Every spring, thousands of locals and visitors alike descend on Perdido Key for one of the Gulf Coast’s most iconic beach events—the Flora-Bama Interstate Mullet Toss. Set against the backdrop of the legendary Flora-Bama Lounge, this high-energy weekend blends absurdity, tradition, and beachside fun into a celebration like no other. Here's everything you need to know before you go.

What Is the Flora-Bama Mullet Toss?

The Flora-Bama Mullet Toss is a legendary event where participants compete by throwing a dead mullet—a fish native to the Gulf of America—from a designated 10-foot circle on the Florida side of the state line into Alabama. It may sound unusual, but this quirky competition has grown into a major beach bash featuring live music, coastal cuisine, drinks, and charitable giving.

Dates and Location

📍 Location: Flora-Bama Lounge & Package, 17401 Perdido Key Dr, Pensacola, FL
📅 Dates: April 25–27, 2025
🕒 Toss Times:
- Kids Toss: 10 AM – 12 PM
- Adult Toss: 12 PM – 4 PM
- Celebrity Toss: 4 PM
- Awards follow each round

Spanning three full days, the Mullet Toss transforms the beach into a buzzing hub of activity, drawing families, spring breakers, and spectators from across the Southeast.

Cost and Charity

Entry to the competition is just $20 per toss, and each participant gets a commemorative t-shirt. Proceeds go to local Gulf Coast charities supporting youth education, drug prevention, and community development. Just by showing up and tossing a fish, you’re helping a good cause.

What Happens to the Fish?

All mullets used in the toss are already dead and sourced specifically for the event. After the competition, the fish are donated to local wildlife facilities such as Alligator Alley and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, where they’re used as food for alligators and other animals—so nothing goes to waste.

Mullet in Florida: Beyond the Toss

While the Mullet Toss is the most famous event involving these fish, mullet also play a big role in Florida’s ecosystem and cuisine. The annual mullet run—a natural migration event—occurs every year in late September through October, drawing anglers and ocean predators alike as huge schools of mullet swim south along Florida’s Atlantic and Gulf coasts.

In the kitchen, mullet is a beloved Gulf fish, prized for its rich flavor, especially when smoked or grilled. It’s considered a staple in old-school Florida seafood cuisine.

Why It’s a Must-Do Pensacola Event

The Flora-Bama Mullet Toss is more than just a quirky competition. It’s an all-out beach party that showcases what the Gulf Coast does best: live music, local eats, cold drinks, and community fun under the sun. Expect a lively crowd, tons of entertainment, and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.

From kids’ contests to celebrity appearances and beach games, there’s something for everyone. Whether you're tossing or spectating, it’s a can’t-miss coastal experience.

Plan Your Trip

🌊 Beach Parking: Available in designated lots near Flora-Bama (arrive early, it fills up fast!)
🎶 Live Music: Featured on multiple stages all weekend long
🍤 Food & Drink: From smoked mullet to oysters and cocktails, there's no shortage of Gulf Coast flavor
🐕 Pets: Not allowed at the event (service animals welcome)

The Ultimate Guide to the Flora-Bama Mullet Toss 2025