There is Something for everyone in Destin – Fort Walton Beach Area Events, Festivals Seasonal Lineup
Welcome to the vibrant world of Destin, where the sun shines year-round, and the spirit of celebration is always in the air. Nestled along the stunning Emerald Coast, this coastal paradise offers an endless array of Destin events, Destin festivals, and Destin happenings that cater to every taste and interest. See our Events Calendar for current information.
Welcome to Destin Area Annual Events listed for your Stay & Play Golf & Beach Vacation Destination! Experience a year-round celebration of coastal gems with a vibrant calendar of events and happenings that promise endless fun. Take a look at our month-by-month event, and festival guide:
January Festivals
- 30A Songwriters Festival
February Festivals
- Sandestin Gumbo Festival
- 30A Wine Festival
March Festivals
- Mac-N-Cheese Festival
April Festivals
- Sandestin Wine Festival
May Festivals
- Digital Graffiti Festival
June Festivals
- Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic
July Festivals
- Smoke on the Coast BBQ and Fireworks Festival
August Festivals
- Emerald Coast Poker Run
October Festivals
- Destin Fishing Rodeo
- Destin Seafood Festival
November Festivals
- Baytowne Beer Festival
- Harvest Wine & Food Festival
December Festivals
- Destin Boat Parade
Plan your unforgettable trip to Destin and immerse yourself in its diverse lineup of events, festivals, and happenings. Each month offers something unique to captivate visitors of all ages and interests. Get ready to make memories that last a lifetime in this coastal paradise!
Embrace the Coastal Spirit of Destin: A Year-Round Gulf Celebration
Destin is a coastal gem that pulses with a vibrant, year-round calendar of events and celebrations. From the deep-rooted connection to fishing showcased in the Okaloosa Ialsn Pier’s Destin Cobia Tournament2 to the diverse lineup of festivals and festivities, this sun-kissed destination offers an unparalleled experience for visitors and locals alike.
Featured Events in Okaloosa County’s Destin on The Harbor
The Destin Fishing Rodeo, a cherished tradition since the 1950s, takes place throughout the entire month of October, featuring a wide variety of tournaments to accommodate anglers of all ages and skill levels2.
Meanwhile, the Destin Seafood Festival, typically held over a weekend in October, serves as an educational platform for sustainable and eco-conscious seafood practices2. You’ll soon discover why they call Destin “The Luckiest Fishing Village”, so get on a fishing charter during your stay!
The Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic in June offers substantial cash prizes for competing anglers, while the Island Pier Spring Fishing Tournament showcases competitions for Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, and Cobia3.
Take a Kid Fishing Day runs is a free event for children 7 to 13 years old. Every year, on the first Sunday of November, some 300 children will be treated to a day of fishing on the Gulf of America or Choctawhatchee Bay.
The Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival, a renowned event held during the 3rd weekend in May, invites visitors to immerse themselves in the city’s rich maritime heritage3.
Independence Day Celebrations in July are a true highlight, with beachside fireworks extravaganzas featuring live music and dazzling fireworks displays over the Gulf of America3. As the year winds down, the Okaloosa Island New Year’s Eve Fireworks event and the illuminating Holiday Lights along the coast create a magical winter wonderland3.
Destin’s vibrant culinary scene, with hundreds of restaurants catering to diverse palates4, and the city’s recognition for its high-performing schools4 further contribute to the overall appeal of this coastal haven. Whether you’re seeking world-class fishing4, a lively cultural experience, or simply a chance to soak up the sun, Destin’s year-round calendar of events and celebrations promises an unforgettable getaway.
“Destin is a coastal gem that pulses with a vibrant, year-round calendar of events and celebrations.”
Discover Destin’s Diverse Lineup of Destin, events, festivals, happenings
Destin, the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” offers a vibrant array of Destin attractions, Destin activities, Destin entertainment, Destin celebrations, and Destin gatherings throughout the year5. Beyond its renowned white-sand beaches and emerald-green waters, this coastal gem boasts a captivating event calendar that caters to every interest.
Explore the local destin attractions like the bustling HarborWalk Village. , the tranquil Norriego Point, and the lively Baytowne Wharf, all of which offer an array of activities and entertainment5. Experience the seasonal celebrations and gatherings, such as the Sandestin Gumbo Festival, the EOD Warrior Foundation Poker Run, and the Destin Charity Wine Auction6. Check our Events list or follow links.
As the weather warms up, the community comes alive with the Wednesday Night Concert Series and Beat the Heat Concert Series, providing live music and entertainment at HarborWalk Village5. The Fourth of July celebration at Baytowne Wharf, known as Red, White & Baytowne, and the Perfect Hues: Baytowne Wharf Art & Food Fest over Labor Day weekend are must-attend annual celebrations5.
Throughout the fall, Destin’s event calendar is filled with mouthwatering foodie gatherings, including the Destin Seafood Festival, the Destin Fishing Rodeo, the Baytowne Beer Festival, and the Harvest Wine & Food Festival7.
As the year draws to a close, the community comes together for the festive Destin Boat Parade, complete with holiday decorations and a dazzling fireworks display7. Eat drink and be merry in Destin – Fort Walton Beach is a festive place all year long.
Plan Your Next Unforgettable Getaway with Our Comprehensive Event Guide
Whether you’re seeking a fun-filled family outing, a romantic weekend escape, or an action-packed adventure, Destin’s vibrant event calendar offers something to captivate every traveler. From outdoor concerts and culinary festivals to fishing tournaments and patriotic celebrations, this coastal paradise hosts a year-round lineup of exciting events and activities8.
Start planning your next unforgettable trip to Destin by exploring the latest happenings and marking your calendar for the must-attend events in this dynamic Florida destination. Witness nearby 30A Songwriters Festival in January8, or immerse yourself in the flavors of the Sandestin Gumbo Festival and 30A Wine Festival in February8. In March, indulge in the cheesy delights of the Mac-N-Cheese Festival8, while April brings the renowned Sandestin Wine Festival8.
As the seasons change, Destin’s event calendar continues to captivate, from the Digital Graffiti Festival in May8 to the Smoke on the Coast BBQ and Fireworks Festivals in July8 and the Emerald Coast Poker Run in August8. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, culinary delights, or adrenaline-fueled adventures, Destin’s comprehensive event guide has everything you need to plan your next unforgettable getaway9, on and off the golf course.
