September in our beach community ushers in a blend of lingering summer warmth and the first hints of autumn, creating the perfect backdrop for an array of fun local events. You’ll discover a calendar filled with must-attend happenings that showcase the unique charm of this coastal paradise. From the festive Labor Day Weekend celebrations to the Annual Destin Seafood Fest, where tradition meets lively music and delicious fresh seafood, September offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a resident or visiting for the first time, the events highlighted here promise a September full of unforgettable memories in Destin, 30A, and all along The Emerald Coast.
FESTIVALS & HAPPENINGS:
Perfect Hues: Baytowne Art Fest
When: Saturday, August 31st - Sunday, September 1st
Where: The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Description: Join The Village of Baytowne Wharf for Perfect Hues: Baytowne Art & Food Fest, August 31 - September 1st. Each evening from 4PM - 9PM, stroll The Village streets as you browse a variety of artwork from local and regional artists. Enjoy LIVE music throughout the festival and a spectacular fireworks show over the lagoon on Sunday at 9:30pm. Also on Sunday night, be sure to check in by the breezeway to enjoy a sip and shop through The Village. Admission is free and open to the public.
The main stage at the events Plaza will feature live music nightly from 4 - 9PM.
Saturday, Aug. 31 || 4 - 6:15 PM: Mike Whitty ; 6:30 - 9 PM: Timmy Hood
Sunday, Sept. 1 || 4 - 6:15 PM: Emily Bass ; 6:30 - 9 PM: Jared Herzog
Labor Day Weekend Celebration
When: Saturday, August 31st - Sunday, September 1st
Where: HarborWalk Village
Description: Celebrate Labor Day Weekend on the Destin Harbor! Rock out in The HarborWalk Village with bands on the main stage all weekend long and fireworks over the harbor on Sunday night. Enjoy beer & Seltzer samplings. On-site parking fee $20, valid all day, including same day return.
Saturday, Aug. 31st
7pm - 9pm: Live Music - Cadillac Willy
Sunday, September 1st
6pm - 9pm: Live Concert | Featuring Alex Smith & The Mobile Home Boys
9pm: Fireworks followed by a fire spinning performance with Autumn Lyfe
Seaside Labor Day Concert
When: Sunday, September 1st
Where: Seaside Amphitheater
Description: Who's ready to celebrate the end of the summer? Seaside is thrilled to welcome you for a concert under the stars in the Seaside Amphitheater from 6-8:30PM on Sunday, September 1st. This is a complimentary event, proudly presented by the Merchants of Seaside.
Labor Day Concert
6PM: Dion Jones & The Neon Tears
7PM – 8:30PM: Certainly So
Bourbon Heritage Month Pairing Dinner
When: Thursday, September 12th
Where: The Pearl Hotel - Rosemary Beach
Description: Join the Pearl Hotel in the Hemingway Room for a Bourbon Heritage Month Pairing Dinner on Thursday, September 12 from 6-8pm. Indulge in a curated menu that showcases the essence of Kentucky, with each dish thoughtfully paired with some of the finest Bourbons from the Bluegrass region.
Reservations Recommended. $120+ per person.
8th Annual PWMC Annual Harvest Moon Fundraiser
When: Friday, September 13th - Saturday, September 14th
Where: Various Locations
Description: The Point Washington Medical Clinic invites you to join them as they celebrate another year serving the community – and the eighth annual Harvest Moon Celebration fundraiser to support the mission of the clinic: to build a stronger and healthier community by providing high-quality primary health care regardless of the patient’s means or access. This year's Harvest Moon events are scheduled for Friday, September 13th and Saturday, September 14th.
Learn more about the Harvest Moon fundraiser and purchase tickets here!
There are multiple ways to support PWMC:
Friday, September 13th
Morning Meditative Yoga | 9AM at Ruskin Park
Join Shannon Kramolis for a magical morning donation based meditative yoga practice and live music from Justin Moore. Bring your mat. Enjoy fresh juice generously provided by Raw & Juicy and coffee from Amavida. Reserve your spot in advance.
Harvest Moon Outdoor Dinner | 5:30PM at Bud & Alley's Restaurant
The limited seating event begins with a specialty cocktail hour from 5:30 - 6:30PM featuring live music from Billy Garrett of Electric Duck Phat, and an exquisite meal curated by Bud & Alley's Executive Chef. Following dinner, kick up your heels with live music by Certainly So and an open bar. Attire is coastal chic.
Guests are invited to participate in a paddle raise to secure funds for a matching donation opportunity as well as our silent auction. Donate online any time. Visit the website at thepwmc.org and click the ‘Donate’ button. Every little bit helps the clinic continue to offer radically inclusive healthcare to our community!
Saturday, September 14th | Harvest Moon Social Club
New this year, PWMC is excited to announce the Harvest Moon Social Club!! Saturday, September 14th in historic Point Washington. The evening will start with an open house and tour of our new facility. Followed by a light bites, cocktails and live music hosted by PWMC neighbors.
Follow Point Washington Medical Clinic on Facebook for updates, events and volunteer opportunities.
Big Scoop Benefit
When: Saturday, September 14th
Where: Emerald Coast Harley Davidson
Description: The 2024 Big Scoop, benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, is set for Saturday, September 14th from 2pm - 4pm at Emerald Coast Harley Davidson in Fort Walton Beach, FL. The free, family-friendly event features all-you-can-eat ice cream, and other sweet treats. There will also be face painting, games, a touch tank experience from 'Little Adventures' and Emerald Coast Science Center and other activities.
As the nation’s largest donor- and volunteer-supported mentoring network, Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers and children. For more information visit BeTheBig.org
International Talk Like a Pirate Day & Fireworks
When: Friday, September 20th
Where: The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Description: Ahoy Matey! Join The Village of Baytowne Wharf for an evening full of adventure with Special Guest Captain Davy. International Talk Like a Pirate Day celebrations begin at 5pm on Friday, September 20th in the Evens Plaza. Come dressed in your best pirate costume and get ready for a scavenger hunt, magic show, costume contest, and loads more of mayhem! PLUS enjoy a fireworks show at 8pm over the lagoon. Admission is FREE and open to the public.
Alaqua Animal Refuge’s Animoré Weekend
When: Friday, September 20th - Saturday, September 21st
Where: Alaqua Animal Refuge
Description: Alaqua Animal Refuge invites you to join them in celebration of and for the love of animals. Animoré will take place Friday, September 20 and Saturday, September 21 at Alaqua Animal Refuge in Freeport, Florida. The weekend showcases two events: The Annual 100 Point and Cult Wine Dinner and the Bluegrass Barn Jam.
The Animoré Weekend kicks off on Friday, September 20th, with Alaqua Animal Refuge’s 8th Annual 100 Point + Cult Wine Dinner. Beginning at 5pm at Alaqua in Freeport, Florida, this is an evening of luxe savoring and sipping, a fête is not to be missed. Purchase tickets here!
This exclusive evening is a one-of-a-kind experience for only 100 wine enthusiasts. The elegant affair begins with a cocktail reception and an intimate musical performance, followed by an exquisite, four-course, al fresco dinner perfectly paired with distinctive and stellar wines by Chef Michael Sichel, head chef and sommelier at Raw + Juicy.
Guests will also have exclusive access to both a silent auction and a live auction with all funds raised supporting Alaqua and its mission to provide shelter, safety, and second chances to animals in need. As an added bonus this year, guests will be treated to General Admission tickets to the Bluegrass Barn Jam the next day.
Burgers, Bourbon & Beer Festival
When: Saturday, September 21st
Where: Destin Harbor
Description: An exciting culinary experience is coming to the Destin Harbor on September 21. The Burgers, Bourbon & Beer Festival invites burger-lovers to enjoy an afternoon full of gourmet burgers from local restaurants, paired with local craft beers, the best bourbons, live music and more. The fun begins at noon on the Destin Boardwalk behind Brotula's. You won't want to miss this friendly food competition benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast.
Tickets Options: 4th Annual Burgers, Bourbon & Beers
Follow Burger, Bourbon & Beer Festival on Facebook.
Gatsby Gala Benefitting Harlan's Place
When: Saturday, September 21st
Where: Stock & Trade Design Company
Description: Step back in time and immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of the roaring twenties! Benefitting Harlan's Place Foundation, the Gatsby Gala begins at 6pm on Saturday, September 21 at Stock & Trade Design Co. in Santa Rosa Beach, FL. Enjoy live music, dancing , and an air of excitement as you embark on a journey to support a noble cause.
Purchase tickets and donate here!
Whether you're a seasoned flapper or a dapper gentleman, don your finest Gatsby-inspired attire and become part of the dazzling spectacle that awaits. The event includes a raffle and silent auction brimming with luxurious items and experiences waiting to be claimed.
Every ticket sold, every bid placed, and every donation given contributes directly to the Harlan’s Place Foundation's mission, ensuring that individuals in need receive vital assistance and support. For more information visit harlansplace.org.
46th Annual Destin Seafood Festival
When: Friday, September 27th - Sunday, September 29th
Where: Destin Harbor
Description: The 46th annual Destin Seafood Festival takes place along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk Sept. 27 - 29, 2024! Come out to the world's luckiest fishing village for this three-day festival filled with great seafood, live music and family fun on the Destin Harbor. Free admission.
Friday, September 27th | 4 PM - 10 PM
Saturday, September 28th | 10 AM - 10 PM
Sunday, September 29th | 10 AM - 6 PM
Destin Seafood Festival kicks off Friday, Sept. 27 and goes through Sunday, Sept. 29. It will showcase the best that Destin has to offer on the Harbor. Stroll along the Harbor Boardwalk from one end to the other with over a mile of festival on the water showcasing Destin's Fishing Fleet, Harbor restaurants, bars and shops, and breathtaking views!
More info: destinseafoodfestival.com
Event Facebook Page: facebook.com/DestinSeafoodFest
Fall Festival & Farmer Market
When: Saturday, September 28th
Where: Aaron Bessant Park
Description: Bring the whole family to Aaron Bessant Park for The Fall Festival & Farmer Market on Saturday, September 28 from 10AM - 2PM. Hosted by the Panama City Beach Parks and Recreation Department, enjoy fall fun, crafts, music, and food trucks. This event is free and open to the public.
Shop locally at the Farmers Market and enjoy fresh food and handmade items. Enjoy live music starting at 11AM till 1PM. Arrive early to secure your complimentary tote bag.
Houndfest 10
When: Thursday, September 26th & Saturday, September 28th
Where: Idyll Hounds Brewing Company
Description: Idyll Hounds Brewing Company celebrates their 10th Anniversary with Houndfest 2024 on Saturday, Sept. 28th from 11AM - 5PM. Enjoy an afternoon of live music, multiple beer releases, great food, guest breweries and more!
Purchase Tickets & Learn More Here!
2024 Houndfest Schedule of Events
Sept 26, 6pm: Dinner collaboration with Back Beach Barbecue at the Idyll Hounds Taproom! More details to be announced.
Sept 28, 12pm-6pm:
VIP: Hour early entry at 11am, shirt, glass, brunch, unlimited sample pours and a Houndfest X Bomber
GA: Entry at 12pm. Shirt, Glass, Unlimited sample pours.
Follow Idyll Hounds Brewing Company on Facebook for Houndsfest updates.
Toast on the Coast
When: Saturday, September 28th
Where: Henderson Beach Resort
Description: Junior League of the Emerald Coast hosts Toast on the Coast, an unforgettable evening of coastal indulgence at the beautiful Henderson Beach Resort in Destin, Florida on Saturday, September from 4 - 7pm, VIP entry at 3pm. Attire is resort casual and this event is outdoors so dress accordingly. More Info & Tickets: 2024 Toast on the Coast.
Immerse yourself in a diverse selection of culinary treats and refreshing beverages from local restaurants, dessert shops, breweries, distilleries, and wineries. Take the opportunity to have your portrait skillfully drawn by an artist or enjoy the spectacle of a stilt walker serving drinks. Enjoy live music as you take in the stunning views of the resort. There will also be a silent auction featuring our area’s premier services.
Whether you’re a foodie, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply looking for a fun evening out, Toast on the Coast is the event for you. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to savor the flavors of the coast and celebrate all that makes this region so special. This event will raise money for the Child Clothing Project.
Caring and Sharing Fall Fashion Show
When: Saturday, September 29th
Where: Hilton Sandestin
Description: Join Caring and Sharing of South Walton at the Annual Fall Fashion Show and Luncheon. The event will be held Sunday, September 29 at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa beginning at 12:30PM. During the event, guests will enjoy a fashion show, lunch, a complimentary welcome drink, a silent auction, music, a photo booth, and more! Volunteers and supporters of the organization will walk the runway modeling items donated to the Caring & Sharing Thrift Store.
Items will be for sale after the Fashion Show at the popular pop-up boutique curated specifically for this event! Tickets are on sale online only. Purchase individual tickets or reserve a table for eight guests here!
All funds raised at the Annual Fashion Show will allow Caring and Sharing of South Walton to continue providing food, utility, prescription, and basic need assistance to residents of South Walton County.
Concert Series @ Various Locations
Nightly | 5-9PM
Live Music @ The Red Bar
Nightly | 5:30-9PM
Live Music @ Havana Beach Rooftop Bar
Nightly | 6-8PM
Wednesday Night Concert Series @ The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Wednesday | 7-9PM
Lawn Games @ Grand Boulevard
Friday & Saturday | 5-8:30PM
Brunch & Live Music @ FOOW30A
Every Sunday | 8AM
Brunch & Live Music @ AJ's Grayton
Every Sunday | 11AM-5:00PM
Farmer's Markets
Every Tuesday @ Seaside
Every Wednesday @ Peddlers Pavilion in Seacrest Beach
Every Thursday @ The Big Chill on 30A
Every Saturday @ Seaside, Grand Boulevard, Watersound & Baytowne Wharf
Every Sunday @ Rosemary Beach, Peddlers Pavilion, Baytowne Wharf & Hammock Bay
Last Sunday of the Month @ Destin Commons
September 2024 Events by Sold In Paradise
Planning to be in town?
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