Experience the Little River ShrimpFest

October in the Myrtle Beach area is pure magic. Warm (but not sweltering) afternoons, crisp evenings, and a calendar brimming with outdoor festivals make it one of the most anticipated months of the year. 

Along the historic Little River waterfront each fall, that magic comes to life at the 20th Annual Little River ShrimpFest, happening Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, and Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

What began two decades ago as a way to celebrate the area’s rich seafood heritage has grown into a beloved fall tradition, drawing thousands for a weekend of local flavor, live entertainment, and one-of-a-kind coastal charm. 

Compared to its springtime counterpart — the Little River Blue Crab Festival — ShrimpFest is known for being a bit more laid-back, a little less crowded, and perfectly timed for cooler weather. It’s an ideal mix of small-town waterfront vibes and big-festival fun.

• Admission: $10 at the gate (children under 12 are free)
• Parking: Waterfront parking is limited; festival organizers provide several parking lots with shuttles or a scenic water taxi ($25) directly to the festival gates.
• Plan Ahead: Visit the official Little River ShrimpFest website for parking locations, entertainment schedules, and additional festival info.

The Sights

ShrimpFest transforms the Little River waterfront into a vibrant, walkable celebration of all things coastal. 

Around 150 vendors line the streets, offering everything from hand-crafted art and jewelry to unique gifts, specialty goods, and local business showcases. Strolling between booths, you’ll also find community organizations sharing their work, plus interactive fun for all ages, including a dedicated children’s area, face painting, stilt walkers, and balloon artists.

Beyond the vendor tents, the setting itself is a sight to behold. 

The festival unfolds along Little River’s historic waterfront, where fishing boats, dockside patios, and scenic views create the perfect backdrop for a fall day outdoors. Whether you’re browsing for treasures, chatting with artists, or simply soaking up the coastal scenery, it’s an atmosphere that’s as memorable as the food and music.

The Sounds

Music lovers are in for a treat with two stages of live entertainment filling the air all weekend long. 

From local beach music favorites to high-energy cover bands and talented regional acts, ShrimpFest offers a soundtrack that keeps the vibe lively from morning to evening. 

Grab a spot near the stage, let the kids dance along, or enjoy the tunes as you wander between food stands and artisan booths. Either way, the festival’s music scene is a big part of what makes it so special.

The Flavors

As its name suggests, ShrimpFest is all about the seafood and in particular, the star of the show: fresh, local shrimp. 

Little River’s waterfront restaurants go all out, serving up mouthwatering dishes that highlight the area’s culinary heritage. Expect shrimp prepared in every delicious way imaginable — fried, grilled, steamed, or tossed into savory Lowcountry favorites.

Throughout the weekend, you'll find a variety of festival food vendors will be serving up beloved fair classics, sweet treats, and other coastal specialties.

If you want to linger, plan to visit these restaurants located within the festival grounds: Bottomfeeders Bar & Grille, Crab Catcher’s, Hurricane Juel’s Restaurant, Makos Marina Bar & Grill, Patio’s Tiki Bar & Grill, and Pilot House — each offering its own take on fresh local seafood and waterfront dining for an unforgettable end to your festival day.