Last Updated on April 9, 2025 by JJ
Florida is home to some of the most unusual and exciting food festivals in the U.S., and frog leg festivals rank high on the list of must-experience events. The Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival, held annually in January, is the largest and most famous of these gatherings, drawing thousands of visitors eager to sample fried frog legs, gator tail, and other Southern delicacies. This article explores the history, unique offerings, lodging options, and best local restaurants to visit when attending these quirky and fun festivals.
The Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival: A Tradition Since 1990
The Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival began in 1990 as a local fundraiser for children’s recreation programs but quickly evolved into a massive event, earning a place in the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest frog leg festival in the world. Taking place in Fellsmere, Florida, this event features:
- Frog leg and gator tail dinners with classic Southern sides like grits, coleslaw, and hushpuppies
- Live music and entertainment, including country, rock, and bluegrass performances
- A large carnival with rides for all ages
- Dozens of vendor booths selling crafts, souvenirs, and specialty foods
Next Festival Dates: January 15-18, 2026
Location: 22 South Orange St, Fellsmere, FL 32948
Admission: Free (Parking also free)
Drive-Thru Available: If you want frog legs but don’t want to stay for the festivities, a drive-thru pickup option is available.
The Menu: A True Florida Delicacy
The festival’s menu is built around its famous frog legs and gator tail dishes. If you’ve never tried frog legs, they are often compared to chicken with a mild, slightly fishy taste.
Festival Menu Highlights:
- Frog Pop ($5): A single frog leg on a stick, perfect for first-timers
- Gator Pop ($5): A bite-sized sampler of fried gator tail
- Frog Leg Dinner ($18): A generous portion of fried frog legs served with grits, coleslaw, and hushpuppies
- Gator Tail Dinner ($18): A hearty portion of fried gator tail, served with classic Southern sides
- Frog Pounder ($17): A full pound of frog legs, no sides included
- Gator Pounder ($17): A full pound of gator tail, cooked to perfection
- Combo Dinner ($20): Includes both frog legs and gator tail with sides
Entertainment & Activities
All-You-Can-Ride Carnival Days:
- Thursday and Sunday: Unlimited rides for $20
- Friday and Saturday: Unlimited rides for $25
Live Music & Performances:
- Expect a variety of local bands playing country, blues, and rock
- Some past performers include Blue Cypress Bluegrass Band and Toby Keith tribute acts
Vendor Booths:
- Over 100 booths featuring handmade crafts, unique gifts, and local art
- Specialty food stands selling deep-fried treats like Oreos, Twinkies, and funnel cakes
Where to Stay: Best Lodging Near the Festival
If you’re visiting from out of town, here are some of the best hotels and inns near Fellsmere.
Best Western Plus Sebastian Hotel & Suites (Sebastian, FL)
Address: 1655 US-1, Sebastian, FL 32958
Booking Link
Capt. Hiram’s Resort (Sebastian, FL)
Address: 1580 US-1, Sebastian, FL 32958
Why Stay Here? Riverside hotel with great seafood and live music
Booking Link
Fairfield Inn & Suites Vero Beach
Address: 9065 Americana Way, Vero Beach, FL 32966
Top-rated for comfort and location
Booking Link
Camping Option: St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park
Address: 1000 Buffer Preserve Dr, Fellsmere, FL 32948
Perfect for nature lovers who want to camp under the stars
Park Info
Where to Eat Nearby
If you want to explore more than just frog legs, here are some of the best restaurants in the area.
Marsh Landing Restaurant – Classic Southern Cuisine
Address: 44 N Broadway St, Fellsmere, FL 32948
Known for: Authentic Florida cracker-style dishes, including frog legs and catfish
Website
The Crab Stop – Seafood Heaven
Address: 89 Royal Palm Pointe, Vero Beach, FL 32960
Famous for: Snow crab, lobster, and Cajun shrimp
Website
The Chubby Mullet – Great Food with a View
Address: 8685 US-1, Micco, FL 32976
Top Pick: Blackened mahi tacos and gator bites
Facebook Page
Arcane Frog Leg Facts
Why Frog Legs?
- Frog legs have been eaten since ancient times. The French and Chinese consider them a delicacy
- Frog legs are high in protein and low in fat, making them a healthy alternative to chicken
Fellsmere’s Record-Breaking Frog Legs
- The Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival once fried over 5,000 pounds of frog legs in a single weekend
Frog Farming in Florida
- Most frog legs sold in Florida come from frog farms rather than the wild. The American Bullfrog is the most commonly farmed species
Final Thoughts
The Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival is more than just an event—it’s a Florida tradition filled with unique food, live entertainment, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. Whether you’re an adventurous foodie or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, this festival has something for everyone.
Mark Your Calendar: January 15-18, 2026
Location: Fellsmere, Florida
Plan Your Visit
Would you dare to try frog legs? Let us know your thoughts.
