Well everyone, the second weekend of October is upon us, which can only mean one thing… THE ANNUAL NATIONAL SHRIMP FESTIVAL IS HERE! This is one of the Gulf Coast’s biggest events, and for good reason: live music, incredible artwork, and heaps and LOTS of shrimp (and other delicious foods)! This guidebook is created to give you some key information on the event so you can experience the fun with the knowledge of a local. Alright now, let’s get into it!!
1. Transportation and parking
If you bring your car to the function, you’ll have to arrive very early! Parking is first come, first serve, and there is not a ton of parking around the festival. Because of this, we suggest considering using the festival shuttles! All the information for shuttles can be found here. To give a couple of highlights: a shuttle pass is $5 a day (card payment only), and they have provided a map that shows all the shuttle stop locations for your convenience.
2. Try a Cajun Pistol
This incredible shrimp fest food staple is a must-try! The Cajun Pistol is a cheese and crawfish stuffed beignet served with spicy sauce… I mean, c’mon, how DELICIOUS does that sound?! Head on over to Rockin Rogers to get some before they sell out (and trust us—they DO sell out, so don’t wait!)
3. Get a 2024 shrimp fest poster signed by the artist
Every year, artists from all over the country enter to win the official festival poster contest. This year’s winner is Red Owen, and we can see why! Festival goers will have a chance to get a poster and get it signed by Owen on Saturday! This is only one of the numerous enjoyable art experiences you can have at Shrimp Fest.
4. Get pumped for amazing music
Live music is gonna be blasting for days! With both local musicians and those who have traveled miles to play on our coast, every single artist is coming to bring the good vibes. Make sure to stick around for the headliners: “The Voice” contestant Karen Waldrup and the best cover band in the south—the Velcro Pygmies!
5. Stay safe!
Last but certainly not least, we always want our guests to stay safe! We recommend everyone take necessary precautions such as wearing plenty of sunscreen, drinking lots of water (especially if you’re drinking some fun stuff on the side! ;) ), and staying with people you trust while exploring all the Shrimp Fest fun. And to all our Liquid Life guests, we are ALWAYS here for y’all to give us a call for whatever you may need!
We hope that this guide gets you excited and informed for the upcoming festivities! Have a great time and don’t get a stomach ache from eating too many Cajun Pistols! Oh, and if you want to go ahead and book your next vacation with us because you just can’t wait to come back, click here!