April Events Along the Emerald Coast

Check out these family-friendly events scheduled for March along Emerald Coast.

All of April  - Destin Cobia Tournament @ HarborWalk Village

This month-long tournament begins when the first fish is caught and ends April 30 at 8pm.

Wednesday's in April- Concert Series at Baytowne Wharf

Enjoy a free concert on the Events Plaza lawn every Wednesday night in March. 

April 2- Vettes at the Village @ Baytowne Wharf

Corvettes will be shined to the max as these automotive icons zoom through the Village streets. www.baytownewharf.com

April 2-3- Kitty Hawk Kites 'Fly Into Spring' Kite Festival

This free event features professional stunt kite flying, demonstrations and lessons, and a family fun fly that is perfect for kite enthusiasts of all ages. Event will be held at The Boardwalk at Okaloosa Island.

April 14-17- 30th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival

Four days of unique events open up a wide range of experiences from attending wine dinners with celebrity chefs and taking part in wine tastings that showcase 800 wines. www.baytownewharf.com

April 17- Destin Marathon

See www.destinmarathon.com for full schedule and details. Marathon starts at 6:15am. Half marathon starts at 8:00am.

April 21- Finest on the Emerald Coast @ HarborWalk Village

Enjoy the Finest on the Emerald Coast winners' event, with over 90 local businesses showcasing the reason they were voted. Delicious food, great entertainment, and more. www.emeraldgrande.com

April 20-24- Emerald Coast Volleyball Week

Located at The Boarwalk on Okaloosa Island. See www.emeraldcoastvolleyball.com for full schedule and details.

April 28 - May 1- South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival

Located at Grand Boulevard, this festival offers more than 800 wines, on-going tastings with dozens of celebrity winemakers on hand to talk about their wines, food tastings, tasting seminars, live entertainment and special features including Champagne Lane. 

Fort Walton Eats: Lunch Edition

Looking for lunch recommendations that offer quick service and great food? Check out some of my favorite lunch spots in Fort Walton Beach, FL. 

Parson's Son BBQ - I am obsessed with BBQ. It must be the southern girl in me. Here are Parson's Son BBQ, you will not be disappointed. There BBQ is top notch. I would say the best in the area bar none. They offer pulled pork, beef, and chicken as well as whole chickens and baby back ribs. My favorite item to order is the pulled pork tacos. Check them out on a Thursday when they also offer their homemade mac and cheese. http://perfectbuttsbbq.com/

Slick Mick's - If you want an authentic philly cheese steak then check out this place. They offer a little bit of everything and are also known for their deli sandwiches and strombolis and pizza. If you are really hungry, try the Dagwood. It's your choice of meat topped with french fries, cole slaw, and much more. The food and service it always top notch. And don't forget about the Buffalo Chips. Get an order just to share. http://slickmicksfwb.com/

Spork - If you are looking for somewhere that offers sandwiches, salads, and soups for a great price then check this place out. Order the grilled cheese with tomato bisque to warm you up or the Thor sandwich (not on the menu) if you are really hungry. This is the perfect stop for those quick lunches or late afternoon snack. http://sporkeatery.com/

Thai House - There are many Thai restaurants in and around Fort Walton but Thai House is definitely my favorite. Located in an actual house on a side street, Thai House offers authentic Thai cuisine in a small town that rivals most in larger cities. Your food always comes out piping hot and the service is impeccable. My favorites on the menu are the spring rolls and pad thai. They are located at 815 Pinedale Road just off of Racetrack Road. 

Mardi Gras 2016

Are you ready to celebrate? Check out the events below to help get you in the Mardi Gras spirit on the Emerald Coast.

January, 16 @ 1pm - 13th Annual Mardi Gras Parade on Okaloosa Island
This parade is the first Mardi Gras parade on the Emerald Coast and is fun for the entire family.

February 5 @ 7pm - Destin Commons: "Mardi Gras Masquerade"
Live Zydeco music, crawfish boil and gumbo from Destin Commons restaurants. Arts and crafts, face painting, street dancing, and more! Visit www.destincommons.com for more info.

February 5 @ 7pm - Mardi Gras Pub Crawl at HarborWalk Village
Wear your best Mardi Gras outfit and kick-off the weekend events! Purchase an armband to support Food for Thought and receive drink specials. Visit www.emeraldgrande.com for more info.

February 6 @ 2pm - Mardi Gras Parade at HarborWalk Village
The largest Mardi Gras parade in Destin. Enjoy floats, costumes, street performers and more. Visit www.emeraldgrande.com for more info.

February 7 @ 2pm - 13th Annual Mardi Gras Dog Parade at Baytowne Wharf
The streets of the Village will be filled with costumed dogs and their humans tossing a myraid of throws, beads, and party favors. Visit www.sandestin.com for more info

February 9 @ 5pm - Fat Tuesday Celebration at HarborWalk Village
Celebrate Fat Tuesday at one of the many restaurants and bars! Enjoy free red beans and rice compliments of Jackacudas Seafood & Sushi. Visit www.emeraldgrande.com for more info.

February 9 @ 5pm - 14th Annual Fat Tuesday Baytowne Bash Parade
"Laissez le bon temps rouler" with The Village of Baytowne Wharf. Colorful floats, golf carts, and street performers dressed in their Mardi Gras best shower parade goers with beads and more. Visit www.sandestin.com for more info.