The Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival is a highly anticipated event held annually in historic downtown Fernandina Beach, Florida. This year’s festival will take place from Thursday, May 4th to Sunday, May 7th, 2023, with a variety of events and activities for the whole family.
The festival kicks off on Thursday, May 4th with the Pirate Parade, rain or shine. This colorful and entertaining parade is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, featuring a procession of pirates, marching bands, and floats.
On Friday, May 5th, the waterfront food booths will open at 3 pm and will remain open until 10 pm, serving up delicious seafood and shrimp dishes prepared by local non-profit and civic organizations. The Kids Fun Zone will open at 5 pm, offering a range of fun activities for children. The Riverfront Stage Opening Ceremonies will begin at 6 pm, followed by live music performances throughout the evening. The festivities will conclude with a breathtaking fireworks display at 9:15 pm.
Saturday, May 6th promises to be a full day of fun and excitement, starting with the waterfront food booths opening at 9 am and remaining open until 7 pm. The Kids Fun Zone will open at 9 am and will be open until 8 pm, providing endless entertainment for children. The Riverfront Stage will be open from 9:30 am to 6 pm, featuring live music performances, contests, and other activities.
Sunday, May 7th, the final day of the festival, will feature the Kids Fun Zone opening at 10 am and remaining open until 5 pm. The Riverfront Stage will also be open from 10 am to 5 pm, offering a range of live music performances.
In addition to the food, music, and entertainment, the festival will also feature a Fine Arts and Crafts show, with over 300 award-winning artists and craftspeople showcasing their work, including jewelry, pottery, and photography. For those interested in antiques and collectibles, there will be 75 booths to browse through.
One of the festival’s highlights is the decorated shrimp boat parade, which takes place on Saturday afternoon, where visitors can watch from the marina as the shrimp boats glide along the Amelia River, each one decorated in its unique style.
Throughout the festival, visitors can also explore the charming downtown area of Fernandina Beach, with its eclectic assortment of retail shops, pubs, and restaurants. The Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival is a must-attend event for seafood lovers, art enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a fun-filled weekend with the family.
