Cortez Fishing Festival Returns, Drawing Thousands After Hurricane Struggles
Cortez came alive this weekend as thousands of visitors flocked to the annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, marking a much-needed boost for the historic fishing village following last year’s devastating hurricane season.
Now in its 43rd year, the festival remains a staple of the community, bringing together locals and visitors to celebrate Cortez’s deep-rooted maritime heritage. After back-to-back hurricanes battered the region, organizers faced challenges in getting the event back, but with overwhelming community support, the festival made its triumphant return.
This year’s theme, “Swamped but Never Sunk,” perfectly captures the resilience of Cortez, a community that has weathered nature’s toughest blows while holding fast to its traditions. The Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH), which hosts the event annually, aims to raise $100,000 from festival proceeds to support the conservation and restoration of the local fish preserve.
The festival also welcomed back organizations absent in recent years, including the Anna Maria Island Privateers, a nonprofit dedicated to helping children. Visitors were treated to live music, maritime demonstrations, local seafood, and a vibrant atmosphere that showcased the heart of Cortez’s commercial fishing industry.
The proceeds support the community and help protect the surrounding environment, a vital part of preserving Cortez’s heritage.
As development continues to reshape parts of the region, the festival stands as a reminder of the importance of Cortez’s working waterfront and the commercial fishing families who call it home. With the community’s continued support, the festival—and the legacy it upholds—shows no signs of slowing down.