The 45th Annual John’s Pass Seafood Festival returns October 23-25, bringing together fresh Gulf seafood, live music, family-friendly Halloween festivities, and the popular Gather for Grouper kickoff event for one of Madeira Beach’s signature waterfront weekends.
Gather for Grouper gets the festivities under way on Thursday, October 22! This special festival kickoff event invites seafood lovers to come together for an evening of great food, community, and celebration.
For just $30 per plate, guests will enjoy a delicious grouper dinner while helping launch one of Madeira Beach’s most anticipated annual traditions. Gather with friends, neighbors, local leaders, and festival supporters as we celebrate the flavors, heritage, and spirit of our waterfront community ahead of a full weekend of seafood festival fun. Parking for this event will still be available at John’s Pass Village on Thursday night.
Tickets available at John’s Pass Seafood Festival.
While the Seafood Festival opens officially at noon Friday, the excitement ramps up on Friday night as John’s Pass Village transforms into a waterfront Halloween celebration as part of the Village Friday series. Children are encouraged to wear their favorite costumes and enjoy Trick-or-Treating throughout the Village, visiting participating businesses while making memories along the boardwalk.
On Saturday evening, the energy shifts into high gear with the popular Costume Contest and Block Party from 6 to 9 p.m. Featuring live music, cash prizes, creative costumes, and plenty of festive fun, the event has become a favorite tradition for festivalgoers of all ages.
For 45 years, the John’s Pass Seafood Festival has drawn visitors from across the Tampa Bay region and beyond, offering a unique opportunity to experience the charm of Madeira Beach while supporting local businesses, artists, and vendors.
Visitors can enjoy fresh Gulf seafood and local favorites while exploring dozens of arts, crafts, and specialty vendors throughout John’s Pass Village. Live music will fill the air all weekend on two entertainment stages, creating a lively atmosphere along the waterfront boardwalk.
Best of all, festival admission is free.
Festival Hours
- Friday, October 23: Noon to 9 p.m.
- Saturday, October 24: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Sunday, October 25: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Festival Highlights
- Fresh Gulf seafood and local favorites
- Live entertainment on multiple stages (see the lineups for each day below)
- Arts, crafts, and specialty vendors
- Shopping throughout John’s Pass Village
- Beer and beverage stations
- Family-friendly games and activities
- Friday Night Trick-or-Treating for kids
- Saturday (Adult) Costume Contest and Block Party
- Cash prizes
- Free admission
Getting to the Festival
Festival organizers encourage guests to take advantage of the free festival shuttle service available throughout the weekend from the following locations featuring free parking (see map). Four (4) shuttles will be running an hour before the festival starts and an hour after it closes each day of the festival.
Friday, Saturday and Sunday:
Madeira Beach City Hall
300 Municipal Drive
Saturday and Sunday Only:
Madeira Beach Fundamental School
591 Tom Stuart Causeway
Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, looking for live music, shopping for unique coastal treasures, or simply enjoying a weekend on the waterfront, the 45th Annual John’s Pass Seafood Festival promises something for everyone.
More information (including full entertainment line-ups): John’s Pass Seafood Festival.
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