Arriving for its 24th iteration, Geckofest is Gulfport’s largest annual festival and it is taking place on Saturday, August 31, 10am–10pm, around 3101 Beach Blvd. S.

Often seen doing push-ups on every footpath, driveway, hibiscus, palm, and cactus in Florida, geckos are the not-so-unofficial mascots of Gulfport, so much so they have a 14-foot-tall statue of G. Gordon McFly, a slick, skateboarding gecko welcoming all to the revelry Gulfport is famous for.

Loads of free, family-friendly entertainment

Geckofest organizers promise a festive, family and pet-friendly event that “combines the artistic energy of Gulfport with the colorful flair of Mardi Gras.” Geckofest includes live music across three stages, 200+ art, craft, and food vendors, children’s activities, street performers, and costumed characters.

There will also be a costume contest (so channel your inner reptile), and parade. There will be fire and acrobats. There will be a street dance to strut your stuff. There will be free parking courtesy of Gulfport. You can learn more about the event on its official page.

Don’t miss the Gecko Ball this weekend

Ahead of the big street festival, organizers with Visit Gulfport will host the Gecko Ball on August 24 from 6pm-10:30pm at the Gulfport Casino Ballroom. Tickets and more information about the SNL-themed event can be found here.

Learn more about Gulfport via Visit St. Pete-Clearwater.