2014 November Food & Wine Festivals

When you live along the Emerald Coast, you know that October and November are the most spectacular time of year. The temperatures are perfect, the sunsets are magnificent AND the culinary festivals are delectable! Here’s some of the delicious reasons to visit South Walton and Destin this fall:

November kicks off with Taste of the Beach, Oct. 31 – Nov. 2. The weekend begins with “The Beach After Dark” on Friday (Oct 31)from 8-10 p.m. at Gulf Place on Hwy 30A, featuring cocktail concoctions, scrumptious local cuisine and decadent desserts in a beachside setting with live music ($50).

On Sunday (Nov. 2), the early bird gets the worm at the “Rise-n-Shine Brunch on the Bay.” From 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., guests will enjoy an array of champagne cocktails and signature Bloody Mary’s paired with culinary creations at the Sandestin Baytowne Marina overlooking the Choctawahatchee Bay ($55). A portion of the proceeds benefit the Sandestin Foundation for Kids.

On Saturday, Nov. 8, the Blues Brews & BBQ at HarborWalk Village will have local restaurants firing up the grills for a good time and a good cause.  Attendees will try a wide array of BBQ styles and signature coastal food and vote on their favorites.  Prizes will be awarded to the top winners in each category, including “Best Traditional BBQ” ‘Best Seafood BBQ” and “Most Original BBQ.”

On Sunday, Nov. 9, the Fall Wine Walkabout & Charity Auction, will be held from 2-5 p.m. on the sunset deck at the Hilton Sandestin, overlooking the turquoise waters of the Gulf. This sensational afternoon of wine tastings is paired with food stations from the top local restaurants accompanied by live music and a silent auction ($35).

On Saturday, Nov. 15, the Chili Vibrations Chili Cook-Off will take place at the Aaron Bessant Amphitheater in Panama City Beach and feature a wide array of chili styles. Competitive divisions include red chili, chili verde, salsa and anything goes. An official International Chili Society (ICS) sanctioned event, the Chili Vibrations Cook-Off will feature first, second and third place trophies and prizes in all divisions as well as best dressed and best tent prizes. The fun filled day is complemented by a reggae concert that weekend, featuring Junior Marvin, Dirty Heads, and Julian Marley & the Uprising, among many others. ($10, Age 12 and under are free). 

With all these delicious events, the challenge is selecting which weekend you want to be an official taster!

Explore our wide array of premier South Walton and Destin vacation rentals available at affordable seasonal.

We look forward to welcoming you for a beach weekend that pairs food & fun with sun & sand! See you soon!