Emerald Coast Food & Wine Festivals Abundant, Nov 3-6

This gorgeous fall weather has us yearning to be outdoors. So when we’re not enjoying Destin’s white sand beaches and aquatic activities, we’re usually eating, drinking and being merry. This weekend is no exception. Food and wine festival events are abundant along Florida's Emerald Coast.

Starting this evening, the Seeing Red Wine Festival kicks off a weekend celebration of fine wines and culinary masterpieces within the town of Seaside on Scenic Highway 30A. On Friday, the Al Fresco Reserve Tasting will feature rare library wines and light bites. On Saturday, the sold out Grand Tasting will feature hundreds of varietals and on Sunday, the Celebration of Bubbles brunch at Great Southern Café features sparkling wines including Champagne, Cava and Prosecco, among others, which will be complemented by delectable brunch items. Weekend proceeds benefit Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, helping children in need in Northwest Florida. For more info and tickets, visit www.seeingredwine.com.

On Saturday, Nov. 5, HarborWalk Village on the Destin Harbor will host a culinary extravaganza as they present the 9th Annual Blues, Brews and BBQ Festival.  From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., HarborWalk Village is firing up the grills for a spirited cooking competition of seafood, traditional and original BBQ recipes. Attendees will sip finely crafted bourbons and ice-cold brews while sampling the delicious BBQ creations. Restaurants are competing for People's Choice Award and to win over the taste buds of local celebrity judges for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. Cook-off proceeds benefit local charities of the winning restaurants’ choice. Live music by the Crowned Jewels will complement this deliciously fun event. To learn more, visit Blues, Brews & BBQ Facebook page.

On Sunday, Nov. 6, the intimate Fall Wine Walkabout & Charity Auction will be the grand finale of Seeing Red Wine Festival Weekend. Held on the lyceum lawn in Seaside, this local’s favorite features a wide array of varietals, along with culinary creations from some of the most popular South Walton restaurants. In addition, the silent auction features wine lots, vacation stays and more. More info and tickets available at www.dcwaf.org.

Looking for South Walton or Destin vacation rental near these festivals or for your next beach getaway, view our premier vacation rentals online or call one of our friendly vacation specialists at 1-800-225-7652.

See you @ the beach to eat, drink and be merry!