Hello, September! While summer winds down, the Emerald Coast is still buzzing with events, live music, and festivals. From beachside celebrations to food and art gatherings, there’s plenty happening all month long across Destin, Sandestin, and 30A. Here’s your guide to making the most of September along the coast.
30A
Labor Day Weekend Celebrations | September 1
Sip & Shop at Fish Out Of Water, live music, and festive hangs at North Beach Social to kick off the season.
Seaside Farmers Market | Every Tuesday & Saturday, 9 AM–1 PM
Fresh local produce and artisan goods in the Seaside Amphitheater, rain or shine.
Rosemary Beach Farmers Market | Sundays, 9 AM–1 PM
Handcrafted local wares and produce in the charming Rosemary Beach setting.
🌊 Local Tip: September sunsets along the Gulf are some of the most vibrant of the year — less humidity means clearer skies. Don’t miss golden hour on the beach.
Wine & Song at NEAT | Tuesdays, 5 PM–7 PM
Enjoy a curated tasting of four wines in beautiful Alys Beach for a chill midweek treat.
Biophilia Fallapalooza | Saturday, September 20, 9 AM–2 PM
An interactive, family-friendly nature fest at the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center with animal encounters and trail fun.
Sunday Pickin’ with Mike Whitty & Friends at The Bay | Sundays, 4 PM–8 PM
Acoustic jams in a relaxed outdoor vibe—perfect for winding down the weekend.
Harvest & Vine Fall Wine Walk | September 12 (Fri), 5:30 PM–8 PM
Sip your way through local wines in historic downtown DeFuniak Springs.
🍴 Foodie Find: September is prime oyster season on the Gulf. Try them grilled, baked, or fresh on the half shell at a local raw bar.
Star Gazing at Eden Gardens State Park | September 12
A serene guided sky-viewing experience in a picturesque park setting.
Sounds of Seaside Concert Series | September 3, 10, 17, 24
Intimate concerts in Seaside—ideal for a mellow evening out.
Grayton Locals Market | Every Thursday, early morning
Local crafts and produce in Grayton Beach—a perfect farmers-market pick-me-up.
🌴 Local Secret: Many communities host farmer’s markets well into the fall — ideal for fresh produce, coastal art, and homemade goodies.
Camp Helen State Park: Guided History Tour | Sept 6
Operation Outdoor Freedom Trailfest | Sept 13
An active, outdoor gathering perfect for trail lovers.
🚲 Pro Move: September mornings are perfect for biking 30A — cooler temps, less traffic, and plenty of photo ops.
Paddle for Peace | Sept 17
A peaceful paddle activity focusing on mental health and wellness.
Destin
Labor Day Weekend Celebrations | September 1
Fireworks on the Harborwalk, cruises, live music, and festive sip & shop experiences across Destin hotspots.
5th Annual Burgers, Bourbon & Beer Festival | September 20
Gourmet burgers, craft beers, fine bourbon, live music—supporting Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast.
Destin Seafood Festival | September 26–28
One of Destin’s most celebrated traditions featuring fresh seafood, live music, arts & crafts, and Saturday night fireworks along the Harbor Boardwalk.
🎣 Fishing Tip: Destin isn’t called the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” for nothing — September kicks off prime deep-sea fishing for snapper and grouper.
Destin’s Battle for the Buckle | Sep 19-21, 2025
Local philanthropic event pitting community members against each other in a fun competition to support a great cause.
Sip & Shop at EKKO | Every Wednesday 3-7 PM
Stylish gathering for shopping and sipping.
Emerald Coast Home & Boat Show
September 20th 10 AM–5 PM & September 21st 11 AM–4 PM
Free-admission expo featuring boats, fishing gear, home improvement, health screenings, and local services at the Destin–Ft. Walton Beach Convention Center.
🐚 Beach Hack: After Labor Day, beaches are quieter. Early morning is prime shelling time before the tide rolls in.
Sandestin
Perfect Hues: Baytowne Wharf Art Fest | August 29-31
Stroll The Village with art from Southeast artists, live acts, and lagoon fireworks to launch the fall season.
Free live music on the Events Plaza—pack a blanket and enjoy the tunes.
🍹 Sip Smart: Skip the crowds and enjoy happy hour at a tucked-away spot — many 30A beach bars run off-season specials after Labor Day.
Bubbly Baytowne | September 18
Sip complimentary Champagne and browse boutique streets; a chic, adult-only—21+—evening.
International Talk Like a Pirate Day | September 19, 5 PM
Pirate-themed fun with Captain Davy, magic, costumes, a scavenger hunt, and BBQ at the Village.
That’s a wrap on September! Whether you’re soaking in sunsets on 30A, exploring local markets, or catching live music in Sandestin, this month is full of ways to enjoy life by the water. Want even more coastal inspiration? Explore the Coastal Abode App for neighborhood guides, dining spots, upcoming events, and a look at the luxury homes that make this lifestyle possible.
