ANNA MARIA – The 22nd Annual Bayfest celebration on Oct. 21 offered something for the entire family.
A large portion of Pine Avenue was closed for most of the day to make room for vendors offering a little bit of everything. This family-friendly event has been a perennial favorite for both locals and visitors for two decades and the 2023 celebration delivered on the promise of fun.
It was all smiles and dancing in the street as Memphis Rub, The Trevor Bystrom Band, The Karen and Jimmy Band and the Dr. Dave Band brought unique sounds that had something for everyone. There was also plenty of unique Island art, jewelry and specialty items that would be difficult to find in the same place outside of an event like Bayfest.
“What a party! This is great, and something we didn’t expect when we planned our trip,” said Amy Alford, of Canton, Ohio. “We kept hearing October is the best month to come to the Island, but that’s because of the weather and hurricane season winding down. We had no idea they were throwing a party like this. We’ve spent way too much money on local art and food, but we’ll call it money well spent. When we get home, we’ll have memories we can see every day and that’s priceless.”
In addition to the “party on Pine,” as many call it, there was a classic car show and a unique smell that many couldn’t resist.
“The smell of the food is insane, you can’t eat it all, but you want to,” said Jim Ellis, who was visiting from Shelby Township, Michigan. “We want to move here; the people are just awesome and don’t seem to be bothered by tourists like they are in other places we’ve traveled. It’s just laid back and that will make you live longer being in that environment, at least in my opinion.”
Bayfest is hosted by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce and more than a dozen Island businesses sponsored this year’s event.
