Hey there fellow seafood lovers! If you’re wondering when to mark your calendars for the legendary Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival in Fernandina Beach I’ve got all the juicy details for ya. As someone who’s been covering food festivals for years, I can tell you this is one event you absolutely don’t wanna miss!
The Big Date and Quick Facts
- When: May 2-4, 2025
- Where: Historic downtown Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island, FL
- Cost: FREE admission (woo-hoo!)
- Anniversary: 60th celebration
Why This Festival Is Kind of a Big Deal
Listen up – this ain’t just any regular food festival! Fernandina Beach has earned its stripes as the “Shrimp Capital of the World,” and they really know how to throw a party. The festival started way back in 1964 as a tiny community shindig, but now it’s grown into this massive celebration that brings thousands of people to our little slice of paradise.
What You’ll Get to Experience
Awesome Food Scene
- Fresh seafood and shrimp dishes (duh!)
- All food prepared by local non-profit organizations
- Pro tip: Bring cash! Trust me, you’ll thank me later
- Must-try local specialties:
- Shrimp and grits
- Shrimp pie
- Various fried shrimp dishes
Art & Shopping Paradise
- 300+ award-winning artists and craftspeople
- 75 antique and collectible booths
- Unique finds like:
- Handmade jewelry
- Photography
- Pottery
- Maritime-themed art
Entertainment Galore
- Live music on two stages
- Festival parade
- Decorated shrimp boat contest
- Blessing of the Fleet ceremony
- Kids Fun Zone with:
- Games
- Rides
- Interactive activities
Pro Tips from a Festival Regular
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Get There Early!The early bird gets the… shrimp? But seriously arriving when gates open means shorter lines and better parking options.
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Transportation HackSkip the parking headache and use the shuttle services. I learned this one the hard way, trust me!
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Comfy Shoes are Your BFF
You’ll be doing tons of walking, so leave those cute but uncomfortable sandals at home. -
Make it a Weekend Thing
With so much to see and do, you might wanna book a room nearby. But heads up – accommodations fill up super fast, so book early!
What Makes the 60th Anniversary Special
This year’s gonna be extra special since it’s the big 6-0! The festival organizers are pulling out all the stops to make this diamond anniversary one for the books. We’re talking enhanced entertainment lineups, special commemorative events, and probably some surprise celebrations they haven’t even announced yet!
Location Breakdown
The festival happens in historic downtown Fernandina Beach, and lemme tell you, it’s the perfect backdrop for this kind of event. You’ve got:
- Beautiful marina views
- Historic Victorian architecture
- Local shops and pubs
- Restaurants all around
- Easy access to the waterfront
Schedule Overview
While the exact schedule isn’t out yet, here’s what typically happens each day:
Friday, May 2
- Festival opening
- Evening entertainment
- Food booths open
Saturday, May 3
- Main festival day
- Parade
- Peak crowd time
- Most activities running
Sunday, May 4
- Blessing of the Fleet
- Decorated Shrimp Boat Contest
- Final day festivities
Before You Go Checklist
- Book accommodation if staying overnight
- Bring cash for vendors
- Pack sunscreen and hat
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Bring a water bottle
- Check shuttle service schedule
- Download festival map
Final Thoughts
Y’all, this is gonna be one heck of a celebration! The Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival isn’t just about eating amazing seafood (though that’s a pretty awesome part). It’s about experiencing the rich history, vibrant culture, and wonderful community spirit of Fernandina Beach.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a festival veteran, the 60th anniversary celebration promises to be an unforgettable experience. Just remember to come hungry, wear comfy shoes, and bring your festival spirit!
See you there, shrimp lovers!
Check in with your tickets
Please check in using the tickets or confirmation code below. If you do not have a ticket, you can get ticket here: https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=7273
Hundreds gather in Fernandina Beach for 2nd day of Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival
FAQ
Does Fernandina have a shrimp festival?
As noted above, the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival has a long history in Fernandina. The Festival began back in 1964 to celebrate the blessing of the shrimp fleet. Take a look below at old photos courtesy of the “Florida Memory” archives, dated 1971. (On left Fernandina shrimp boat race, on right blessing of shrimp boat Golden Isle.)
Where to eat shrimp in Fernandina Beach?
Come for the shrimp stay for the weekend! The Isle Of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival in historic downtown Fernandina Beach features an array of activities for the entire family! Free-to-attend admission offers boatloads of fresh seafood and shrimp dishes, all prepared by local non-profit and civic organizations.
When is the Isle of 8 Flags Shrimp Festival 2025?
Come celebrate the 60th ‘Isle of 8 Flags Shrimp Festival’ May 2 – 4, 2025! Come for the shrimp stay for the weekend! The Isle Of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival in historic downtown Fernandina Beach features an array of activities for the entire family!
When is the Isle of eight flags Shrimp Festival?
The Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival is held annually the first weekend in May. One of Florida’s oldest and largest festivals, it is held in the quaint, historic downtown and waterfront area of Fernandina Beach on beautiful Amelia Island. Free admission, family friendly. Top 200 outdoor festivals in nation.
Does Amelia Island have a shrimp festival?
From shrimp boat parades to culinary competitions, every aspect of the event reflects Amelia Island’s pride in its status as the “Shrimp Capital of the World.” First held in 1964, the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival began as a small community celebration to honor the region’s shrimping heritage.
What to do in Fernandina during the Shrimp Festival?
A main feature of the Shrimp Festival is the huge juried art show administered by the Amelia Island Art Association. Fernandina’s downtown historic district is lined with hundreds of booths for art lovers to browse. Besides the fine arts and crafts booths, the vintage/antiques vendors offer additional booths to browse.