What is a Parrot Head?
Parrot Heads are fans of the late singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett's tropically influenced blend music. But being a Parrot Head is much more than that - it's a state of mind. Through Jimmy's music and writings, Parrot Heads embrace his lifestyle: the revelry of life, the ocean, the sunshine, and a relaxed sense of freedom.
Parrot Heads are everywhere - you probably know a few without realizing it. They're doctors, lawyers, pilots, police officers, college students, computer programmers, grandparents, and maybe even your next-door neighbor. What's remarkable is how this wonderfully eclectic mix of people, brought together by a love of Jimmy's music, rallies around community causes.
What do Parrot Head Clubs actually do?
Parrot Head Clubs operate much like traditional community service organizations - think Rotary or Kiwanis - but with a laid-back, tropical twist. Our activities include supporting local charities like the Golden Corner Food Pantry, participating in Adopt-A-Highway cleanups with Keep Oconee Beautiful, hosting intimate private concerts and lake floatillas, and throwing our signature annual fundraiser, Party with a Purpose - an afternoon of live music and silent auctions benefiting local charities.
Why are fans called Parrot Heads?
The name was coined on June 28, 1985, by Timothy B. Schmit - Eagles member and Coral Reefer Band bassist. Spotting fans at a Buffett show decked out in tropical shirts and plush parrots on their heads, Schmit playfully called them "Parrot Heads," riffing on the Grateful Dead's beloved "Deadheads." The name stuck instantly.
What is a Phlock? Why the unusual spelling?
"Phlock" is the collective term for a gathering of Parrot Heads, used to describe both local club chapters and tropical-themed charity events. The "ph-" spelling is a piece of affectionate wordplay - a playful spin on "flock" that dates back to the earliest days of Parrot Head culture, and has been going strong ever since.
When and where does Phlock of the Tri-Lakes meet?
We hold monthly Phlockings on the first Tuesday of each month at various local restaurants. It's a casual, come-as-you-are evening where members catch up, socialize, and share a cold one in a relaxed atmosphere.
How do I join Phlock of the Tri-Lakes?
It's easy. You can sign up online directly by clicking the Join Us button in the main menu, or download the membership application from our downloads section in the footer.
Are there annual membership fees?
Yes, and they're very reasonable:
- Single (one adult, 21+): $30
- Family (two adults): $50
To pay by check:
Make checks payable to PTL PHC and mail to:
Christy Schwartz, 119 Grand Summit Drive, Seneca, SC 29672
Do I have to live near a lake or own a boat?
Not at all! Living in beautiful Oconee County, we're all practically lakeside. And if you don't have a boat, plenty of members do - and they're always glad to have you aboard.
What are the benefits of joining?
First and foremost, you'll meet a genuinely fun group of people who share a positive, laid-back outlook on life. And there's no shortage of things to do:
- Lake floats with Trop Rock musicians
- House concerts
- Monthly Phlockings
- Jazz on the Alley in Seneca (Thursdays, monthly)
- Party with a Purpose - our signature charity bash
- Monthly fun outings: mini golf, sunset cruises, and more
- Marching in the holiday parade with our own float
...and plenty more where that came from.
How do I keep up with club news and events?
Once you join, you will receive a monthly newsletter emailed to you with current and upcoming events. We also send out last minute notices via WhatsApp. You can also follow us on Facebookâjust search for Phlock of the Tri-Lakes Parrot Head Club.