Beachport is getting ready to turn up the heat once again, with the much-loved Beachport Crayfish Festival confirmed to return on Saturday, 28 February 2026, bringing a full day of seafood, live music and coastal celebration to Centennial Park.
Running from 10am until 10pm, the biennial festival has quickly become one of the Limestone Coast’s standout summer events, drawing thousands of visitors to the seaside town to celebrate its fishing heritage, local producers and laid-back beachside lifestyle.
At the heart of the festival is the region’s prized Southern Rock Lobster, served fresh and showcased across a wide range of food stalls and chef-led experiences. From classic crayfish rolls to creative modern dishes, the festival offers a true taste of the Limestone Coast’s seafood scene.
One of the headline moments for 2026 is a premium cooking demonstration from Mark Wright, Executive Chef and Restaurant Manager of Mayura Station’s The Tasting Room, who will present a luxurious ‘Reef and Beef’ pairing. The showcase will feature Southern Rock Lobster alongside Mayura Station’s world-famous full-blood Wagyu, highlighting two of the region’s most celebrated produce stories in one mouth-watering experience. Local wines, spirits and craft beers will round out the offering, giving festivalgoers a chance to sip their way through the best of the region.
Beyond the food, the Beachport Crayfish Festival is packed with entertainment for all ages. A dedicated Kids Zone, bustling market stalls and live music throughout the day and into the evening ensure there’s always something happening. Fan-favourite Deckie competitions are also set to return, with local crayboat deckhands going head-to-head in a test of strength and skill, including the ever-popular tug-of-war.
The live music lineup adds to the festival atmosphere, with performances from Leah Briggs, Christy Wallace, JB (Jason Baker), Low Expectations and Just A Band, delivering a soundtrack that carries from sunny afternoons through to relaxed summer nights.
The festival plays an important role in supporting regional South Australia, shining a spotlight on Beachport’s commercial fishing industry while providing a platform for local wineries, craft brewers, food vendors and artisans. It’s a celebration that brings together community, tourism and industry in a uniquely coastal setting.
Frank Brennan, LCFC Executive Director and Festival Chairperson, is especially keen to champion one special seafood of the region.
“The festival is a brilliant way for our fishing community to share directly with the public the world-class quality of the Southern Rock Lobster, caught right here on our coastline,” he says.
“It celebrates our industry’s heritage and highlights the sustainable practices that ensure this fishery remains viable for generations to come. We can’t wait to see everyone enjoying the freshest crays the Southern Ocean has to offer!” he cheers.
Accessibility and inclusivity remain central to the event, with free entry for kids, early bird family passes available for $77, general early bird admission priced at $27.50, and concession early bird tickets at $22. All early bird tickets are refundable up to 14 days prior to the event.
As true locals, Major Sponsor, South East Property and Sales, is delighted to continue its involvement in the festival.
“The Beachport Crayfish Festival is more than just a great day out—it’s a critical showcase for our region,” says Fiona Telfer, the company’s Director & Sales Representative. “We are incredibly proud to support an event that draws visitors to Beachport, boosting our local businesses and putting the gorgeous Limestone Coast firmly on the map. It highlights the fantastic community spirit that makes Beachport such a wonderful place to live, work, and invest.”
Di Roach from the local Beachport District Development Association says the festival is a “true testament to [Beachport’s] community spirit.”
“Seeing thousands of people, locals and from afar converge on our town to celebrate our mainstay, the cray, and our beautiful coastline is incredibly rewarding,” she says.
After welcoming more than 2,500 attendees at the last festival, organisers are expecting an even bigger crowd in 2026, making it the perfect excuse for a late-summer Limestone Coast escape.
“Entirely driven by our passionate local volunteers, we can’t wait to welcome everyone back in 2026 for what will be a truly memorable day,” Di adds.
WHAT: Beachport Crayfish Festival
WHERE: Centennial Park, Beachport, South Australia.
WHEN: Saturday, the 28th of February from 10am
MORE INFO: https://www.facebook.com/Beachportcrayfishfestival/
