2026 Shrimp Festival Parade Marshal
đ´ Fort Myers Beach Lions Club Announces 2026 Shrimp Festival Parade Marshal: Matt Devitt of WINK News đ
The Fort Myers Beach Lions Club is proud to announce that Matt Devitt, Chief Meteorologist for WINK News, has been selected as the 2026 Shrimp Festival Parade Marshal!
Each year, the Parade Marshal position honors a community figure who embodies the heart, resilience, and spirit of Southwest Florida. Matt Devitt â known to thousands of viewers as âSouthwest Floridaâs Weathermanâ â has become a trusted voice and familiar face for our region, especially through his calm and compassionate coverage during times of rebuilding and renewal.
âWe couldnât imagine a better person to lead this yearâs parade,â said Fort Myers Beach Lions Club President Lion Drew Yelle. âMattâs connection to the community, positivity, and genuine love for our area perfectly reflect what the Shrimp Festival is all about â celebrating island life and the people who make it so special.â
đŚ About the Shrimp Festival Parade
The annual Shrimp Festival Parade will march down Estero Boulevard on Saturday, March 8, 2026, kicking off the islandâs most anticipated weekend of the year. Local businesses, nonprofits, schools, and creative groups will bring the streets to life with floats, music, and island flair â all led by Matt Devitt as Parade Marshal.
đ The Parade Marshalâs Ride
Traditionally, the Parade Marshal rides atop a classic Corvette, greeting the crowd as the parade makes its way through town. Attendees can expect to see Matt leading the charge with his trademark smile and community spirit.
đ Join the Celebration
Mark your calendars for March 8â9, 2026, and join us for a weekend filled with live music, local vendors, delicious Gulf shrimp, and fun for the whole family â all in support of the Lions Clubâs mission to serve the Fort Myers Beach community and those in need.
Stay tuned via our Festival Facebook at facebook.com/ShrimpFestFMB for updates, parade registration, and the full weekend lineup.