Planning a fall getaway to Destin or the Emerald Coast? Discover 10 fun events you will not want to miss, from seafood festivals and fishing tournaments to food truck feasts and holiday boat parades.
Wherever you travel, in the Colorado Rockies, the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, or along Florida's Gulf Coast, timing your visit to enjoy all the delights of fall is always a good idea. Especially if you focus on the events happening during the shoulder season.
Ever wonder why Destin stays buzzing all year? A lot of it comes down to the packed calendar of festivals, concerts, and events that bring the town to life. Every season has its own vibe, but fall really shines. Think sunny skies, cooler temps, and way fewer crowds. Plus, October is when Destin pulls out all the stops with its biggest events: the Seafood Festival and the legendary Fishing Rodeo.
Here's what's waiting for you:
- Destin Seafood Festival, Early October: Kick off the Destin Fishing Rodeo with a three-day festival featuring delicious seafood, live music, and family activities along the beautiful Destin Harbor.
- Destin Fishing Rodeo, October: A month-long fishing tournament held in October, celebrating Destin s fishing culture with daily weigh-ins and a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Baytowne Beer Festival, Mid-October: A two-day event at Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin, offering over 200 craft beers, live music, and educational beer seminars for adults to enjoy.
- Harvest Wine & Food Festival, October: A four-day luxury experience in WaterColor, featuring wine dinners, a Grand Tasting, and a cocktail brunch for wine and food enthusiasts.
- Barktoberfest, End of October: A doggie costume contest and social event at Grand Boulevard, featuring pet-friendly activities, Oktoberfest libations, and a superhero-themed Halloween contest.
- Spooktacular Nights, End of October: Celebrate Halloween on the Destin Harbor with two nights of fun that every ghost, ghoul, and goblin can enjoy!
- Halloween Haunt, End of October: Come dressed in your best costume and explore Halloween-themed activities, including fantasy face-painting, a whimsical photo booth, and mesmerizing chalk art displays. There's something for everyone, from trick-or-treating around the Commons to live entertainment that will have you dancing in the moonlight.
- Blues Brews, & BBQ, Beginning of November: Savor mouthwatering BBQ samples, refreshing beers, and the soulful sounds of live blues performed by John Hart & Tyler Mac.
- Fall Destin Food Truck Fest, Beginning of November: A family-friendly festival at Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village with gourmet food trucks, live music, and vendors selling crafts and gifts.
- Destin Boat Parade, December: The Holiday on the Harbor Boat Parade transforms Destin Harbor into a festive spectacle of lights and holiday cheer, with decorated boats and a fireworks display.
At RealJoy Vacations, we've been part of the Emerald Coast hospitality scene for years. If you're looking for spacious beachfront houses or luxurious resorts, we offer a wide range of options to suit every preference.
As local experts, we know the area inside and out, and we're here to help you have the best possible experience. For more tips, check out our destination blog for insights on all things Emerald Coast; from the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants to nightlife guides, it's all there.
To help you make the most of your fall trip, this blog highlights the top annual events happening in Destin during the season.
Ready? Let's dive into those exciting events!
Early October (Food, Family-friendly, Cultural)
The Destin Seafood Festival is an unmissable event that celebrates the city's rich fishing heritage. Held at the beginning of October, this three-day extravaganza takes place along the scenic Destin Harbor. It's a lively celebration that marks the start of the Destin Fishing Rodeo, drawing both locals and visitors for a weekend filled with delicious seafood, live music, and a wide array of arts and crafts.
Event Highlights
- Takes place along the Destin Harbor during the first weekend of October.
- Over 100 food vendors serving fresh local seafood.
- Live music on multiple stages, from rock to tropical beats.
- Local beer, craft booths, and handmade souvenirs.
- Beautiful boardwalk views and a buzzing atmosphere.
Is it good for families?
Absolutely. There's a dedicated Kids Zone with rides and activities to keep little ones entertained. The festival is packed with sights, sounds, and bites that appeal to all ages, making it a perfect family outing by the water.
October (Family-friendly, Water activities, Cultural)
The Destin Fishing Rodeo reels in excitement all October long. What started back in 1948 as a three-day contest is now a month-long celebration of the city's fishing roots. With daily weigh-ins and waterfront energy, it's one of Destin's biggest annual traditions.
Event Highlights
Is it good for families?
Kids can enter their own divisions in the tournament, and watching the weigh-ins is exciting for all ages. Even if you're not into fishing, it's a fun way to spend time outdoors, enjoy good food, and soak in the festival vibes by the water.
Mid-October (Adult)
The Annual Baytowne Beer Festival is a two-day celebration held at the Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, just a short drive from Destin. Known as the "Best Beer Fest on the Coast," this event is a haven for beer enthusiasts, featuring over 200 craft beers from more than 40 breweries.
Event Highlights
Is it good for families?
Not really. This one's strictly for the grown-ups. It's an adults-only weekend filled with craft brews, good tunes, and mellow fall energy. Perfect for a getaway with friends or a fun date weekend.
October (Food, Adult, Cultural)
Hosted in WaterColor, a 30-minute drive from Destin, the Annual Harvest Wine & Food Festival spans four days in October, offering a luxurious experience for wine and food enthusiasts. This event is renowned as one of the premier wine and food festivals in the Southeast, featuring wine dinners, a Grand Tasting, and a cocktail brunch.
Event Highlights
Is it good for families?
This one's for the adults. With fine wines and chef-led dinners, it's more suited for couples or friends looking to treat themselves to a sophisticated fall getaway.
End of October (Family-friendly, Cultural, Pet-Friendly)
Barktoberfest is the Emerald Coast's favorite doggie costume contest and social event, held at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. This canine-only trick-or-treating event, organized by Dog-Harmony, is a delightful experience for both pets and their owners.
Event Highlights
Is it good for families?
It's fun for all ages and all breeds. Bring the kids, bring the dog, and soak up the festive atmosphere together.
End of October
Spooktacular Nights at Spook Street is Destin's go-to Halloween bash for families. Set along the harbor, this festive evening is packed with treats, games, and spooky fun that kids and adults will both enjoy.
Event Highlights
Is it good for families?
Definitely. With plenty of kid-friendly activities and fun for grown-ups too, this one's made for families looking to celebrate Halloween in style.
End of October
The Halloween Haunt at Destin Commons is a fun-filled night of costumes, candy, and creativity. This free community event brings the whole place to life with music, activities, and spooky fun around every corner.
Event Highlights
Is it good for families?
Yes! This event is all about making Halloween magical for kids, but there's enough fun for the grown-ups, too.
Beginning of November
Blues, Brews & BBQ brings the best of food, drinks, and live music to HarborWalk Village. It's a laid-back celebration where you can sample local barbecue, sip cold beer, and enjoy some seriously good blues with a waterfront view.
Event Highlights
Is it good for families?
While the food and brews are a hit with adults, the music and open-air setting make it a great day out for all ages.
Beginning of November (Food, Family-friendly)
The Fall Destin Food Truck Fest is a tasty celebration packed with food, fun, and live entertainment. Held at the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, it brings together some of the best local food trucks and vendors for a casual, flavor-filled day out.
Event Highlights
Is it good for families?
The food options, music, and open space make it perfect for a family outing, with plenty to keep both kids and adults happy.
December (Family-friendly, Water activities, Cultural)
The Destin Boat Parade is one of the most magical ways to ring in the holiday season. Every December, the harbor lights up with boats decked out in festive decorations, bringing holiday cheer to everyone.
Event Highlights
Is it good for families?
Kids and adults love the lights, the boats, and the fireworks. Bundle up, grab a hot cocoa, and enjoy the show together.
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