Galveston Island Shrimp Festival

Celebrate coastal flavor and community spirit at the Galveston Island Shrimp Festival, a two-day tradition filled with food and fun.

Every September, Historic Downtown Galveston transforms into a shrimp-lover’s paradise. Enjoy gumbo tastings, live music, a festive 5K, the Lil’ Shrimps Parade, and a lively walk-about with Strand merchants. With family-friendly activities and Gulf Coast energy, this weekend has something for everyone. Bring your appetite and your dancing shoes.

Date(s): Sept 25-26, 2026

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What To Expect

Join us as we kick off the Annual Galveston Island Shrimp Festival with a party for over 800 guests! You don’t want to miss this shrimp-tastic party featuring a fried shrimp dinner, an open bar, and live music! Must be 21 or older to attend. Secure your spot now, tickets will SELL OUT!

Perks of the 5K Fun Run include performance t-shirts, participation medals, a costume contest, one free beer at runner’s happy hour and TWO free beers after the run! The 5k Combo tickets allow runners to enjoy the best of both worlds by including the downtown activities. Choose from the 5k + Gumbo Stroll, or 5k + Shrimp Dinner Plate to truly round out your experience.

Join us as Galveston’s Historic Strand District is transformed into a melting pot of flavors! Sample gumbo from talented cook teams, award-winning cookers & backyard roux roughneck. Be sure to come early to try them all!

Whip up a batch of your best gumbo recipe and bring it on down to the Galveston Historical Strand. Compete in the Amateur or Professional divisions for the gold and Shrimp Gumbo Champion bragging rights. Although every gumbo has its own unique taste, they can’t all be winners. Here is your chance to light up those judges’ taste buds and show ‘em what you got! There is a $1,000 cash prize.

When is the Galveston Island Shrimp Festival?

The Galveston Island Shrimp Festival takes place September 25–26, 2026. The two-day celebration brings seafood, live entertainment and family-friendly activities to Historic Downtown Galveston.

Where is the Galveston Island Shrimp Festival held?

The festival takes place in Historic Downtown Galveston, with activities centered around The Strand and surrounding downtown areas.

What can I expect at the Galveston Island Shrimp Festival?

Festivalgoers can enjoy gumbo tastings, live music, a 5K run, the Lil’ Shrimps Parade and activities throughout downtown. The weekend combines Gulf Coast flavors with entertainment and family-friendly fun.

Is the Galveston Island Shrimp Festival family-friendly?

Yes. The festival offers family-friendly activities, including the Lil’ Shrimps Parade, along with food, music and entertainment for visitors of different ages

Do I need tickets for the Galveston Island Shrimp Festival?

Some festival activities require tickets or registration. Visitors can purchase tickets and find admission information through the official Galveston Island Shrimp Festival website.

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