GeckoFest: Gulfport’s Epic Way to End the Summer
It’s the end of August and time for an epic end-of-summer festival. Cue GeckoFest. Held every year on Labor Day Weekend in Gulfport, Florida, GeckoFest turns the quiet waterfront village’s quaint streets into a dizzying display of color, costumes, and merriment. It’s an end-of-summer party everyone should attend at least once.
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About GeckoFest
GeckoFest in Gulfport, Florida is a one-day end-of-summer street festival. Started in 2001 in response to a less-than-spectacular July 4th fireworks show, GeckoFest is a free, family-friendly event.
On Labor Day Saturday each year, Beach Boulevard closes from Shore Boulevard to the Gulfport Library. Over 200 art, craft, and food vendors line the street. Two music stages ring out with live music, and street performers draw crowds at a couple of locations along Beach Boulevard.
With a different theme each year, GeckoFest’s quirky atmosphere has become one of the Tampa Bay area’s most popular events.
All the Gecko Events
The GeckoFest festivities culminate in this festival. The two weekends before, however, also feature grand parties.
Two weeks before GeckoFest, bars and restaurants in Gulfport take part in Gecko Crawl. The pub crawl includes a free drink at each participating location, a poker run, after party, and prizes.
The weekend before GeckoFest features the Gecko Ball. Held in the historic Gulfport Casino, this ball is like none other. It includes live music, dancing, a costume contest, Gecko Queen coronation, and live and silent auctions.
Why the Gecko?
When the idea for GeckoFest came to the Chamber of Commerce’s mind, the gecko immediately took center stage. The quirky, artsy city has long had an appreciation for geckos. This cute reptile, however, is not native to Florida, as one person pointed out, suggesting “Mullet Fest” instead. The city voted for its favorite, and the gecko won.
What to Expect at GeckoFest?
GeckoFest runs from 10 AM to 10 PM. Stages at opposite ends of Beach Boulevard play live music all day.
At the intersections of cross streets, street performers entertain crowds. Several roaming performers – a stilt walker, balloon man, and gecko re-enactors – also provide entertainment. A walking parade winds down Beach Boulevard in the early evening.
The restaurants and shops thrive; many restaurants pull out sidewalk tables though the August heat often drives people indoors. The best part of the event, of course, is the many people in costume.
Each year features a different theme – “game night” in 2022; however, expect to see lots of pirate costumes thanks to Tampa’s biggest festival, Gasparilla, and gecko gear, no matter what the theme is.
If You Attend GeckoFest in Gulfport…
Gulfport offers a plethora of activities for visitors who stop in for a day or several. Enjoy the waterfront vibes or take a walk around town to see the many quirky cottages.
The town’s location just minutes from St. Petersburg and St. Pete Beach make those two ideal day trips from Gulfport. Take a dolphin tour from St. Pete Beach or embark on a biking tour of St. Petersburg’s magnificent murals.
Places to Stay in Gulfport, Florida
FAQs About Gulfport Geckofest
Yes, Gulfport’s Geckofest is kid-friendly and family-friendly.
Yes, Geckofest is dog-friendly. Most of Gulfport also welcomes dogs and nearby Fort de Soto has one of Florida’s best dog-friendly beaches.
Geckofest in Gulfport is free to attend. Parking is free at several nearby parking lots. Visitors can purchase food, drinks, and crafts from participating vendors.
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Flights: We always check flight prices and information on Way Away first.
Hotels: We use Expedia to compare and book hotels. We also love Booking.com for boutique hotels and B&Bs.
Vacation Rentals: For vacation rentals and other non-traditional lodging options, VRBO is our go-to.
Tours & Tickets: We use Viator for private tours and unique experiences.
Rental Cars: Though we prefer to experience a city through its public transportation, there are times when a rental car is needed and in those instances, we use Discover Cars.
Travel Insurance: No one wants to need it, but it’s great to have when you do. VisitorsCoverage is our go-to provider.
