St. Marks Stone Crab Festival

Get your claws ready for the ultimate seafood celebration at the St. Marks Stone Crab Festival, where fresh catches and coastal charm take center stage. Nestled in the historic Gulf-side fishing community of St. Marks, Florida, this beloved annual gathering marks the highly anticipated opening of stone crab season. Founded in 1997 by the locals at Riverside Cafe as a great excuse to party, the event has blossomed into a full-scale town tradition benefiting charitable organizations. Visitors can crack into succulent, sustainably harvested stone crab claws served up with drawn butter and lemon, or feast on festival favorites like burgers and funnel cakes. Beyond the spectacular seafood, the lively one-day bash features non-stop live music, educational marine displays, children’s activities, and numerous vendors selling arts, crafts, and custom jewelry. It is the perfect opportunity to savor incredible local delicacies while soaking up the laid-back atmosphere of a historic waterfront village.