Homosassa might seem sleepy and quiet, but we assure you there’s plenty going on throughout the year! Let’s dive into the best Gulf coast events our town has to offer.
Florida Manatee Festival in Crystal River
Date: January 14th and 15th, annually
Just a short drive from Homosassa is Crystal River, a place known as the “Manatee Capital of the World”. This two-day event offers festival goers the rare opportunity to participate in discounted guided manatee boat and kayak tours—experiences that take you up close and personal with an incredible sea mammal. Reservations are strongly encouraged due to high demand.
Your family and friends will also enjoy children’s activities, a wide variety of food and craft vendors, and live entertainment. Admission is only $5 for adults, and children 12 and under get in for free.
Shrimpalooza
Date: Next up: March 16, 2024
Let the good times roll at Homosassa’s Mardi Gras style event, Shrimpapalooza! This annual event draws hundreds of party-goers from across the region, all ready to have some fun while fundraising for the Rotary of Homosassa Club. The parade is a highlight of the day, but the live music and delicious food are not to be missed either.
Cajun Dave will be bringing authentic New Orleans music, while Strutt Dance Band will have you dancing to everything from classic rock to disco. And don’t miss Mixed Bag Band, the acoustic quartet that will have you tapping your toes.
28th Annual CCBA Fishing Tournament
Date: April 29th and 30th, 2023
Homosassa is an excellent fishing destination for inshore species like seatrout, snook, tarpon, snapper, and offshore species including cobia and amberjack. Held annually at the end of April when the weather is perfect, the CCBA Fishing Tournament draws a sell-out crowd of competitors and spectators.
There’s a cap of 200 boats, so make sure to submit your application early to secure your spot, because there’s a $15,000 prize up for grabs. All fish must be caught via line in designated areas. See full tournament rules for details.
Ladies Fishing Tournament
Date: May 20, 2023
Guys aren’t the only ones who know their way around a reel. This event is the perfect opportunity for women to showcase their angling skills and compete for some amazing prizes. The tournament promises to be a fun-filled day of fishing, laughter, and camaraderie.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time fisherwoman, this event is open to all skill levels. Don’t miss out on this exciting event that celebrates women, and also funds a $5,000 scholarship for youth anglers.
Homosassa River Fireworks Fest & Poker Run
Date: June 25, annually. Exact date TBD.
Every year, about a week before the day when Americans gather to celebrate our stars and stripes with obnoxious amounts of explosives, Homosassa throws a party like no other. The Homosassa River Fireworks Fest & Poker Run takes place at local restaurants across town, culminating in a showdown at the Monkey Bar, followed by a fireworks show.
What’s a poker run, you ask? During a poker run, participants ride motorcycles or drive vehicles along a designated route that typically includes several stops. At each stop, the participants draw a playing card at random, with the goal of building the best possible poker hand by the end of the run.
Chili Cook Off 5K
Date: October 15th, 2023
To bean or not to bean? That’s the spicy question you’ll debate at this year’s chili cookoff. However, before you can even think about cooking, you’ll need to participate in a challenging 5K race through the beautiful Nature’s Resort. Nah, we’re just kidding. If running isn’t your thing, the cookoff is open to all, whether you’ve completed the race or not.
Crump’s Landing Waterfront Tiki
Date: October 27, 2023
Make your way down to Homosassa’s own riverfront party beach, otherwise known as Crump’s Landing. This year’s bash will host the Jess Zimmerman Band a few days before Halloween, when fall is in full swing.
Homosassa Arts, Crafts, and Seafood Festival
Date: Second weekend of November, annually
Experience the magic of fall at our town’s largest annual festival. Held at the Civic Club’s Festival Grounds in historic Homosassa, this event is a feast for the senses, with a juried art show, professional craft vendors, live entertainment, and mouth-watering local seafood.
For anyone who loves art, music, and delicious eats, it’s a great opportunity to get a head start on holiday shopping, hear some amazing bands, and try a new deep fried creation you’ve never had before. Admission is a mere $3.00, and while we regret to inform you that pets are not allowed, children under 12 can enter for free!
Homosassa River Christmas Boat Parade
Date: Around December 11, annually. Exact date TBD.
The Homosassa waterfront sparkles every December with holiday cheer as a stunning parade of boats adorned with twinkling Christmas lights takes to the water. Participating boats gather at Bird Island at dusk and the parade commences at sundown, making pit stops along their journey up the Homosassa River.
Enjoy a festive beverage at our locally famous bars, including Crump’s, Florida Cracker, Homosassa Springs Marina, Seagrass, and Margarita Grill. Follow along on your own boat, by car, or on foot. It’s free for spectators, but be sure to set aside a few bucks for the restaurants.
Be sure to check the website of each event for full details and updated information.
