It's one of those weekends with plenty of things to do. In Victoria, it's Bootfest today and tomorrow but if you want to get a little closer to the water, check out Seafair in Rockport.

As far as music is concerned, Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis headline the weekend's music line-up from 9 to 11 p.m., Friday, October 7th.  Rockport Seafair tickets are $5 for adults Friday and Sunday; $7 for adults Saturday; $10 for pre-sale wristband, good for all three days, available for advance purchase only; limited supply; and $2 for children 6-to-12.  Children under 6 get in free.  Festival hours are 5 to 11 p.m., Friday; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 6 pm. Sunday.  Contact the Chamber at (361) 729.6445 or (800) 242.0071, or visit rockportseafair.com; for information on the area visit rockport-fulton.org.

The Rockport Seafair Festival Grounds, located at 100 Seabreeze, Rockport Harbor, will also feature Battle of the Bands contest winner and live performances by Country artists Samantha Aiken and Rodeo Drive, 6 Market Blvd.  On Saturday, artists Scott Taylor, Jerrod Medulia, The Texas Toast, and the Derailers perform country, blues and rock.    Rhythm and Blues, and soul music take center stage Sunday with Hilda Lamas, along with the country sounds of the Clint Martin Band.

The Saturday morning Rockport Seafair Parade through downtown launches the weekend fun. Thousands of spectators line the streets to see floats, bands, clowns, dancers, acrobatics, jugglers and local celebrities.   Then it’s off to the festival grounds for more fun, which includes the following:

Gumbo Cook-off

Approximately 14 teams will compete for the title of championship seafood gumbo king or queen on Saturday.  On Sunday, experience a cup of “No Rules” gumbo – anything and everything from chicken to alligator.  The gumbo is available for $2 per cup both days.

Cardboard Boat Races

This race challenges amateur boat builders to design, build and navigate boats made entirely of corrugated cardboard.  A popular demolition derby follows the race.

Standup Paddle Boat Races

New this year, the standup paddle boat races, which should make a splash? Join the fun as you race around Key Allegro! All levels of Stand Up Paddle board enthusiasts will enjoy this unique challenge. SUP racers will have an opportunity to paddle under the Key Allegro bridge, into Aransas Bay, and finish at Blue Water Beach! Don’t miss your chance to join this elite group of SUP racers.

Hilarious Crab Races

World’s only known crab races – You’ve seen horse races, dog races and maybe even sack races; but you’ve never experienced the absolute thrill and hysteria of the famed, unique Rockport Seafair crab races.

Cooking Demonstration Tent

Enjoy fabulous seafood delights prepared by local and out-of-town culinary chefs.  Taste shrimp etouffee, seafood kabobs, shrimp with pasta, cilantro shrimp and other local dishes all featuring shrimp.

Wet Land Explorer

All aboard!  Join local ecologist Jay Tarkington on a specially designed shallow water research vessel owned and operated by Texas A&M – Corpus Christi, as he reveals the bays underwater secrets.

Just Desserts Bake-Off

Ah, the sweet life!  Contestants showcase and offer samplings of their prized and coveted dessert recipes for everything from brownies, decadent cakes, mouth-watering pies, cookies, cup cakes and candies to anything that will wow the distinguished panel of judges.

Carnival Rides and Games

Take in the sights and sounds of the Rockport Seafair and Aransas Bay from atop a Ferris wheel at the Wagner Carnival.  Experience a variety of thrilling rides for children and adults, as well as a super-fun fun house.   The Rockport Seafair also hosts a children’s activity tent that offers face-painting and the opportunity for kids to create their own fish prints.

The Rockport Seafair expects to attract more than 25,000 tourists and locals combined.   Last year’s celebration netted $65,000 – the most money made in Seafair’s history. The goal this year is $75,000. 

For more information on events, sponsor and  volunteer opportunities, or places to stay contact the Rockport-Fulton Chamber of Commerce at (361) 729.6445 or (800) 242.0071, or visit rockportseafair.com; for information on the area visit rockport-fulton.org.                   

 

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