A guide to Petaluma crab feeds
The Sonoma County crab feed season is upon us. And although the news is filled with headline-grabbing warnings about crab season delays, do not despair. Our coast is split up into several different crab fishing areas and so although there have been delays farther north, due to under-developed crabs, there are still plenty of fresh crustaceans bellying up to the docks in Bodega Bay.
Thankfully, Petaluma is never short of Crab Feed Fundraisers and although the first couple already occurred in December, the majority are set for January and February.
For those attending their first crab feed, here are a few simple rules. First, unlike other parts of the Bay Area, our feeds are always “all-you-can-eat.” No one or two crab limits here, so bring your appetite.
As far as I’m concerned, “all-you-can-eat” is a challenge, which means proper preparation is in order. To best prepare, have a hearty breakfast, followed by a light lunch, all the while drinking plenty of water. This will not only offer you greater capacity to consume crab, but the water will help offset the salt you will be consuming. Also, be wary of the pre-crab appetizers, or risk finding yourself full of salad, bread, and pasta, before the crab has even reached the table.
Depending on the crab feed, they may or may not supply accoutrements, so we always bring our own, including crackers, butter-melters, and crab bibs. We also bring our own lemons and Petaluma Creamery Butter. Although many feeds welcome guests to bring their own booze, check first.
Additionally, keep in mind that these feeds are fundraisers. So buy a few extra raffles tickets, and maybe a drink or two for your tablemates. It all goes to a good local cause. And as fundraisers, these events are run by volunteers, so be patient.
Finally, take a special look at the sponsor list for any of the feeds you attend. Those businesses deserve our daily support, especially with the ill effect that the fires have had on our local economy. Support those that support our community. These crab feeds are one of the many things that make Petaluma such a wonderfully unique place to live and without the support of local sponsors, many of these events would not happen and many of the nonprofit organizations that run them would not be able to do what they do for our community.
If you cannot find the feed you are looking for, simply ask around. Post your request to the Petaluma Foodies page on Facebook, and you are sure to get the info you are looking for. Also, pick up your tickets early because it is not unusual for these feeds to sell out.
Chronologically, Petaluma’s 2018 Dungeness Crab Feeds are as follows:
Senhor Santo Cristo Society’s Portuguese Crab Feed
Unique to this Petaluma crab feed is a choice of two preparations, the standard chilled crab, as well as warm seasoned crab, which is a crowd favorite and should be experienced at least once. The ticket price also includes wine and punch on the tables and after-dinner dancing. Petaluma Holy Ghost/Portuguese Hall, Saturday, Jan. 13, 707-304-2819 or 510-604-7746.
Petaluma 7-11 Lion’s Club
This feed is one of Petaluma’s oldest and best attended, with all proceeds go to various local charities, and along with great food, this particular feed has an enormous amount of raffle items. No host bar begins at 5 p.m. followed by dinner at 6 p.m. No carry-in alcohol or coolers. Petaluma Vets Hall, Saturday, Jan. 20, $50, 711lions@gmail.com.
Pacific Empire Chorus
In just their 6th year, the PEC has built quite a reputation for their crab feed because along with great food, it also included a live a cappella show. For a real treat, purchase a Captain’s Table for eight ($560), and you and your crew will be placed front and center of the stage, plus will receive full-service linens, china and glasses. Everyone will enjoy fresh pasta from the Pasta King, salad, French bread and gourmet home-made desserts. As always, there will be a vast array of silent auction items to bid on. Petaluma Vets Hall, Saturday, Jan. 27, $50 advance $60 at the door $20 for children 10 and under with an adult, www.pacificempire.org.
Boys & Girls Club
This one, for guests 21 and over and with great auction items, desserts, and after-dinner dancing, usually sells out in advance. Although listed as a no-host bar, I believe in the past that drinks were included. Lucchesi Park Clubhouse, Saturday, Jan. 27, $95, 528-7977, www.bgccsc.org/petaluma-crab.
Duhnam School
The ticket price includes plentiful side dishes, dessert and adult beverages. There will also be ample silent and live auction items. All proceeds directly benefit all of the students at Dunham School and Dunham Charter School. The Dunham School PTO provides enrichment programs, including drama, gardening, music and art to all of their students. Hermann Sons Hall, Saturday, Jan. 27, $55, www.dunhamsd.org.
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