By Cali Hlavac
One of Destin’s most beloved traditions is back and bigger than ever. The Destin Seafood Festival returns Sept. 26–28 for its 47th year, transforming the Destin Harbor into a mile-long celebration of fresh Gulf seafood, live music and coastal culture. More than 30,000 locals and visitors are expected to attend this free, family-friendly event.
Stretching from HarborWalk Village to Heron Harbor, the festival features five stages of live music with local and regional artists performing everything from rock and reggae to country and tropical tunes—and more. The pedestrian-friendly, waterfront boardwalk and docks become a feast for the senses as more than 100 local food and craft vendors — jewelry, clothing, sculpture, glass, watercolors, oil paintings, designs and more — plus Destin’s favorite restaurants — serve up seafood specialties, cold drinks and handmade art. And don’t forget this year’s seafood festival T-shirt!
A Festival with Local Flavor
What began in 1978 as a one-day gathering on “Kelly’s Hill” to honor local fishermen has grown into a can’t-miss Destin tradition. Proceeds still benefit the community, supporting the Destin Charter Boat Association, Miss Destin scholarships, the Destin Fisherman’s Fund and other local causes.
Festival organizers pride themselves on keeping admission free, though VIP passes are available for those who want an elevated experience. With your paid ticket, the VIP area offers unlimited tastings from local restaurants and chefs, private restrooms, a cash bar, TVs and exclusive live music. This year’s VIP highlight is Cajun TwoStep founder, viral cooking sensation and influencer Stalekracker, who will take over the VIP Main Stage on Sunday with live demos and plenty of Louisiana flair!
Fun for All Ages
Kids won’t be left out of the fun. The expanded Kids Zone, sponsored by Fudpucker’s, features oyster shell painting, sand art and play areas for little ones. The HarborWalk Kids Fun Zone adds hamster balls, a rock-climbing wall, zip line and face painting — with a shaded seating tent nearby for parents to relax.
Music on the Harbor
Music lovers can bring a chair, kick back or dance along the docks as local bands play on each of the five stages throughout the weekend. Harbor restaurants and bars will also host their own lineups of local favorites. A full entertainment schedule will be announced at DestinSeafoodFestival.com.
Parking and Shuttle Information
Festival parking will be available at Heron Harbor, HarborWalk Village, the Marler public lots, Destin Community Center and the Destin Fishing Museum. Free shuttles will run from Morgan Sports Complex to the Destin Harbor throughout the weekend.
The Destin Seafood Festival serves as the kickoff to October’s month-long Destin Fishing Rodeo, another cornerstone of local tradition. Whether you’re a longtime local or first-time visitor, this is your chance to savor fresh Gulf flavors, soak up harbor views and celebrate the community’s fishing heritage.
For festival maps, vendor information, VIP passes and sponsorship opportunities, visit DestinSeafoodFestival.com or email info@destinseafoodfest.com.
Come hungry. Leave happy. See you on the Harbor!
Sidebar if room:
VIP Experience!
- Unlimited tastings from local restaurants and chefs
- Private restrooms and cash bar
- TVs and exclusive live music in the VIP tent
- Sunday Special: Live cooking and entertainment by Stalekracker, founder of Cajun TwoStep
- Tickets available at DestinSeafoodFestival.com
Sidebar if room:
If You Go:
When: Sept. 26–28, 2025 (Friday–Sunday)
Where: Destin Harbor, from HarborWalk Village to Heron Harbor
Cost: Free admission; VIP passes available for unlimited tastings and exclusive VIP stage access
Music: Five stages of live bands all weekend (schedule TBA)
Parking: Available at Heron Harbor, HarborWalk Village, Marler public lots, Destin Community Center and Destin Fishing Museum. Free shuttles run from Morgan Sports Complex.
Info & VIP Tickets: DestinSeafoodFestival.com
