The Best Stone Crab Festivals in Florida You Shouldn’t Miss

Florida’s love for stone crabs goes beyond just dining—they are celebrated with vibrant festivals across the state. Each year, seafood lovers gather to enjoy fresh stone crab claws, live entertainment, and coastal culture. If you’re a fan of this delectable crustacean, here are the best stone crab festivals in Florida that you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

1. Florida Stone Crab Festival (Naples, FL)

One of the largest and most popular stone crab festivals in Florida, the Florida Stone Crab Festival is held annually in Naples. This two-day event takes place in October and marks the beginning of stone crab season. Visitors can enjoy freshly cracked claws, live music, and family-friendly activities while taking in the scenic views of Naples’ waterfront.

2. Everglades City Seafood Festival (Everglades City, FL)

Everglades City, often referred to as the “Stone Crab Capital of the World,” hosts one of the longest-running seafood festivals in Florida. This event, held in February, features an incredible selection of seafood, carnival rides, arts and crafts, and country music performances. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Florida seafood culture.

3. Stone Crab Jam (Crystal River, FL)

Crystal River’s Stone Crab Jam is a lively, one-day street festival that takes place in November. It brings together local seafood vendors, craft beer, and rock and blues music. With the picturesque Kings Bay as a backdrop, it’s a fantastic way to celebrate stone crab season in a laid-back, small-town atmosphere.

4. South Beach Seafood Festival (Miami, FL)

While not exclusively a stone crab festival, the South Beach Seafood Festival in October is one of Florida’s most prestigious seafood events. Featuring Miami’s top chefs and restaurants, this festival offers premium seafood experiences, including stone crab tastings, gourmet dishes, and high-end culinary demonstrations.

5. Keys Fisheries Stone Crab Claw Eating Contest (Marathon, FL)

Located in the Florida Keys, Keys Fisheries hosts an annual Stone Crab Claw Eating Contest every October. Participants race to crack and eat as many stone crab claws as possible within a time limit. This quirky and fun event brings out both seafood enthusiasts and competitive eaters, making it a highlight of the stone crab season in the Keys.

6. Cedar Key Seafood Festival (Cedar Key, FL)

Though not solely focused on stone crabs, the Cedar Key Seafood Festival in October showcases a variety of Florida seafood, including freshly harvested stone crab claws. The festival also features a lively parade, local artists, and plenty of waterfront dining experiences.

7. Cortez Stone Crab and Seafood Festival (Cortez, FL)

Held in one of Florida’s last remaining traditional fishing villages, the Cortez Stone Crab and Seafood Festival takes place in November. This event is a hidden gem for seafood lovers, offering stone crab claws, live music, and an opportunity to explore one of Florida’s most historic fishing communities.

8. Treasure Coast Seafood Festival (Fort Pierce, FL)

The Treasure Coast Seafood Festival, held in multiple locations throughout the year, often features fresh stone crab claws alongside other regional seafood specialties. The festival offers a mix of food vendors, live performances, and cultural exhibits, making it a great stop for any seafood enthusiast.

9. Panama City Beach Seafood and Music Festival (Panama City Beach, FL)

Located in the Florida Panhandle, this festival offers a unique mix of live music and top-quality seafood, including stone crab claws. Held in October, it’s a great way to kick off stone crab season with a blend of beachside fun and culinary delights.

10. Apalachicola Seafood Festival (Apalachicola, FL)

The Apalachicola Seafood Festival, held in early November, is one of the state’s longest-running seafood festivals. The historic fishing town celebrates Florida’s seafood heritage with freshly caught stone crabs, live music, and family-friendly activities along the Apalachicola River.

Why Attend a Stone Crab Festival?

Attending a stone crab festival is not just about indulging in delicious seafood—it’s about experiencing Florida’s coastal traditions, supporting local fisheries, and enjoying the lively atmosphere of waterfront communities. These festivals highlight the importance of sustainable seafood harvesting while offering visitors an unforgettable culinary and cultural experience.

Florida’s stone crab festivals offer some of the best ways to enjoy this sought-after delicacy while celebrating the start of the season with like-minded seafood lovers. Whether you prefer a bustling city event or a small-town fishing village festival, there’s something for everyone. Mark your calendar, grab a mallet, and get ready to savor some of the freshest stone crab claws Florida has to offer!