Discover the top annual events in Destin, 30A, and Panama City Beach, from seafood festivals and fishing tournaments to music, wine, and family-friendly pirate adventures along Florida's Emerald Coast.
When vacationing in the Colorado Rockies, the Outer Banks, the Emerald Coast, or anywhere in between, adding local events to your itinerary will definitely level up your trip.
If you're planning a vacation on the Emerald Coast, cities like Destin, 30A, and Panama City Beach host incredible events that showcase the vibrant local culture, delicious food, and warm hospitality of each destination.
Here's a sneak peek just for you:
- Destin Cobia Tournament: Spring fishing tournament where anglers chase the exciting cobia along Destin's Gulf waters.
- Destin Seafood Festival: October harbor-front celebration with fresh Gulf seafood, live music, and local art.
- Destin Fishing Rodeo: Month-long October event where fishermen of all ages compete for the biggest catches.
- 30A Songwriters Festival: January music festival featuring renowned songwriters in intimate beachside venues.
- Sandestin Gumbo Festival: Winter cook-off and tasting event celebrating the South's favorite comfort food.
- SoWal Beaches Wine & Food Festival: April festival for foodies and wine lovers with tastings, demos, and live music.
- Emerald Coast Blue Marlin: Classic Summer deep-sea fishing tournament with big prizes and lively marina energy.
- UnWineD: March festival in Panama City Beach with wine, craft beer, gourmet bites, and live music.
- Seabreeze Jazz Festival: Spring open-air jazz festival featuring top artists and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.
- Pirates of the High Seas & Renaissance Fest: October family-friendly event with parades, treasure drops, fireworks, and pirate fun.
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.
In this guide, I'll walk you through the can't-miss events along this stretch of the Gulf Coast, when they happen, why locals and visitors love them, and a few fun tidbits you might not know.
Ready? Let's jump into the details!
1. DESTIN COBIA TOURNAMENT
Springtime favorite drawing anglers from near and far to chase one of the most exciting fish in the sea.
The Destin Cobia Tournament is a springtime favorite on the Gulf Coast, drawing anglers from near and far to chase one of the most exciting fish in the sea. Running since the 1950s, this tournament is part fishing challenge, part local tradition, and part community celebration. Each year, the emerald waters off Destin become the stage for big catches, friendly competition, and plenty of fish tales.
Why People Love It
- Thrilling catches: Hooking a cobia is no easy feat, and the fight keeps anglers coming back.
- Scenic spring days: The tournament coincides with the cobia migration, offering great weather and calm Gulf waters.
- Local camaraderie: Fishermen, families, and locals gather for a fun, community-driven event.
- Prizes and bragging rights: Cash rewards, trophies, and the glory of a winning catch.
- A piece of history: Decades of fishing heritage make this tournament a true Destin tradition.
Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, families are welcome. While the action happens on the boats, kids enjoy seeing the catches at the docks, soaking in the local vibe, and cheering for their favorite anglers.
2. DESTIN SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
A three-day celebration packed with fresh Gulf seafood, live music, local art, and a chill coastal vibe.
Every October, Destin comes alive with the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Destin Seafood Festival. Set along the picturesque harbor, this three-day celebration is all about fresh Gulf seafood, live music, local art, and a laid-back coastal vibe. Visitors can feast on shrimp, oysters, and crab while soaking in stunning water views and the energy of one of Destin's most beloved traditions.
Why People Love It
- Seafood heaven: From shrimp and oysters to freshly caught fish, it's the ultimate taste of the Gulf.
- Live music everywhere: Local and regional bands keep the party going with tunes that make you want to dance or just sway along.
- Art and shopping: Stroll through booths with handmade jewelry, pottery, candles, and coastal souvenirs.
- The harbor views: Eating seafood with the Gulf of Mexico as your backdrop feels like a true vacation moment.
- Sustainability with flavor: Learn about local fishing and eco-friendly seafood practices while indulging in the catch of the day.
Is It Family-Friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the music, the open-air setting, and the lively festival atmosphere. Families can enjoy the food, browse the crafts, and snap plenty of photos along the harbor without feeling rushed or crowded.
3. DESTIN FISHING RODEO
Fishermen of all ages trying to reel in the biggest catch against the backdrop of crystal-clear waters.
Also happening every October, the Destin Fishing Rodeo turns this Gulf Coast town into an angler's paradise. For a full month, the harbor buzzes with fishermen of all ages trying to reel in the biggest catch against the backdrop of crystal-clear waters. Since 1948, this beloved event has celebrated Destin's fishing roots, offering daily tournaments, family fun, and plenty of chances to bring home a prize. It's not just a competition, it's a community tradition that keeps the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village" title alive.
Why People Love It
- Nonstop Action: Daily tournaments for all kinds of fish keep the excitement going every day of October.
- Fun for Everyone: Kids, women, kayak anglers, and pros all get their own moments to shine.
- Prizes Galore: From cash to trophies to fishing gear, there's plenty of incentive to cast a line.
- Scenic Backdrop: The harbor and Gulf waters make every fishing moment picture-perfect.
- Community Vibes: It's more than fishing—locals and visitors come together for a month-long celebration.
Is It Family-Friendly?
Kids can join their own tournaments, win prizes, and learn to love fishing in a safe, welcoming setting. Families can cheer on the anglers, explore the harbor, and soak in the lively festival atmosphere.
4. 30A SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL
Renowned songwriters performing in intimate venues like beachside restaurants and small theaters.
In January, Florida's scenic Highway 30A becomes a hub for music lovers during the 30A Songwriters Festival. This multi-day event is all about celebrating the craft of songwriting, bringing together Grammy-winning artists, emerging talents, and renowned songwriters to perform in intimate venues like beachside restaurants, cozy bars, and small theaters.
Why People Love It
- Up-close performances: Cozy venues make every show feel personal, like a private concert.
- Incredible lineup: Past performers include Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, Indigo Girls, and more across folk, rock, country, and indie.
- Scenic backdrop: White-sand beaches and charming coastal towns make the festival even more magical.
- Behind-the-song moments: Hear the stories and inspirations straight from the songwriters themselves.
Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, but it's best for families with older kids or teens who enjoy live music. The vibe is relaxed and intimate, but most events cater to an audience ready to listen and soak up the performances.
5. SANDESTIN GUMBO FESTIVAL
Flavor-packed celebration of the South's favorite comfort food.
The Sandestin Gumbo Festival is a cozy, flavor-packed celebration of the South's favorite comfort food. Each winter, locals and visitors gather along the Gulf Coast to savor steaming bowls of gumbo, cheer on cook-off competitions, and soak up the lively coastal vibe. Between the music, the food, and the beautiful Sandestin backdrop, it's the perfect recipe for a fun-filled weekend.
Why People Love It
- Endless Gumbo Tastings: Sample bowls from local chefs and restaurants, each with its twist on the classic.
- Cook-Off Excitement: Watch talented chefs compete for bragging rights in the annual gumbo showdown.
- Live Music Vibes: Enjoy a soundtrack of festive tunes while you eat your way through the event.
- Scenic Gulf Coast Setting: A backdrop of sparkling water and coastal charm makes every bite more memorable.
Is It Family-Friendly?
Kids can enjoy the music and lively atmosphere, while adults indulge in the tastings. It's a casual, community-focused event that welcomes families to join the fun.
6. SOWAL BEACHES WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL
Sip world-class wines, sample bites from top chefs, and feel the Gulf breeze while live music sets the mood.
The South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival is a springtime dream for foodies and wine lovers alike. Picture sipping world-class wines, sampling bites from top chefs, and feeling the Gulf breeze while live music sets the mood. Every April, this festival transforms the Emerald Coast into a flavorful playground where you can taste, learn, and celebrate all things culinary.
Why People Love It
- Incredible Food: Taste gourmet creations from award-winning chefs and local favorites.
- World-Class Wine: Sample a huge variety of wines, from Napa Valley reds to Italian and Spanish selections, guided by expert sommeliers.
- Hands-On Learning: Enjoy cooking demos, wine seminars, and behind-the-scenes insights from chefs, winemakers, and artisans.
- Live Entertainment: The music adds a lively backdrop to all the tasting and sipping, making it a true celebration.
- Gulf Coast Vibes: It's hard to beat a festival where fine dining meets sandy toes and sea breezes.
Is It Family-Friendly?
This event is mostly geared toward adults because of the wine tastings, but older teens can enjoy the live music, food, and the festive coastal atmosphere. Families with younger kids might prefer to make it a parents' day out.
7. EMERALD COAST BLUE MARLIN CLASSIC
Lively mix of competition, camaraderie, and celebration of the Gulf's vibrant marine life.
The Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic at Sandestin is a summer highlight for fishing enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Set against the sparkling Gulf, this world-class tournament draws anglers from all over the country to chase the ultimate trophy: the blue marlin. It's a lively mix of competition, camaraderie, and celebration of the Gulf's vibrant marine life. Even if you're not casting a line, the energy along the docks and the stunning coastal views make this event a true Emerald Coast spectacle.
Why People Love It
- World-class sportfishing: Anglers compete for the thrill of reeling in blue marlin and other prized catches.
- Big prizes and bragging rights: Cash rewards, trophies, and top boat honors keep the competition fierce.
- Catch-and-release focus: Conservation efforts shine through with awards for tagging and releasing billfish.
- Gorgeous setting: The turquoise waters of the Gulf create an unforgettable backdrop for competitors and spectators.
- Dockside excitement: Even non-anglers enjoy the festive atmosphere, seeing the massive catches come in.
Is It Family-Friendly?
While the competition is serious, the event has a welcoming, coastal festival feel. Families can stroll the marina, watch the weigh-ins, snap photos with the boats, and soak up the sun. It's as much about the Emerald Coast vibe as it is about fishing.
8. UNWINED
Perfect blend of wines, craft beers, gourmet foods, and live music.
The Panama City Beach UnWineD Wine and Craft Beer Festival, an annual March celebration, is the epitome of coastal indulgence. Offering the perfect blend of wines, craft beers, gourmet foods, and live music, this festival is a harmonious fusion of flavors and melodies that captures the essence of Panama City Beach's vibrant culture.
Why People Love It
- Endless Sips: Sample wines and craft beers from local, national, and even international makers.
- Perfect Pairings: Enjoy gourmet bites and sweet treats designed to complement every sip.
- Live Music Vibes: Talented bands and musicians keep the party festive and relaxed.
- Ocean Views: Savor drinks and bites with a panoramic backdrop of the Gulf's emerald waters.
- Total Coastal Mood: It's the perfect blend of good drinks, good music, and good times by the beach.
Is It Family-Friendly?
This one's more of a grown-ups' escape, thanks to the focus on wine, beer, and culinary experiences. Families with older teens might enjoy the live music and beachy atmosphere, but it's best suited for adults looking for a fun and flavorful weekend.
9. SEABREEZE JAZZ FESTIVAL
Legendary performers and rising stars in an open-air setting.
Seabreeze Jazz Festival is one of Panama City Beach's signature spring events. The festival brings together legendary performers and rising stars in an open-air setting where the music flows as easily as the sea breeze. Attendees get a mix of soulful melodies, lively rhythms, and an easygoing coastal atmosphere that makes it a standout on the Gulf Coast events calendar.
Why People Love It
- Top-Tier Performances: Big-name jazz artists and new talent share the stage for amazing shows.
- Breathtaking Setting: The emerald waters and soft sands of Panama City Beach create a natural backdrop for the music.
- A Lineup for Every Taste: From smooth jazz to more upbeat styles, there's something for every fan.
- Good Food and Drinks: Local vendors serve plenty of festival favorites to keep energy up between sets.
- Evening Energy: As the sun goes down, the combination of music and Gulf views is hard to beat.
Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, but it's ideal for adults and teens who enjoy live music. Families can enjoy the food, scenery, and relaxed vibe, though the schedule and volume are better suited to older kids and adults.
10. PIRATES OF THE HIGH SEAS & RENAISSANCE FEST
Parades, treasure drops, dazzling fireworks, and a marketplace that feels straight out of another era.
Grab your eyepatch and get ready for adventure, the Pirates of the High Seas & Renaissance Festival takes over Panama City Beach every October. For one weekend, the town transforms into a playground for pirates, mermaids, and Renaissance royalty. It features parades, treasure drops, dazzling fireworks, and a bustling marketplace that feels straight out of another era. It's the perfect mix of seaside fun, swashbuckling action, and a little magic in the autumn air.
Why People Love It
- Pirate invasions that take over the town with costumed crews and cannon fire.
- Swashbuckling battles and reenactments with sword fights and action-packed drama.
- Mesmerizing fireworks lighting up the Gulf Coast sky.
- Live mermaid shows that enchant kids and adults alike.
- Cirque Adventure with thrilling acrobatics and high-flying stunts.
- Colorful parades filled with music, floats, and lively characters.
- Treasure drops that have the crowd racing for prizes.
- Renaissance marketplace where you can shop, snack, and step back in time.
- Sword and whip demos that show off serious skill and flair.
- The pirate's pub and live music for the ultimate festival vibes.
Is It Family-Friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the mermaids, parades, and treasure hunts, while parents enjoy the entertainment, marketplace, and fireworks. There's plenty to keep the whole crew happy, from little buccaneers to grown-up adventurers.
Come for the Festival, Stay with RealJoy
Stay like a local by booking one of our RealJoy Vacations rentals.
From spacious beachfront homes to chic coastal condos, our vacation rentals across the Emerald Coast offer the perfect setting for your beach getaway. With top-tier amenities and thoughtful touches, every stay is designed to help you relax, recharge, and make lasting memories.
Book now and have the ultimate vacation on the Emerald Coast!