Visit Destin this upcoming 4th of July to celebrate the U.S.A. ‘s birthday with white sand beaches, festive crowds, and dazzling fireworks shows lighting up the sky of the Emerald Coast.
Destin offers a wide range of activities and events for locals and tourists, from live music, adventurous cruises, food truck festivals to beachfront firework displays or a simple relaxing time on the beach. This guide covers the best celebration events happening in and around Destin so you can plan your perfect Independence Day experience.
Events for the 4th of July in Destin
Destin Commons Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival
Taking place at the Destin Commons, a lively shopping mall on Okaloosa Island, the Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival is held on July 3rd, from 5PM to 9:30PM. The festival showcases over 25 food trucks and their signature dishes, from zesty Thai to melty and perfectly toasted grilled cheese, and a delicious variety in between. Beyond mouthwatering foods, the Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival offers live entertainment and family-friendly activities. Their fireworks show starts at 9PM, make sure you and your crew catch the dazzling fireworks.
HarborWalk Village Annual 4th of July Concert and Celebration
Participate in the annual 4th of July celebration at the HarborWalk Village on Destin Harbor. HarborWalk Village’s annual 4th of July Concert and Celebration runs from 6-10PM, offering guests a good time of live country music, dancing, and street performers such as Autumn Lyfe with their blazing fire spinning show. Notable bands performing at the event include Manly Hero Band, Reid Soria with Autism Sings LLC, and Vintage Fly Over. At 9PM, guests get to enjoy a spectacular fireworks display over the Destin Harbor.
Okaloosa Island Boardwalk Fireworks
Another 4th of July celebration event on Okaloosa Island, a short drive for visitors who are staying in Destin and Fort Walton Beach. The Okaloosa Island Boardwalk Fireworks show is on July 4th, starting at 9PM. The fireworks on Okaloosa Island boast a more relaxed beach vibe with a stunning a fireworks display over the Gulf.
Sandestin Hilton Beachfront Fireworks
This show is a collaborative effort of Hilton and the local community to create a unique fireworks display in Sandestin. The event is held on Miramar Beach, starting from 9PM and lasts for about two hours. The display is one of the most unique fireworks experiences as it is the only beachside fireworks show launched directly from the sand on the shore.
Red, White & Baytowne at The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Attend this kid-friendly celebration event at Baytowne Wharf on July 4th for a perfect blend of live music and fun activities. The event hosts various kid activities including crafts making, face painting, and balloon sculpting. From 7PM to 9PM, enjoy live music on the Events Plaza Stage. Following the live music show is the fireworks display starting at 9:15PM. Watch the fireworks light up the sky of Baytowne Wharf to celebrate the freedom spirit of America.
Crab Island Runner
Celebrate 4th of July this year with a Crab Island tour and embracing the good ol’ American spirit of adventure and exploration. Board on a Crab Island cruise in Destin, FL for an unforgettable excursion to the sandbar that everyone loves to hold celebrations. Once you reach Crab Island, have a fun time with paddle boarding and swim in the calm, crystal clear waters. Observe a school of fish when snorkeling and spot marine wildlife like dolphins, manatees, birds and many more while sailing on your cruise. Our Island Runner is surely the best Crab Island shuttle around.
Preparation Tips
What to bring?
To have the best 4th of July celebration in Destin, bringing the right items is essential. Make sure you bring these items on your trip to Destin this July 4th:
- Sunscreen
- Hats and sunglasses
- Swimsuits
- Light and breathable clothes
- Sandals and flip flops
- Towels
- Water bottles
- Snacks
- Waterproof phone case
- Cash for shopping at local vendors; most of them will likely take cards, but it never hurts to prepare some cash with you
Where to stay?
Stay close to where festivals and most activities are held if you plan to participate in them. In any case, this 4th of July is more of a self-healing vacation away from the crowd, then book areas that are far from the major events. If you are celebrating this 4th of July with friends and family, Airbnb is the go-to staying option for booking. Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island are within 10 to 15 minutes driving distance from Destin, both areas offer plenty of options that are budget-friendly. Miramar Beach and Sandestin offer a more peaceful vibe suitable for visitors who are coming to Destin for a vacation and look forward to having a relaxing time.
More Tips to Make the Most of Your July 4th Celebration in Destin
Summertime is no doubt the busiest time in Destin. It is recommended to remember when and where your events are at and arrive early for securing a convenient parking space. Arriving early at fireworks shows also helps with getting the best spot for viewing. Remind yourself to always bring a water bottle throughout the day to stay hydrated as it will be incredibly hot. Stick with your group and make sure everyone knows when and where to meet up after wandering at a festival. Lastly, follow local guidelines for a safe celebration.
FAQ
What are some top events to go to in Destin for this 4th of July?
Join multiple fun events, activities, and dazzling firework displays in Destin to celebrate 4th of July in the most meaningful and memorable way with your friends and family. Destin Commons’ Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival, HarborWalk Village’s annual concert and celebrations, and the Island Runner are among the must-gos.
Is summer a good time to go parasailing in Destin?
Summer is no doubt a good time, if not the best time, to go parasailing in Destin. With the late sunset, guests can enjoy parasailing to its best and still have time to enjoy the beach and other events afterwards. Although the sun and its heat is something to watch out for, don’t forget to wear sunscreen, long sleeve shirts, sunglasses, and hats while parasailing in Destin.
What are some watersport activities to do with friends and family this 4th of July in Destin?
Destin boasts a variety of watersport activities, from thrilling to relaxing. Parasailing in Destin is highly recommended for friends and family members to enjoy with each other this 4th of July. Beyond that, swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and jet skiing are also some of the best activities to enjoy as well.
