The 30A, Rosemary Beach, and Seaside area are packed with charm and events year-round. Whether you’re into wine, music, art, or family fun, there’s always something going on that adds extra magic to your time on the Emerald Coast. Here’s a list of some top annual festivals and events in and around 30A that are worth planning your visit around:
30A Songwriters Festival (January)
Where: Multiple venues across 30A (including Rosemary, Seaside, WaterColor, etc.)
- Why go: This is the biggest music event in the area, drawing nationally recognized songwriters and artists for intimate performances in cozy beachside venues.
- Vibe: Chill, creative, and deeply soulful—perfect for music lovers.
Seaside School Half Marathon & 5K Race Weekend (February/March)
- Where: Starts and ends in Seaside
- Why go: A scenic run along 30A that benefits Seaside Neighborhood School, followed by live music and a post-race party (plus the famous Vera Bradley swag bag!).
- Vibe: Active, community-focused, and surprisingly festive.
South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival (April)
- Where: Grand Boulevard at Sandestin (a quick drive from 30A)
- Why go: A world-class wine event featuring hundreds of wines, celebrity chefs, and gourmet food pairings.
- Vibe: Sophisticated and social—ideal for wine enthusiasts and foodies.
Seabreeze Jazz Festival (April)
- Where: Panama City Beach (nearby and worth the trip)
- Why go: A major national jazz event bringing big names to the beach.
- Vibe: Smooth, relaxing, and upscale—ideal for date weekends and music buffs.
Digital Graffiti Festival at Alys Beach (May)
- Where: Alys Beach
- Why go: A one-of-a-kind digital art festival where the town’s white architecture becomes a canvas for cutting-edge projection art.
- Vibe: Modern, immersive, and visually stunning—great for art lovers and families.
Fourth of July Celebrations (July 4th)
- Where: Rosemary Beach + throughout 30A
- Why go: Think parades, bike decorating, beachside fireworks, and patriotic concerts.
- Vibe: Classic Americana—family fun with a beach-town twist.
Seaside 4th of July Parade & Fireworks (July 4th)
- Where: Downtown Seaside & Amphitheater
- Why go: One of the most iconic 4th of July celebrations on the Gulf Coast—parade, face painting, live music, and fireworks over the Gulf.
- Vibe: Festive, patriotic, and perfect for families.
Flutterby Arts Festival (Fall)
- Where: Watersound Origins
- Why go: A family-friendly arts festival focused on children’s creativity, butterflies, and interactive experiences.
- Vibe: Wholesome, hands-on, and great for little ones.
Baytowne Wharf Beer Festival (October)
- Where: Sandestin, near 30A
- Why go: Known as the “Best Beer Fest on the Emerald Coast,” with 200+ domestic and international beers.
- Vibe: Energetic, social, and ideal for beer lovers and friend groups.
Seaside Seeing Red Wine Festival (November)
- Where: Seaside Town Center
- Why go: One of the signature wine events on 30A, with hundreds of wines, curated tastings, and local food pairings. A must for wine lovers.
- Vibe: Elegant, social, and ideal for couples or a girls’ weekend.
Rosemary Beach Harvest Market (November)
- Where: Rosemary Beach Town Center
- Why go: A seasonal market featuring local vendors, artisan goods, gourmet treats, and festive vibes.
- Vibe: Boutique, laid-back, and perfect for holiday shopping with a local twist.
Rosemary Beach Holiday Market & Tree Lighting (Late November – December)
- Where: Rosemary Beach
- Why go: A magical holiday experience with lights, music, shopping, and Santa sightings.
- Vibe: Cozy, festive, and straight out of a Hallmark movie.
