Like most, we love any event where the focal point is around food. But what fills us up even more is an event that gives back to the community, especially when those community members are children.
On September 9th, 2023 the Hadji Shrine Center located at 800 W Nine Mile Road in Pensacola, Florida, will be putting on a Gumbo Festival called Gumbo Shootout at The Shrine. Admission to the event will be $20 and will get you a tasting of all of the competitors gumbo at the event. Even better, not only will there be a Gumbo Shootout, but the Hadji Antique Car Unit will also be putting on their Annual Car Show and there will be a SCA Sanctioned Steak Cookoff event called the Sizzlin’ Steak Showdown.
So who are the Hadji Shriners apart from the tall hats, gold temple and silly cars at the Mardi Gras Parade? They’re a brotherhood of men committed to family, engaged in ongoing personal growth, and dedicated to providing care for children and families in need.
Hadji Shriners is the Northwest Florida Chapter of Shriners International. Shriners International owns and operates Shriners Children’s Medical Network and Hospitals which specialize in world class pediatric care for children with burns, orthopedic problems, spinal injuries, cleft palates and more. The care is provided regardless of the family’s ability to pay. Fundraisers such as The Gumbo Shootout, Antique Car Show, and Steak Cookoff support Hadji Shriners operations and continue the Shriner Mission.
“We started the Gumbo Shootout two years ago to add a component to the event that would draw in spectators. Also to bring awareness to the Shrine and what we do. A lot of people tell me that they thought this building was a church or something like that. Many people really don’t know about our organization,” said Mitch Esser, Gumbo Shootout Event Organizer.
More importantly, Mitch explained the work they are doing for the Shriner’s Children’s Hospitals.
“Our hospitals treated over 150,000 kids last year. Shriner’s hospitals treat kids without any obligation for them to pay. If they come through the Shriner’s program, they don’t pay a dime,” explained Mitch.
“We’re also very excited to announce that there is an outpatient clinic in the works for northwest Florida. That will be huge for the kids in our area.”
Supporting the event are over 40 local businesses with the main sponsor being Kevin Green and The Butcher Shoppe. The Butcher Shoppe is a huge supporter of the Shrine and is a pivotal partner in the success of the event, providing all the steaks for the Steak Cookoff!
Gumbo, steak, antique cars and a good cause? Count us in! Join us Saturday, September 9 for an awesome day with family friendly activities, vendors, food trucks, raffles and more!
Purchase your tickets at the door or in advance at www.gumboshootout.com. If you would like to learn more about being a sponsor, you can check out www.gumboshootout.com
To learn more about the Shriner’s and their mission, please visit www.HadjiShriners.org or visit www.BeAShrinerNow.com to learn how YOU can help support these kids!
