World Championship Crab Races

World Championship Crab Races

FebruaryThis sporting event in Crescent City, Calif., features races of the nine- to 11-inch Dungeness crabs that are caught off this northern California coastal city. The crabs are urged down a four-foot raceway, prizes are awarded, and the winning crab gets a trip back to the harbor for a ceremonious liberation. This is also an eating event: throughout the day about 3,000 pounds of fresh cracked crab are served.
The event began in 1976, but its origins are older. Traditionally, local fishermen returned to port after a day of crabbing and celebrated the catch by racing their liveliest crabs in a chalked circle.
CONTACTS:
Crescent City Chamber Of Commerce.
1001 Front St.
Crescent City, CA 95531
800-343-8300
www.northerncalifornia.net