Fourth of July in Destin

Destin is the perfect place to be for the Fourth of July. With all American celebrations taking place all along the Emerald Coast, it is easy to feel patriotic and celebrate our nation’s independence.

Here’s a quick round up of Destin 4th of July celebrations and fireworks displays: 
July 3
Smoke on the Coast–Hosted by Destin Commons, the 5th Annual Smoke on the Coast BBQ and Fireworks Festival is fun for the whole family and includes free face painting, kid’s activities, street performers and live bands performing on two stages, including The Maxx, Heritage, Jones & Company , Chris Alvarado, Coconut Radio and DJ. Starting at 6 p.m., for $1 per sampling, the public can taste and vote for their favorite BBQ, prepared by area restaurants and BBQ aficionados. Proceeds benefitting local military and children’s charities. The evening concludes with an Independence Day firework extravaganza unlike anything ever seen on the Emerald Coast. Convenient park and ride with free shuttle services running from Destiny Worship Center and Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s Cultural Art Village parking area during Festival hours.
   
July 4

HaborWalk Village– From 5:30 – 9 p.m., spirits will soar and flags will wave as the July 4th festivities kick off at HarborWalk Village with the Victory Belles reviving WWII classics in throwback tailored dresses, coiffed curls, red lipstick and vintage charm at 5:30 PM on the main stage. The patriotic salute continues with authentic American Honky Tonk by The Modern Eldorados at 7 p.m., blending rockabilly with traditional country music. At 9 p.m., the annual fireworks will light up the Destin Harbor. Tune into Z-96.5 to enjoy musical accompaniment with the fireworks display. Head down early to register for the 6thAnnual Hot Dog Eating Contest at Harry T’s. Registration is from 4-5 p.m. and contest will begin at 6 p.m.
 
Red, White & Baytowne– The Village of BAytowne Wharf at Sandestin will feature an evening of family fun from 6-10 p.m. Kids activities include kids' crafts, face painting, and balloon sculpting. Live music will be performed from the event stage and the sky over the lagoon will light up with Fireworks at 9:15 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.

4th of July Dinner Cruise– SunQuest Cruise will host their annual 4th of July dinner and dance cruise aboard the Solaris. Guests will enjoy a sunset cruise through the Bay, 3-course dinner, live music and dancing and firework viewing on the upper deck at 9 p.m. Call 850-650-2519 to make reservations.

Americana Under the Stars– Topsail Hill Preserve State Park will present original Americana music, including folk, jazz, and blues. Featured musician Tom Kimmel will perform at the outdoor amphitheater. Parking fee is waived courtesy of Visit South Walton. 
 
Considering a trip to Destin this summer? Book a stay during the month of August and enjoy Newman-Dailey’s Late Summer Value Season, featuring 30% off summer season rates on South Walton and Destin vacation rentals. View our Destin vacation rentals online or call one of our friendly vacation specialists at 1-800-225-7652.

Wishing everyone a happy and safe Fourth of July!
 

*Photo courtesy of Romona Robbins 

Published by Tracy Louthain
Friday, July 3, 2015