Mobile’s Son of a Sailor Fest Honors Jimmy Buffett’s Legacy with Music and Fun

The first-ever Son of a Sailor Fest took place in downtown Mobile, attracting hundreds of people to celebrate Jimmy Buffett's music and spirit.

The free event included a second-line parade and music performances in Cathedral Square. Will Kimbrough, a Mobile native who worked with Buffett, and the Buffett tribute band A1A were the main performers. This festival built on an informal parade held in 2023 to honor Buffett after his passing.

Unlike the grassroots event in 2023, this year’s festival was more organized, with support from Visit Mobile and local sponsors. It’s hoped that the event could become an annual tradition, celebrating Buffett’s deep connections to Mobile. Though born in Mississippi, Buffett grew up in Mobile and started his music career there.

Joseph Brennan, one of the organizers of the event, mentioned that people came from as far as Michigan to join the celebration. A VIP chat on Friday night featured Milton Brown and John Edd Thompson, songwriters who worked with Buffett early in his career. The event was held at The Admiral hotel, where Buffett once performed in a small bar.

Many locals showed their love for Buffett at the festival, including Nick and Amanda Christopher. Nick shared that Buffett’s music reminded him of his childhood, particularly his time on his father’s sailboat. He came to the festival to have a good time and honor Buffett's legacy.

There were several memorable moments throughout the day. The Blow House Brass Band led the parade into Cathedral Square while attendees followed, seeking shade as the midday sun blazed. The band played fun covers, including “Volcano” and a beautiful version of “Come Monday.”

As the day went on, and the temperature cooled, a relaxed crowd gathered in the park to enjoy A1A’s performance. The festival’s organizers encouraged visitors to support local businesses, which seemed to work well. Artious "Smac" Walker, owner of the Bow Owt food court, said it was a successful day for his business.

Heroes Sports Bar & Grille owner David Rasp described the day as “incredible,” with large crowds enjoying the event. Even on a day with fewer football games, he said business was strong.

The city of Mobile, the county, Visit Mobile, the Downtown Mobile Alliance, and many business partners, including Jimmy Buffett’s sister Lucy Buffett, all supported the festival.