Photos by William M. Dowd

TROY, NY -- The 3rd annual Troy Chowderfest drew a field of 26 chowders to be judged by a four-person panel huddled inside Brown's Brewing as thousands of attendees of all ages enjoyed the sunshine, live music and the chowder sampling outside on River Street.

The festival, which included plenty of beer, soft drinks and chowders of all descriptions  along with children's activities has in short order become a staple in the riverside city's public schedule, bringing more and more people each year to the Marina District.

Proceeds from the $1-per-entry sampling tickets and competition entry fees go to support the programs of the Troy Boys and Girls Club.

Judges’ choice:

1: Terra Cafe (RPI students), saffron-corn chowder
2: Terminal Tavern, Creole shrimp and corn chowder
3: Yanni’s Too Restaurant, Block Island clambake chowder

People’s choice:

1: Brown’s Brewing
2: Albany Pump Station, New Orleans voodoo chowder
3: Mezzaluna Cafe, Mezza chowder

Best vegetarian:

Delectabulls Deli

Best seafood (tie):

Tosca Grille and Mezzaluna

Most original: Park Pub, Thanksgiving dinner chowder

Judges for the competition were yours truly, representing both Examiner.com and Dowd's Guides, Steve Barnes of the Times Union, Byron Nilsson of Metroland, and Bonnie Kurtz of Dinnerwhere?

ENJOY THE SLIDESHOW BELOW