GULFPORT, Fla. — Twenty-five years and still weird.
That’s the theme of this year’s Geckofest in Gulfport, where artists thrive and live music rules — and contortionists like Nicholas Stainback squeeze their bodies through tennis rackets.
Stainback started his career as an escape artist, contortionist and crazy balancing entertainer at Geckofest when he was 15.
He purchased a Playstation gaming system with his paycheck.
“Geckofest really just means a lot to me,” Stainback said
Street performers, art, stages, live music and unique creators are part of this celebration. Gulfport is rich with creative folk — from movie makers and mosaic masters, to book binders.
Gulfport resident Maria Rapajic runs her organic dog treat business in Gulfport along with her mom, Mirjana Rapajic, who creates animal clothing accessories.
Like little bow ties. With Santas on them.
“I started coming to Gulfport 30 years ago when my grandmother actually lived in this house,” said Maria Rapajic, putting dehydrated duck and chicken feet into Luv Bites Dog Treats bags.
“And once I moved here, it gave me the chance to be part of the community,” she said. “And doing Geckofest allows me to contribute and have a great time.”
Geckofest will be held on Beach Boulevard from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday in Gulfport.
Virginia Johnson
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