Shrimpfest by the Water near Myrtle Beach

Fall in the Myrtle Beach area offers a tasty excuse to eat shrimp by the water. Additionally, on October 10–11, 2026, the 20th Annual Little River shrimpfest returns to the historic Little River Waterfront. It features fresh seafood, live music, and plenty of local color, just up the road from North Myrtle Beach.

  • What: 20th Annual Little River ShrimpFest
  • When: Saturday, October 10 & Sunday, October 11, 2026
  • Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • Where: Historic Little River Waterfront, Little River, SC
  • Admission: $10 per person, per day. Kids 12 and under are free.

Come Hungry: Shrimp Is the Star

Little River has deep roots in shrimping and fishing, and shrimpfest is the town’s way of celebrating that.

Additionally, local waterfront restaurants serve up fresh shrimp and other seafood specialties.

Moreover, food vendors round things out with festival classics, and you can taste a lot.

Grab a plate, find a spot by the water, and make a day of tasting your way through the festival.

Two Stages, Two Days of Live Music

Music plays throughout the weekend on two stages, so there’s always a soundtrack while you browse and snack.

Saturday, October 10

  • If Birds Could Fly
  • Band On Fire
  • Painted Man
  • Brian Ernst

Sunday, October 11

  • Prettier Than Matt
  • Trae Pierce & The T-Stones
  • On The Border – The Ultimate Eagle Tribute

Shop 100+ Vendors

ShrimpFest is also a great place to shop. Additionally, there are more than 100 vendors with arts and crafts, local businesses, and community organizations. You’ll likely leave with something you didn’t know you needed. Stilt walkers and balloon artists wander the festival too, adding extra energy for guests of every age.

A Festival the Whole Family Can Enjoy

With food, music, entertainers, and waterfront scenery, ShrimpFest gives families plenty to do together. And since kids 12 and under get in free, it’s an easy one to fit into the budget.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Go early. Waterfront festivals fill up as the day goes on, so arriving near opening time makes parking and browsing easier.
  • Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking and standing on the waterfront.
  • Bring sun protection. A hat and sunscreen help during the afternoon.
  • Check the weather. Last year’s festival had to adjust its schedule because of rain, so check the official event page for updates and parking instructions before you head out.

Make It a Weekend in Myrtle Beach

Little River is just north of North Myrtle Beach, so ShrimpFest pairs well with a beach getaway. Start with a Myrtle Stays vacation rental, then fill the rest of your trip with ideas from our Experiences page and the Myrtle Stays blog. Traveling with a group? Our 3-bedroom and 4-bedroom rentals give everyone room to spread out after a long festival day.

Find Your Treasure in Little River

This shrimpfest is more than a seafood festival.

It celebrates local food, music, art, and Little River’s connection to the water.

Additionally, this October, come hungry, bring the family, and find your treasure at the Little River festival.

Ready to plan your trip? Browse our vacation rentals or call us at (843) 702-9979.