EVENTS

Whether it’s a family-friendly event, a seasonal celebration, or a festival of food and drink, South Walton and the Emerald Coast are packed with events that will appeal to everyone. Warm up the winter by revisiting some of your favorite dishes at the annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival, a treasure for guests and locals for over three decades. Or fi nd your preferred varietal at the 30A Wine Festival or the Sandestin Wine Festival. Once the weather warms back up, venture out and expand your creative side at the ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival, then light up your night with a stop by Digital Graffiti, a dazzling showcase as original artwork is cast onto the striking white walls of Alys Beach. Many of these annual events can be reached via a free shuttle from The Village of Baytowne Wharf, and others are just minutes away from the resort. So gather your family and friends, and we’ll see you there.

October FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s family-friendly, two-day signature event in Destin features nearly 200 artists from 13 states showcasing art in many media, from paintings to metal sculptures. Plus, watch plein air artists at work, browse art by emerging and student artists, and get handson in the interactive Kids ArtStop station.

January 30A SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL

The popular 30A Songwriters Festival returns annually with its premier event, boasting performances from more than 175 singer-songwriters. Headliners for the 2023 event included Mavis Staples, Chris and Rich Robinson (the Black Crowes), Dawes, Jenny Lewis and Rickie Lee Jones. This four-day event supports the Cultural Arts Alliance nonprofit organization, with 100% of net proceeds going to support their mission of advancing the arts of Walton County.

February SANDESTIN GUMBO FESTIVAL

Find your favorite gumbo at the annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival, an event sure to warm your soul. Stroll through Baytowne Wharf while listening to live musical entertainment.

↑ SEASIDE HALF MARATHON & 5K

Whether you come as a racer or spectator, you’ll enjoy this funfilled event that raises funds for the Seaside School.

30a Wine Festival

Distinguished vintners and culinary experts descend on Alys Beach for this four-day showcase that includes wine seminars, bonfires, brunch options and croquet tournaments.

April

Sandestin Wine Festival

Uncork some fun at the 36th annual Sandestin Wine Festival. Savor fine wines and food while enjoying live music and a picture-perfect atmosphere at The Village of Baytowne Wharf.

SOUTH WALTON BEACHES WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL

Celebrity winemakers, distillers, chefs and mixologists come together for this annual event supporting the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, with more than 600 wines to sample as well as a selection of small bites from local restaurateurs.

Destin Charity Wine Auction

The Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation’s annual event presented by the Jumonville Family returns for its 18th year. A weekend of patron dinners leads up to the main event with a reserve tasting and live auction at Grand Boulevard. The event will offer wines from internationally acclaimed vintners accompanied by local cuisine.