The Island of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival is an annual celebration that takes place in Fernandina Beach, Florida. The festival was established in 1964 to honor the area’s long-standing and illustrious legacy in the shrimp industry. This festival has become a popular thing to do and is an important part of the history of Amelia Island.
The festival features a range of activities and events for people of all ages, and it lasts for three days in May. A parade, a seafood cook-off, live music performances, and a kids’ area with games and activities are a few of the festival’s attractions.
The festival has expanded in scope and notoriety over time, drawing tourists from throughout the nation. This year’s festival will mark its 60th anniversary in 2023, and organizers are preparing unique events and activities to mark the occasion. When booking your Amelia Island condo rental, this is one you’ll surely want to check out.
The phrase “Island of Eight Flags” alludes to the eight different flags that have flown over the island during its history, including those of Spain, France, and Great Britain. The festival honors both the rich cultural legacy of the island and the significant contribution the shrimp industry has made to its growth.
Things To Do at the Festival
The festival offers a wide range of entertainment options that are suitable for visitors of all ages and interests.
The event opens with a procession through Fernandina Beach’s streets that includes floats, marching bands, and other eye-catching sights. Since a large portion of this festival is outdoors, it is good to know the weather on Amelia Island!
The festival is named after the shrimp business, hence seafood is abundantly available for sampling. In addition to other popular seafood meals like crab cakes and fish tacos, attendees can enjoy a range of dishes cooked with locally caught shrimp.
Throughout the festival’s weekend, live performances of music from all genres are performed. Everything from jazz to country to vintage rock is available to attendees.
There is a separate portion of the festival for kids, complete with rides, games, and other entertainment. Kids can also explore a space with a pirate theme.
There are many exhibitors offering anything from jewelry to pottery to homemade soaps in the festival’s big arts and crafts area.
The festival culminates with stunning fireworks show over the port, capping off the weekend’s events in style. With the addition of this festival, you’ll never run out of things to do on Amelia Island!
Plan Your Visit to Amelia Island
Ready to attend the 2023 Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival? Book your stay in one of our Amelia Island rentals today!
Festival Information
The festival normally lasts for three days throughout the weekend, with a variety of events and activities planned throughout the day. At the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival in 2023, the following are the standard operating hours:
The festival is scheduled to begin on Friday, May 5th, and end on May 7th at 5 PM.
For further details on certain events and activities, visitors are advised to visit the festival’s website or social media accounts. Overall, the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival provides a whole weekend of enjoyment for people of all ages, giving them plenty of opportunities to take advantage of everything the event has to offer.
Book your stay at one of our Amelia Island rentals and enjoy the 2023 Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival!