Tag: cortez fishing festival

The Cortez Fishing Festival will be returning for its 40th annual event this weekend, February 19-20. The festival is held in the small fishing village of Cortez and aims to celebrate the region’s history and those who work hard to supply fresh local seafood. Tickets are $5 per person and children 12 and under may attend for free. The event was first held in 1981 as a 1-day festival and drew 500 people to celebrate Florida’s commercial seafood industry. The festival has since grown into a 2-day event and hosts nearly 20,000 people each year. Walking around Cortez is like stepping back in time and visitors can enjoy the charm of the small cottages and friendly locals. Organized by the Florida Institute of Saltwater Heritage (FISH), the festival will include live music, arts and crafts, seafood, and much more throughout the weekend. The University of Florida is hosting educational “dock talks” and the public is welcome to explore local fishing boats and...