Rotary Club’s Chowder Fest Draws Crowd

CHATHAM – In what’s become a staple event for the locals, a big crowd streamed through the VFW Saturday to enjoy the best chowder that the region has to offer while raising money for the Chatham Rotary Club.

Organizers thanked the nine local restaurants and caterers who provided patrons with samples of their favorite chowder recipes. The $10 admission fee raised money for Rotary programs like a Thanksgiving dinner for seniors as well as a donation to Monomoy Community Services. Patrons then each cast a single vote for their favorite sample.

Earning first place honors this year was Viera on Main; The Chatham Cut took second place, with Drifters taking the bronze. But all nine participants received votes, and this year’s event was a big success, Rotary volunteer Larry Carlton said.

“We had more than 450 paid admissions, almost double from last year,” he said. “Based on comments from everyone leaving, they all had a great time and loved all the chowders.”