Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival: A Celebration of Seafood and Community

The Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival is an annual event that takes place in Fernandina Beach, Florida. This festival is a celebration of seafood and community, and it attracts thousands of visitors each year. The festival features a variety of activities, including live music, arts and crafts, and of course, plenty of delicious shrimp dishes. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival and what makes it such a special event.

History of the Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival

The Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival has a long and rich history. The festival was first held in 1964, and it was created as a way to promote the local shrimp industry. At the time, Fernandina Beach was one of the largest shrimp ports in the world, and the festival was a way to celebrate the town’s heritage and culture.

Over the years, the festival has grown in size and popularity. Today, it is one of the largest seafood festivals in the Southeast, and it attracts visitors from all over the country. Despite its growth, the festival has remained true to its roots, and it continues to celebrate the local shrimp industry and the community that supports it.

Activities at the Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival

Food and Drink

One of the main attractions of the Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival is the food. The festival features a wide variety of shrimp dishes, including shrimp scampi, shrimp and grits, and shrimp tacos. There are also plenty of other seafood options, as well as non-seafood dishes for those who prefer something different.

In addition to the food, the festival also features a beer garden where visitors can enjoy a cold drink while listening to live music.

Arts and Crafts

The Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival is also a great place to find unique arts and crafts. The festival features over 300 vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to pottery to paintings. Visitors can browse the booths and find one-of-a-kind items to take home as souvenirs.

Live Music

Live music is a big part of the Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival. The festival features multiple stages with a variety of musical acts, including local bands and nationally known performers. Visitors can enjoy the music while they eat, shop, or just relax in the sun.

Parade

One of the highlights of the Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival is the parade. The parade features floats, marching bands, and other performers, and it is a great way to kick off the festival. The parade takes place on the first day of the festival, and it is a must-see event for visitors of all ages.

Tips for Visiting the Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival

If you are planning to attend the Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit:

Arrive Early

The festival can get crowded, especially on the weekends. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to arrive early in the day. This will give you plenty of time to explore the festival before it gets too busy.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The festival takes place outdoors, and there is a lot of walking involved. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes so that you can enjoy the festival without getting tired or sore feet.

Bring Cash

While some vendors may accept credit cards, it is always a good idea to bring cash to the festival. This will make it easier to purchase food, drinks, and souvenirs without having to worry about finding an ATM.

Stay Hydrated

The Florida sun can be intense, especially in the middle of the day. Make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid heat exhaustion.

Conclusion

The Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival is a unique and exciting event that celebrates the local shrimp industry and the community that supports it. With delicious food, live music, and a variety of activities, there is something for everyone at this festival. If you are planning a trip to Florida, be sure to add the Fernandina Beach Shrimp Festival to your itinerary.

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