It’s time to get your Gecko on! The popular
Gecko Fest, Gulfport’s whimsical send off to summer, will take place on Saturday, September 1st from 10am to 10pm.
Imagine Mardi Gras meets the Renaissance where
strolling street characters, stage musicians, performing artists and merchants with all types of weird and wonderful wares come together and captivate the crowds throughout the waterfront district. Over 30,000 attendees and up to 200 artisans, craftsmen & quirky vendors will be appearing at this year’s 12th annual celebration.
Roving characters provided by Your Total Entertainment,
who will be roaming the streets and interacting with visitors along with the o-fish-al Gecko Goddess and the Gecko Court. Live musical entertainment will be provided
on two main stages from noon till 10 p.m. The confirmed band line up to date is; Circle 4 Band, Tropical Disturbance, Casey Allen, The Paul Anthony Band, Bing Futch and Urban Gypsies. More bands will be added soon. The Kids Zone, provided by Spotlight Amusements will be bigger and better than ever, taking up one full city
block.
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Don’t forget this is an audience participation event especially the walking parade at 6pm…think whimsical, colorful, wacky, noisy, and costumed. Parade staging begins at 5:30 in front of the Gulfport Casino at 5500 Shore Boulevard South. Registration is not required.
Just join in at the Casino or anywhere along the Beach Blvd parade route. Costume contests will take place following the parade.
Costume categories this year will include best “Hooray for Geckowood!” themed costume, best decorated hat and best overall, for both children and adults. Prizes
include “trophies” created by local artist Owen Patch.
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The day culminates in Gulfport’s famous Street Dance at 8:00 pm, featuring The Urban Gypsies. Bring your beach chairs and dancing shoes, and help celebrate our 12th
Anniversary!
At the time of this printing vendor space is still available and filling up fast. Several basic categories are already sold out. If you would like to be considered for the 2012 event of the year do not delay. Postmark applications by July 31st for lowest price.
This family friendly event is presented by the Gulfport Merchants Association and sponsored by The City of Gulfport, The Gulfport Chamber of Commerce, SO49, Florida Re-bath , Gulfport Patch, Tampa Bay Times, tbt* and Cox Media Group and there is no admission fee for a full day of fun for everyone.
For more information, please visit www.Gulfportma.com, www.geckofest.com or call 727-322-5217.