Experience the best of spring along the Emerald Coast with wine, jazz, art festivals, and waterfront celebrations. This season is all about sunshine, live music, and coastal charm.
Just as the sun starts to shuffle off its winter slumber, our beloved Emerald Coast springs to life with a scatter of thrilling events! Picture yourself trading snow boots for sandals, ditching the cozy blankets, and stepping into a realm of azure skies and splendid entertainment. From heart-pumping races along pristine beaches to savoring gourmet treats under the stars, Destin and its neighbors offer endless ways to experience spring at its best on the Sunshine State's coast.
Let's kick things off with a quick look:
- Sandestin Wine Festival (April): Four days of fine wines, gourmet food, and live music at Baytowne Wharf.
- Seabreeze Jazz Festival (April): A weekend of world-class jazz performances beside Panama City Beach's emerald waters.
- South Walton Wine & Food Festival (April): Hundreds of global wines, chef-led tastings, and live coastal entertainment.
- Digital Graffiti (May): Alys Beach transforms into a glowing gallery of digital art and light projections.
- Memorial Day Weekend Celebration (May): Live music, air shows, fireworks, and community spirit at HarborWalk Village.
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In this blog post, I'll share some of the most beloved spring events in and around Destin that add a dash of fun and color to your vacation along the Emerald Coast.
Ready? Grab your calendar, because here comes your insider's guide to the best and brightest events around the corner!
1. Sandestin Wine Festival (April)
Four-day celebration packed with fine wines, coastal flavors, and live music.
As spring unfolds along the Emerald Coast, the Sandestin Wine Festival takes center stage at the Village of Baytowne Wharf. This four-day celebration transforms the waterfront into a vibrant blend of fine wines, coastal flavors, and live music. Guests sip and stroll through charming streets lined with tasting tables, gourmet bites, and the easygoing energy that defines Sandestin. It's the perfect mix of elegance, fun, and beachside atmosphere, all poured into one unforgettable weekend.
Event Highlights
- Hundreds of Wines: Sample top vintages from around the world, from bold reds to crisp whites and refreshing rosés.
- Gourmet Pairings: Enjoy chef-crafted dishes that complement each pour, featuring local seafood and seasonal ingredients.
- Beautiful Setting: Held at Baytowne Wharf, with its scenic harbor views, coastal charm, and lively atmosphere.
- Live Music & Entertainment: Relax to acoustic sets and upbeat performances that set the mood for a laid-back celebration.
- Exclusive Tastings: Join VIP events, reserve wine sessions, and meet the winemakers behind your new favorite bottles.
2. Seabreeze Jazz Festival (April)
Annual celebration drawing world-class artists and jazz lovers for a weekend of rhythm, sunshine, and community.
When smooth tunes meet ocean views, you get the Seabreeze Jazz Festival, one of the most soulful events on the Emerald Coast. Set against Panama City Beach's beautiful backdrop, this annual celebration draws world-class artists and jazz lovers for a weekend of rhythm, sunshine, and community. The vibe is effortless yet electric, with the sounds of saxophones and trumpets floating through the salty air as the crowd sways along.
Event Highlights
- World-Class Lineup: Top jazz performers and rising stars from across the globe share the stage.
- Scenic Setting: The music unfolds beside the emerald waters of Panama City Beach, creating a stunning coastal soundtrack.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: Expect feel-good energy, great company, and a crowd that lives and breathes jazz.
- Gourmet Eats & Local Flavor: Sample local bites and refreshing drinks that pair perfectly with the music.
- Dance & Relax: Whether you're up front dancing or lounging in the back with a drink in hand, the mood is pure bliss.
3. SOUTH WALTON WINE FESTIVAL (April)
Lively celebration of flavor, music, and seaside charm.
Spring on the Emerald Coast means sunshine, sea breezes, and the scent of something delicious wafting through Baytowne Wharf. The South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival brings together top chefs, talented winemakers, and food lovers for a weekend of pure coastal indulgence. It's a lively celebration of flavor, music, and seaside charm.
Event Highlights
- Global Wine Tastings: Sample more than 800 wines from top vineyards across the U.S., Europe, and beyond.
- Culinary Masterpieces: Taste inventive dishes crafted by renowned chefs, each perfectly paired with featured wines.
- Meet the Makers: Chat with winemakers, distillers, and sommeliers to uncover the stories behind your favorite pours.
- Live Music & Entertainment: Local and national artists set the tone with upbeat, beachy sounds throughout the festival.
- Scenic Setting: Hosted at Baytowne Wharf, a picturesque village with waterfront views and a vibrant, social atmosphere.
- VIP Experiences: Upgrade your visit with exclusive tastings, private dinners, and reserve wine selections.
4. Digital Graffiti (May)
Magical event transforming the town's elegant, whitewashed buildings into a playground of light, color, and imagination.
Each year in May, Alys Beach transforms into a vibrant canvas where art and technology collide in a truly captivating way. Digital Graffiti turns this elegant, whitewashed town into a playground of light, color, and imagination. As night falls, the walls come alive with digital projections that dance, shimmer, and tell stories, creating an immersive art experience unlike anything else on the Emerald Coast. It's bold, futuristic, and irresistibly photogenic, perfect for those who love art that moves, quite literally.
Event Highlights
- Location Magic: Alys Beach's white architecture becomes a natural projection screen for digital masterpieces.
- Interactive Art: Walk through a living gallery where installations respond to movement, light, and sound.
- Creative Fusion: Artists from around the world showcase cutting-edge work blending design, code, and storytelling.
- After Dark Experience: The town glows under vibrant light shows that turn streets into illuminated wonderlands.
- Perfect for All: Ideal for art lovers, photographers, and anyone curious about the intersection of technology and creativity.
5. MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND (May)
Live music, air shows, fireworks, and beachside fun.
This high-energy festival marks the official start of summer with live music, air shows, fireworks, and beachside fun in HarborWalk Village, one of Destin's most vibrant spots. It's where locals and visitors come together to celebrate sunshine, seaside charm, and the spirit of the season, right on the scenic harbor.
Event Highlights
- Live Music on the Harbor: Bands take the stage all weekend, filling the air with upbeat tunes that set the perfect coastal rhythm.
- Air Show Spectacle: Vintage aircraft soar above Destin Harbor, offering a thrilling nod to history and heroism.
- Fireworks Extravaganza: Brilliant displays light up the night sky, reflecting over the water for a dazzling summer moment.
- Remembrance Ceremony: A moving tribute honoring those who served, blending reflection with community spirit.
- Silent Disco on the Captain's Deck: Dance the night away with glowing headphones and panoramic harbor views.
- Family Fun & Accessibility: Games, street performers, and easy all-day parking make it effortless to enjoy the whole event.
Other Ways to Enjoy Spring in Destin and Beyond
Spring on the Emerald Coast isn't just about festivals; it's a full-on invitation to explore the coast in bloom. Between events, there's plenty more to keep your itinerary fresh, colorful, and full of local flavor.
- Hit the Trails: Take a bike ride through Point Washington State Forest or stroll along Henderson Beach's nature trail for fresh air and wildflowers.
- Explore Local Markets: Browse the Destin Commons Market or the Grand Boulevard Farmers Market for handmade goods, art, and coastal eats.
- Sunset Cruises: Board a catamaran or dolphin cruise to catch the evening glow over Choctawhatchee Bay.
- Patio Dining Season: Enjoy outdoor meals at favorites like Boshamps, Harbor Docks, or The Crab Trap, perfect for spring evenings.
- Live Music Nights: Many local restaurants and bars feature outdoor sets once the weather warms up; grab a drink and stay awhile.
QUICK FAQ: Spring Events in Destin and the Emerald Coast
1. When do most spring events take place in Destin?
Most major spring festivals happen between early April and late May, when the weather is warm but not too hot — ideal for outdoor gatherings.
2. Are these events family-friendly?
Yes! Nearly all of the spring events in and around Destin welcome families, offering activities for all ages, from food tastings to live entertainment and outdoor games.
3. Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
For large festivals like the Sandestin Wine Festival, South Walton Wine Festival, and Digital Graffiti, advance tickets are strongly recommended as they tend to sell out.
4. Where should I stay to be close to these events?
Vacation rentals near HarborWalk Village, Sandestin, and Baytowne Wharf offer the easiest access. Travel Life Vacations has beautiful, resort-style homes that keep you close to the action.
5. What's the weather like during spring events?
Expect sunny skies, mild temperatures (70s–80s °F), and cool evenings, ideal for outdoor festivals, dining, and waterfront strolls.
7. Is parking available at event locations?
Yes, most venues offer public parking or shuttle services. Arriving early ensures you'll find a good spot and have time to explore.
Wondering Where to Stay on the Emerald Coast?
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.