Your Fall and Winter Event Round-Up

October 27, 2022

Sweater weather may not be what you think of when planning your beach vacation, but South Walton is known for its festive events and local seasonal offerings throughout the fall and winter months. Aside from the enticing incentives to visit the area (which include less expensive seasonal rental rates, flexible minimum night stays, and smaller crowds), there is an abundance of fall and winter activities that make a visit to the Gulf Coast a vacation you’ll never forget.

In addition to the endless walks on the beach, breathtaking views, and bike trails always at your fingertips, you will have no trouble filling your time with local festivities. The fall weather reaches idyllic temperatures ranging from 60 degrees to 80 degrees before the colder winter months, but that won’t stop you from enjoying outdoor fun regardless of the time of year (not to mention the luxury of heated pools for year-round swimming). In addition to our list of 8 reasons to visit Destin and 30A in the fall, we’ve compiled a list of can’t-miss events coming this year that you won’t want to miss.

Wellness Wednesdays at Grand Boulevard 

Kicking off the fall season with wellness in mind is a smart way to enter the cooler months before the holiday indulgences begin. This nourishing Wellness Wednesday fitness class is even more appealing because it is free and hosted by Lululemon and Grand Fitness, two establishments known for their quality products and services. The class takes place at Grand Boulevard and has attendees from Destin, 30A, and beyond. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself browsing the racks of Lululemon after your fitness session for some holiday gifts- the retail store opens at 9 AM on Wednesdays exclusively for class attendees. The weekly wellness classes kick off on Wednesday, October 12th, at 8:30 AM.

Grand Boulevard’s Farmers Market

Wellness doesn’t end with just exercise, it carries into what we consume, and there is no better place than the local Farmer’s Market to jump on the health train. Before the holiday guilt begins, stock the fridge with fresh produce and locally-made offerings such as baked goods, honey, teas, and even locally-made candles, soaps & flower bouquets. This outdoor market takes place on Saturdays from 9 AM-1 PM and is the perfect way to start your day this fall and winter.

City of Destin Fall Festival

Perhaps one of the most appealing things about Destin and 30A is the family-friendly culture that the area exudes. Children of all ages can be seen walking in groups throughout the small neighborhoods and along the beaches reminiscent of simpler days gone by. The city of Destin has no lack of family-friendly fun which include events like the City of Destin Fall Festival which takes place on October 24th at the Destin Community Center. This spooktacular Halloween-themed fall festival includes carnival games, a bounce house, a cake walk as well as a Halloween costume contest for children 0-12 years of age. Make sure to bring a non-perishable food item with you for admission because donations will be made to Harvest House.

Wednesday Night Concert Series

The Village Of Baytown Wharf is known for drawing in crowds to enjoy the picturesque scenery and sample the local fares that their restaurants, boutiques, and galleries have to offer. Located within the gates of Sandestin Golf & Beach resort, this charming village hosts an array of outdoor events throughout the year. Fall is an especially popular time to visit due to the outdoor concert series that they host every Wednesday. Local and regional musicians take the stage overlooking the spectacular bay setting while visitors relax and enjoy the crisp autumn weather and live entertainment. Bring a blanket and plan to spend your evening singing along to familiar oldies and even learning some new originals from these fantastic musicians.

Rocktober Concert Series

The music plays even past the Wednesday Night Concert Series with the Rocktober Concert Series at the Destin Harbor. This celebratory concert series closes out the Destin Rodeo daily weigh-ins on the main stage each night and even has a fireworks display that you can watch over the harbor. This magical setting is an ideal place to spend time with your family and friends while enjoying the unbeatable crisp weather on the coast. The concert series will be held on October 1st, 15th, and 22nd.

A Charlie Brown Christmas

Keeping in the theme of family fun, a nostalgic viewing of A Charlie Brown Christmas is a family tradition that every household should partake in. What makes this Charlie Brown Christmas unique is that it is a live production put on by the Emerald Coast Theater Company’s talented Junior Company teen players. The children will love watching this classic story that they know and love reenacted before their eyes, and parents can take a walk down memory lane seeing this familiar tale through the eyes of a child. Get in the holiday spirit and discover the true meaning of Christmas this year with The Emerald Coast Theater Company.

Christmas Light Tours

There really is nothing like spending the Christmas season at the beach, and the Christmas spirit is apparent with the twinkling lights that adorn the streets of these charming neighborhoods. A tradition we recommend is taking a tour of lights throughout 30A and attending the Rosemary Beach Tree Lighting Ceremony on Black Friday each year. Children of all ages run the lawn playing games while adults stand by sipping their warm hot cocoas from nearby coffee shops like Amavida Coffee Roasters. After the ceremony, families can take a self-guided tour down the highway to view the different neighborhoods lit aglow with festive holiday lights. The memories of spending quality time getting into the holiday spirit will last a lifetime as you enjoy the stunning decorations with family and friends.

Seaside Holiday Market

If you’re looking to do some Christmas shopping during your visit, the Seaside Holiday Market will have everything you could ask for when looking for a souvenir or gift for family members. This festive shopping experience takes place December 3rd & 4th in Seaside’s Central Square and hosts local vendors selling crafts, baked goods, jewelry, and artwork. This market is unique because Seaside is home to incredible restaurants, bookstores, ice cream parlors, and gift shops. You could easily spend an entire day window shopping and watching the children play on the lawn while you eat lunch from the surrounding food trucks.

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