Parrot Heads in Paradise (PHIP)
If you’ve ever encountered a vibrant group of people wearing Hawaiian shirts, foam parrot hats, and sipping margaritas while raising money for charity, you’ve found Parrot Heads in Paradise (PHiP).
Far more than a fan club, PHiP is an international nonprofit network dedicated to celebrating the music and island-inspired lifestyle of Jimmy Buffett. Their spirit is captured in their unofficial motto: Party with a Purpose.
The Mission: Philanthropy First
While social gatherings — known as Phlockings — are a big part of the fun, PHiP’s main focus is community service and giving back.
Over the years, Parrot Heads have donated more than $60 million and contributed millions of volunteer hours to charities and local causes.
Key charitable partners include:
Singing for Change – Jimmy Buffett’s foundation supporting grassroots environmental and social causes
Save the Manatee Club – Co-founded by Buffett to protect Florida’s beloved marine mammals
The Lone Palm Foundation – PHiP’s charitable arm providing assistance to members facing disasters or hardship
Alzheimer’s Association – A major national partner for PHiP fundraising teams
The Origin Story
The term Parrot Head was coined in 1985 by musician Timothy B. Schmit of the Coral Reefer Band during a concert in Cincinnati. He noticed fans dressed in tropical attire and joked they were like Deadheads with more colorful plumage.
The first official club formed in 1989 when fan Scott Nickerson started a chapter in Atlanta. Rapid growth led to the creation of Parrot Heads in Paradise, Inc. in 1994 as the governing organization for clubs worldwide.
The PHiP Network Today
Today there are more than 200 chapters across the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, and the Caribbean.
Chapters: Each club operates independently as a nonprofit. To be sanctioned by PHiP, chapters must actively support community service and environmental efforts.
Meeting of the Minds (MOTM): The annual national convention featuring live Trop Rock music, charity auctions, and a week-long celebration. After many years in Key West, the event moved to Gulf Shores, Alabama in 2023.
Membership: Open to anyone with a tropical spirit. Most clubs charge modest dues that support operations and charitable giving.
Learn More
Official PHiP Website: PHIP.com
Meeting of the Minds Convention: MOTM.rocks
Proudly Supporting These Organizations
Animal Welfare League
Meals on Wheels
C.A.R.E.
Socks for Kids
Boys and Girls Club of Charlotte County
Valerie’s House
Shoes for Kids
Parrot Outreach
Jesus Loves You Ministry
Peace River Wildlife Center
Backpacks for Kids
Christmas Cheer
St. Vincent de Paul
Douglas T Jacobson State Veterans Home
PO Box 510892
Punta Gorda, FL 33951
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