October 4-6
Friday, 4 pm – 10 pm Saturday, 10 am – 10 pm Sunday, 11 am – 4 pm Admission is FREE
Each year thousands of people descend on Destin’s harbor to take in the best of what the Gulf has to offer: gorgeous views, live music and entertainment, unique art, and delicious food. Lots and lots of food. In fact the Destin Seafood Festival is a three-day street food smorgasbord, the highlight of course being the seafood plucked from nearby Gulf waters.
There’s something to please every palate, from food connoisseurs to carnies (grilled lobster and sushi are offered up alongside deep fried brownies and food on sticks). Area restaurants and food vendors serve from tents lining Harbor Boulevard, from Heron Harbor to HarborWalk Village. Restaurants along the route are also open for a sit-down experience. Otherwise you can graze as you go while enjoying the second biggest attraction of the festival: live music.
Six different stages will host 43 musical performances this year, featuring acts like guitarist AJ Ghent, whose debut studio album debuted no. 7 on the Blues Billboard Charts. Stick around Saturday night after his two sets for the Festival’s fireworks. Reggae fans won’t want to miss Sunday’s lineup of Duende, Sway Jah Vu, and the local favorite Heritage Band.
Little ones have their own entertainment with three kids’ zones featuring pony rides, a petting zoo, games, Hamster balls, a rock climbing wall, and a zip line. On Sunday there’s the beloved Mingo Toss, where kids up to age 12 hurl Mingo snapper like footballs.
Admission is free but be sure to bring some spending money so you don’t have to pass on local delicacies like oysters on the half shell or fried jumbo shrimp. You also might find a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Local artist will be selling everything from framed paintings to clothing.
As the popularity of Destin Seafood Festival grows, so do the crowds. See below for some tips on navigating the festival like a pro.
PARKING & LOCATION
The Destin Seafood festival stretches approximately half a mile along Harbor Boulevard, from HarborWalk Village to Heron Harbor. See map (note: this is from last year)
You have three parking options: off site with shuttle ($3/person), drop off, park and walk (prices vary). Handicapped parking is best at Emerald Grande with elevators to take you to ground level. Lot locations are highlighted on the Festival’s website. For the most up to date shuttle information, check the Festival’s Facebook page.
KIDS
There are three kids’ zones:
- East Pass Marina (younger kids and toddlers)
Here you’ll find pony rides, petting zoo, kids’ games and parent seating area.
- Harborwalk Village
Don’t miss the Hamster balls, a rock climbing wall and a zip line over the festival crowds. Parent seating area nearby.
- Mingo Toss (on top of the hill at the Royal Melvin Heritage Park, behind the Destin City stage)
A free event for kids up to age 12. The Mingo Toss is an old fashioned “fish throwing contest” with Mingo snappers. Certificates and awards given in all age categories.
The possibilities are seemingly endless for good food and music. Plan your route by checking the music line up and see here for details on food vendors.
