Ocean Reef Resorts has been a trusted provider of exceptional vacation rentals along the Emerald Coast for over 40 years, and many of our loyal guests return annually to experience the Destin Seafood Festival—a beloved local tradition celebrating the best in Gulf seafood, music, and culture. This event has become a highlight of the fall season, drawing seafood lovers and festival-goers alike to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Destin, Florida, known as "The World's Luckiest Fishing Village."

As experts in the Destin area and dedicated to providing our guests with memorable vacations, Ocean Reef Resorts is here to ensure you have all the insider details about this iconic festival, which takes place along Destin Harbor and HarborWalk Village. The event spans three exciting days, beginning on Friday, September 27th, and promises an unforgettable experience filled with fresh-caught seafood, live entertainment, and family fun. Whether you're a seafood connoisseur or simply love the excitement of coastal festivals, the Destin Seafood Festival is an unmissable event that showcases the heart of Destin's rich fishing heritage.

Festival Schedule & Event Times

The festival kicks off on Friday, September 27th, running from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm, continues on Saturday, September 28th from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, and wraps up on Sunday, September 29th from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. For three full days, you'll savor every bite of mouthwatering seafood delights, from fresh-caught Grouper and Snapper to succulent shrimp, crab, and so much more. Throughout the event, you'll also find exciting activities and live entertainment that make each day unforgettable for attendees of all ages.

Celebrating Destin's Rich Fishing Heritage

Destin's deep-rooted fishing history, dating back nearly 175 years, is on full display, as this Gulf gem offers some of the fastest access to deep-sea fishing in the region, earning its title as "The World's Luckiest Fishing Village." The bounty of the Gulf includes a wide variety of fish like Mahi Mahi, Redfish, King Mackerel, and Triggerfish, to name just a few! Visitors can also witness fresh catches being offloaded at the harbor.

VIP Seafood Experience

The Destin Seafood Festival has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1978. Today, it remains a vital fundraiser for the Destin Charter Boat Association and provides a chance to taste the best of the best from local restaurants and chefs. This year, in addition to the regular festival offerings, a special VIP seafood experience will be available. Enjoy craft beers, culinary creations, and a day of seafood bliss! VIP tickets start at $35 for Friday and go up to $130 for a two-day pass (with discounts for military members and kids under 16).

Free Entry and Family Fun

If you're just in it for the fun, regular festival entry is FREE for everyone! On-site parking is $20 for the day. Besides indulging in seafood, visitors will enjoy live music from 15 bands. Here's a sneak peek at the festival lineup:

Friday, September 27th:

• Jessie Ritter Duo: 4:00pm – 5:45pm
• Flash Flood Duo: 6:00pm – 7:45pm
• The Aces: 8:00pm – 10:00pm

Saturday, September 28th:

• JoAm: 11:00am – 1:00pm
• J-Rog Duo: 1:15pm – 3:15pm
• The Two HooDoos: 3:30pm – 5:30pm
• Boukou Groove: 5:45pm – 7:45pm
• Hughes Taylor: 8:00pm – 10:00pm

Sunday, September 29th:

• Almost Famous: 11:00am – 1:30pm
• Ben Lofton & Fam: 1:45pm – 4:15pm
• Flow Tribe: 4:40pm – 6:00pm

Fireworks Extravaganza

On Saturday night, be sure to catch the dazzling fireworks display lighting up the night sky at 9:00 pm! This stunning spectacle takes place over Destin's harbor, and you can watch the colors reflect off the water as boats honk their horns in celebration. It's an unforgettable sight!

The Famous Destin Fishing Rodeo

The festival also serves as the official kick-off for the renowned Destin Fishing Rodeo, a month-long competition that attracts anglers from far and wide. The rodeo, which began in 1948, awards cash prizes in a variety of categories. Want to see the action? Head to the docks near AJ's Seafood & Oyster Bar to watch as the day's biggest catches are weighed in for a chance to win!

As the official accommodations partner for the Destin Fishing Rodeo, Ocean Reef Resorts is proud to offer special discounted rates for rodeo attendees. Whether you're participating or just watching the excitement unfold, our comfortable vacation rentals are the perfect place to stay while enjoying all the fishing action.

Close to the Action with Ocean Reef Resorts

Ready to join the festivities? Ocean Reef Resorts offers stunning Destin vacation rentals that put you right in the heart of all the action, including properties in Downtown Destin and Holiday Isle. Explore our website to browse detailed property descriptions, gorgeous photos, and available dates. Once your plans are set, get ready to eat, drink, and be merry at this unforgettable seafood festival!