Best Events In Destin Florida Throughout The Year!

Annual Events In Destin, Florida

Destin, Florida hosts several notable annual events that draw crowds of locals and tourists. 

These events highlight the area’s rich tradition in fishing, seafood, and fine wines.

Destin Fishing Rodeo

The Destin Fishing Rodeo, held every October, is central to the city’s identity as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.”

Anglers of all ages participate in various categories, aiming to reel in the biggest catch.

Weigh-ins are daily from 10 am to 7 pm at the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, creating a lively atmosphere.

Prizes include cash awards, trophies, and sponsored gear.

Participants can fish from registered boats. Special divisions cater to kids, teens, and women, making it inclusive and fun for families.

Fishing charters are available for tourists looking to join the excitement.

Destin Seafood Festival

The Destin Seafood Festival takes place at the end of September, kicking off the Fishing Rodeo.

This three-day festival sprawls along the Destin Harbor and showcases fresh Gulf seafood.

Local restaurants and vendors serve a variety of dishes, such as shrimp, oysters, and fish tacos.

Live music spans multiple stages, offering genres from rock to country.

Arts and crafts booths provide unique shopping opportunities, while a children’s area ensures fun for younger attendees.

Admission is free, though VIP packages with exclusive food options are available.

Sandestin Wine Festival

The Sandestin Wine Festival, held in April, celebrates wine and culinary delights.

This four-day event features grand wine tastings, where attendees sample hundreds of wines from around the world.

Seminars and cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs add an educational element.

The festival includes a VIP lounge with gourmet appetizers, a Champagne brunch, and live music.

Tickets are required and sell out quickly, reflecting the event’s popularity.

This annual event is located at The Village of Baytowne Wharf, making it a prime destination for memorable experiences!

Monthly & Weekly Events

Discover a wide range of events in Destin, Florida, from art walks and a concert series to farmers’ markets and monthly festivals.

Each month offers unique activities and gatherings, ensuring there’s always something exciting to look forward to.

Destin Events January

In January, Santa Rosa Beach (near Destin) kicks off the year with the Annual Polar Bear Plunge.

Held at Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar, this event invites participants to take a bracing dip in the Gulf of Mexico.  They also do a costume contest which is open to the participants!

January also features the 30A Songwriters Festival which features live performances by talented musicians, attracting artists and fans from around the country.

Throughout the month, various local bars and restaurants host trivia nights, karaoke, and live music sessions.

Destin Events February

February in Destin brings romantic events and family-friendly activities. 

Mardi Gras Celebrations are prominent, with parades, parties, and masked balls adding festive cheer.

Also in February, The Valentine Tour of Homes showcases some of the finest homes in the Santa Rosa Beach area.

Baytowne Wharf features the annual Sandestin Gumbo Contest features gumbo, Bloody Mary’s, drinks, and live music.  

This area is a hub of activity, featuring kids’ events, performers, and more. 

Destin Events March

Destin in March sees the arrival of spring, celebrated with more events!

Fitness fans participate in the McGuire’s St. Patrick’s Day 5K, an annual run in festive green attire. 

St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations across local pubs and restaurants provide spirited gatherings.

Another March event includes the Mac & Cheese Festival, where restaurants in the area compete for the best mac & cheese. 

There are also plenty of Easter events in Destin in late March and early April!

Destin Events April

April features the Sandestin Wine Festival, drawing wine lovers and connoisseurs.

This multi-day event includes wine tastings, seminars by popular winemakers, and gourmet pairings.

April also features the Emerald Coast Fair with food vendors, live entertainment, and kids’ attractions. 

Destin Events May

May in Destin includes the Blessing of the Fleet, a historic event where boats are blessed for a safe and prosperous season.

The Burning Up the Beaches Car Show displays classic cars along the coast.

Memorial Day Weekend features concerts, fireworks, and family-friendly activities.

Destin Events June

June offers the Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival. This lively celebration includes a pirate parade, skirmishes, and fireworks.

Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach bonfires.

The Summer Solstice Sunset Cruise provides breathtaking views of Destin’s coastline.

Chipley, Florida, located an hour and a half from Destin, hosts the Annual Panhandle Watermelon Festival in June, with live music, games, food vendors, and of course, watermelon!

Destin Events July

July features patriotic 4th of July Celebrations with fireworks shows and parades.

The Red, White, and Blue Hero Celebration honors local heroes with a ceremony at HarborWalk Village.

HarborWalk Village in July also features Havana Nights, Beat The Heat Concert Series, the Harbor Street Parade. 

The Village of Baytowne Wharf features movie nights, fireworks, farmers markets, and their Wednesday Night Concert Series throughout the month.

Destin Events August

In August, Destin remains active with Concerts and Festivals.

The Emerald Coast Poker Run supports local charities and involves boating enthusiasts on a scenic route.

The Back to School Bash at Fort Walton Beach ensures families enjoy one last summer gathering.

Fort Walton Beach also features fireworks and Movies On The Beach on select days throughout the month, 

HarborWalk Village and The Village Of Baytowne Wharf continue their concert series events in August.  

Baytowne Wharf also has fireworks, pirate shows, and farmer’s markets throughout the month. 

Destin Events September

September in Destin is marked by the Seafood, Wine & Music Festival.

This event blends culinary and musical delights. Another notable event is the Baytowne Wharf Art Walk, featuring local artists and craftsmen.

The Labor Day Concert Celebration at HarborWalk Village provides live music and fireworks.

September also hosts the Burgers, Bourbon, & Beer Festival and the Destin Fishing Rodeo Kickoff Party, marking the start of the month-long fishing tournament.

Destin Events October

October brings the celebrated Destin Fishing Rodeo. This event spans the entire month, with daily weigh-ins drawing crowds.

Anglers of all ages compete for prizes in various categories.

The Baytowne Wharf Beer Festival offers live music, lots of food, and craft beers!

The Village also turns into BOOtowne Wharf in the month of October with a haunted courtyard and graveyard. 

Destin Events November

November sees the Blues, Brews & BBQ Festival. This event features top barbecue vendors and blues musicians from across the region.

The Thanksgiving Turkey Trot is a popular 5K run/walk that welcomes participants of all ages.

The Holiday Craft Show showcases handmade goods, perfect for early holiday shopping.

The Veterans Day Parade honors local veterans with a touching tribute and gathering.

Destin Events December

December is festive with Holiday Parades and Light Shows. The Destin Boat Parade features decorated boats lighting up the harbor.

The Baytowne on Ice skating rink offers fun for families. The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at HarborWalk Village marks the start of the holiday season.

Santa visits various locations throughout the month, offering photo opportunities for children.

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