32nd Annual Destin Seafood FestivalSeptember 17-19, 2010

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

Fall has always been my favorite time of the year.  The weather gets much cooler, not as much humidity, plus fall means that it’s time for the 32nd Annual Destin Seafood Festival and the Fishing Rodeo!  This year will mark some big changes to the Destin Seafood Festival; for 31 years the festival has been held in October, coinciding with the month-long Fishing Rodeo.  To give the Rodeo an advance kick-off party for 2010, the Seafood Festival will now be held September 17-19.  There’s also a change of scenery, as the Festival will take place at the Fishing Fleet Marina, City of Destin Royal Melvin Heritage Park and Fisherman’s Wharf.  It’s still right at the docks, just a little more to the east. 

The Destin Seafood Festival is a blast!  If you’re from the area, you can’t help but run into everyone you know.  And if you’re visiting the Emerald Coast, you’re sure to make new friends.  There’s live music, arts and crafts, and of course, delicious seafood from area restaurants.  The three-day festival kicks off on Friday with a performance by local rock favorite Black-Eyed Blonde.  Headliners for Friday will be Starship starring Mickey Thomas, performing such hits as “We Built This City” and “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now.”  Saturday’s entertainment features Donnie Sundal, Jackie & Dave, and one of my personal local favorites, the Forrest Williams Band (you can catch them at Hog’s Breath most weekends).  The big hit for Saturday night is none other than Loverboy, who you may recognize from their songs “Working For the Weekend” and “Turn Me Loose.”  Sunday follows with artists The Sal Salaz Project and Jones and Company.

You can purchase a three-day pass for just $15.  Day passes can be purchased for Friday (4-10pm) for $5, Saturday (10am-10pm) for $10, and Sunday (11am-4pm) for $5.  The Festival is one of the best family-friendly events in the area, and all children 12 and under get in absolutely FREE!  Parking is limited, so make sure you arrive early.  ResortQuest Vacation Rentals is the official Accommodations Sponsor of the 32nd Annual Destin Seafood Festival. Just call (800) 380-4808, mention the Destin Seafood Festival, and you’ll receive a discounted rate.

The weekend prior to the festival, the 2nd Annual Seafood Festival Golf Classic takes place at the Indian Bayou Golf Course on September 10-11.  The tournament draws competitive players from all over our region. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Destin Fisherman’s Fund.  The top three teams in each flight will receive gift certificates and will be recognized on Saturday, September 18 during the Seafood Festival.  Registration deadline is August 31.  For more information on the Golf Classic, contact the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce at (850) 837-6241. 

Come on out to these exciting events, have a blast, and help the residents of Destin celebrate life in "The Luckiest Fishing Village In The World!”