Celebrate 30 Years of Flavor and Fun at Yemassee Shrimp Festival!
Yemassee is abuzz with excitement this week as the 30th Annual Yemassee Shrimp Festival unfolds from October 10-12! This beloved event draws neighbors and visitors from across the South Carolina Lowcountry, and it promises to be a celebration filled with family-friendly activities, captivating entertainment, and community spirit.
Under the delightful theme of “Shrimply The Best: Celebrating 30 Years of Community, Culture and Coastal Charm!”, the festival is co-chaired by Mayor Pro Tem Richie Hagan and Council Member Stacy Pinckney, who have been working tirelessly to ensure that this year’s festivities are simply unforgettable. Organizers are thrilled to announce that the esteemed Peggy Bing O’Banner, a Yemassee resident and experienced educator, will serve as the Grand Marshal for the parade. O’Banner’s dedication to education and her passion for the Gullah culture make her a perfect fit to lead this year’s parade!
Kicking Off the Celebration
Events kicked off earlier, with a beauty pageant in September, but the main festivities begin on Thursday! The fun starts bright and early with the Shrimp Festival Unity Breakfast at the Pilgrimford Dining Room at 8 AM. It’s a wonderful opportunity for community members to gather for a delicious meal and cement local bonds over breakfast.
Then, at 6 PM, come and join us for the Official Opening Ceremony at Town Hall. This is your chance to be a part of history as we officially welcome everyone to a weekend of festivities that celebrate the flavors of shrimp, the joy of community, and the spirit of togetherness!
The Kiddy Parade
After the Opening Ceremony, don’t miss the adorable Kiddy Parade starting at 6:30 PM! It’s a delightful way to see the streets come alive with the bright smiles and festive costumes of our little ones. Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines or joining in the fun, it’s an activity sure to warm your heart.
Activities for Everyone
From October 10-12, highlight your festival experience with rides, games, and mouthwatering food provided by Family Fun Tyme Amusements. Make sure to grab discounted prepaid armbands for the rides at Yemassee Town Hall to ensure all-day fun!
Kickstart your Saturday with a 5K Run/Walk at 8 AM. It’s a fantastic way for families to enjoy the scenic streets of Yemassee and get some exercise. Medals will be awarded to top finishers, so lace up your running shoes and join in!
The Grand Parade
The excitement continues with the highly-anticipated Shrimp Festival Parade on Saturday, October 12, starting at 10 AM. With Grand Marshal Peggy Bing O’Banner leading the procession, the parade is set to be a highlight of the weekend. Expect lively floats, energetic performances, and a true representation of Yemassee’s vibrant culture!
Musical Entertainment
As evening falls, the festival will shine with live performances, including a special concert by country singer Samee Cannon, a Nashville recording artist with deep roots in Beaufort County. Cannon will take the stage at 6 PM on Saturday, providing the perfect soundtrack to wrap up an exciting day.
With so much to do, see, and taste, the 30th Annual Yemassee Shrimp Festival is a not-to-miss event that truly embodies the charm and warmth of our community. Grab your friends and family, and join us to celebrate three decades of shrimp, fun, and everything that makes Yemassee special!
Need More Information?
For additional details about the festival and activities, feel free to contact Matthew Garnes, the Town Administrator, at (843) 589-2565 Ext. 3 or via email at mgarnes@townofyemassee.org. You can also reach the co-chairs for any questions: Mayor Pro Tem Richie Hagan at (803) 842-9113 or Council Member Stacy Pinckney at (843) 599-3210.
Let’s join together to make this 30th edition of the Yemassee Shrimp Festival the best one yet!
