This Event has Passed
The 2025 Local 765 BUGFEST, presented by CORE Construction, is a celebration of South Florida's lobster season that blends spirited competition and community pride for a much-deserving cause. The annual event brings together locals and visitors alike for a weekend of lobster diving, live entertainment, and festivities for all ages, with all proceeds benefiting the Fort Lauderdale Firefighters Union Charities.
The Lobster Tournament takes place on Saturday, Aug. 23rd. The fun begins with an 8:30am shotgun start as registered teams launch from Lauderdale Marina (1900 SE 15th Street, Fort Lauderdale) for a day of lobster diving and friendly competition on Fort Lauderdale's beautiful coastal waters. The excitement concludes with an official Afterparty at Quarterdeck (1035 SE 17th Street, Fort Lauderdale), beginning with weigh-ins at 3pm, followed by a lively, family-friendly community celebration with awards, a raffle, and an auction, along with drinks, appetizers, and camaraderie to follow.
Tournament registration is $200 per boat (4 participants) and includes two drink tickets per person and appetizers at the post-event celebration. Additional guest wristbands are available for $25 each, which also include two drink tickets and appetizers. Raffle tickets ($5 each) and BUGFEST fishing shirts ($30) will be available for purchase during the event. Prizes will be awarded for Largest Six Lobsters and Largest Lobster, with first-place cash prizes starting at $500.
All proceeds raised from the 2025 Local 765 BUGFEST will benefit the Fort Lauderdale Firefighters Union Charities, which provide resources for local community programs, emergency relief, and critical support for first responders and their families.
