Winter Events

Sandestin Gumbo Festival

-When: February 21–22, 2026 (36th Annual)
-Where: The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Destin
-Now in its 36th year, this two-day celebration kicks off on Friday, February 21, with a shrimp boil at 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill from 5–8 PM and live music. On Saturday, Gulf Coast restaurants compete for the title of Best Gumbo on the Emerald Coast, with guests casting votes for the “People’s Choice” award while celebrity judges select the overall winner. The festival also features the Best Bloody Mary at the Beach competition, live entertainment, and kids’ activities. Admission includes unlimited gumbo and Bloody Mary tastings.

DeFuniak Springs Holiday Lights

-When: Holiday season (dates vary)
-Where: Lake DeFuniak Historic District
-The historic homes surrounding Lake DeFuniak shine under more than 10 million hand-strung holiday lights. Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides along Circle Drive past Victorian architecture adorned with wreaths, garlands, and festive décor.

Spring Events

Emily Frances Ellis Art Exhibition

-When: March 6–April 12, 2025
-Where: Gallery of Art, Panama City
-The Gallery of Art in Panama City presents a solo exhibition by Emily Frances Ellis, the gallery’s Best of Show winner. An opening reception will be held on March 13 from 5–7 PM.

Emerald Coast Cruizin’

-When: Spring (annual event)
-Where: Aaron Bessant Park, Panama City Beach
-Classic car enthusiasts gather to admire restored hot rods, cruisers, and custom builds. The event includes more than 125 auto vendors, a swap meet, and a car corral — all set against the backdrop of Panama City Beach.

Emerald Coast Bike Fest

-When: May 1–4, 2026
-Where: Emerald Coast Harley-Davidson, Fort Walton Beach
-This biker-friendly event features live music, great food, and one of the largest selections of new and pre-owned Harley-Davidsons in the Southeast.

Summer Events

Billy Bowlegs Festival

-When: Summer (annual event)
-Where: Various Emerald Coast locations
-Named after a legendary pirate who once sailed these shores, this beloved festival brings the area’s colorful history to life with parades, live music, fireworks, and family-friendly activities.

30A Songwriters Festival

-When: Summer (annual event)
-Where: Various venues along Scenic Highway 30A
-One of the South’s premier music festivals, 30A Songwriters Festival brings together acclaimed artists and emerging talent for intimate performances at venues across the 30A corridor.

Fall Events

Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival

-When: November 6–16, 2025 (41st Annual)
-Where: Venues from Perdido Key, FL to Gulf Shores, AL
-Celebrating over four decades of music, this 10-day festival features more than 200 musicians performing over 600 shows across two dozen venues — including three stages at the iconic Flora-Bama Lounge. A Youth Showcase highlights young songwriters under 18, with the winner earning a paid spot at next year’s event.

Destin Seafood Festival

-When: September (annual event)
-Where: Destin
-A celebration of Destin’s deep-rooted fishing heritage, this waterfront festival features fresh Gulf seafood, local art, live entertainment, and family activities — all with stunning harbor views.

Year-Round Attractions

The Village of Baytowne Wharf

-Where: Sandestin
-This charming village offers shopping, dining, and seasonal events throughout the year. Families can enjoy a playground, adventure zone, carousel, and arcade — all with a relaxed coastal atmosphere and fewer crowds than nearby harbors.

Additional Resources

For current event calendars and ticket information, visit 850TIX.com or check Emerald Coast Magazine’s online event listings.