New Smyrna Beach is a coastal gem on Florida’s east coast known for its small-town charm, artsy atmosphere, and year-round celebrations. Whether you’re a local or a visitor staying in one of our New Smyrna Beach rentals, our community always has something exciting on the calendar!
From art and food festivals to live music and holiday parades, there’s an event for every season and every age group. If you’re planning your next trip, this complete guide will walk you through the major New Smyrna Beach festivals month by month so you can plan your stay around these unforgettable events.
IMAGES Festival – January
The year kicks off with one of the most celebrated art events in Central Florida: the IMAGES: A Festival of the Arts. Held every January, this nationally recognized show transforms Canal Street and Riverside Drive into an open-air gallery like no other.
The festival features more than 200 juried artists from around the country displaying fine art, jewelry, photography, and sculpture. Visitors can browse art booths, enjoy live music, and grab a bite from local food vendors.
Families will love the interactive areas where kids can create their own art pieces. The IMAGES Festival also helps fund scholarships for local students. It’s the perfect start to a creative year in New Smyrna Beach!
New Smyrna Beach Art Fiesta – February
February brings another major artistic highlight, known as the Art Fiesta. For more than six decades, this event has drawn thousands of visitors to Old Fort Park and the surrounding streets to celebrate creativity together.
Local and regional artists showcase paintings, ceramics, glasswork, and woodcraft. It’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs or home décor pieces. The Art Fiesta also features live entertainment, food stands, and children’s activities.
With its friendly, community-driven atmosphere, this event is ideal for visitors wanting a taste of local creativity and culture before heading to the beach.
Shamrick N Roll – March
March in New Smyrna Beach means it’s time to go green! The Shamrick N Roll Festival celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with a lively mix of music, food, and fun on the beach.
Downtown Canal Street turns into a mini-block party, filled with green décor, local bands playing Irish tunes, and dozens of food trucks serving seasonal favorites. There’s even a parade featuring bagpipers, dancers, and community groups.
At this lighthearted, family-friendly event, everyone gets to embrace their inner Luck of the Irish! Whether sipping a cold drink, dancing in the street, or cheering on the parade, Shamrick N Roll promises unforgettable NSB fun.
New Smyrna Beach Food Festival – April
April marks one of the most anticipated New Smyrna Beach events of the year: the Food Festival. Flagler Avenue becomes a culinary runway as local restaurants, chefs, and food trucks showcase their best bites.
Visitors can sample small dishes from dozens of local spots, each offering a unique flavor of coastal cuisine. From fresh seafood to gourmet tacos, every booth offers something different.
Live music fills the air, and the atmosphere is buzzing with energy. Bring cash to buy tickets to sample all the goodies. And even more important, bring an empty stomach—you’ll want to try it all!
New Smyrna Beach Jazz Festival – May
If you love live music, the May New Smyrna Beach Jazz Festival should be on your calendar. This multi-day event features performances by local and national jazz artists in venues throughout the city.
From beachside bars to intimate cafes and outdoor stages, smooth tunes fill the air all weekend. The event has been running for more than two decades and continues to be one of the most popular music festivals in the region.
It’s a great opportunity to discover new talent, enjoy a relaxed beach atmosphere, and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Red White & Blue Music Festival – July
Celebrate summer and the Fourth of July with the Red White & Blue Music Festival. Held over Independence Day weekend, this event offers live bands, patriotic parades, and spectacular fireworks over the Indian River Lagoon.
Families can enjoy outdoor concerts, local food vendors, and kids’ zones with games and crafts. The highlight is the evening fireworks show that lights up the sky in an unforgettable array of red, white, and blue.
If you’re staying in a New Smyrna Beach rental, make sure to book early. This is one of the busiest weekends of the year!
New Smyrna Beach Shrimp and Seafood Festival – August
Seafood lovers, this one’s for you! August brings the New Smyrna Beach Shrimp and Seafood Festival, a delicious celebration of the area’s coastal heritage.
Flagler Avenue sets the scene for enjoying shrimp in every style imaginable: grilled, fried, steamed, or tossed in spicy sauce. Restaurants compete for the title of “Best Shrimp Dish,” and visitors get to vote for their favorites.
Live music, art vendors, and family activities add to the fun, making this one of the tastiest days of the year.
NSB Plein Air Paint Out – October
October is all about creativity in motion during the NSB Plein Air Paint Out. This week-long event invites artists from around the country to capture the area’s natural beauty through live outdoor painting sessions.
Visitors can watch painters work at scenic spots like the beach, the Indian River, and historic downtown. Many of the finished works are sold at the end-of-week gala, with proceeds supporting the Marine Discovery Center. This inspiring event is the perfect way to start fall in Florida!
The Flamingo Follies Holiday Art Show – November
The holiday season kicks off in style with the Flamingo Follies Holiday Art Show, one of the most beloved New Smyrna Beach festivals in November.
Hundreds of artists and crafters fill Flagler Avenue, offering handmade jewelry, holiday décor, clothing, and more. It’s a wonderful place to find one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting local artisans.
Holiday music, cheerful crowds, and festive treats create a joyful start to the winter season. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the giant pink flamingo!
NSB Rock N Roll Festival – November
Also in November, the NSB Rock N Roll Festival takes over Canal Street with high-energy performances from local and regional rock bands.
Picture multiple stages, classic cars on display, and food vendors serving up festival favorites. It’s a fun-filled weekend that celebrates the roots of rock and roll while bringing the community together.
Visitors can dance in the streets, grab a drink, and enjoy the upbeat atmosphere that perfectly reflects New Smyrna Beach’s fun-loving spirit.
New Smyrna Beach Christmas Boat Parade – December
The year ends on a magical note with the New Smyrna Beach Christmas Boat Parade, a local tradition that lights up the Intracoastal Waterway each December.
Boats decked out in twinkling lights, wreaths, and holiday characters sail past the waterfront, spreading cheer to onlookers along the shore.
Families gather at parks, docks, and restaurants to watch the magic, often accompanied by live music and seasonal treats. It’s a heartwarming celebration that captures the community spirit of New Smyrna Beach.
Plan Your Visit
Are you ready to explore things to do in New Smyrna Beach during your next visit? Browse our entire selection of rentals today and find the perfect match for your stay!
Book Your New Smyrna Beach Condo Rental with NSB Realty Team
Whether you’re visiting for the art shows, live music, or food festivals, there’s always something happening in this vibrant coastal town. Make the most of your trip by booking a New Smyrna Beach rental with NSB Realty Team.
We offer a variety of condos and homes close to the action. When you rent with us, you can walk to your favorite festivals, relax on the beach, and enjoy every moment of your stay.
From annual events to hidden local gems, we’re here to help you experience the best of New Smyrna Beach. Contact us today to find your perfect vacation spot and start planning your trip around these unforgettable events.
