Get ready to dive into a feast of flavors at the much-anticipated Deering Seafood Festival, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year! Mark your calendars for Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the picturesque Deering Estate in Miami. This event is proudly presented by the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board and promises to be a delightful day for seafood lovers and families alike.
From fresh seafood and cooking demonstrations to live entertainment and kid-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone at this vibrant festival. You’ll have a chance to savor delicious offerings from renowned seafood restaurants such as Golden Rule Seafood, Sports Grill, and Pubbelly Sushi. Don’t miss out on the sweet treats from Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream and Nothing Bundt Cakes! Beverages will include a variety of options from Stella Artois to Don Q Rum, ensuring a refreshing experience.
Culinary Highlights and Entertainment
The festival features a Chef Demo Tent where culinary enthusiasts can enjoy 45-minute cooking demonstrations, complete with samples and recipes. With a capacity of 140 guests per demonstration, it’s a first-come, first-served setup, so arrive early! Scheduled chefs include the talent from Platea Miami and Puff ‘n Stuff Catering, among others, showcasing their culinary skills throughout the day.
But that’s not all! The festival kicks off with an exciting opening parade featuring a Bahamian Junkanoo Band and Virgin Island Stilt Walkers. Throughout the day, enjoy performances from Caribbean Music Farm, I Threes – The Next Generation, and more. The atmosphere is sure to be lively and vibrant, perfect for a day out with friends or family.
Activities for All Ages
<pFor those looking for more than just food, the festival offers guided pontoon boat rides to Chicken Key for a small fee, as well as artistic booths featuring handmade crafts, photography, and jewelry. Kids will love the dedicated children’s area filled with art stations, games, and cooking classes, ensuring they have a blast while parents relax and enjoy the festivities.
Ticket prices are set at $25 for adults if purchased in advance or $30 at the gate, while children aged 4-14 can enter for $7 in advance or $10 at the door. Members of the Deering Estate Foundation can attend for free but will need to request a ticket online. Plus, parking is hassle-free with a complimentary “Park and Ride” service available from Westminster Christian School and Palmetto Bay Village Center.
Just a quick reminder: certain items are prohibited at the festival, including pets, balloons, grills, bicycles, alcoholic beverages, and fireworks. All proceeds from the event go directly to the Deering Estate Foundation, supporting this national landmark managed by the Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department.
Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to enjoy a day filled with great food, lively music, and community spirit. For more details, check out the official Deering Seafood Festival page.
So grab your family and friends, and make your way to the Deering Estate for a memorable day of seafood, sun, and fun!