3. Registration & entry fee are due by Sunday, March 1, 2026. Space reservation is on a first come, first served basis (15 spaces are available). A space is not reserved until a completed registration form and paid entry fee is received. 

4. Gumbo may be prepared on-site or off-site. We recommend you prepare 8 to 10 gallons of gumbo. This equates to approximately 340 - 425 three-ounce servings for public judging (we will provide you with a 3oz ladle for gumbo and a small scooper for rice). Contestants must bring own means to heat/cook Gumbo and rice on site and may use propane burners, crockpots, electric kettles, warming trays, etc. Richlands Cajun Market will supply electricity, if needed. 

5. Check-in will begin at 7:00 am, the morning of the competition. All contestants must check in by 9:00 am. Cooking spaces will be approximately 10 x 10. Richlands Cajun Market will supply a 10 x 10 canopy, two tables, a 1oz rice scoop, a 3oz ladle, 6oz serving bowls, eating utensils, and napkins. Contestants need to bring gumbo, rice, team chairs for their station, and an extension cord if using electricity. 

6. Judging will begin at 11:00 am and Public Tasting will start at 11:30 am. Winners will be announced, and prizes awarded at 3:00 pm. In the event of inclement weather, the Gumbo Competition will be held in the large open-bay garage area behind the Cajun Market. 

7. There are five prizes: 

$200 - 1st Place People’s Choice (Voted by Public)

$125 - Runner-Up People’s Choice (Voted by Public) 

$200 - 1st Place Judge's Choice (Per Judges) 

$125 - Runner-Up Judge’s Choice (Per Judges) 

$ 50 – Best Decorated Booth (Voted by Public)

8. By submitting this form, Gumbo Competition entrants agree to relieve Richlands Cajun Market and their employees, representatives, and/or volunteers from all liability resulting from fire, theft, and/or accident of any cause. All property brought to the competition area by participants will be at the risk and responsibility of the team.