2026 Cathedral Festival in St. Augustine: Dates, Fireworks, Music & Fried Shrimp

The 2026 Cathedral Festival in St. Augustine, Florida is a beloved family-friendly event packed with carnival rides, live music, fireworks, and one of the most anticipated fried shrimp dinners of the year. Taking place Friday, February 20 through Sunday, February 22, 2026, this annual festival brings together locals and visitors for a full weekend of entertainment, food, and community spirit.

Festival Location & Hours

The Cathedral Festival is held at the Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche at Mission Nombre de Dios, located at 101 San Marco Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084.

Festival hours:

• Friday: 5:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
• Saturday: 12:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
• Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Carnival Rides, Games & Family Activities

This St. Augustine family festival features a classic carnival midway with rides and games for all ages. Guests can enjoy favorites like the Ferris wheel, carousel, tilt-a-whirl, super slide, and several kid-friendly rides. There are also raffles, midway games, and art vendors throughout the grounds.

Fireworks Show

A spectacular fireworks display is scheduled for Saturday night at 9:00 p.m. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, the fireworks will be moved to Sunday evening.

Live Music All Weekend

Live entertainment is a major highlight of the Cathedral Festival, with performances happening every day.

Friday, February 20

• 5:00 – 6:00 PM: Gary Wingard
• 6:15 – 7:15 PM: Brittani Mueller
• 7:30 – 10:30 PM: Those Guys

Saturday, February 21

• 2:30 – 4:00 PM: The Hendrick’s Band
• 4:15 – 5:00 PM: Flashback
• 5:15 – 7:15 PM: Back Alley Cadillac
• 7:30 – 9:00 PM: Money for Nothin’
• 9:00 PM: Fireworks break
• 9:20 – 10:30 PM: Money for Nothin’

Sunday, February 22

• 12:00 – 1:00 PM: Radio Revival
• 2:00 – 4:00 PM: Radio Revival
• 4:15 – 6:15 PM: The Bad Endings
• 6:30 – 9:00 PM: Feedback the Band

Famous Fried Shrimp Dinner

One of the most popular parts of the festival is the Cathedral Festival Fried Shrimp Dinner, served Sunday from noon until 8:00 p.m. (or until sold out). The meal includes jumbo fried shrimp, hushpuppies, beans, and coleslaw, making it a must-try for seafood lovers.

Food & Drinks

In addition to the shrimp dinner, festival food vendors will be serving classic fair treats such as funnel cake, popcorn, and cotton candy. Beverages include soft drinks as well as beer and wine. Valid ID is required for alcohol purchases.

Admission & Ride Tickets

Admission prices:

• Adults: $5
• Kids ages 11–17: $3
• Seniors 65+: $3
• Kids 10 and under: Free

Ride tickets are sold in sheets of 20 tickets for $23, with most rides requiring four to six tickets. Discounted ride tickets can be purchased in advance at Cathedral Parish School, Carmelo’s Marketplace, and local Ameris Bank branches.

Parking Information

Parking at the festival is limited. Visitors are encouraged to use the City Parking Garage at 1 Cordova Street, which offers all-day parking at standard rates and is just a three-block walk from the festival grounds.

Supporting Local Education

All proceeds from the Annual Cathedral Festival benefit the Cathedral Parish School and Early Education Center, making this event both fun and meaningful for the community.