With a full lineup of festivals, fall is the perfect time of year to experience the vibrant culture of Destin and 30A. From wine tastings and craft markets to live music and beachfront gatherings, the season is packed with events that celebrate the best of food, art, and community. Whether you’re a longtime local or planning a weekend escape, here are some of the best fall festivals in Destin and along 30A that you won’t want to miss.

Burgers, Bourbon & Beer Fest

Saturday, September 20 | Noon – 3pm
Destin Harbor

Indulge in mouth-watering burgers, sip on smooth bourbon, and enjoy ice-cold craft beer all while supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast. Come hungry, because you’ll have access to all-you-can-eat burgers from the area’s best restaurants! This year’s competitors include Boathouse Oyster Bar, The Gulf, Ruby Slipper, Sauce Boss Burger Co., Fudpuckers, and more. Click here to purchase tickets to the 5th Annual Burgers, Bourbon & Beer Festival.

Destin Seafood Festival

September 26 – 28
Destin Harbor

The Destin Seafood Festival is a celebration of our city’s rich fishing heritage and kicks off the Destin Fishing Rodeo, which takes place throughout the month of October. Set along the scenic Destin Harbor, the festival spans multiple days and features fresh Gulf-to-table seafood, live music across multiple stages, local art vendors, and family-friendly activities. It’s free to attend, but VIP tickets will get you into a smaller, exclusive area where you can sample items from local chefs and restaurants, drink local beers, and enjoy seating, private bathrooms, and TVs to watch your favorite football teams.

Toast on the Coast

Sunday, October 5 | Noon – 2:30pm
Henderson Beach Resort

Get ready to sample culinary delights and sip delicious drinks at the 3rd Annual Toast on the Coast. This event is presented by the Junior League of the Emerald Coast and takes place on the beautiful grounds of the Henderson Beach Resort. Whether you’re a foodie, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply looking for a fun afternoon out, Toast on the Coast is the event for you. It features local and regional restaurants, dessert shops, breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Plus there’s a silent auction showcasing premier goods and services from local businesses.

Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest

October 10 & 11
Sandestin

Calling all craft beer fans! The Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest at Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort features more than 200 craft beers, live music, food tents, and more. This year’s event includes new tasting spots like Beer From Around Here, which will showcase local brews, and Import Lane where you can try flavors from around the globe. Vendors will be set up around the Village of Baytowne Wharf, so attendees can stroll the cobblestone streets while sampling drinks, enjoying live music, and savoring delicious bites from the food tents. Not a beer fan? Check out Seltzer Lane! This lively event is sure to be a good time!

Destin Songwriter Festival

October 10 & 11
Destin Harbor

Get ready to experience the magic of music like never before at the Inaugural Destin Songwriter Festival, taking place October 10 & 11 along the Destin Harbor. This brand-new festival brings together acclaimed songwriters from across the country to share the heart behind the hits. From free intimate sets at local favorites like Boathouse Oyster Bar, The Harbor Tavern, and SkyBar at Edge Seafood to ticketed performances on the Main Stage at Heron Harbor, every moment promises raw talent, moving stories, and unforgettable melodies. A portion of festival proceeds will support Operation Song, helping veterans and military families heal through songwriting. Whether you’re here for the stories, the soul, or simply the sound, this festival will leave you feeling inspired.

Bloody Mary Festival

Saturday, October 11 | 11am – 2pm
The Market Shops

Join the ultimate celebration of flavor and flair at The Market Shops Annual Bloody Mary Festival! This one-of-a-kind event features unlimited tastes of hand-crafted Bloody Marys, each uniquely prepared by some of the Emerald Coast’s top restaurants, bars, and catering companies. Made with locally-loved Distillery 98’s Half Shell Vodka, these bold creations range from spicy to smoky, and come piled high with over-the-top garnishes like grilled cheese sandwiches, shrimp skewers, and even sushi. Not a Bloody Mary fan? No problem. The festival also offers craft brews, champagne, spiked seltzers, mocktails, and delicious local bites. Plus you’ll be able to enjoy some shopping, a cigar bar, interactive photo booth, live music and SEC football live streaming on the big screen so you won’t have to miss any games! It’s not just a festival—it’s a full-on brunch party you won’t want to miss.

Harvest Wine & Food Festival

Saturday, October 18 | 1pm – 4pm  
Cerulean Park in WaterColor

Sip, savor, and celebrate the best of the season at the Harvest Wine & Food Festival in beautiful WaterColor on 30A! The can’t-miss event of the weekend is the Grand Tasting, taking place on October 18 in the heart of Cerulean Park. Wander beneath the trees as you enjoy thoughtfully paired bites and over 250 wines from around the world, all set to the backdrop of live music and warm autumn breezes. This signature event brings together an exceptional lineup of world-class vintners, renowned chefs, and culinary artisans for an unforgettable afternoon filled with flavor and coastal charm. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or simply enjoy a great glass in great company, the Grand Tasting offers an elevated yet welcoming experience that truly captures the spirit of 30A. Best of all, proceeds from the festival support the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation and its mission to help children in need across Northwest Florida.

Festival of the Arts

October 25 & 26
MKAF Cultural Arts Village in Destin

Celebrate 30 years of creativity, community, and culture at the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s Festival of the Arts, returning October 25 – 26. Recognized as one of the Southeast’s premier juried art festivals, this vibrant, family-friendly event showcases the original works of over 100 acclaimed artists from across the country and is free to attend. Wander through outdoor tents, enjoy live artist demonstrations, and explore a wide range of fine art—from painting and sculpture to glass, jewelry, and mixed media. With continuous live music, delicious food truck fare, a beer and wine garden, and interactive children’s activities, there’s something to delight every age and interest. More than just an art show, the Festival of the Arts is a celebration of community spirit and the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s mission to enhance lives through arts and culture.

Rosemary Beach Uncorked

Saturday, November 1 | 1pm – 4pm
Rosemary Beach

Experience one of 30A’s most anticipated culinary events of the year: Rosemary Beach Uncorked, returning Saturday, November 1 from 1pm to 4pm. Set along the picturesque streets of Rosemary Beach, this iconic festival pairs exquisite wines from around the world with signature dishes from the town’s top culinary talents. While the event is currently sold out, a waitlist is available for those hoping to snag tickets.

Seeing Red Wine Festival

Grand Tasting November 8 | 1pm – 4pm
Seaside

The Seeing Red Wine Festival in Seaside is a fall tradition that’s been delighting wine enthusiasts for over 30 years. Set against the charming backdrop of this iconic beach town, the festival offers a long weekend of tastings, live music, gourmet food, themed brunches, and exclusive vintner dinners. Whether you choose to attend one event or indulge in the entire weekend, you can tailor your experience with curated packages or individual tickets. Equal parts sophisticated and laid-back, Seeing Red blends coastal elegance with Southern hospitality—drawing wine lovers from across the Southeast for an unforgettable celebration by the sea.

Alys Beach Crafted

November 12 – 16
Alys Beach

Alys Beach Crafted is a refined celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and culinary excellence, set against the stunning backdrop of one of 30A’s most iconic communities. This multi-day event brings together top chefs, brewers, distillers, designers, and artisans from across the country for an immersive experience filled with tastings, workshops, and beautifully curated gatherings. Signature events include the Firkin Fête, where guests sample rare cask ales and gourmet bites; the Spirited Soirée, an elegant afternoon of cocktails and live music; and the Holiday Makers Market, a festive shopping experience featuring handmade goods and seasonal gifts. There’s even Pickleball & Picklebacks for a playful twist on the weekend. Now in its fifth year, Crafted continues to highlight the excellence and authenticity behind every creation—whether you’re sipping a small-batch spirit or picking up a piece of handmade art. Proceeds benefit the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County.

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As you can see, the coastal excitement doesn’t stop when summer crowds head home. Whether you’re a foodie chasing fresh seafood and fine wine, an art lover browsing coastal creations, or a music fan looking for your next favorite songwriter, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your calendar—and maybe a sweater—and make the most of fall on the Emerald Coast.

Did I miss any of your favorite fall festivals in Destin or on 30A? Contact us or send us a message on Instagram!