Sandestin Gumbo Festival

When I think of good southern food, gumbo is always one of the first things that comes to mind.  It has a flavor that only comes from true southern home-cooking.  Get your own taste of southern hospitality at the 22nd Annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival on February 18th and 19th.  This year, the festival has moved to The Village of Baytowne Wharf and is now stretched over two days during the President’s Day weekend.  

Friday will offer the first-ever “Taste of the Village” from 6-9pm, where guests can enjoy samplings of the region’s finest cuisines from assorted Village merchants.  The main event will take place on Saturday from 12-4pm.  Guests can sample gumbo and Bloody Mary’s and cast their vote for People’s Choice.  Celebrity judges will have a blind judging to determine the award for Area’s Best Gumbo.  Our own Hank Taylor, Executive Chef at TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort, is the current two-year reigning champ!  There will also be an award for the business or restaurant with the most innovative booth.  Enjoy live entertainment in the Events Plaza courtesy of Dikki Du & the Zydeco Krewe, and Cajun dancers.  

Tickets can be purchased at Graffiti & Funky Blues Shack in The Village of Baytown Wharf, or online.  Weekend passes are $15 in advance and $25 the day of the event.  If you need to purchase a ticket the day of the event, bring in five or more non-perishable food items and receive a $5 discount off the ticket price.  Proceeds will benefit The United Way of Okaloosa and Walton Counties.  Take advantage of this President’s Day weekend and book your stay today with ResortQuest!