May on the Emerald Coast is all about sunshine, celebration, and unforgettable moments—and this year’s lineup of events is bursting with local flavor, festive vibes, and family-friendly fun. From teeing off for a good cause and sipping mint juleps at a Derby party to dancing under the stars and diving into taco-filled fiestas, there’s no better time to explore everything 30A and the surrounding areas have to offer. Here’s your guide to the can’t-miss events lighting up the coast this May!
FEATURED EVENTS
4th Annual Fore! The Love of Animals Golf Tournament
The Links Golf Club | Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
May 3rd, 2025
Time to grab your clubs and hit the greens for a great cause! Registration is open for the FORE! the Love of Animals Golf Tournament, hosted by Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort and benefiting Alaqua Animal Refuge. It’s all about having fun, friendly competition, and coming together to help animals in need!
Kentucky Derby Party
Pescado | Rosemary
May 3rd, 2025
Get into the spirit of the Kentucky Derby with a festive gathering full of southern charm, stylish hats, and signature sips. Guests can join a hands-on Maker’s Mark Cocktail Class and show off their best derby-day looks for a chance to win fun prizes. With great drinks, good company, and all the race-day excitement, this is one party you won’t want to miss!
ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival
Grand Boulevard | Sandestin
May 3rd, 2025
The 37th Annual ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival is a must-attend event for art lovers! Hosted at Grand Boulevard Town Center, this vibrant festival features over 120 national and regional artists showcasing a diverse range of original works for both viewing and purchase. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore and appreciate incredible art while supporting talented creators!
Burning Up the Beaches
Destin Commons | Destin
May 1st-3rd, 2025
The 14th Annual “Burning Up the Beaches” car show is revving up for another unforgettable weekend in Destin and Fort Walton Beach! Car enthusiasts from across the U.S. will gather to showcase their prized vehicles, all while enjoying the stunning backdrop of the sugar-white beaches. With all proceeds benefiting The Arc of the Emerald Coast, this high-octane event supports vital services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Okaloosa and Walton County.
Cinco De Mayo Party- Live by Booneshine
SkyBar at the Edge | Destin Harbor
May 5th, 2025
Skip the crowded spots and enjoy your tacos and margaritas with a view at Skybar! Booneshine will be playing, so come chill, grab a drink, and enjoy the vibes!
12th Annual Taco and Tequila Fest
Baytowne Wharf | Sandestin
May 8th-11th, 2025
Get ready for a flavor-packed fiesta at the 12th Annual Tequila and Taco Fest at The Village of Baytowne Wharf! This lively event brings together some of the best tacos, top-shelf tequilas, refreshing margaritas, and Mexican beers—perfectly paired with great music and good vibes. It’s a celebration you won’t want to miss!
7th Annual Crawfish Boil
Renovation Flooring | Miramar Beach
May 9th, 2025
Get ready for a flavorful and fun-filled day at Renovation Flooring on Friday, May 9th! This family-friendly event brings together great food and good times, whether you’re a seasoned crawfish eater or trying it for the first time. It’s the perfect way to enjoy delicious flavors and create lasting memories with loved ones.
Mother’s Day Celebration
The Garden | Peach Creek
May 10th, 2025
Celebrate Mother’s Day in a beautiful garden setting on Saturday at The Garden at Peach Creek! Guests can enjoy fresh-cut florals, container gardens, thoughtful gifts, and exciting giveaways. Creative Crepes 30a will be serving delicious bites throughout the day, while Spark Collection 30a will add a touch of sparkle with welded jewelry!
Mother’s Day Brunch
AJ’s | Grayton Beach
May 11th, 2025
Celebrate Mom in style at AJ’s Grayton Beach with a special Mother’s Day experience she won’t forget. Guests can enjoy a beautiful flower bar or create a custom bouquet—compliments of AJ’s! The celebration continues with a lively Sunday Brunch featuring bottomless mimosas, live music, and the restaurant’s famous crawfish boil. It’s the perfect way to show appreciation with great food, good music, and plenty of love!
Summer Splash
E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center | Freeport
May 17th, 2025
Celebrate the start of summer with a lively outdoor event packed with family-friendly fun! From interactive animal chats and exciting yard games to bounce houses and raffles, there’s something for everyone. Guests can savor a variety of flavors from local favorites like The Rican Vegan, Bang’n Bowls, Pressed, and Sea & Snow Shaved Ice!
Locals Last Stand
The Pavilion at Watersound Town Center | Watersound Origins
May 18th, 2025
Locals are invited to soak up the good vibes at 30A’s 10th Annual Locals Last Stand—a fun-filled community celebration before the summer season kicks into high gear. Held at The Pavilion at Watersound Town Center, this event is all about relaxing, reconnecting, and enjoying a carefree afternoon with friends and neighbors!
Kick-off Summer at Nick’s with River Dan + DJ Viper
Nick’s Seafood | Freeport
May 25th, 2025
Mark your calendars for Sunday, May 25th, and head over to Nick’s Seafood Restaurant for a day full of fun! Enjoy the country sounds of River Dan and DJ Viper’s energetic beats keeping the good times rolling. Grab a drink, kick back, and make it a day to remember!