GULFPORT, FLORIDA: Gulfport’s Seventh Annual Gecko Ball takes on a “Gecko Gras” theme this year, complete with all the festive hallmarks of a Mardi Gras celebration. The annual Ball, widely recognized as quirky Gulfport’s “Party of the Year,” will take place on Saturday, August 29th at the waterfront Gulfport Casino. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the party lasts until 11 p.m.
Ball-goers are encouraged to come in costume for the evening. Put together your best Mardi Gras finery. Expect to see beads, bangles, feathers, sequins, masks, parasols, jesters, and of course geckos! A costume parade will allow you to strut your Gecko Gras ensemble and a costume contest will help determine the best in the house. Colorful Mardi Gras décor will transform the Casino Ballroom. Lively music by the Jammin’ Jambalaya Band will fill the dance floor. Cajun cuisine will be supplied by Ricky P’s Orleans Bistro. A full cash bar will offer geckotinis and other libations. Hundreds of silent auction items will be up for bids, including art work, restaurant and shop gift cards, gift baskets, travel and resort stays, sports and attraction tickets, gourmet foods and wine, pet provisions and more in one of the best silent auction venues of the year. The annual live auction of “art-geckos” created by local artists is a highlight of the evening. And the whimsical coronation of Gulfport’s next Gecko Queen is always true to the town’s fun, friendly and quirky reputation.
Tickets for the event are $35 each and are available at the Gulfport Beach Bazaar (3115 Beach Blvd. South) with cash or check, or online at GeckoFest.com with credit/debit card. The Ball sells out each year, so purchase tickets as soon as possible.
One week following the Gecko Ball, the 15th Annual GeckoFest on Saturday, September 5th fills the waterfront village streets for a free, full day of merriment during Gulfport’s oldest and largest festival of the year. All Gecko events are sponsored by the non-profit Gulfport Merchants Association, and a portion of proceeds is donated to local charities. For more information, contact Daniel Hodge at 727-366-4086 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or visit GeckoFest.com and VisitGulfportFlorida.com.
