18th Annual Springfest: What to Know Before You Go

18th Annual Gulfport Springfest 2012

• Where: Downtown Gulfport on Beach Blvd.
• When: Saturday March 31, 2012
• Time: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
• Price: Free

Roads Closed: Beginning at 6 a.m. the day of the event officials will close Beach Blvd. from 28th Ave south to Shore Blvd. for festivities. Shore Blvd. will not be closed.

Parking: Take a look at the parking map provided by the Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce, City of Gulfport and Gulfport Merchant's Association attached to this article. The map shows:

• Free parking areas
• Free trolley route (Free trolley service 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. day of the event.)
• Free off-site parking (Park and wave down the trolley for a free ride to Beach Blvd.) Off-site parking at the following locations:
  
  • Wood Ibis Park, 58th St. S. & 28th Ave S.
  • Gulfport Recreation Center, 5730 Shore Blvd. S.
  • Gulfport Senior Center, 5501 27th Ave S.
  • Gulfport Public Library,
  • Chase Park, 5301 28th Ave S. (Behind the Gulfport Historical Museum.)

To Do: Local restaurants and shops on Beach Blvd. Dozens of vendors featuring food, arts and crafts. An Easter bonnet parade will begin at 5 p.m. A hat contest will follow the parade at the main stage with prizes for the largest and most unique hats. The Industrial Arts Center will feature live glass blowing demonstrations. 

For The Kids: There will be bounce houses, games, face painting (prices vary)and more!

Pets: Pets are always welcome in Gulfport! Be sure to bring a plastic bag to pick up after your furry friend.

Entertainment: There will be two stages with live entertainment all day long. Musicians include Paul Anthony, Jez Crew, The Wholetones, Chicago Rich, Turley Bro, D'Leid Parrots, Gabe Whitney and more. For a complete line up with times check out "Springfest Live Music Line Up."

• Main stage: Beach Blvd. & Shore Blvd. 
• Second stage: Beach Blvd. & 30th Ave. S.

ATM: There is a an ATM located outside the Gulfport Casino Ballroom, 5500 Shore Blvd. S.

Public Restrooms: Permanent restrooms are connected to the Gulfport Casino Ballroom, 5500 Shore Blvd. S. They are located on the west side of the building. There will be portable restrooms along Beach Blvd.

Share Your Experience: Send us your photos and we'll publish them on Gulfport Patch. Attach them to this story or email them to the Editor at cherlene.willis@patch.com.