PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. ( WMBB ) – It’s been six years, but a crowd favorite is returning to Panama City Beach. Schooners has not had its annual LobsterFest since just before Hurricane Michael. It’s back this weekend on a smaller scale.
The first LobsterFest took place more than 30 years ago and quickly became a part of the community. It started as a lobster tournament for scuba divers and grew into a huge feast, featuring all sorts of dishes made with lobster.
It’s back this year, without the tournament and the traditional feast. Despite the scaled-back event, loyal attendees are excited for its return.
Fall into a fun evening this weekend in Bay County “I have been coming to Schooner’s Restaurant for over 30 years. The last couple of years here in we didn’t get to have the lobster fest, unfortunately. But I’m really excited that it’s back. I love everything from the artists, how they build the sandcastles, the food, the music, the entertainment. It’s a great time and it’s a tradition,” Panama City Beach local Tina Rhodes said.
The celebrations kicked off Thursday with live music, lobster specials, and the sand sculpture build.
“I was here at probably 6:00, 6:30, and they had a pile of sand for me, so I don’t have to shovel it up. And so, there’s probably about 15 tons of sand there that I’ll do day. So, it’s going to be pretty cool. It’s something special what we have there. I’m not going to tell you what it is. You’re going to have to come and experience it for yourself,” professional sand sculptor Rick Mungeam said.
The remainder of the weekend will feature different bands, beach bars, and lots of lobster served on Saturday.
While it’s taken six years to relaunch the festival, staff believe the tradition is back to stay.
News 13 Pet Adoption Option: Bonnie “I think we will have the festival forever. Until there’s no more lobster in the ocean. Yeah, it’s an event here to stay and it’s a staple item and it’s part of the community,” Schooners executive chef Konrad Jochum said.
LobsterFest ends on Sunday, but limited-time lobster dishes will continue through November 23rd with Schooners’ Lobzilla event.
For full details of the event visit, click here.
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