A Variety of Festivals and Fishing Tournaments Await Visitors this Season
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Florida Fall is in the air and while the drop in temperature isn't drastic, the holidays are headed to the Sunshine State and there is much to celebrate in Crystal River over the next few months. In Citrus County, fall means it’s time for new adventures, with the change of seasons marked by a new wave of fun, family-friendly events, and activities.
Fall is a great time of year to discover a hidden gem along Florida’s Nature Coast, with small-town charm and a taste of authentic “Old Florida.” Crystal River and its surrounding cities of Homosassa, Inverness, and Floral City offer a whole lot of fun, along with some incredible value. Plus, there are several exciting events this fall to make any vacation complete. See our list below for some of the season's highlights, or to find a full list of all upcoming events click here
Crystal River Scarecrow Fest – Oct. 8, Crystal River
This free festival kicks off the fall season in the heart of Crystal River. A family favorite, Scarecrow Fest offers a variety of fun, including a live performance by Sarah Diamond. Hosted in Heritage Village downtown – and costumes are encouraged. @CrystalRiverScarecrowFest
Plantation Red Fish Classic - Oct. 22, Crystal River
This annual red fish tournament is hosted by the Plantation on Crystal River and offers additional categories for grouper and trout, as well as ladies and youth divisions. The tournament is a family-friendly event with an awards banquet that evening. plantationadventurecenter.com/redfish-classic
Inverness Country Jam – Oct. 28-30, Inverness
Tickets are now on sale for the inaugural Inverness Country Jam, which promises to be the start of a perennial favorite with country music fans – and is considered one of the most affordable country music festivals. This three-day event features headliners Sawyer Brown, Aaron Tippin, Lorrie Morgan, and Sammy Kershaw and a variety of food trucks and vendors, all at beautiful Henderson Lake in Liberty Park. InvernessCountryJam.com
Hernando Dragon Boat Festival – Nov. 5, Hernando
The largest “small boat” dragon boat festival in the United States, this event draws more than 5,000 people to scenic Lake Hernando. This event has become one of the largest International Dragon Boat Festivals in the Southeast. All event proceeds benefit the Citrus County Education Foundation. CitrusEducation.org/dragonboat.
Stone Crab Jam – Nov. 5, Crystal River
This community staple is in its 15th year and dishes out authentic Old Florida vibes. The Stone Crab Jam Music Festival is an open street event featuring three stages for live music in downtown Crystal River. The main draw is the fresh stone crab served by local restaurants and the variety of artisan vendors. Proceeds from the event go to area nonprofits. StoneCrabJam.com
Homosassa Arts, Crafts & Seafood Festival – Nov. 12-13, Homosassa
The 45th annual festival is back for two days of live entertainment, juried art shows, true crafts, delicious local seafood, and more. Stroll the booth for a close-up view of original paintings, handcrafted wood, and jewelry. Tickets are just $3 for adults and free for children under 12. Proceeds benefit organizations supported by the Homosassa Civic Club. HomosassaSeafoodFestival.org
King of the Bay Fishing Tournament and Festival – Nov. 18-19, Crystal River
The third annual Pete’s Pier “King of the Bay” Fishing Tournament and Festival is a celebration of all things Crystal River. Bring the family to see how the pier is transformed and enjoy arts and crafts, live music, and more. You can also enter the tournament, with the chance to win $10,000. PetesPier.com/tournament
