If you’re vacationing in Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Tarpon Springs is a lovely day trip destination during your stay. Tarpon Springs was named after the spotted tarpon jumping in its local waters as seen by its early settlers.
Tarpon Springs is rich in Greek heritage. Greek immigrants in the late 1800s found its local waters to have an abundance of highly sought-after sponges. Today, the area is still known for its Greek culture, which is the drawing point for many Gulf Coast visitors and vacationers.
The Tarpon Springs sponge industry helped build the flourishing Greek community that is now famous not only for the worlds finest sponges, but for some of the best Greek restaurants, markets and bakeries in Pinellas County and beyond. In addition to the restaurants, shops and local festivals you’ll also find natural sponges, sponge diving, tours, sightseeing cruises, unique Greek and Florida souvenirs, lots of shopping, sightseeing and Bouzoukia (live entertainment).
The Labor Day holiday weekend plays host to the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks Arts & Crafts Festival on Saturday, August 30, Sunday August 31 and Monday, September 1 from 10a.m. to 5p.m. each day at the Sponge Docks. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience this Gulf Coast town and immerse yourself in the essence of Tarpon Springs. At the Sponge Docks Arts & Crafts Festival, you’ll find an array of fine arts, crafts and craft exhibitors, as well as delicious food, live music and so much more. Bring your family, bring your friends and take a day out of your Labor Day weekend to attend the festival.
Tarpon Springs is approximately a 45-minute drive north from Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores. We hope you consider putting it on your Labor Day holiday itinerary. In addition to the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks Arts & Crafts Festival, don’t forget to try some of our favorite ways to spend the Labor Day holiday on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Let us know if you are planning to be at the Sponge Docks Arts & Crafts Festival in Tarpon Springs. We’d love to hear about it. Enjoy the long weekend and happy Labor Day!