7 Best Events in 30A

The stunning communities along 30A are all unique and beautiful in their own way. From the simple elegance of Alys Beach to the picturesque scenery of Seaside, these coastal communities promise endless luxury and amenities.

Most of the communities along 30A are close-knit, and they often plan an array of fun activities, many of which are grand celebrations that attract visitors from near and far. So, if you’re contemplating a move to the area and wondering what’s in store, the list below highlights the major events in 30A that draw thousands of people annually to the region.

As one of the several beloved events hosted by the Alys Foundation, the Digital Graffiti Festival has been an annual celebration of art for over a decade. Artists from all over the world participate in this exciting competition at Alys Beach, with thousands of dollars in prize money to be awarded.

While called “digital graffiti,” the art is not still life. It moves and bends around the surface of the buildings in a beautiful array of colors and forms. The stark white architecture of Alys Beach provides the perfect backdrop to showcase the various artists' renderings.

Digital Graffiti is a two-night event. The first night is an all-inclusive celebration featuring food and drinks from top chefs and distilleries. The second night is open to families and includes food and beverages available for purchase from local food trucks.

Thousands of people from the 30A community and beyond attend the 30A Songwriters Festival in January every year. This four-day music extravaganza features over 175 artists and more than 200 performances spread out across 30 music venues, from Beach Happy Cafe in Watercolor to AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar in Grayton Beach.

The event has taken center stage for the past 15 years and is still going strong, with critically acclaimed artists at the mic stand. The festival showcases established acts from various genres along with exciting new performers. Past shows have included Lyle Lovett, Gin Blossoms, Yola, Cheap Trick, and many more. A portion of the proceeds goes to the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County.

Alys Beach strikes again. The Alys Beach 30A Wine Festival is an esteemed five-day charitable event in 30A that serves as a significant source of support for the Children's Volunteer Health Network. This festival is a grand celebration of the culinary and distilling arts, featuring workshops and a host of activities centered around the world of wine and food. Tickets to this event are initially reserved for Alys Beach residents, followed by the general public. Due to its immense popularity, this event is in high demand and sells out each year.

The Seaside School Half Marathon and 5K is a charitable event to raise funds for the Seaside School — the oldest public charter school still in operation in Florida. With a student body of about 400, the school caters to grades five through 12. Those participating in the race must pay a fee, but they are rewarded with exciting merch like a Vera Bradley designer purse, a race shirt, and a goody bag. It’s a great way to get some exercise and support your community!

The Sandestin Wine Festival, held at the Village of Baytowne Wharf, has earned a solid reputation as the premier wine celebration on the coast. With a long-standing history spanning 36 years, it is often called the Kentucky Derby of wine festivals.

The festival runs for four days, offering participants a chance to learn about wine and taste a wide range of selections at varying prices. Meeting the experts behind the wine and asking questions is also encouraged. You can attend a wine dinner hosted by celebrity chefs and preview upcoming events throughout the year. Every attendee is gifted a commemorative Riedel glass, custom-etched to indicate the year of the festival.

The Grand Boulevard Town Center is a beautiful outdoor mall just outside the resort area of Sandestin, and it serves as the perfect venue for the ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival. The festival is a yearly 30A event that’s highly anticipated by visitors and locals alike.

Over 100 gifted artists participate in this incredible celebration, showcasing their unique creations for competition and sale. The prize pool is an impressive $10,000, and winners are recognized across multiple categories, such as ceramics, glass, metal, oils and acrylics, photography, sculpture, and more.

In addition to the spectacular artwork on display and at auction, visitors are treated to live musical performances, artist demonstrations, student exhibits, and a range of fun activities for children. Many food and drink options are available as attendees view the stunning artwork.

Experience the ultimate charitable 30A event at the Grand Boulevard with the highly anticipated South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival. Every April, indulge in mouthwatering culinary delights while enjoying live music.

With over 600 wines available for tasting, wine enthusiasts are in for a treat. The festival boasts renowned chefs and esteemed winemakers, adding to the already impressive lineup of events. Best of all, the proceeds from the fundraiser go towards the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, benefitting children in need in the Northwest Florida region.

30A is truly a hidden gem, boasting beauty, excitement, and allure. It is no surprise that those who discover its charms never want to leave. Are you considering buying a home in this incredible area? If so, consult a trusted real estate group with a thorough knowledge of all that 30A has to offer.

From Seaside to Sandestin, Watercolor, and Alys Beach real estate, The Tanika O'Brien Group are the professionals you want by your side. Tanika O’Brien and her team are highly skilled agents with extensive knowledge of 30A. As a resident and professional in the area, Tanika is well-versed in the local real estate market. You can count on her to streamline your home search by showing you properties that align with your preferences. With her expertise and insight, Tanika is ready to guide you toward the perfect home. Contact Tanika today to get started.