The long-awaited start of the Bay Area’s commercial Dungeness crab season arrived earlier this month, just in time for the beloved series of crab feed fundraisers that support local organizations. A few of the annual events that aren’t listed have already sold out, so act quickly to reserve your spot.

Sausalito

The Sausalito Sustainable Waterfront Association and Fish, a Sausalito restaurant known for its sustainable California seafood, present the inaugural Sausalito Crab Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 1 at the restaurant at 350 Harbor Drive in Sausalito.

Freshly cooked crab dishes and creative sides will be prepared by Fish, and visitors can purchase just-caught local Dungeness crab directly from fishing boats.

Other highlights include warm and cold paired beverages, live music by local bands and the chance to stroll the docks and view open boats on display in the Clipper Yacht Harbor, from fishing vessels to luxury yachts. Local crab fishermen will be on hand to share insights into their trade and its vital role to Sausalito’s maritime heritage.

“California’s entire fishing fleet has faced devastation due to delayed season openings and early closures, continuously challenging the survival of the fishermen who risk their lives every day to bring food to our tables,” said Fish co-owner Kenny Belov through a press representative. “Let’s embrace the start of the season, support our local fishermen and celebrate.”

Festival admission is free, with food and beverages available for purchase. To assure a space, reserve tickets at caltix.com/e/crabfest/tickets. Proceeds support Sausalito’s local crab fishing fleet. For more information about the Sausalito Sustainable Waterfront Association, visit sausalitowaterfront.org. To learn more about Fish, visit 331fish.com.

San Rafael

The Golden State Salmon Association hosts its annual crab feed and raffle at noon Feb. 10 at the Marin Rod and Gun Club at 2675 Francisco Blvd E. in San Rafael.

The menu features all-you-can-eat local Dungeness crab, garlic noodles, green salad, cheesy sourdough and local beer and wine.

Find additional details and purchase tickets ($85, $650 for reserved table for eight) at goldenstatesalmon.org/gssa-announces-2024-crab-feed. Funds raised will support the Golden State Salmon Association’s mission to ensure consistent salmon runs and restore vital habitats.

The San Rafael Elks Lodge holds its annual crab feed from 5 to 10 p.m. Feb. 1 at 1312 Mission Ave. in San Rafael ($100). The evening begins with an extended social hour followed by a family-style dinner at 6:30 p.m. with all-you-can-eat Alaskan crab, clam chowder, two types of pasta, salad, garlic bread and dessert. Guests can opt for rib-eye steak if requested with the RSVP.

For reservations, visit elks1108.org/event/2025-crab-feed. Proceeds support property maintenance and local charities.

Woodacre

The San Geronimo Valley Lions Club’s annual crab feed, raffle and silent auction is Feb. 1 at the Woodacre Improvement Club at 1 Garden Way in Woodacre ($75).

Reserve a seat for either 5 or 7:30 p.m. and settle in for a feast of Dungeness crab served with melted butter, salad, sourdough bread and beverages, including Lagunitas Brewing Co. beer, white wine and nonalcoholic options.

Purchase tickets at zeffy.com/ticketing/sgv-lions-club-crab-feed—2025. Proceeds benefit key community programs.

Novato

Join fellow crustacean enthusiasts at a community crab feed benefit hosted by the Pancretan Chapter of Marin & Sonoma Counties and the Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Church from 5:30 to 11 p.m. Feb. 1 at 1110 Highland Drive in Novato ($30 for kids and $85 for adults).

Greek appetizers, beer and wine are included, along with a raffle drawing, silent auction and Minoan dance performance. For tickets and more information, visit nativityofchrist.org/community-crab-feed.

The Novato Horsemen, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditions of horsemanship for future generations, holds its annual crab feed on Feb. 8 at its clubhouse at 600 Bugeia Lane in Novato.

The meal includes all-you-can-eat fresh crab, pasta, salad, bread and dessert ($65). Seatings are at 4:30 and 7:30 p.m., with doors opening 30 minutes prior. Drinks are available at a cash-only, no-host bar. For tickets and more information, contact Amy Hutchinson at 415-517-3907.

Leanne Battelle is a freelance food writer and restaurant columnist. Email her at ij.lbattelle@gmail.com with comments and find more local food news at therealdealmarin.com.