08/31/2024 - 10:00am
If you're looking for a unique and vibrant way to end the summer, look no further than Gulfport's annual GeckoFest. This beloved festival, held in the charming Historic Waterfront District, brings together locals and visitors for a day of fun, creativity, and community spirit. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
What is GeckoFest?
GeckoFest is Gulfport's largest street festival, celebrating the town's unofficial mascot—the gecko. The event is set for Saturday, August 31, 2024, and runs from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. This year’s theme, "Saturday Night Live!", invites festival-goers to don costumes inspired by the iconic TV show, adding a layer of excitement and creativity to the festivities.
What to Expect
Live Music and Entertainment: Enjoy live music on multiple stages throughout the day. From local bands to street performers, the festival offers a diverse range of entertainment. Look out for stilt walkers, balloon artists, and even gecko re-enactors!
Vendors and Crafts: Over 200 vendors line Beach Boulevard, offering everything from handmade crafts to delicious food. Whether you're shopping for unique souvenirs or craving local delicacies, there's something for everyone.
Costume Contest and Parade: One of the highlights of the day is the costume contest and parade. Join in the fun by dressing up according to the theme or simply enjoy the creativity of others.
Family and Pet-Friendly: GeckoFest is a great event for families. With a variety of activities for children, including games and crafts, it's a fun day out for all ages. The event is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring along your furry friends.
Pre-Festival Events
The GeckoFest celebrations kick off weeks before the main event with the Gecko Crawl and Gecko Ball.
Gecko Crawl: On August 17, join locals in a pub crawl through Gulfport's lively bar scene. The event includes a poker run, free drinks at participating locations, and an after-party with prizes.
Gecko Ball: Held on August 24 at the historic Gulfport Casino, the Gecko Ball features live music, dancing, a costume contest, and the coronation of the Gecko Queen. Costumes, including those along with the "Saturday Night Live!", theme are highly encouraged but not recquired.
Practical Information
Admission and Parking: One of the best things about GeckoFest is that both admission and parking are free. This makes it an accessible event for everyone, whether you're a local or a visitor.
Location: The festival takes place at 3101 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707. There are several nearby parking lots, but they fill up quickly, so it's wise to arrive early.
Accommodations: If you're planning to stay in Gulfport for the weekend, there are several charming options, including the Peninsula Inn and a variety of vacation rentals. Gulfport's location near Madeira Beach, Treasure Island and St. Pete Beach also makes it easy to explore the surrounding area.
Why You Shouldn't Miss GeckoFest
GeckoFest is more than just a festival; it's a celebration of Gulfport's unique character and creative spirit. The event's eclectic mix of art, music, and community activities makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true essence of this charming Florida town. Whether you're a local or just visiting, GeckoFest offers a memorable way to bid farewell to summer.
So mark your calendars and get ready to enjoy a day full of fun and festivities at Gulfport's GeckoFest. We look forward to seeing you there