It is almost impossible to think about Florida without sport fishing and delectable, fresh seafood coming to mind. The Fishing Capital of the World does not come by its title lightly; the diversity of fish species, habitats, fantastic weather, and year-round fishing contribute to Florida earning the honors. Whether a professional angler, a family looking for a fun experience, or a first-timer, hooking a big one is as irresistible as savoring the delicious flavor of freshly caught fare. Stuart Sport Fishing loves taking people on the water for an unforgettable angling experience! Seafood Festivals occur throughout the year — here are the events to know about for January and February!
FLORIDA IS RENOWNED FOR ITS STUNNING COASTLINE and abundance of seafood, but also for hosting a plethora of seafood festivals throughout the year. These events offer a unique opportunity to experience local cuisine and fresh seafood, enjoy live music and immerse yourself in the coastal charm of the Sunshine State. Here’s a curated list of upcoming seafood festivals in Florida.
JANUARY 5-7
FORT MYERS SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
Kick off your year with some amazing seafood in Fort Myers! They’re sering up everything fresh and local, right from the Gulf Coast. You’ll find beer, wine, and great music ranging from rock to jazz. Plus, it’s free to get in! Friday’s from 4 to 10 pm, Saturday and Sunday start at 11 am and go until late. Head over to the River District at 1400 Hendry St., and enjoy!
JANUARY 13
APALACHICOLA OYSTER COOK OFF
This one’s a big deal every year. It’s more than just oysters – there’s shrimp, smoked mullet, and even hot dogs and hamburgers. Plus, live music and a bunch of fun stuff for kids. The best part? It helps out the local fire department! It kicks off with an art preview on Friday night and goes all day Saturday at Riverfront Park.
JANUARY 12-13
PUNTA GORDA CRAB AND MUSIC FESTIVAL
Free admission, pet-friendly, and you can park right there for 15 bucks. It’s all happening at Laishley Park in Punta Gorda. Expect lots of crabs and tunes!
JANUARY 13-14
FLORIDA KEYS SEAFOOD FESTIVAL, KEY WEST
For just $10, dive into the best seafood around, like lobster, stone crab, and Key West’s famous pink shrimp. It’s all happening at Bayview Park in Key West.
JANUARY 18-21
FELLSMERE FROG LEG FESTIVAL
Ever tried frog legs or gator tail? Here’s your chance! Plus, there’s music, rides, and lots of cool stuff to check out. Free parking is available with a shuttle service. It’s at 23 South Orange St, Fellsmere.
JANUARY 26-28
SARASOTA SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL
This one’s in downtown Sarasota, with loads of seafood from local restaurants and some great music to boot. It’s free to get in and runs from Friday evening through Sunday.
JANUARY 27-28
PORT ST. LUCIE SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
Known for its friendly vibe, this festival has seafood, live music, fun stuff for kids, and even pirates and mermaids! It’s $10 for a day or $16 for the whole weekend. Head over to the Mid-Florida Events Center in Port St. Lucie.
FEBRUARY 2-4
EVERGLADES CITY SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
A classic with fresh seafood, country music, and arts and crafts. Plus, it’s free! It’s in Everglades City, right in front of City Hall.
FEBRUARY 2-4
ENGLEWOOD SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL
Free to enter, this festival in Englewood is all about fresh, local seafood. Swing by Dearborn Street Plaza for a taste.
FEBRUARY 9-11
BONITA SPRINGS SEAFOOD AND MUSIC FESTIVAL
No entry fee here either! Enjoy seafood, music, and vendors at The Poker Room in Bonita Springs.
FEBRUARY 17-18
JUPITER SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
For 10 bucks, you get seafood, live entertainment, and even a cornhole tournament! Check it out at Carlin Park in Jupiter.
FEBRUARY 23-25
ST. PETERSBURG SEAFOOD AND MUSIC FESTIVAL
St. Pete’s throwing a big seafood party with free admission. It’s at North Straub Park.
FEBRUARY 23-24
SANDESTIN GUMBO FESTIVAL AND SEAFOOD BOIL
Start with a seafood boil on Friday and then hit the gumbo cook-off on Saturday. It’s at Baytowne Wharf in Miramar Beach.
Captain Finley “Seafarer” Johnson and First Mate Rodney “Rod” Castaway are two of the friendliest, expert anglers you could hope to have as guides for an adventure on the water! Whether fishing for wahoo, mahi, sailfish, snapper, swordfish, or grouper, Stuart Sport Fishing has decades of knowledge and experience and will ensure you have an unforgettable time! Contact us at 949.300.4294 or join us on Facebook!
