Gulfport, Mississippi is the second largest city in the state and the co-county seat, alongside Biloxi, of Harrison County. As of the 2000 census, Gulfport had a population of 71, 127. The city is also the east coast home of the US Navy Seabees, which are construction battalions. These battalions are responsible for building bases, and bulldozing and paving thousands of miles of roads and airstrips, as well as other construction projects dating back to WWII. In August of 2005 the city of Gulfport was hit by the strong side of Hurricane Katrina. Reconstruction continues in the area.
The distinct culture of Mississippi is seen clearly in the variety of event and festival offerings in Gulfport. In May 2007, Gulfport will host the 24th Annual All Day Harley Memorial Day Blowout. An even longer standing tradition, June will bring the 59th Annual Mississippi Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo. History and Heritage will be celebrated at the Fall Muster and the Scottish Games & Celtic Festival. For a family fun event that the kids will love, there is the Annual MS Gulf Coast Kite Festival to look forward to.
In one of the finest states to experience good 'ol southern country cooking, Gulfport's cuisine is sure to delight the palate with favorites such as fried chicken, country-fried steak, cornbread and fresh vegetables. For barbecue connoisseurs, the barbecue here has a tomato-based sauce and tends to pork ribs, pulled pork or chopped beef sandwiches. A local favorite, catfish is often served up fried. A common side for catfish is fried dill pickles, a food many find is far more delicious then it initially sounds.
