Celebrate autumn on Florida's Emerald Coast with our guide to Destin's top fall events: from the iconic Fishing Rodeo and Seafood Festival to wine tastings and art fairs. Discover the best ways to enjoy the season by the beach!
Wherever you go, fall is always a delightful season. From leaf-peeping in the mountains of Colorado to enjoying fewer crowds along the Gulf Coast, autumn is also the perfect time to enjoy fantastic events and festivals.
If you're hunting for the scoop on the best annual fall events in and around Destin, you're in for a treat! Beyond the soft sandy beaches and crisp sea breezes, the city offers an array of events that make autumn in Destin extra special.
Here's a sneak peek at Destin's fall fun:
- Destin Fishing Rodeo: Month-long fishing tournament with daily weigh-ins, prizes, and family-friendly fun.
- Destin Seafood Festival: Gulf-to-table seafood, live music, and waterfront entertainment.
- Harvest Wine & Food Festival: Four days of fine wine, gourmet tastings, and elegant coastal dining.
- Baytowne Wharf Beer Festival: 200+ craft beers, live bands, and great food pairings.
- Mattie Kelly Festival of the Arts: Visual art, live music, food trucks, and interactive workshops.
At Travel Life Vacations, we specialize in providing premium, boutique-style management services, offering guests private, resort-style luxury homes. We take pride in creating an oasis where you can truly escape from everyday life.
We know "The World's Luckiest Fishing Village" like the back of our hands. Traveling here with pets? First-time visitor? Looking for a family fun itinerary? It's all covered in our blog. We have many more tips to help you have a trip of a lifetime and enjoy the perfect Destin getaway.
In this blog post, I've rounded up the most anticipated fall events in and around Destin to add plenty of fun to your visit.
Let's jump into the details!
1. DESTIN FISHING RODEO
A longstanding Destin tradition celebrating marine life, sportsmanship, and community pride.
Set sail for adventure and join the vibrant community of anglers at the heart of Destin's cherished tradition, the Destin Fishing Rodeo. This event isn't merely a highlight; it is the soul of October, a magnetic pull that transforms the entire Destin Harbor into a bustling hub of excitement, camaraderie, and fish tales waiting to be made.
Event Highlights
- Runs throughout October with daily weigh-ins at Destin Harbor, free for spectators.
- Open to all: from charter captains to private boats, kayaks, and pier anglers.
- Dozens of fishing categories with prizes, raffles, and leaderboards that update daily.
- Kid-friendly events like "Just for Kids" days designed to spark a love for fishing early on.
- Major competitions include the King Mackerel Jackpot and BIG MAC Classic.
- A vibrant festival feel with food, drinks, and live entertainment by the docks.
2. Destin Seafood Festival
Autumn tradition that tantalizes the taste buds and celebrates the rich tapestry of the sea.
Mark your calendars for an autumn tradition that tantalizes the taste buds and celebrates the rich tapestry of the sea. The Destin Seafood Festival, a cornerstone event set against the picturesque backdrop of the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, ushers in the Destin Fishing Rodeo with a wave of flavors, culture, and entertainment. Set to take place in September, this festival isn't just an event; it's a tribute to the Gulf's plentiful waters and the vibrant community that thrives around it.
Event Highlights
- Features the Gulf's freshest seafood cooked by local chefs right on-site.
- Live music across multiple stages keeps the festival energy high all weekend.
- Arts, crafts, and local vendor booths offering handmade treasures and gifts.
- Supports the Destin Charter Boat Association and local scholarships.
- Family-friendly atmosphere with food, games, and waterfront entertainment.
- Perfect way to kick off the Destin Fishing Rodeo season in true coastal style.
3. THE HARVEST WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL
Rated among the top wine and food festivals in the Southeast.
Amidst the vibrant celebrations of fall, the Harvest Wine & Food Festival emerges as a beacon of gastronomical pleasure, adding another layer of allure to Destin's enchanting October. Nestled against the scenic backdrop of WaterColor, this event promises an unforgettable odyssey for the senses, especially for those with a penchant for exceptional wines and gourmet delights. Imagine cradling a glass of exquisite wine, the crisp autumn air lightly tinged with the scent of the sea, as you explore a world-class culinary and wine experience.
Event Highlights
- Four days of tastings, wine dinners, and special culinary events.
- The Grand Tasting, featuring premium wines and dishes from top regional chefs.
- Exclusive wine dinners led by renowned sommeliers and culinary masters.
- Sunday cocktail brunch with creative pairings and lively ambiance.
- Beautiful WaterColor setting, surrounded by nature and coastal scenery.
- Live music, artful presentations, and an upscale yet welcoming vibe.
- A must for wine enthusiasts, foodies, and anyone who loves a good glass with a view.
5. BAYTOWNE WHARF BEER FESTIVAL
Craft brewers, good food, and great music for a weekend that's all about flavor and fun.
October in Destin means one thing for beer lovers: the Baytowne Wharf Beer Festival! This annual bash brings together craft brewers, good food, and great music for a weekend that's all about flavor and fun. With more than 200 beers to sample, live tunes, and tasty pairings from local restaurants, it's a must for anyone who enjoys a good pint and a lively atmosphere. Bring your friends, raise your glass, and toast to a weekend well spent.
Event Highlights
- Over 200 craft beers from regional and national breweries to sample.
- "Beer From Around Here" night spotlighting local breweries and limited-edition brews.
- Live music from Duchess and other local favorites setting the festival vibe.
- Food pairings from Village eateries designed to complement featured beers.
- Brewery reps on-site to chat about brewing techniques and beer stories.
- Open to guests 21 and over, ideal for a friend's getaway or weekend retreat.
- Held at The Village of Baytowne Wharf, a lively waterfront venue packed with charm.
- A can't-miss event for craft beer fans looking to sip, snack, and soak in coastal good times.
6. FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
Fine art, live performances, and hands-on workshops.
Art takes center stage at the Mattie Kelly Festival of the Arts, one of Destin's most colorful fall traditions. Each year, the MKAF transforms the coast into a lively outdoor gallery filled with creativity, music, food, and community spirit. From fine art to live performances and hands-on workshops, the festival is a feast for all senses. It's where creativity meets coastal charm, and inspiration is around every corner.
Event Highlights
- Showcases a wide range of visual arts, including painting, sculpture, mixed media, and photography.
- Live performances featuring local musicians, dancers, and entertainers throughout the day.
- Dozens of food vendors and gourmet food trucks offering tasty bites and craft beverages.
- Family-friendly activities, including art stations and creative projects for kids.
- Interactive art workshops where visitors can try their hand at making their own masterpieces.
- The Art Market, packed with unique pieces available for purchase directly from regional artists.
- A welcoming community vibe celebrating Destin's growing creative scene and local talent.
More Ways to Enjoy Fall in Destin
Fall in Destin isn't just about the festivals; it's the perfect time to slow down, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy the Emerald Coast's best experiences without the summer crowds. After catching a festival or two, keep the good times rolling with these local favorites:
- Sunset Cruises: Glide across the Gulf as the sky turns pink and gold—autumn sunsets here are pure magic.
- Beach Bonfires: Cozy up with s'mores and good company at one of the permitted bonfire spots along the beach.
- Farmers' Markets: Browse local produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts at Destin Commons or Grand Boulevard.
- Outdoor Dining: Enjoy alfresco meals at waterfront restaurants while the weather's still warm and breezy.
- Nature Trails: Walk or bike the scenic Henderson Beach State Park trails surrounded by golden dunes and sea oats.
- Golf & Tennis: With cooler temps, it's the best season to hit Destin's award-winning golf courses and sports clubs.
- Live Music Nights: Many restaurants and harbor bars host fall concerts, perfect for ending the evening on a high note.
quick FAQ: Fall Events in Destin
1. When do fall events in Destin usually take place?
Most major festivals and events run from late September through early November, offering plenty of options for visitors during the shoulder season.
2. Is fall a good time to visit Destin?
Absolutely. The weather is mild, the Gulf waters are still warm, and the crowds thin out, making it one of the best times of year for a beach vacation.
3. Are the festivals family-friendly?
Yes! Many, like the Destin Fishing Rodeo, Festival of the Arts, and Destin Seafood Festival, include activities and entertainment for all ages.
4. Do I need tickets for the events?
Some events, such as the Harvest Wine & Food Festival or Baytowne Wharf Beer Festival, require paid admission. Others, like the Destin Fishing Rodeo, are free to attend.
5. Where should I stay for easy access to the festivals?
Book a vacation rental with Travel Life Vacations—you'll find private, resort-style homes close to Destin Harbor, Baytowne Wharf, and 30A.
6. What should I pack for fall in Destin?
Light layers, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes. Days are warm and sunny, while evenings can be cool by the water.
Experience the Best of Destin!
Stay like a local and make yourself at home in one of our Travel Life Vacations rentals. Each private, resort-style home is designed with your comfort (and a little indulgence) in mind.
In a world full of the ordinary, we create spaces that feel refreshingly one-of-a-kind: homes built for unforgettable stays that'll have you planning your next visit before you even leave.