08/28/2026
In two months, Georgia’s Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival kicks off as one of the tastiest events of the year here on the state’s coast! Held October 23–24 in Jekyll Island’s National Historic Landmark District, this free festival fills the beautiful oak-lined area with food, music, art, and plenty of coastal flavor. Shrimp and grits are the star, with vendors serving different versions of the classic Southern dish, while food trucks offer plenty of other choices. Several stages feature live music throughout the festival, giving visitors a fun soundtrack while they eat, shop, and explore. The Artists Market brings together makers from across the Southeast selling pottery, glasswork, jewelry, textiles, woodworking, artwork, and other handmade goods. Friday night also includes a fireworks show scheduled for around 7:15 p.m. The festival runs from 4–9 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Saturday and draws more than 45,000 people, so comfortable walking shoes are a smart idea. Admission is free, so come on out and enjoy on of coastal Georgia's most delicious events in one of its prettiest settings!