Mumbo Jumbo Gumbo Cook-Off & Carnivale Parade
Fill your bellies, warm your bones and cheer on competitors.
Start the Mardi Gras weekend and Carnivale Parade festivities with the exciting Mumbo Jumbo Gumbo Cook-Off in Manitou Springs. It's no secret that the Pikes Peak Region is home to a foodie's paradise, and this cooking competition embraces our culinary scene with flavorsome excitement. Showcasing scrumptious Cajun flavors, this event unites home chefs and professional cooks alike, creating a lively contest with mouthwatering gumbo. Foodies are welcome and encouraged to vote for the best gumbo.
Date, Time, Location & Cost
Date
March 1, 2025
Time
Tastings start at 11am
Location
Soda Springs Park, 1016 Manitou Avenue, Manitou Springs, Colorado
Cost
$0.75 per sample
Featured Experiences
Cooking Participation
The Mumbo Jumbo Gumbo Cook-Off offers two sections of the contest, including professional and amateur events. While participants can apply for either division, it's recommended for full-time cooks to choose the professional event. Entry into these contests is limited to 20 participants with first come, first served admission.
Contest Ranks & Prizes
Aiming to win the best batch of gumbo? You might just earn a cash prize. Participants who rank first, second and third are given monetary awards for their flavorful talents and efforts. In addition to these prizes, this event features special ranks for best showmanship and people's choice.
- First rank - $100
- Second rank - $50
- Third rank - $25
- Showmanship - $50 in Manitou Money
- People's choice - Trophy
Cook-Off Guidelines
With great gumbo, there must also come great responsibility. Groups are required to cook at least five gallons of gumbo with their personal cooking equipment and chairs. Participants also need at least two helpers for the tasting portion of the event. For more gumbo rules, find information about each section of the competition here.
More Ways to Celebrate Mardi Gras
Along with this gumbo cook-off, Carnivale weekend showcases two lively events that you won't forget. Don your finest masquerade attire and attend the CarniBall, where live music, a mouthwatering buffet and fire performances await. After dancing the night away at the CarniBall, make your way to the Carnivale Community Parade and be immersed in a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy an array of thrilling festivities during Mardi Gras and learn more details about each event here.
