Anna Maria Island BayFest: A Celebration of Community and Culture
Launched over three decades ago, BayFest is an unmissable celebration on Anna Maria Island’s event calendar. Held on the last weekend of October in Downtown Anna Maria, this vibrant street festival offers a joyful blend of community spirit and island charm.
Food Trucks and Live Music
As you stroll down the heart of the festival on Pine Avenue, you’ll be greeted by the sounds of live music and the smells of delicious food. Food trucks and vendors line the streets, offering an impressive variety of treats, from savory local seafood to international dishes and decadent desserts. And with bands spanning genres from rock to reggae, there’s sure to be a beat to match everyone’s taste.
Artisan Crafts and Classic Cars
Beyond the music and food, the arts and crafts stalls showcase local Florida talent. Here, you can find handmade jewelry, unique art pieces, and creative crafts for sale. The Classic Car Show is also always a major draw, featuring a stunning collection of meticulously maintained vintage vehicles and muscle cars.
Family Fun
The family-friendly Kid’s Zone is a great place for the little ones to let loose and have some fun. Here, they can enjoy a bounce house, inflatables, and a pirate ship.
A Celebration of Community
the Anna Maria Island BayFest is more than just an event; it’s a testament to Anna Maria Island’s sense of community. It’s a chance for locals and visitors alike to come together and celebrate the island’s unique beauty and culture. So mark your calendar and prepare for an incredible island experience!
Here are some additional details about BayFest:
- When: Saturday, October 21, 2023 from 10am to 9pm
- Where: Pine Avenue, Downtown Anna Maria Island
- Admission: Free
- Parking: Limited street parking available, free trolley service from Anna Maria City Hall
If you plan to be on or near Anna Maria Island in mid-October, than you’ll definitely want to check out the annual Anna Maria Island Bayfest on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria City! This is an extremely entertaining , family friendly festival that will definitely please everyone in your group, no matter their age. The event features; a classic car show, a great lineup of live music, tons of yummy food vendors from popular local restaurants, adult beverages, arts and crafts vendors, a kid zone, and of course plenty of fun.
Bayfest usually takes place the third Saturday of October from about 10am to 9pm, and there is no charge for admission. It’s the longest running music, crafts and food festival, and continues to be one of the most popular Island events every year. If you don’t already have plans to be here, you should make some!
If you want to skip parking then stay in an Island Real Estate Vacation in Anna Maria City. Just about any vacation rental is walkable or bikeable. Give us a call if you have any questions.
When: Usually the third Saturday of October
Where: Pine Ave, Anna Maria, FL, 34216
Time: 10am to 9pm
Ticket Price: FREE
Parking Info: There are a few options for parking/transportation:
. Take a ride on the free island trolley to Pine Ave.
. You can park at Crosspointe Fellowship Church (8605 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217) and hop on the free trolley that will be transporting people from the church, to the City Pier at the end of Pine Ave.
. There is some neighborhood street parking but BE CAUTIOUS. Pay attention to the signs that indicate where parking is permitted, make sure all four tires are off the road and sidewalks, and park with the direction of traffic.
Meet Kacey Varga – Revenue Manager for Island Real Estate Vacations. Kacey is a native of Bradenton, FL – just across the bridge from Anna Maria Island – and is an expert on all our area has to offer for visitors to our piece of paradise.
