everyone a greater understanding about the culture and livelihoods behind those shrimp,” said Sandy Ha Nguyen, a Gulf shrimper.
The one-day festival offers live music, nine booths serving wild-caught Gulf shrimp, a shrimp peeling contest and more.
Tickets cost $10, and children are welcome for free. The event kicks off Sunday, Oct. 18, at 600 N. Broad St. More information is available here.
READ MORE:Louisiana Shrimp Festival & Shrimp Aid aims to raise money as farmers leave their docks
