Super Bowl Weekend got off to a fantastic start with a visit on Saturday to the 15th Annual Chowderfest in Saratoga Springs, N.Y.  More than 10,000 attended this popular event.

More than 100 vendors spread throughout the downtown area offered up a surprising variety of chowder combinations.  The Great Escape Amusement Park was represented by Elk Chowder!

I have had a lot of chowder in my life, but Elk?  No way.  How was it?  Check it out…

There was an army of volunteers who worked all day long handling the enormous influx of visitors to Saratoga springs.  And as far as I can tell, it all went off without a hitch!

Big Chuck at the official Chowderfest Ice Sculpture!

There were long lines waiting for chowder being served on the sidewalks, in bars and cafes, in restaurants and market, in park area and from porches.  It was a delicious welcome to this grand and historic city, known mostly for its racing heritage at the Saratoga Race Track.  The mood was fin and friendly and you just never knew who was up and around the corner. Check it out!

They had it all figured out.  For just a dollar per sample, you could work your way from seafood to meat to clear to spicy to international chowders of all kinds.  I imposed on a lady in the Putnam Market to share her tasting with us.

This is an excellent festival that is not to be missed.  Huge amounts of money is raised each year to benefit the various charities of Saratoga County.  How did The Festival Fanatics like Chowderfest 15?  See for yourself…