Whole Foods celebrates upcoming birthday with contest

AUSTIN In line with its 30th birthday this September, Whole Foods is inviting shoppers to win a culinary celebration weekend in its hometown headquarters.

Part of the company's "30 Years Fresh" birthday festivities held across its nearly 300 stores in the United States, Canada and U.K., the "A Heart as Big as Texas" short essay contest invites participants to share their special stories, inspirations and memories about Whole Foods. Thirty winners will be chosen to each receive an all-expense paid trip for two to the birthplace of Whole Foods where they will be treated to a VIP culinary weekend. Contest details can be found at Wholefoodsmarket.com/birthday.

"From the moment our original 19 team members opened our first store in Austin 30 years ago, we have appreciated the support from our shoppers who have truly been the secret to our success. By highlighting their favorite stories, we'd like to pay tribute to our customers from all over and thank them for three decades together," said Walter Robb, co-CEO of Whole Foods.

Whole Foods Market officially turns 30 on Sept. 20.  From Sept. 17 to 20, Whole Foods stores all over will host birthday celebrations open to the public. Dates and times for the festivities will be posted on each store's Web site by July 1.