@2x.png)
Spring sunshine ushers in local farmers markets, wine festivals, gumbo festivals, music festivals, Mardi Gras celebrations—there’s even a mac and cheese festival!
There are events for all ages happening along the Emerald Coast and in the Forgotten Coast. Recharge in your beautiful vacation rental, and then get out and explore one of these events!
If you’ve never experienced a roaring bonfire on the beach—you are missing out. Chilly temperatures, the chorus of crashing waves, a star-filled sky, a picnic table covered in s’mores ingredients, and the people you love most all combine to create pure beach magic. It's an experience that you'll remember for years! Our concierge can even help arrange a beach bonfire for you!
Farmers Markets
You can purchase local produce, meat, jams, jellies, and wares at farmers markets held in Grand Boulevard, Seaside, and DeFuniak Springs each Saturday morning. Rosemary Beach hosts a Farmers Market every Sunday morning.
Feb. 14 & 15
PCB Mardi Gras and Music Festival
The festival features entertainment for the whole family in conjunction with the Krewe of Dominique Youx's Great Mardi Gras at the Beach parade. On Friday, there’s a Kids' Fun Zone, a kids' parade, a second-line parade, and music by Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band. On Saturday, a 5K fun run kicks off the day! Music by The Band Feel, Chris Janson, Lost Bayou Ramblers, Double Trouble Zydeco, and fireworks cap off the night!
Feb. 14-16
Seaside School Half Marathon and 5k
This annual event is a primary fundraiser for the Seaside Neighborhood School, Florida’s first charter school. The fun begins with the Taste of the Race on Friday, culminating with the half marathon and 5k on Sunday morning. Not up for running or walking? Join the crowd and cheer on the racers!
Feb. 13-15
Sand Up Comedy Festival
Between 6-10:30 PM in various venues
During the Sand Up Comedy, the Emerald Coast's official comedy festival, audiences can expect side-splitting humor, unforgettable punchlines, and a chance to enjoy world-class comedy in some of Walton and Bay County's finest venues.
Feb. 15
Mexico Beach Annual Gumbo Cook-Off
Gumbo & Brunswick stew will begin being served at 10 AM (CT) until it’s all gone, so don’t arrive late! Tickets will be sold once the gates open, and are required to sample and enjoy any and all gumbo and stew. Attendees will also enjoy live entertainment and will receive free beads.
Feb. 20-23
30A Wine Festival
The 30A Wine Festival at Alys Beach begins with oysters and champagne and ends with rose and croquet in Central Park. In between, attendees can sip mimosas at a gospel brunch, enjoy a grand tasting, or partake in the beloved bourbon, beer, and barbecue tasting on Friday.
Feb. 21
36th Annual Sandestin Gumbo & Bloody Mary Festival
Gumbo or Bloody Marys? Live Music or Kids Activities? Whatever your preference, the Sandestin Gumbo Festival has it all! One of the most beloved winter food events on the Emerald Coast, this lively two-day festival in The Village of Baytowne Wharf will leave you full, happy, and wanting more! Enjoy live music, family-friendly fun, and the great gumbo.
Feb. 22
Destin Shrimp and Grits Festival
Brotula's Seafood House & Steamer
Enjoy delicious food, great drinks, and live music on the Destin Harbor as local restaurants compete at the annual Shrimp & Grits Festival. The festival will be held behind Brotula's Seafood House & Steamer from noon to 4 PM.
Feb. 21 & 22
Apalachicola Mardi Gras Barkus Parade & Street Festival
Riverfront Park
Friday: 2-8 PM
Saturday: 11 AM-4 PM, Parade at 1 PM
The Mystic Krewe of Salty Barkers hosts the 14th Annual Mardi Gras Pet Parade! Dogs walk for free, walkers are $5, and golf carts are $25. There will be live music, arts and crafts, local vendors, delicious food, and beer! Proceeds benefit local animal shelters. Don’t miss this “pawsome” event!
Feb. 22
Camp Helen Americana Music at the Lodge
6-8 PM
Camp Helen State Park
Americana Concerts in the Lodge at Camp Helen State Park are back! Doors open at 6 PM, with the concert set to begin at 6:30 PM. Snacks and beverages will be provided by the Friends of Camp Helen. Purchase tickets here. friendsofcamphelen.org
Feb. 28 & March 1
Panama City Beach Scottish Festival
9 AM-5 PM
Grace Presbyterian Church
This family-friendly festival features Highland dancers, axe throwing, premium single malt Scotch tastings, kid’s highland games, and the ever-popular Highland Athletic competition. Visit pcbscottishfestival.com to purchase tickets, and to view the event schedule. The 2025 festival entertainment includes music by The Devil's Brigade and Celtica Nova , featuring Scottish bagpipers.
Feb. 28 & March 1-2
Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show
Aaron Bessant Park
See boat displays from all major manufacturers and the top dealers representing the latest in boats, high-tech engines, electronics, and marine accessories. Boats range from entry-level bow riders and center consoles all the way up to the next generation 42' center consoles with quad outboards. Purchase tickets here. emeraldcoastboatshow.com
Farmers Markets
Purchase local produce, meat, jams, jellies, and wares at farmers markets held in Grand Boulevard, Seaside, and DeFuniak Springs each Saturday morning. Rosemary Beach hosts a Farmers Market every Sunday morning.
Every Wednesday and Friday night
HarborWalk Village Spring Break Concert Series
Destin Harbor
Dance to your own beat with a silent disco experience in front of the Main Stage every Wednesday (sanitized headphones provided). Or join in the excitement of Coastal Country every Friday night with line dancing, beverage sampling, and a fireworks show!
March 2
Baytowne Wharf Mardi Gras Parade
2 PM
The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Music will fill the air as parade participants and four-pawed friends shower parade-goers with a barrage of beads, moon pies, and other trinkets. The celebration continues into the night with parties at various Baytowne establishments. So break out the beads and get ready for a night to remember!
March 8
ECCAC Gala & Golf Weekend
5 PM
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
The Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center (ECCAC) is hosting its signature Golf and Gala weekend. Guests will enjoy great food and signature cocktails and have the chance to bid on lots of fabulous experiences during a live auction. Proceeds benefit the children served by the ECCAC. Purchase tickets here. https://eccac.org/about/gala-golf/
March 13
Minds That Matter: A Benefit Concert
6-10 PM
WaterColor LakeHouse
Join The Neurodiversity Resource of the Panhandle for Minds That Matter, an incredible evening with multi-platinum artist Sara Evans, acclaimed artist of “No Place That Far,” "Suds in the Bucket," and “Born to Fly,” at the Lakehouse. Guests will hear firsthand stories behind the music while enjoying gourmet cuisine, libations, and unique silent auction items before the concert.
March 16
7th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival
Noon-3 PM
Destin Commons
The Mac & Cheese Festival benefits the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast. This family-friendly event will feature gourmet, chef-inspired twists on the South’s favorite comfort food. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit 7th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival.
March 29
Blues & Brews Festival
2-9 PM
Horse Power Pavilion
It features a great blues lineup, including award-winning recording artist Rick Berthod! Other artists include Janelle Frost, Kelly Hundley, D. Scott Riggs, Cat Daddy Blues Band, Finga FAYA, and Prodigal Blues. Food and beer are available for purchase.
Farmers Markets
You can purchase local produce, meat, jams, jellies, and wares at farmers markets held in Grand Boulevard, Seaside, and DeFuniak Springs each Saturday morning. Rosemary Beach hosts a Farmers Market every Sunday morning.
April 11
Sandestin Wine Festival: Grand Tasting
5-8 PM
The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Wine novices can learn more about wines and sample from a comprehensive selection in all varieties, styles, and price ranges. Wine aficionados enjoy meeting winemakers, asking detailed questions, and acquiring hard-to-get selections while listening to live music.
April 26-27
South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival
1-4 PM
Grand Boulevard
More than 600 wines are available to taste at the SoWal Wine Festival Grand Tasting. Tickets include access to the Savor South Walton Culinary Village, tasting seminars, Spirits Row, and celebrity chefs. To purchase tickets, visit www.SoWalWine.com.
Stay with 360 Blue to experience the ultimate Spring vacation along the Emerald Coast. Our luxurious vacation homes provide the perfect home base for your vacation. It’s time to start planning your dream getaway!
