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An Entire Festival Dedicated to Shrimp & Grits Is Happening In Georgia

Published Nov 3, 2023

Written by 

Lisa Sammons

Shrimp and grits are one of the most iconic foods in Georgia. It's easy to see why: grits are the official prepared food of the Peach State, and we certainly have our fair share of seafood down in the low country! The flavors perfectly balance one another out, and whether you prefer it as a hearty breakfast dish or like to eat it later in the day, it's a favorite food of many Georgians. It should come as no surprise, then, that we have our very own shrimp and grits festival in Jekyll Island, GA. Jekyll is one of my favorites of the barrier islands along our coast. There's a lot to do there, from the beautiful natural surroundings to the absolutely luxurious mansions and resorts that populate the island. If you happen to be visiting the island the first weekend in November, you'll be treated to the Shrimp and Grits Festival, a long-running affair that has become one of the most popular festivals in Georgia. Check it out:

This year's Shrimp & Grits Festival takes place on Friday, November 3-Saturday, November 4, 2023. The festival takes over Jekyll Island's historic district. This is such a great reminder that there's fun to be had in this coastal area even after summer's end.

Aerial view of a waterfront festival with tents, greenery, and a calm river in the background under a cloudy sky.
Jekyll island/Facebook

Of course, the focus of the festival is on this delicious dish, but you'll find a variety of other foods available, too.

A person holding a bowl of shrimp and grits topped with cheese and corn, served with a spoon.
Jekyll Island

There's also an artists' market with tons of crafts available for sale.

Close-up of decorative pottery with starfish designs and turquoise interiors, arranged on a table.
Jekyll Island

You'll be able to enjoy plenty of live entertainment, with live music scheduled throughout the festival.

A musician in a hat plays guitar outdoors, with a crowd blurred in the background enjoying the sunny atmosphere.
Jekyll Island

Friday night even brings a fireworks show that will light up the sky in a burst of color.

Colorful fireworks explode in the night sky, creating a vibrant display of red, orange, and blue sparks.
Jekyll Island

This is such a fun festival in Jekyll Island, GA, and best of all, it's free and family-friendly. What a great way to spend a weekend!

A colorful mural of Jekyll Island featuring birds, water, and cyclists in front of a building.
Jekyll Island/Facebook

For more information about the 2023 Shrimp & Grits Festival on Jekyll Island, check out the Jekyll Island website or Jekyll Island Facebook page.

If you're planning a trip into town for the festival, make sure to check out all the great Jekyll Island vacation rentals available on Vrbo.

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