Photos by Sandi Hoover/ Nevada AppealA group of leprechauns from Fresno, Calif., have been coming to Virginia City for 10 years for the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade and Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry.
VIRGINIA CITY - A bone-chilling breeze that continued throughout most of the day Saturday didn't dampen the enthusiasm of throngs of people who flooded the streets of Virginia City for the 19th Annual Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry and St. Patrick's Day Parade.
The tradition features both amateur and professional cooks whose special recipes and dishes feature the unique flavors and textures of Rocky Mountain Oysters - more commonly known as beef testicles, said Rich Crombie, event organizer.
"This is the first year I've done this, and it's a great turnout. There are twice as many booths as last year, the weather cooperated and the spirit here is great," Crombie said.
The 12 booths of contestants were competing for cash prizes as well as bragging rights, he said.
"It's just a fun place to shop and I love the people and all the nuts. I wouldn't miss it for anything," she said.
Rich Jensen of Reno nibbled a fried oyster on a stick as he explained that this was his fourth year attending the event.
"It's a good way to get rid of the winter. I like the western style and I come here just to enjoy the day," Jensen said.
When asked what his mountain oyster tasted like, he said, "Not chicken."
Jon Sieben, also from Carson City, was dressed all in green and wore a leprechaun hat.
"I've been up here a few times. It's a great crowd - a real melting pot of people, and I think everyone should get down to their roots once in awhile," Sieben said.