April is one of the best times to experience life along the Emerald Coast. As spring settles in and the beaches begin to buzz with energy, communities from Destin, Panama City Beach, and the Forgotten Coast, host a full calendar of festivals, outdoor markets, live music, and family-friendly celebrations. Whether you’re visiting for spring break, planning a weekend getaway, or lucky enough to call the coast home, April offers countless ways to enjoy the season. Here’s a look at some of the standout events happening across the Emerald Coast this month.
FEATURED EVENTS
Spring it On
April 1st, 2026
St. Augustine Green | Rosemary, Beach
Go hangout and enjoy a musical concert under the stars. Bring your blankets, chairs, and enjoy a wonderful night of live entertainment.
Will Thompson Band will be the featured event!
Doggie Eggstraviganza
April 3rd, 2026
Grand Boulevard | Miramar Beach
Easter egg hunting, but for your furry friends. There will be light bites, liberations, and prizes! Enjoy a fun day with your pups and friends at Grand Bourlevard.
Easter Explosion
April 4th, 2026
Village of Baytowne Wharf | Miramar Beach
Hop over to the Village of Baytowne Wharf on Saturday, April 4th for their Easter Explosion. Spend the day enjoying face painting, arts and crafts, and family-friendly fun throughout the village. And be sure to stop by for a photo with the Easter Bunny before you go.
Easter Brunch
April 5th, 2026
Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort | Destin
Celebrate Easter Sunday at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort with an elegant brunch in the Linkside Ballroom.
Gather with family and friends to enjoy a beautifully crafted holiday spread featuring elevated brunch classics, seasonal spring flavors, and indulgent desserts – all served in a warm and welcoming setting designed for making memories.
Easter Buffet
April 5th, 2026
Vue on 30A | Santa Rosa Beach
Gather with family and friends on Sunday, April 5 for a festive Easter Buffet featuring fresh Gulf seafood, a smoked prime rib carving station, herb-glazed spiral ham, made-to-order omelets, and Southern favorites like smoked gouda pimento cheese grits. Save room for decadent desserts including carrot cake, coconut cream cake and red velvet cheesecake.
Sandestin Wine Festival
April 16th – 19th, 2026
The Village of Baytowne Wharf | Miramar Beach
Wine, food & fun in the sun! A four-day festival celebrating wine and all things Gulf Coast in the premier Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort with everything you need or want only steps away? Yes, please!
South Walton Food & Wine Festival
April 23rd – 26th, 2026
Grand Boulevard | Destin
The South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival is one of the Emerald Coast’s most anticipated culinary events, bringing together renowned wineries, craft spirits, and top regional chefs for a weekend of tastings and entertainment. Held at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin near Destin, the festival features hundreds of wines, gourmet bites, and educational seminars with industry experts. Proceeds support the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, which benefits children’s charities across Northwest Florida.
Destin Charity Wine Auction Weekend
April 24th – 25th, 2026
Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation | Miramar Beach
The Destin Charity Wine Auction is the main event of the weekend, hosted this year on Saturday, April 25. The Reserve Tasting and Live Auction are held under an air conditioned tent at Grand Boulevard Sandestin Town Center. The event will feature distinctive wines from internationally acclaimed vintners, poured and paired with cuisine created by a selection of the area’s top local restaurants.