Spring at the beach isn’t just about flip-flops and sunscreen — it’s a full-on festival of fun that’s as eclectic as it is unforgettable. Where else can you nosh on gourmet mac and cheese, paint the town (digitally) in a cutting-edge graffiti art competition, and rumble along the coast with a parade of Jeeps, all in one sun-soaked season? It’s a time when the beach swaps its winter slumber for a kaleidoscope of creativity, comfort food, and car culture, making every weekend a new adventure.
Whether you’re a foodie, an art enthusiast or someone who just wants to see what tons of Jeeps look like cruising down the coast, spring has something for you. From the ooey-gooey deliciousness of the Mac & Cheese Festival to the high-tech brilliance of Digital Graffiti and the rugged excitement of Jeep Jam, this season’s lineup is as dynamic as the gulf breeze. So grab your sunglasses, loosen your belt for some cheesy indulgence, and get ready to embrace the quirky, colorful vibe of spring at the beach.
Every Weekend | 30A Farmers Markets
Fresh finds and local vibes await at the 30A Farmers Markets in Rosemary Beach, Grand Boulevard and Niceville. From farm-fresh produce to handmade treasures, these markets are your weekend go-to for coastal charm and culinary delights. Sunshine and shopping? Yes, please! | See more (and check the weekly schedule) here.
March 16 | Mac & Cheese Festival, Destin Commons
Get ready to say cheese! The Mac & Cheese Festival in Destin serves up gooey, golden goodness from local chefs and restaurants. Perfect for foodies of all ages, this cheesy showdown is equal parts delicious and fun. Come hungry; your taste buds will thank you. This event benefits Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast. | See more here.
April 3 | Sesame Street Live! Say Hello!, Mattie Kelly Arts Center
Get ready to dance, sing and play along with your favorite furry friends at Sesame Street Live! Say Hello! This interactive show brings Big Bird, Elmo and the gang to life in a colorful celebration of friendship, learning and fun for all ages. | See more here.
April 5-6 | Fly Into Spring Kite Festival, The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island
Soar into spring at the Fly Into Spring Kite Festival in Fort Walton Beach. Watch the skies fill with vibrant kites of all shapes and sizes, enjoy family-friendly activities, and let your imagination take flight for a day of colorful, high-flying fun. | See more here.
April 10-13 | Sandestin Wine Festival, Miramar Beach
Raise your glass to spring at the Sandestin Wine Festival, where fine wines and coastal breezes create the ultimate pairing. Sip, swirl and savor award-winning vintages, indulge in gourmet bites, and let the good times flow at this must-attend wine lover’s event. | See more here.
April 23-27 | Seabreeze Jazz Festival, Panama City Beach
Groove into spring at the Seabreeze Jazz Festival, where smooth jazz meets Florida sunshine. With a lineup of top artists and coastal vibes, it’s the ultimate soundtrack for your weekend escape. Bring your ears, your shades and your jazz-loving soul. | See more here.
May 2-5 | Sun, Sand and Soul Beach Weekend, Seascape Resort
Dive into the rhythm at the Sun, Sand and Soul Beach Weekend. This festival, presented with Tedeschi Trucks Band at Seascape Resort, offers live music, unforgettable vibes, and the ultimate beachside escape. It’s the perfect blend of soulful tunes, good energy, and coastal relaxation. | See more here.
May 12-17 | Florida Jeep Jam, Panama City Beach
Rev your engines for Jeep Jam 2025. This Panama City Beach event is the ultimate playground for Jeep lovers, with obstacle courses, beach rides and endless fun. It’s a top-down, mud-slinging, adventure-packed celebration of all things Jeep. Buckle up! | See more here.
May 16-17 | Digital Graffiti, Alys Beach
Step into a world where art meets architecture at Alys Beach’s Digital Graffiti. Watch white walls transform into dazzling canvases of light and color as digital artists from around the globe showcase their brilliance. It’s art, reimagined — beach style. | See more here.
May 29-June 1 | Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam
Get ready to rock the coast at Gulf Coast Jam. With chart-topping country acts like Tyler Childers and Lainey Wilson, beachside vibes, and unforgettable sunsets, this four-day music festival turns Panama City Beach into the ultimate jam session. Dust off your boots and join the party. | See more here.
