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about the john's pass seafood festival

John's  Pass Seafood Festival Logo 43rd Annual Fresh From Florida

The John's Pass Seafood Festival is a vibrant annual celebration held at the picturesque John's Pass Village & Boardwalk in the City of Madeira Beach. Established in 1980, this festival has grown into a beloved tradition, drawing locals and visitors from all over the county. The charming John's Pass Village & Boardwalk, home to 104 diverse businesses along Gulf Boulevard, provides the perfect backdrop for this event. Among these businesses are the Wild Seafood Market at Don's Dock and Hubbard's Marina, two of the last remaining working waterfront establishments in the area, whose historical contributions to Madeira Beach and the seafood industry are unparalleled.

The festival was originally founded to celebrate the abundant fish of John's Pass and to honor the hardworking anglers who ply the Gulf waters. Over the years, it has evolved to offer a rich blend of local seafood, live music, arts and crafts, children's activities, and charitable events that support community partners. This evolution has transformed the festival into a three-day extravaganza that not only showcases the best local seafood but also highlights local artists, vendors, and top-tier live music performances.

John's Pass Seafood Festival Image of crowd watching Live Band performing on stage
John's Pass Seafood Festival Image of Street Performer and crowd
John's Pass Seafood Festival Image of Live Band performing on stage

The primary goals and objectives of the John's Pass Seafood Festival are multifaceted:

  1. Promote tourism in Pinellas County, particularly in John's Pass Village and Madeira Beach.

  2. Boost the number of visitors to local businesses within John's Pass Village and its surroundings, including local fishermen, restaurants, hotels, sponsor businesses, and other tourist attractions.

  3. Generate revenue to enhance event and recreational opportunities within the City of Madeira Beach and the John's Pass area.

  4. Engage the community, volunteers, and corporate entities to enrich the local culture and promote tourism centered around the festival.

  5. Continuously improve and grow the festival to present the highest quality vendors, artists, and activities, ensuring a memorable experience for visitors.

Thanks to strong community relationships and a stellar reputation, the festival attracts high-profile artists, ensuring a vibrant entertainment lineup. The financial success of past events allows for bold talent acquisitions, enhancing the overall festival experience.

The 2025 John's Pass Seafood Festival will continue its tradition of focusing on local food, restaurants, vendors, and music, promising an unforgettable celebration of the rich history and vibrant culture of John's Pass Village and Madeira Beach.

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