It’s time to shellabrate!
By Amy Bentley
The Sarasota Shell Club invites shell collectors, beachcombers, enthusiasts, and artisans to the anuual Sarasota Shell Show. The non-profit organization hosts the event each February at the Sarasota Fairgrounds in Saratoga, Florida.
The Shell Show is a great way to learn about seashells and the critters that create and inhabit them, learn from scientific exhibits, and view unique art created with seashells. Vendors display and sell shells, rocks, minerals, shell-inspired jewelry, clothing, shell crafts, art, and more. There is a raffle for shells and coastal-inspired prizes.
“The Sarasota Shell Club hosts an annual Shell Show to share our interest in seashells, provide education about shells and shell collecting, share artistic creations made from shells, and generate income to support our club and our yearly charitable giving,” said Sally Peppitoni, Sarasota Shell Club president. “Shell shows also are a lot of fun.” Last year’s show attracted thousands of visitors over the weekend.
Admission includes a free bag of shells. Save the date and enjoy the opportunity to “shellabrate” with the seashell community at this unique event!
Sarasota Shell Club activities include monthly meetings with guest speakers, shelling excursions, and social events. Learn more about the Sarasota Shell Show and the Sarasota Shell Club at www.sarasotashellclub.com.
All photos courtesy of Ron Bopp except as marked. Background image by Julia Sudnitskaya/Shutterstock.com.
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This article appeared in Beachcombing Magazine Volume 46 the January/February 2025 issue.
