Every spring, the lovely town of Sopchoppy, Florida, comes alive. Locals and visitors join for the annual Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ Festival. This one-of-a-kind event celebrates the fascinating and time-honored practice of worm grunting—a method of coaxing earthworms to the surface using a specially crafted worm grunting stick. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply someone who enjoys unique traditions, this festival is an experience you won’t want to miss.
What is Worm Grunting?
Worm grunting is an old technique fishermen use to gather earthworms for bait. A wooden stake, called a stob, is driven into the ground, and a metal rod—often a repurposed saw blade or car leaf spring—is rubbed against it. This action produces vibrations that mimic the movement of moles, a natural predator of earthworms, prompting them to wriggle to the surface. The practice has been passed down for generations and remains a vital part of Sopchoppy’s cultural heritage.
Festival Highlights
Be sure to mark your calendar for April 12th, 2025, and head to Sopchoppy Depot Park for a day packed with entertainment, music, and community spirit. This year’s festival theme, “Worms Just Wanna Have Fun,” promises excitement for all ages.
Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Worm Gruntin’ Demonstrations & Contests – Watch local expert Snap Revell demonstrate the art of worm grunting at 9:45 a.m., followed by a thrilling competition for kids 12 and under.
- Live Music All Day – Enjoy performances from Wild Wakulla Wigglers, Allie Cats, Funky Taters, Cheap Sunglasses, and a high-energy headlining act by The Blues Factor Band at 5:00 p.m.
- 100+ Artisan Vendors – Browse handcrafted goods, artwork, and festival-exclusive merchandise, including the official 2025 Worm Gruntin’ Festival T-shirt.
- Food Vendors & Beer Garden – Satisfy your taste buds with delicious local cuisine and enjoy a refreshing drink in the festival’s beer garden.
- Family-Friendly Activities – Take part in fun events like the Gummy Worm Eating Contest and the ever-popular Hula Hoop Contest.
- Worm Grunters’ Ball – End the day with an exciting celebration at Civic Brewing Co. at 7:00 p.m.
Plan Your Visit
Entry to the Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ Festival is just $1, with free admission for veterans and children under 12. With an expected crowd of 6,000 attendees, arriving early will ensure you get a good spot and can fully enjoy the festivities.
For additional details, visit www.wormgruntinfestival.com or follow updates on Facebook at Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ Festival.
Come for the festival, stay for the adventure, and experience the magic of worm grunting in Wakulla!
What to do nearby:
Explore Wakulla’s Natural Beauty
Extend your visit and explore the breathtaking scenery of Wakulla County. Outdoor enthusiasts will love:
- Wakulla Springs State Park – Home to one of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs, offering glass-bottom boat tours, scenic hiking trails, and diverse wildlife.
- St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge – A premier birdwatching destination with miles of picturesque trails and stunning coastal views.
- St. Marks Lighthouse – A historic landmark with views of the Gulf of Mexico and insights into Florida’s maritime history.
Where to Stay and Eat
Sopchoppy, located along Florida’s Forgotten Coast, offers a range of accommodations and dining options. Choose from cozy cabins, riverside lodges, and charming bed-and-breakfasts, each providing warm hospitality.
- Sopchoppy City Park – A peaceful, family-friendly campground near the Sopchoppy River with a playground and nature trails.
- Myron B. Hodge City Park – A quiet, scenic campground on the banks of the Sopchoppy River, just a short walk from downtown Sopchoppy. Features include a nature trail, playground, and on-site management.
- Ochlockonee River State Park – A 543-acre park featuring wooded campsites, electric and water hookups, and nature trails along the river.
- Holiday Park & Campground – Located in nearby Panacea, offering 75 full-hookup RV sites with access to WiFi, a recreation room, and a convenience store.
- Newport Park Campground – A scenic location along the St. Marks River with primitive and full-hookup campsites, a boat ramp, and a playground.
- The Sweet Magnolia Inn – A charming bed and breakfast in St. Marks, offering a cozy stay in a peaceful fishing village.
- Best Western Plus – A modern hotel in Crawfordville, conveniently located near Wakulla Springs and Sopchoppy.
- Wakulla Springs Lodge – A historic lodge offering beautifully furnished rooms with scenic views of Wakulla Springs.
- Magnuson Hotel at Wildwood – An eco-friendly nature resort with golf, tennis, and outdoor activities.
After a day at the festival, enjoy fresh seafood and Southern-style comfort food at one of the town’s inviting restaurants.
