Although most schools are back in session and it feels like fall is in full swing already, the beach days don't have to be over. In fact, if you're yearning to have your feet back in the sand, October is a great month to plan a trip to Destin. Aside from the beautiful beaches, calm water, and amazing weather, there are actually a lot of fun Destin October events happening this year.
1. Destin Fishing Rodeo - All Month
Image Credit: @destinfishingrodeo Instagram
The Destin Fishing Rodeo has been a local tradition since May of 1948 in the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village." Saltwater anglers from all over the world go to the Destin Harbor to compete for a chance to win various prizes like rods, reels, fishing trips, weekend stays, and cash. Weigh-ins are free and open to the public every day in October from 10 am-7 pm.
2. 40th Destin Seafood Festival - October 5th-7th
Image Credit: Destin Seafood Festival Facebook
The Destin Seafood Festival is another favorite October tradition in Destin. This three-day festival is filled with delicious seafood, entertainment, arts & crafts, and of course, fireworks. Like the Destin Fishing Rodeo, this festival is also a free event at the Destin Harbor.
3. Kids FallFest - October 9th
Image Credit: @hwvdestin Instagram
Kids FallFest is a super fun part of the Destin Fishing Rodeo for children. This event takes place at AJ's Seafood & Oyster Bar on the Destin Harbor and there will be free face painting, arts & crafts, and pumpkin decorating.
4. 11th Annual Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest - October 12th-13th
Image Credit: @baytownewharf Instagram
Don't miss out on the 11th Annual Baytowne Wharf Beer Fest. With more than 40 on-site craft brewers, it's no wonder why people call this the "best beer fest on the Emerald Coast." There will be almost 200 domestic and international craft beers to sample in addition to seminars and live music. Get your tickets for the festival here!
5. College Football Saturdays - Every Saturday
Image Credit: @hwvdestin Instagram
Throughout all of College Football Season, you can head to the Destin Harbor for College Football Saturdays. It's the place to be to watch all your favorite teams play. There's even food and drink specials at Crab Island Cantina, Charlie's Burger Bar, Harry T's Lighthouse, Jackacuda's Seafood & Sushi, and Margaritaville Destin!
6. 23rd Annual Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Festival of the Arts - October 27th-28th
Image Credit: Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation
The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Festival of the Arts is one of Northwest Florida's premier fine arts shows. This two-day Destin October event features over 100 artists from all over the country and Europe. There will be live music, food, and kids craft activities. Additionally, admission is only $5 for adults and free for kids!
7. Pumpkinpalooza - October 28th-29th
Celebrate Halloween with Pumpkinpalooza on the Destin Harbor. This two-day event features a pub crawl, live music, and adult costume contest on Saturday night and trick-or-treating with a kids and pets costume contest on Sunday.
Destin isn't just a summer vacation destination. Exciting things are happening around the area year round! October is just one of the many off-season months that are filled with fun activities for everyone.