January on the Emerald Coast is the perfect mix of quiet winter charm and vibrant coastal energy. Whether you’re looking to enjoy live music, family-friendly festivals, local farmers markets, or unique community gatherings, 30A, Destin, and Sandestin offer a full calendar of events to start the new year right. From the soulful tunes of the 30A Songwriters Festival to hands-on family activities and beachside strolls, there’s something for everyone to enjoy along Florida’s sparkling Gulf Coast.
30A
Seaside Farmers Market
January 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27, 31 | 9:00 am–1:00 pm
A beloved Seaside tradition featuring local farmers, fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan vendors in the heart of town.
Rosemary Beach Farmers Market
January 4, 11, 18 | 9:00 am–1:00 pm
Shop local makers, prepared foods, and fresh finds in the charming Rosemary Beach Town Center.
Wine & Song at NEAT
January 6, 20, 27 | 5:00 pm–7:00 pm
An intimate evening of wine, conversation, and live music in Alys Beach — perfect for a relaxed coastal night out.
Murder on the Orient Express – Emerald Coast Theatre Company
January 15-18 | 7:00 pm | Grand Boulevard
A classic whodunit production staged at ECTC — part of the winter theatre lineup along the coast.
30A Songwriters Festival – Opening Day
January 16 | Times vary
Kick off one of 30A’s most anticipated winter events with live “in the round” performances across multiple coastal venues.
30A Songwriters Festival – Full Festival Weekend
January 17–18 | Times vary
Enjoy nationally recognized and emerging songwriters performing throughout Seaside, WaterColor, and Rosemary Beach.
30A Songwriters Festival – Final Day
January 19 | Times vary
Close out the long weekend with encore performances and final shows celebrating the art of songwriting.
Biophilia Center Kids Craft Day
January 17 | 9:00 am–12:00 pm
Perfect for families — local nature center hosts a creative morning of crafts inspired by the Gulf Coast ecosystem.
Hops for Hounds
January 18 | 11:00 am–1:00 pm | Grayton Beach area
A community craft beer event benefiting local rescue efforts — bring your pup and enjoy
Seaside Amphitheater Community Events
January | Times vary
From pop-up performances to seasonal programming, Seaside’s amphitheater hosts casual winter happenings throughout the month.
WaterColor Winter Activities & Events
January | Times vary
Enjoy seasonal programming including family activities, outdoor fitness, and casual community events in WaterColor.
Grayton Beach Local Music Nights
January | Evening hours
Low-key live music and local performances pop up throughout Grayton Beach during January’s quieter season.
30A Gallery & Art Experiences
January | Gallery hours vary
Explore rotating exhibits, artist features, and creative spaces throughout 30A during the winter months.
Destin
AltPikian Polar Plunge
January 1 | 10:00 am | Destin Beach
Kick off the new year with a bold (and chilly) dip in the Gulf! Locals and visitors alike gather on the first morning of the year for this fun, informal plunge into the water.
The Grand Opening at The Alice
January 1–4 | 5:00 pm–8:00 pm | The Alice, Destin
An opening celebration featuring local art, wine tasting, and live music — the perfect way to savor the first days of the year downtown.
Big City Nights – Tribute to Scorpions
January 9 | 8:00 pm | Club LA
Rock out to this high-energy tribute to the iconic rock band Scorpions at one of Destin’s premier live-music venues.
Business Before Hours & Annual Meeting
January 9 | Time TBA | Destin Chamber
A community business gathering to kick off the year with networking and local leadership insights (Chamber event).
Meet Loaf – The Ultimate Meat Loaf Tribute
January 16 | 8:00 pm | Club LA
A night of classic hits and theatrical vocals as this tribute band brings Meat Loaf’s best to life on stage.
Simply the Best: The Music of Tina Turner
January 17 | Time TBA | Destin–Fort Walton Beach Convention Center
Experience the spirit and power of Tina Turner’s greatest songs with Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s anniversary season concert.
Guardians of the Jukebox
January 23 | 8:00 pm | Club LA
A fun night of rock ’n’ roll favorites spanning decades — perfect for a casual night out in Destin.
Candlelight: Queen vs. ABBA
January 23 | 6:00 pm+ (multiple shows) | Mattie Kelly Arts Center
Two legendary musical catalogs brought to life in an elegant live string performance setting.
Snowbird TGIT @ Lulu’s (Live Music + Deals)
January 6 | 3:00 pm–6:00 pm | Lulu’s Destin
A weekly Tuesday social with entertainment, dance, and special drink pricing — a relaxed way to mix and mingle.
Sandestin
Baytowne On Ice – Ice Skating
January 1–31 | Times Vary | The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Lace up your skates and glide around the seasonal ice rink in the heart of Baytowne Wharf — a charming winter activity for all ages throughout January.
Winter Wonderland
January 10 | 9:00 am–11:00 am | The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Let it snow! The Event Plaza turns into a real snow play area with frosty family fun — perfect for kids and snow lovers along the coast.
Bubbly Baytowne
January 15 | 5:00 pm–7:00 pm | The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Sip premium champagne while you shop the boutiques of Baytowne Wharf during this adults-only evening of bubbly and style.
Marina Bar & Grill Winter Menu
January 1–31 | 11:00 am–11:00 pm daily | Baytowne Marina
Enjoy seasonal specials and comfort eats all month at this popular bayfront restaurant — great for lunch or dinner after shopping or skating.
Sunset Soirée at Burnt Pine
Fridays in January | 4:00 pm–7:00 pm | Burnt Pine Golf Club
Wrap up the workweek with outdoor vibes, drinks, and great conversation at the scenic Burnt Pine outdoor lounge.
Fore Her Pink Run (5K + Survivor Stroll)
January 31 | 8:30 am | The Village of Baytowne Wharf
This meaningful race and stroll benefits breast cancer support and features a lively after-party with DJ, prizes, and local food stands.
Beach Bonfire Social
January Every Sunday | 6:00 pm–8:00 pm | Scoops Beachside (by Baytowne)
Gather around a cozy fire, roast s’mores, and connect with friends and neighbors under the stars on winter Sundays.
Sandestin Coastal Art Walk
January 17 | 11:00 am–2:00 pm | Baytowne Wharf (Outdoor Promenade)
Stroll the Baytowne outdoor art displays featuring local painters, sculptors, and creatives sharing their coastal masterpieces.
Resort Seasonal Specials & Pop-Up Markets
January Throughout Month | Various times | Baytowne Wharf & Sandestin
Discover one-off seasonal pop-up markets and special shopping moments from local makers and artisans — look for weekly announcements from the resort schedule.
No matter your pace or interests, January on the Emerald Coast invites you to explore, connect, and celebrate the start of a new year in style. From markets and art walks to festivals and community socials, each day offers something special to experience along 30A, Destin, and Sandestin. Pack your calendar, embrace the coastal lifestyle, and make this winter one to remember on Florida’s beautiful Emerald Coast.
