by The 52nd Annual National Shrimp Festival is set to take place from October 9 to October 12, 2025, in Gulf Shores, Alabama. This four-day event celebrates coastal cuisine, live music, art, and family-friendly activities. Drawing over 300,000 visitors, the festival offers a vibrant experience for all ages.
Dates and Timings
The festival spans four days, offering ample time to enjoy its diverse attractions.
- Thursday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Venue of the Annual National Shrimp Festival
The event is held at Gulf Shores Public Beach, conveniently located at:
Address:
101 Gulf Shores Parkway
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
(Intersection of Hwy 59 and East Beach Blvd)
Tickets for the Annual National Shrimp Festival
- Admission: Free for all attendees
- Shuttle Service: Available for $6 per day; wristbands grant unlimited rides on the day of purchase. Note: Cash is not accepted; cards only.
Food and Drinks
A major highlight of the festival is its diverse culinary offerings, featuring over 50 local and regional vendors.
- Seafood Delights: Shrimp (boiled, fried, steamed), crab cakes, conch fritters, lobster, and Cajun specialties.
- Additional Options: Non-seafood dishes, snacks, and beverages to cater to all tastes.
Rides and Rodeos
While the festival focuses on food, music, and art, it also offers engaging activities for attendees.
- Children’s Activity Village: Includes face painting, bubble truck, airbrush tattoos, and more.
- Sand Sculpture Contest: Teams compete to create the best sand sculptures, with cash prizes for winners.
- 5K and 10K Races: Held on Saturday, October 11, at the Orange Beach Sportsplex, benefiting local schools.
Entertainment Lineup
The festival boasts over 100 hours of live music across two stages, featuring a mix of genres.
- Genres: Country, classic rock, jazz, R&B, blues, and more.
- Notable Acts:
- Thursday: Style (Pepsi East Stage), Troy Laz Band (West Stage)
- Friday: The Molly Ringwalds (East Stage), The Velcro Pygmies (West Stage)
- Saturday: Doctor Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monster (East Stage), Best of British (West Stage)
- Sunday: Crab Riot (East Stage), The Groovinators (West Stage)
Additional Facilities
To ensure a comfortable experience for all attendees, the festival provides various amenities.
- Parking: Limited on-site parking; attendees are encouraged to use the shuttle service.
- Shuttle Stops: Locations include Pelican Place at Craft Farms, Erie H. Meyer Civic Center, Waves Grocery, Rouses Grocery in Orange Beach, and Lake Shelby in Gulf State Park.
- ADA Accessible Parking: Available at East Gulf Place for those with proper credentials.
Conclusion
The 52nd Annual National Shrimp Festival in Gulf Shores offers a unique blend of delicious cuisine, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, music lover, or art aficionado, there’s something for everyone. Mark your calendars for October 9–12, 2025, and join in the celebration of coastal culture and community.
