The Destin area is home to some of the best events in Florida. Whether it’s the 30A Songwriter Festival or the Emerald Coast Poker Run, Florida’s warm weather means something fun to attend year-round. These are a few of our favorite Destin events we believe you cannot miss!
Are you looking to stay in Destin for a week or more? View our Vacation Guide to find the best places to eat, things to do, and places to visit while you are here!
Best Events in Destin
January
30A Songwriter Festival
The 30A Songwriter Festival features 250+ singer-songwriters in a four-day festival that spans over 30 venues in the 30A. The festival is not short on star power with previous performers including Rosanne Cash, North Mississippi Allstars, and Don McLean. All proceeds benefit local causes to advance the Arts in Walton County.
February
Gumbo Fest Baytowne
Love gumbo? Who doesn’t! The annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival attracts over 2,000 attendees to eat hundreds of pounds of gumbo, bloody mary cocktails, and experience the beauty of Baytowne Wharf.
March
Mac and Cheese Festival Destin Commons
A new event on the calendar, the Mac and Cheese Festival, supports the local Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast. Chefs create unique takes on the comfort classic and compete for the best macaroni and cheese in the area.
Paddle at the Park Set for May 11 at The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island
Destin, Fla., March 14 – The 12th Annual Paddle at the Park Sponsored by HCA Florida Destin Emergency will take place in the Gulf of Mexico behind The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island on Saturday, May 11, 2024. This standup paddleboard race features 1- and 3-mile recreational races, a 6-mile elite race and a kids’ fun out-and-back paddle.
Racers and spectators alike will enjoy the festive atmosphere with displays and booths set up along the beach. The races have staggered start times, beginning at 9 a.m. The event will conclude with awards.
Registration is now open at https://paddleguru.com/races/12thAnnualPaddleatthePark. Find all race details at PaddleAtThePark.com or follow Facebook.com/PaddleAtThePark.
Thank you to our race partners BOTE and The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island; title sponsor HCA Florida Destin Emergency; platinum sponsor Destin – Fort Walton Beach; silver sponsor Eglin Federal Credit Union; bronze sponsor The Island Resort at Fort Walton Beach; and media sponsor Destin Life!
April
30A Sand Rover Rally
The 30A Sand Rover Rally is a two-day event featuring over 100 Land Rovers™, live music, and vendors, all for free! Held at The Gulley Amphitheater, attendees are encouraged to bring the whole family and explore some of the 30As local trails!
May
Cobia World Championship
While the event kicks off at the end of March, the Cobia World Championship has final weigh-ins and awards dinner at the beginning of May. The fishing tournament has multiple award categories and is a great event to travel for every year!
July
Smoke on the Coast BBQ and Fireworks Festival
The annual Smoke on the Coast BBQ and Fireworks Festival is a celebration of all things American. In early July, attendees enjoy live music, $1 bbq samples, and fireworks in the late evening.
August
Emerald Coast Poker Run
A charity event, the Emerald Coast Poker Run, supports local youth in Northwest Florida. Like a traditional poker run, there are seven checkpoints to draw a poker card as you build a winning hand. All boats are welcome!
October
Destin Seafood Festival
The Destin Seafood Festival is a free event where over 60,000 attendees flock to Destin for fresh seafood, live music, and creative artwork. Enjoy the biggest event of the fall as you survey wares from 100s of vendors from all over Florida.
November
Baytowne Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights
The Baytowne Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights event has been a fixture in Sandestin for nearly ten years. Kick-off your holiday season properly with over 30 champagnes to choose from at select Village restaurants.
December
Destin Boat Parade
The annual Holiday on the Harbor Destin Boat Parade is the perfect way to light up your pre-Christmas festivities. The event features a string of boats decorated and adorned with lights, trees, and holiday cheer, followed by fireworks.
Best Vacation Rentals in Destin
The Destin area is loaded with events to check out and vacation rentals to sleep in. There is something for everyone from condos along the historic 30A strip to vacation rentals in Destin, Florida. Book one of our vacation rentals today!