Festivals are all about an event that is celebrated by the community.
Historically festivals were for celebrating gods or saints. Today the basis is still community-driven but the center of the celebration is more about what we humans enjoy and choose to celebrate.
Destin has plenty of fun activities, including pontoon boats and jet skis. But, If you’re looking for more reasons to visit Destin, FL, why not embed yourself in their community by attending one of their many festivals?
Here are the top 10 festivals in Destin, FL
Smokin in the panhandle – August 23, 2023
Have you ever wanted your Tony soprano moment? Not in the mob-style way that will put you in prison sense silly, just for the fancy cigars in your robe experience.
Although the robe is optional this fest does provide plenty of cigars!
The Smokin’ In The Panhandle Festival is hosted at a few choice venues, some included are; Navarre Cigars, Navarre beach, and the Library Cigar Lounge.
This festival will have both food and drinks provided by local restaurants.
If all of this wasn’t enough to sell you on, the proceeds are given to charity. You get to have fun and even give a little back!
Brunch Fest– February 11, 2022
What’s too late for breakfast, but too early for lunch? It’s brunch!
Brunch in itself is a party but make an entire festival around it and call it a celebration.
This fest is held and hosted at the Harbor Walk Village.
When you get there you can start with the perfect mimosa or Bloody Mary to spring you toward good vibes before meandering into troves of food.
The Brunch Fest food features restaurants such as; Ruby Slipper Cafe, Parlor Doughnuts, Boathouse, Granda Vista Bar & Grill, Harry T’s, and Brotula’s Seafood House and Steamer.
Bring your brunch bestie and enjoy!
Shrimp And Grits Fest February 25,2023
You’re the kind of person who likes shrimp, you’re also the kind of person who likes grits. This is the perfect fest for you.
The Shrimp and Grits fest provides a variety of different twists on the southern classic dish that we all know as shrimp and grits.
This Fest will be held at Brotoula’s Seafood house and Steamer for the year 2023.
While you’re there be sure to get your moves together, a DJ will be spinning some tunes for your dancing pleasure.
Here, local chefs compete for your vote in Best shrimp and grits so expect only the most delicious things you’ve ever experienced.
This festival is not just good for your belly but also for benefiting The Boys and Girls Club too!
Why’s that? You may ask.
Proceeds go to the boys and girls club.
Get your food critic on and buy yourself a ticket today!
Mac And Cheese Fest March 5, 2023
You don’t have to be cheesy to love this festival!
Whether it reminds us of our favorite childhood meal or a late-night binge we all love a good mac.
The Mac and Cheese Fest is held in Destin’s Commons and is the ideal family-friendly event.
There will be plenty of styles of mac and cheese to choose from, keep in mind that at the end of the event, one chef will win an award for best mac and cheese! So don’t forget to place your vote!
Come get cheesy!
Sandestin Grand Wine Tasting April 13th -16th, 2023
Think you know a thing or two about wine? Check out this festival! You’ll be swirling notes of everything by the end.
Sandestin Wine Festival has been around for 36 years!
This festival will be held at the Baytowne Warf for ambiance.
The Sandestin Wine Festival is a four-day event that has an abundance of activities, some of which involve dinners, celebrity chefs, and of course wine tastings.
This festival has over a hundred different wines to choose from, making certain you will level up your wine knowledge.
Benefits are given to both the Fisher House and Sandestin Foundation for kids, making it an extra good festival to support.
Release your inner sommelier and grab yourself a ticket.
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Viking Cheer Food Truck Fest – March 4, 2023
You’ve worn a helmet with horns on it once, along with drinking out of a scull from your enemy and now you think you’re a Viking! Or maybe you just want to support the FWBHS cheerleaders, either way, this is a good festival to attend and it’s delectable.
This is year two of The Viking Cheer Foodtruck Fest and it’s held at the parking lot of Fort Walton Beach High.
There will be 12 vendors to choose from, just in case you’re picky, or just want to try them all.
Dip a toe into every tasty treat you can find and support a stellar high school.
Escape To The Island-May 12-20, 2023
Aren’t festivals all about escaping?
If you’re looking for stuff to do in Destin, and want your escape, join in on the fun at Escape to The Island Fest.
Escape To the Island is all about getting away from everyday life and relaxing to good jams.
This festival encompasses music from the Troprock genre and you get two full days of it!
You don’t have to worry about where to stay, the festival is held at The Island Resort at Fort Walton Beach where you can receive a special rate for attending.
Get away for a little bit but have big fun!
Mothership Weekend Festival -May 12-14, 2023
Love thy mother, and her festivals too!
This festival is centered around the celebration of mothers, including chosen mothers and mother figures but can be celebrated by anyone.
The Mothership Festival is being held at Miramar Beach FL in the Seascape Resort.
This festival is an entire three days of music and fun, just enough time to step away from the office and come back revived.
The Mothership Weekend will not only have amazing music but will also provide curated activities that include a special list for kids too.
Get your dancing shoes on! The music is geared toward folk, rhythm, and blues.
Come enjoy the fun with your whole family!
With all the options it might be hard to choose which festival to go to, or maybe attend them all!
Come to Destin for its beautiful weather, beaches, and festivals!