Shrimp Lovers – Mark Your Calendars!

Fernandina Beach is gearing up to host one of the South’s biggest seafood festivals – the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival. From April 28th to May 1st, downtown becomes a shrimp lover’s dream. Food vendors line beautiful, historic downtown Fernandina Beach and prepare shrimp nearly every way imaginable. You can enjoy Fried Shrimp, Boiled Shrimp, Shrimp Salad, Shrimp Quesadillas, Popcorn Shrimp, Shrimp Subs, Shrimp Marinara, Low Country Shrimp Boil, Shrimp Pie, Shrimp Twisters, and even Shrimp Ice Cream!

Now, it’s not all about the shrimp. Art vendors sell their wares, including beautiful beach themed paintings and sculptures. And then there are the pirates. Lots of them! After all, they make a special appearance in the annual Pirate Parade, complete with floats and marching bands. You won’t just find them in the parade. They board their pirate ships and invade the city Friday night and Saturday afternoon. Some may even find their way on stage to win the Best Adult Pirate Contest.

Here’s a fun fact you can use to impress your fellow festival goers. The festival gets its name, Isle of Eight Flags, because it is the only U.S. city to ever been under eight different flags. The French, Spanish, English, Patriot, Green Cross, Mexican Revolutionary, Confederate, and American flag have all flown over this beautiful city!

The festival is terrific fun for all ages. Warm ocean breezes and brilliant sunshine are predicted. Admission is free, but bring plenty of cash. You won’t be able to resist those delicious shrimp dishes!

For more information and directions, visit the Isle of Eight Flags official website: www.shrimpfestival.com.