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One of the longest-running crawfish festivals began in 1985 when Boys’ Haven, a nonprofit, charitable institution, created their annual event as a primary fundraiser to help provide a safe haven where at-risk boys are influenced to become responsible, independent men committed to family and community.
The 39th annual event has grown into more than just crawfish. Say hello to the Boys’ Haven Crawfish, Food & Music Festival to be held Saturday, May 11, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Downtown Event Centre’s Great Lawn (700 Crockett St.) in Beaumont.
Free to attend, this year’s live music variety includes Zydeco, country, rock, and some oldies, but goodies. Schedule to take the stage is ReJena Bolton with Kenny & The Klassics (11 a.m.), Dick LeMasters Band (12:20 p.m.), The B-Sides (1:40 p.m.), Flava Band (3 p.m.) and Jivin’ Gene & The Pea Patch (4:30 p.m.).
The free kid’s area will be full of fun inflatables along with a petting zoo, interstellar bumper cars, and creature demonstrations from Gator Country.
For $20, patrons can enjoy up to 3 lbs. of crawfish prepared by Larry’s Cajun Cookers along with corn and potatoes. Looking for more than mudbugs? Foodies can also enjoy pulled pork, barbeque chicken as well as hotdogs and Fritos, then cool off with a glass of Stuart’s Lemonade or a sweet treat from Mabel’s.
There are a limited number of VIP tickets available for $50 that includes admission to the VIP tent, three beverages (21 and older for beer/win), tableside service and one meal box. Those VIP tickets are available in person at Boys’ Haven (3655 N Major Drive) in Beaumont from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Scott Wilson, Executive Board President of Boys’ Haven, said most of their support comes from the community.
“We get very little state compensation,” said Wilson. “Boys’ Haven relies on financial support from grants, compassionate individual donors and our crawfish festival, which is by far our biggest fundraiser.”
Since 1945, Boys’ Haven has remained steadfast in its mission to provide a secure haven for the young men and boys of Beaumont and its surrounding areas. Officially licensed by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, Boys’ Haven offers a comprehensive array of programs dedicated to offering solace and guidance to young men during challenging phases of their lives. Many of these boys come from troubled homes, foster care backgrounds, or are referred in search of a more structured environment. Some even choose to stay for an extended period, until they complete high school or well into their college years, as the facility accommodates residents up to the age of 24.
Their programs are designed around the principles of education, structure, and diligence, prioritizing growth and development over punitive measures. They create an environment where natural consequences take place, and privileges are earned, encouraging personal responsibility.
More than 1,500 boys and young men have been served since our creation over 70 years ago and it costs Boys’ Haven approximately $30,000 per boy per year for services.
Recently, Boys’ Haven launched a new initiative transitional program known as “Journey House,” which has 12 beds set aside for 18- to 24-year-old young men who focus on work, education, life skills, and document retention.
“Boys’ Haven has a long history in Southeast Texas and this fundraiser allows us to help keep our mission – building a brighter tomorrow for boys today. We have a lot of great sponsors that help the cause,” said Wilson.
For more information about the fundraiser or Boys’ Haven, view boyshaven.com or call (409) 866- 2400.