The Little River ShrimpFest is a fall festival celebrating the area’s seafood heritage, especially shrimp, alongside music, arts, and community spirit. Originally launched as Shrimp & Jazz Festival, it later expanded in scope and was rebranded to reach broader audiences.
Over the years, the festival has grown to include dozens (even over 100) of vendors, multiple live music stages, food booths, and entertainment for all ages.
📅 Dates, Time & Location (2025)
- Dates: Saturday & Sunday, October 11–12, 2025
- Time: ~ 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. both days (though some listings say 9:00 a.m. start)
- Location: Historic Little River Waterfront, Little River, SC (Mineola Avenue / waterfront area)
🎉 What to Expect & Festival Highlights
Here’s what you’ll see, eat, and enjoy at ShrimpFest 2025:
- Fresh shrimp & seafood: Local waterfront restaurants will serve shrimp in multiple preparations, and food vendors will offer festival favorites.
- Live music: Two stages of music throughout both days, featuring a mix of genres (beach music, cover bands, regional acts)
- Vendor marketplace: Over 100 (some sources say up to 200) artisans, crafts, food, business exhibitors, community organizations.
- Family fun & entertainment: Stilt walkers, balloon artists, kids’ zones, entertainment for all ages.
- Scenic setting: The festival blocks off Mineola and Waterfront avenues to traffic, letting attendees stroll under moss‑draped live oaks along the waterfront.
🎟️ Admission & Parking
- Admission: $10 per day for adults. Children 12 and under are free.
- Parking & Access: Waterfront parking is limited. Organizers offer multiple parking lots with shuttles or water taxi service to festival gates (fees may apply)
✅ Tips for Attendees
- Arrive early — to secure parking, beat crowds at food vendors, and catch early performances.
- Bring cash & small bills — while many vendors accept cards, some prefer cash.
- Wear comfortable shoes & sun protection — it’s an outdoor walking festival.
- Plan for food time — lines may get long at peak hours, so eat early or late.
- Use the shuttle or taxi option if available to avoid parking stress.
- Check the music schedule — decide which performances you want to catch.
- Stay weather aware — fall in coastal SC can bring variability; dress in layers and bring a rain layer just in case.
- Support the community — the festival benefits the Little River Chamber of Commerce and local causes.
🎯 Why You Should Attend ShrimpFest 2025
- It’s a perfect blend of coastal cuisine, culture, and community — ideal for seafood lovers.
- Great family‑friendly event — with entertainment, vendors, and scenic waterfront ambiance.
- A chance to experience local businesses and artisans you may not encounter elsewhere.
It’s become a fall tradition in the Myrtle Beach / Grand Strand region, offering a more relaxed vibe than some larger festivals.