Everglades City
by Denise Wauters
Hold on to your hats, folks, because the 55th Annual Everglades Seafood Festival is here, and it’s going to be a weekend for the books! Running from February 7th–9th, this iconic event is our community’s chance to come together, eat our weight in seafood, groove to live country tunes, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Picture this: the air filled with the mouthwatering aroma of freshly cooked stone crabs, the sound of carnival rides whirling, and the music setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend. Whether you’re here for the amazing seafood, the arts and crafts, or the lively tunes from some of the best country artists, this festival has something for everyone. From the little ones on the rides to the adults raising a toast with cold drinks in hand, you’ll find joy at every turn.
This year, we’re kicking things up a notch with an all-new Drone Light Show on Friday, February 7th. Get ready for a sky full of color, featuring huge fish, crabs, and other mesmerizing images that will light up the night. These stunning aerial displays will dazzle your senses and create a spectacle you won’t soon forget. It’s a one-of-a-kind show that will have everyone looking up in awe!
Attention, Locals! You can pick up your wristbands at the Seafood Fest headquarters on Thursday afternoon and Friday. Just bring your driver’s license to receive your band and enjoy all the festivities! Kids carnival vouchers will be distributed to kids enrolled at Everglades City School first, followed by local kids who live here but attend different schools.
On Friday night, Whey Jennings, the grandson of country legend Waylon Jennings, will take the stage with his signature outlaw country sound, providing an unforgettable start to the weekend. Then, on Saturday, get ready to rock with Confederate Railroad, known for their high-energy performances and classic southern rock hits. Finally, on Sunday, Sweet Fleet, North America’s premier tribute to Fleetwood Mac, will close out the festival, ensuring it ends on a high note. These performances are sure to be highlights you won’t to miss!
Friday
4:00 pm Charlie Pace
4:15 pm National Anthem by Maddie Brenner
4:20 pm Everglades City School Cheerleaders
4:40 pm – 5:40 pm Gabriel Key
6:05 pm – 7:05 pm Sam Lowe
7:30 pm – 8:30 pm Jake Hair Band
9:00 pm – 10:00 pm Whey Jennings (Headliner)

Saturday
10:00 am – 11:00 am Opening Ceremony with Dignitaries
11:30 am – 12:15 pm Jaden Decker
12:45 pm – 1:45 pm Florida Straits
2:15 pm – 3:15 pm Charlie Pace
3:45 pm – 4:45 pm Gator Nate
5:15 pm – 6:15 pm Wes Shipp
6:45 pm – 7:45 pm Pure Country
9:00 pm – 10:30 pm Confederate Railroad (Headliner)

Sunday
8:45 am – 9:25 am Chokoloskee Church Band
9:30 am – 10:15 am Aydin Holt
10:30 am – 11:30 am Jon Prestige
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Pickle Money
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm Jack Shealy Band
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm Rock Republic
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm Sweet Fleet (Headliner)

With music that will make you want to dance, food that will make your taste buds sing, and a whole lot of fun in between, the 55th Annual Everglades Seafood Festival is the place to be. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of the excitement—bring your family, bring your friends, and come celebrate all the good things that make Everglades City so special.
Mark your calendars, it’s going to be a legendary weekend! evergladesseafoodfestival.org