Discover the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival

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60th Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival 2025

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Insider guide by Amy Howell · ONE Florida Group

 

Picture the salty river breeze, bursts of fireworks above the Amelia River, and mountains of fresh-caught shrimp sizzling on the docks. From May 2-4, 2025, Fernandina Beach celebrates the diamond jubilee of the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival—a party 60 years in the making and the ultimate excuse to spend the first weekend of May on historic Amelia Island.

I’m Amy Howell, owner of ONE Florida Group. Let me show you why this event belongs on your calendar (and how to make the most of it).

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Why This Festival Is Legendary

  • Birthplace of modern shrimping. Fernandina’s deep-water port launched America’s shrimp industry.
  • Free entry, local flavor. Non-profit booths cook every shrimp dish imaginable, and proceeds circle back into the community.
  • Diamond Jubilee energy. Turning 60 means bigger pirate parades, brighter fireworks—and plenty more shrimp.

ChatGPT Image Apr 30, 2025 at 11_59_03 AM

Did You Know? — Why It’s Called the “Isle of Eight Flags”

Amelia Island is the only place in the U.S. to have flown eight different national or rebel banners:

  1. France (1562-1565)
  2. Spain (1565-1763 & 1783-1812)
  3. Great Britain (1763-1783)
  4. Patriots of Amelia Island (1812)
  5. Green Cross of Florida (1817)
  6. Mexico’s rebel flag (privateer Luis Aury, 1817)
  7. Confederate States of America (1861)
  8. United States (1862-today)

This swirl of flags left eclectic architecture, legendary pirate tales, and the salty independence you’ll feel all festival weekend.

2025 Festival Highlights

Thursday · May 1
6 pm Pirate Parade — theme: “Diamonds are a Shrimp’s Best Friend.” Arrive early for curb space.
Friday · May 2
Food booths open 3 pm · Festival gates 5:30-10 pm · Fireworks 9:30 pm* over the river (*time subject to confirmation).
Saturday · May 3
9 am-7 pm arts, antiques & Kids Zone · live music on two stages all day.
Sunday · May 4
10 am-5 pm finale · Decorated shrimp-boat flotilla & closing concerts.

Expect 300+ juried artists, 75 antiques booths, nonstop music from blues to country, pirate skits, beard contests, and shrimp recipes that would make Forrest Gump jealous.

Local Pro Tips

  • Book early. Resorts, B&Bs, and vacation rentals disappear months ahead—just like the best waterfront listings.
  • Arrive before lunch Friday. Downtown lots fill fast; ride-share if you’re late.
  • Bring cash. Many food vendors run old-school registers.
  • Comfort over cute shoes. Cobblestones don’t care about stilettos.
  • House-hunt while you’re here. If Amelia’s charm hooks you, let’s tour a few cottages between shrimp tacos. Browse listings here.

Planning Your Trip

Where: Historic Downtown Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island, FL — shrimpfestival.com
Getting There: 30 min from I-95; 45-60 min from Jacksonville International (JAX).
Admission: Free · pay-as-you-go for food, rides & parking.

Stay the Weekend: Ocean-view resorts, cozy B&Bs, and vacation rentals book out quickly. Check VisitAmeliaIsland.com/lodging—or ping me for insider recommendations.

Ready to Dive In?

Mark May 2-4 2025 on your calendar, then reach out here if Amelia Island’s lifestyle feels like home. I’ll help you find a place where shrimp festivals—and sunsets—are in your backyard.