January along 30A and the Emerald Coast kicks off the new year with a mix of fresh starts, coastal traditions, and can’t-miss winter fun. From music lovers gathering for the iconic 30A Songwriters Festival to brave souls plunging into the Gulf at Polar Bear Plunges, the month is full of unique experiences. Families can enjoy winter wonderlands, craft days, and art festivals, while food lovers dive into cheesy favorites, brunch celebrations, and Gulf-inspired boils. With live music, creative events, charitable traditions, and laid-back coastal vibes, January is the perfect time to embrace the new year and enjoy the Emerald Coast at its best!
FEATURED EVENTS
South Walton Fire District 2026 Polar Bear Plunge
January 1st, 2026
Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar | Santa Rosa Beach
The 12th Annual Polar Bear Plunge at Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar invites the community to kick off the New Year with a splash for a great cause. Brave participants of all ages will plunge into the Gulf in support of the South Walton Fire District’s community education programs, with a lively costume contest adding to the fun. After the plunge, guests are encouraged to warm up and celebrate back at Shunk Gulley, making this family-friendly tradition an unforgettable way to welcome the year ahead!
New Year’s “Hair of the Dog” Brunch
January 1st, 2026
SkyBar at Edge Seafood | Destin
Kick off the New Year with laid-back coastal vibes at the Hair of the Dog Brunch, a Gulf Coast–inspired celebration designed to cure the night before in the best way possible. Enjoy crave-worthy brunch favorites, brunch cocktails, and live music while digging into a seasonal Gulf boil, featuring crawfish if available or an equally delicious coastal alternative. With bottomless mimosas, Bloody Mary specials, and a relaxed, festive atmosphere, this brunch is all about great food, strong drinks, and starting the year with zero pressure and plenty of flavor!
Winter Wonderland
January 10th, 2026
The Village of Baytowne Wharf | Sandestin
The Village of Baytowne Wharf transforms into a frosty Winter Wonderland as real snow falls in the Event Plaza for a magical morning of family-friendly fun. Bundle up and enjoy snowy surprises, winter-themed activities, and festive moments perfect for making memories and snapping photos. This free event invites guests of all ages to experience a touch of winter magic along the coast!
A Night of Deliverance
January 11th, 2026
Four Points Sheraton | Fort Walton Beach
This free, public gathering offers a welcoming space for anyone seeking hope, healing, and encouragement. Centered around prayer and spiritual support, the event provides time for both group and individual prayer, creating an atmosphere of compassion, restoration, and community. All are invited to bring friends, family, and neighbors and experience a meaningful time of connection, reflection, and faith!
Mac N Cheese Festival
January 18th, 2026
Palm Folly | Santa Rosa Beach
Get ready for the cheesiest day of the year at the Mac N Cheese Festival at Palm Folly Hard Seltzer in Santa Rosa Beach. This laid-back, family-friendly event brings together food trucks serving their own creative twists on classic mac n cheese, along with local vendors, Palm Folly’s signature hard seltzers, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic options. Kids will love the petting zoo, adults will love the drinks, and everyone will leave happy, full, and smiling. Come hungry, bring your crew, and enjoy a comfort-food-filled Sunday by the beach!
2026 30A Songwriters Fest
January 16th-19th, 2026
Multiple locations | Santa Rosa Beach
The 30A Songwriters Festival is a celebrated coastal tradition that brings together hundreds of talented artists, intimate venues, and music lovers from near and far to honor the art of songwriting. Spanning iconic neighborhoods, resorts, and venues along Walton County’s scenic beaches, the festival offers an up-close, story-driven music experience unlike any other. From emerging voices to well-known songwriters, attendees are invited to hear the songs behind the stories in a relaxed, beachside setting that showcases why this event is considered one of the premier songwriters festivals in the country!
2nd Annual Wacky Tacky Ball
January 31st, 2026
Emerald Grande | HarborWalk Village
Get ready for a night where bold fashion, playful flair, and good vibes take center stage at the 2nd Annual Wacky Tacky Ball, presented by The Ground Up Project. This high-energy, dress-to-impress event invites guests to embrace the ridiculous, celebrate creativity, and show off their most over-the-top looks in a fun, unforgettable atmosphere. Hosted at Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village, the Wacky Tacky Ball promises a lively evening of entertainment, laughter, and community spirit, all while supporting a great cause!
Biophilia Art Festival: Sips & Scenes
January 31st, 2026
E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center | Freeport
Kick off the new year with creativity at the Biophilia Center’s art-inspired January events, where nature and imagination come together. From hands-on kids’ crafts and an adults-only Sips & Scenes experience to a photo contest celebrating the beauty of the natural world, there are plenty of ways to get inspired. The month culminates in the January Art Festival, featuring local artists, vendors, and the announcement of photo contest winners whose work will be showcased at the center. It’s a vibrant celebration of art, community, and creativity to start the year!