Gulf Shores Alabama is home to one of the Gulf Coast’s most beloved annual traditions – the National Shrimp Festival. For over 50 years, this 4-day event has attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors to celebrate delicious Gulf shrimp live music, local art, and family fun. So when exactly is Shrimp Fest in Gulf Shores? Here’s everything you need to know about this can’t-miss October festival.
When is Shrimp Fest in 2023?
In 2023, the National Shrimp Festival will take place from October 12-15. This year marks the 51st anniversary of the festival. The hours are:
- Thursday, Oct 12: 10am – 10pm
- Friday, Oct 13: 10am – 10pm
- Saturday, Oct 14: 10am – 10pm
- Sunday, Oct 15: 10am – 5pm
The festival takes place rain or shine, so expect big crowds and good times throughout the long weekend. Early October is a gorgeous time of year on Alabama’s beaches, with warm sunny days and cooler evenings perfect for enjoying fresh seafood outdoors.
What happens at Shrimp Fest in Gulf Shores?
As you might have guessed from the name shrimp is the star of the show! The festival features shrimp prepared in seemingly endless ways by vendors serving up Cajun shrimp pistols shrimp po’ boys, shrimp tacos, boiled shrimp, fried shrimp, and much more. Beyond the buckets of shrimp, you’ll also find other Gulf Coast seafood like crab cakes, lobster, crawfish, and local oysters.
But Shrimp Fest has activities for everyone beyond just eating shrimp:
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Live music plays continuously on two stages, with acts ranging from blues and jazz to rock, country, and pop. Over 100 hours of live music keeps the festival rocking day and night.
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Arts and crafts vendors number over 150, selling paintings, pottery, jewelry, clothing, and unique creations from local Gulf Coast artists. It’s a great place to find that perfect coastal souvenir.
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The sand sculpture contest lets families and teams show off their building skills through sandcastles and sculptures. Prizes are awarded in different categories.
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The festival 10K/5K races raise money for local schools, so lace up your shoes and burn off some of those shrimp calories!
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The children’s activity village provides face-painting, games, airbrush tattoos, jugglers, magic shows, and more kid-friendly entertainment.
As you can see, Shrimp Fest has something fun for visitors of all ages beyond just tasty shrimp dishes!
Where is Shrimp Fest held in Gulf Shores?
The festival takes place right on the beach, centered on the intersection of Highway 59 and East Beach Boulevard. The main festival area stretches across the beach and along the coastline road.
The street address is:
101 Gulf Shores Parkway
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
This location puts you near public parking areas and shuttle stops, as well as easy walking access to beachfront hotels and condos.
How to get to Shrimp Fest: Parking, shuttles and transportation
With massive crowds descending on Gulf Shores for the festival, getting around can get tricky. Here are some tips for transportation and parking:
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Shuttles: Park-and-ride shuttles ($5 per person per day) run from locations around Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Shuttle stops include grocery stores, public buildings, and beach access parking lots.
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Road closures: Parts of Hwy 59, Hwy 182, and other roads in the immediate festival vicinity will be closed to traffic during the festival. Plan alternate routes.
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Public parking: Parking lots at Gulf Shores public beach accesses provide the most convenient parking outside of shuttle locations. Arrive early, as spots fill up.
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Walking/biking: If staying nearby, walking or biking can be the easiest way to get to the festival grounds and avoid parking headaches. The festival area is very walkable.
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Ride-shares: Uber, Lyft, or taxis are useful for getting to and from lodging outside the main festival area. With road closures, using ride-shares can simplify transportation.
Pro tip: Buy shuttle wristbands early and plan accordingly with parking areas, closed roads, and transportation to make getting to Shrimp Fest easier.
Where to stay for Shrimp Fest
With lodging filling up fast during the popular festival, it pays to book accommodations early. Here are some top options to consider:
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Beachfront hotels put you closest to the festival grounds. Properties like Hampton Inn Gulf Shores and Holiday Inn Express offer beach access and walking distance convenience.
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Condos and vacation rentals provide more space for groups and families. Check out communities like Gulf Shores Plantation, Phoenix All Suites, and Turquoise Place.
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Orange Beach lodging provides a quieter experience just a 10 minute drive from the festival. Consider hotels like SpringHill Suites Orange Beach or vacation rentals away from festival crowds.
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RV parks and campgrounds offer budget-friendly lodging, but spots book up early. Try park options like Gulf State Park Campground, Camping on the Gulf, or Orange Beach RV Park.
Wherever you stay, booking 4-6 months in advance secures better availability and rates for popular festival weekends.
Shrimp Fest tips and tricks
After 51 years, Gulf Shores locals have Shrimp Fest down to a science. Use these tips and tricks for a smooth experience:
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Bring cash for food, drinks, wristbands, and quicker vendor transactions. ATMs have long lines.
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Pack sunscreen, hats, sunglasses – and rain ponchos in case of pop-up showers.
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Wear comfortable shoes for lots of walking on sand and pavement.
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Hydrate frequently – it’s easy to get dehydrated walking around in the sun and heat.
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Download a festival map in advance to navigate between stages, vendors, and activities.
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Arrive early or late to avoid peak crowds and parking challenges.
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Take advantage of afternoon breaks to enjoy beaches, pools, and attractions away from festival crowds.
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Consider staying until Sunday for easier transportation, cheaper lodging rates, and lower vendor prices.
Shrimp Fest 2023: An October weekend tradition
For over 50 years, the National Shrimp Festival has kickstarted autumn with a memorable celebration of Gulf Coast food, music, and family fun. In 2023, the festival runs October 12-15, turning Gulf Shores into the place to be for a long weekend full of feasting on shrimp, checking out artisans, catching live performances, and making memories with family and friends.
This beloved tradition sums up the best of Alabama’s beaches – beautiful scenery, delicious seafood, southern hospitality, and good times for visitors of all ages. So don’t miss out on Shrimp Fest 2023! Make your plans now to join tens of thousands of happy guests welcoming another year of this one-of-a-kind festival.
