By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Luverne was once again enveloped in the unmistakable aroma of boiling peanuts over Labor Day Weekend as the Crenshaw County Alcazar Shrine Club hosted the 53rd annual World’s Largest Peanut Boil. This year, an impressive 32 tons of peanuts were sold, continuing a beloved tradition that draws both locals and travelers from far and wide.

One such traveler, Naomi Pinney of Pensacola, said she had long noticed signs for the World’s Largest Peanut Boil during her trips through Luverne. This year, the stars aligned for the Pinneys, who, being avid Auburn fans, were returning home from an Auburn football game when they stopped to purchase peanuts. 

The couple had planned a visit to Naomi’s aunt and uncle, Riley and Gail Perett, and when Naomi realized they would be in the area during the peanut boil, it was quickly added to their itinerary.

“The peanuts were excellent,” Pinney said. “I love boiled peanuts and my husband, who isn’t a huge fan of boiled peanuts, was pleasantly surprised by the delicious roasted peanuts. Great peanuts and a worthy cause—it was a win-win, and we plan to be back, even if it takes a special trip.”

The club’s President, Andy Compton, expressed deep gratitude for the community’s unwavering support, emphasizing that the event’s success hinges on the dedication of volunteers and patrons alike.

 “We appreciate all those who braved the heat in those lines and everyone who helped,” Compton said. “It amazes me that year after year we see such massive support from our volunteers, sponsors and school groups and the patrons, some that come every year from long distances. We look forward to seeing everyone again around Labor Day next year.”

Regina Gorey, whose husband Charles “Chuck” Gorey has been a member of the Shrine Club for 28 years, looks forward to volunteering every year and the annual fundraiser is now particularly special for her as three generations of her family come together to help.                     

“It’s always fun, busy, and hot,” Gorey remarked. “We have some of the best conversations and fellowship while waiting for the next batch to come up.”

Gorey’s children grew up helping with the event and now her grandchildren are following suit.

“There is so much love in the pictures from previous years, and I’m proud that my children and grandchildren love helping,” Gorey said.

Peanuts for the boil were delivered from Holland Farms in Milton, Florida. Bruce Holland, the farm’s owner, shared his pride in being part of this long standing tradition.

“We are proud to grow the green peanuts for the world’s largest peanut boil,” Holland said. “We have been working with the outstanding Crenshaw County Shriners for 19 years and it has been a blessing for our farm. Thank you to all involved.”

The boiled peanuts were prepared in 10-foot-long boilers heated by propane, with each tank holding about 720 pounds of peanuts and 250 gallons of water. Over two tons of salt were used throughout the boil.

For more information about the World’s Largest Peanut Boil and updates on next year’s event, visit the Crenshaw County Alcazar Shrine Club Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/worldslargestpeanutboil .