The Emerald Coast doesn’t just shine green because of its stunning Gulf waters—St. Patrick’s Day brings a whole new level of Irish spirit to Destin and 30A. Whether you’re a race-day warrior, a live music lover, or someone who simply enjoys a cold green beer by the beach, this festive weekend is packed with events, entertainment, and plenty of Irish cheer.

From high-energy street festivals and lively pub celebrations to whiskey tastings and scenic fun runs, the coast transforms into an emerald-hued playground where bagpipes, Irish dance, and festive drinks flow as freely as the Gulf breeze. Whether you're raising a pint at McGuire’s legendary bash, dancing the night away at HarborWalk Village, or indulging in Irish-inspired cuisine with a view, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in paradise.

So grab your greenest gear, gather your lucky crew, and get ready for a shamrockin’ good time. Here’s a look at this year’s top events to make the most of your St. Patrick’s Day on the Emerald Coast!

St. Patrick's Family Street Fair & St. Paddy's DJ Dance Party at HarborWalk Village

HarborWalk Villagein Destin is the perfect place to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with family-friendly fun followed by a high-energy dance party.

The St. Patrick's Day Street Fair kicks off at 2 PM on Monday, March 17, featuring an Irish dance performance, the lively sounds of strolling bagpipes, kids' crafts, a leprechaun treasure hunt, and fun surprises for lucky adults. Be sure to arrive early—before the fair officially begins, the talented dancers from Carpenter Academy of Irish Dance will take the stage for a special performance from 1 PM to 2 PM.

Later in the day, the party continues with the St. Paddy's DJ Dance Party from 4 PM to 7 PM. DJ DOC ROC will be spinning festive beats on the main stage, keeping the crowd moving well into the evening. Throw on your best green attire and get ready for a shamrockin' good time on the lawn!

St. Paddy's Day Delight at the Village of Baytowne Wharf

The Village of Baytowne Wharf at the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort is going green for St. Patrick's Day! On Monday, March 17, from 6 PM to 9 PM, the village will come alive with festive lights, Irish dance performances, and live music. The Carpenter Academy of Irish Dance will kick things off, followed by Shenanigans playing lively tunes that will transport you straight to the Emerald Isle. /p>

In addition to the entertainment, many of Baytowne's shops, restaurants, and bars will be offering St. Patrick's Day specials. Expect to find festive cocktails, green beer, themed treats, and exclusive shopping discounts throughout the village. Whether you're looking to sip on an Irish-inspired drink, indulge in some seasonal bites, or score a lucky deal, there's plenty to explore.

With its spirited atmosphere, delicious offerings, and free admission, Baytowne Wharf is the perfect place to celebrate St. Patrick's Day on the Emerald Coast.

Lucky Leprechaun 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run

Kick off St. Patrick’s Day weekend with the Lucky Leprechaun 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run on Saturday, March 15, at 8 AM. Starting at AJ’s on the Bayou, this fast and flat course winds through a scenic waterfront neighborhood, leading to a post-race party with food, brews, and live music.

The first 400 finishers will earn a special finisher’s medal, and top runners and walkers will receive awards. Prefer a lighter run? The 1 Mile Fun Run includes a race tee, finisher’s medal, and entry to the celebration.

Proceeds support the Northwest Florida Track Club Fund, so grab your best St. Paddy’s Day gear and join the fun! Register online by March 13 or sign up in person at packet pickup.

Annual McGuire’s St. Patrick’s Day Prediction 5K Run

McGuire's Irish Pub in Pensacola is once again hosting its St. Patrick's Day Prediction 5K Run on Saturday, March 8, at 9 AM. This unique race isn't about speed—it's about accuracy! Runners and walkers predict their finish time, and those closest to their estimate win prizes. But leave the watches at home—timing devices are not allowed!

The 3.1-mile certified course starts and ends at McGuire's Irish Pub, where the fun continues with a legendary post-race party featuring live entertainment, Irish fare, and plenty of drinks, including Bud Light and McGuire's Red Ale.

Packet pickup is available on Friday, March 7, from 10 AM to 8 PM and on race morning from 6:30 AM to 8 AM. Whether you're racing or just there for the festive atmosphere, this annual tradition is a must for St. Patrick's Day weekend!

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McGuire's St. Patrick's Day Extravaganza

McGuire’s Irish Pub in Destin is home to the Gulf Coast’s largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration, and this year will be no exception! On Sunday, March 16, the pub will be packed with Irish spirit, featuring live entertainment, bagpipes, Irish Wakes, green beer, and all your favorite festivities.

Expect a full day of back-to-back live music across multiple stages, with everything from traditional Irish tunes to high-energy rock and DJ sets, keeping the party going well into the night. Whether you're raising a pint inside the pub, enjoying live music on the deck, or dancing in the street, McGuire’s is the ultimate St. Patrick’s Day destination.

The celebration continues on Monday, March 17, with Stormfolk taking the stage and keeping the festivities alive for an epic St. Patrick’s Day party. With frosty green beers, great food, and live music, McGuire’s is the place to eat, drink, and be Irish on the Emerald Coast!

Muff Liquor Company Cocktail Class & Dinner at Pescado 30A

This St. Patrick’s Day weekend, Pescado 30A is hosting a one-of-a-kind cocktail and dining experience featuring The Muff Liquor Company from Muff, County Donegal, Ireland. On Saturday, March 15, from 5 PM to 8 PM, guests will enjoy a guided cocktail class where they’ll learn to craft two Irish-inspired cocktails, followed by a two-course Irish dinner.

The evening kicks off with hors d’oeuvres and hands-on mixology, creating cocktails with premium Irish spirits. To top it off, guests can enter a raffle for a chance to strike it lucky.

Tickets are $139 per person, and space is limited for this exclusive event—so reserve your spot early for a night of great drinks, delicious food, and Irish cheer!

St. Patrick’s Day at Fish Out of Water

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with gorgeous Gulf views and delicious food at Fish Out of Water in WaterColor. This family-friendly restaurant and bar will be serving up chef-inspired specials, festive cocktails, and plenty of green beer.

Live music will set the tone for the evening, adding to the laid-back yet lively atmosphere. Throw on your best leprechaun gear and enjoy a shamrockin’ good time at this scenic 30A spot. Festivities typically run from late afternoon into the evening, so stay tuned for this year’s details!

North Beach Social St. Patrick’s Day Party

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day bayside at North Beach Social on Monday, March 17, from 6 PM to 9 PM. This lively event features music by DJ Naura, a LIFE OF THE PARTY photo booth, Irish beer specials, Car-a-Bombs, and beer-battered Atlantic cod fish & chips—plus the full regular menu.

Set on the Choctawhatchee Bay, North Beach Social is a favorite local hangout with great food, cold drinks, and a laid-back, festive atmosphere. Gather your friends and family, enjoy the Irish-inspired fun, and toast to good times with a bayside Sláinte!

As the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico beckon, so does the vibrant energy of St. Patrick’s Day in Destin and along Scenic Highway 30A. With over 40 years of experience in providing exceptional vacation rentals, Ocean Reef Resorts invites you to celebrate in style—whether you’re enjoying festive parades, lively pub celebrations, or scenic races under the sun.

Our handpicked collection of Destin and 30A vacation rentals offers the perfect backdrop for your holiday getaway, from Gulf-front homes with breathtaking views to charming cottages near the action. Plus, with dedicated local support and insider knowledge, we make planning seamless and stress-free.

Make this St. Patrick’s Day unforgettable—gather your family and friends, embrace the coastal charm and Irish spirit, and create cherished memories along the Emerald Coast. Secure your stay with Ocean Reef Resorts today and let the magic of the holiday unfold!