One of the best fall festivals is almost here, but a few million of Edistos residents arent too happy about it. Those residents would be all of our tasty shrimp friends.
The fifth annual Edisto Beach Shrimp Fest takes place September 26th from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Bay Creek Park located next to the Edisto Marina. This event features live music, arts and crafts, seafood, and tasty eats for landlubbers.
There will be a DJ from noon to 5 p.m. the day of the festival with the Shem Creek Boogie Band taking the stage from 6-10 p.m.
Whats interesting about this festival is that it celebrates Edistos fishing and shrimping heritage and how that industry has impacted the island over the years. To date, local shrimp is harvested almost daily, which can be evidenced by the large shrimp boats that make their way up and down the coast.
There was a time when there were even more shrimp boats out in the water locally, but over the years many of the families who ran the businesses either retired or moved on. However, shrimp and the ocean have provided a way of life for Edistonians for as long as the island has existed. The Native Americans survived by fishing and using sea shells for various items, including tools.
Nowadays, those of us who live here or visit the island benefit from the many amazing offerings the Atlantic Ocean has to offer. After all there arent many places in the world that can offer visitors views of dolphin as they swim up and down the shore, fresh all-you-can-eat crab legs or lowcountry boil, and fall asleep to the sound of the waves crashing.
If you want to celebrate and support Edistos history visit the Edisto Beach Shrimp Fest. Youll be sure to learn something new about the island and its past. And you will get the chance to get a taste of the best shrimp in the world.
