April on the Emerald Coast is a month filled with vibrant events, making it an ideal time to explore this picturesque stretch of Florida's panhandle. Whether you're interested in cultural activities, outdoor adventures, or just soaking in the coastal vibes, there's something for everyone. Here's a rundown of events and activities to enjoy:
Festivals and Events
- The Sandestin Wine Festival: The 37th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival is an exquisite four-day celebration of wines, set against the scenic backdrop of the Gulf Coast at the Village of Baytowne Wharf. Scheduled from April 11-14, 2024, this event is a perfect blend of sun, fun, and wine, offering a plethora of activities for both novices and aficionados.
- The South Walton Beaches Food and Wine Festival: April 25-28, 2024, a celebration featuring over 600 wines and spirits, this event attracts celebrity winemakers, distillers, chefs, and craft spirit experts. It encompasses everything from wine and food pairings to educational seminars, all within the picturesque Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. Tickets: SoWal Wine & Food Fest
- The Mooncrush Festival at Seascape: April 18 to 21, featuring a star-studded lineup that includes Charley Crockett, Marcus King, Noah Kahan, The Head and The Heart, The Wood Brothers, Larkin Poe, and many more. Each day is packed with performances from these talented artists, setting the stage for an unforgettable series of concerts by the beach.
- Lauren Daigle's Kaleidoscope Beach Weekend is a vibrant and soul-stirring music event set against the picturesque backdrop of Miramar Beach, Florida. Scheduled from April 25 to 27, 2024, this music vacation is hosted at the Seascape Resort, offering attendees an immersive experience that blends the joy of music with the beauty of the beach (Seascape Resort)
Baytowne Wharf Events:
- Movie Mondays on the Lawn: Kick off April with a family-friendly movie night at Baytowne Wharf on April 1. It's a free event where you can watch "Peter Rabbit" under the stars (The Good Life Destin).
- Boomin’ Tuesdays Fireworks Night: Enjoy an evening of lawn games, dancing, and a breathtaking fireworks show on April 2 (The Good Life Destin).
- Wednesday Night Concert Series: Every Wednesday in April, experience live music from a variety of genres at Baytowne Wharf. It's a free event perfect for music lovers (The Good Life Destin).
Seabreeze Jazz Festival: A must-attend for jazz enthusiasts, this festival runs from April 24-28 in Panama City Beach. It combines top national smooth jazz artists with a full weekend of fun (PCB Beach Guide).
Emerald Coast Volleyball Week: Taking place from April 24-28, this event features coed, men/women, and kids beach volleyball tournaments at The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island (Emerald Coast Volleyball).
Emerald Coast Cup: A youth soccer tournament with divisions for U9-U19. It's a competitive event that draws teams from across the region, held at multiple locations in Destin and Niceville (Snap Soccer).
Relay For Life of the Emerald Coast: Join this community event on April 26 to support and celebrate cancer survivors, caregivers, and contribute to cancer research (ACS Events).
Daily Activities and Attractions
- Beaches: April is an excellent time to visit the Emerald Coast's beaches, which are less crowded than in peak summer months. Enjoy the stunning white sand and emerald waters at your leisure.
- Hiking and Biking: Take advantage of the milder weather to explore the area's numerous trails. Whether you prefer a coastal dune lake hike or a leisurely bike ride, there's plenty of natural beauty to discover.
- Cultural Arts and Museums: Explore the rich cultural scene with visits to local museums, galleries, and performance spaces. The Mattie Kelly Arts Center, for example, offers family-friendly and affordable entertainment throughout the season (Destin FWB).
- Food and Drink: Savor the local cuisine by dining at beachfront restaurants, attending a Paella Night, or exploring the farmers markets and food truck festivals (30A) (ToDoDestin) (SoWal.com)
With so much to see and do, April on the Emerald Coast promises a blend of relaxation and adventure, suitable for visitors of all ages and interests. From the tranquility of less-crowded beaches to the excitement of seasonal festivals, it's the perfect time to experience the unique charm of this Florida gem.