Women in Science Conference
Tuesday, Sept. 30 | 5:30–7:30 p.m. | The Place on Beal, 100 Beal Parkway NW, Fort Walton Beach
Future scientists, take note! The Emerald Coast Science Center and MTSI host their Ninth Annual Women in Science Conference, spotlighting brilliant local professionals in biology, software, analytics, and more. Hear inspiring journeys, ask your burning questions, and enjoy light refreshments. Adults $10, students free (reservation required).
Info: http://bit.ly/2025womeninscience
United for Impact Non-Profit Conference
Thursday, Oct. 2 | 9 a.m.–3 p.m. | Beachside Church, 200 Racetrack Rd NW, Fort Walton Beach
Non-profit changemakers, this day is for you! United Way Emerald Coast brings back its action-packed conference with keynotes, panels, and workshops designed to spark new ideas and strengthen missions. Networking and fresh strategies guaranteed.
Details: https://united-way.org
Homeschool Friday: Lexington & Concord
Friday, Oct. 3 | 10 a.m. | Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida, Valparaiso
Step back to April 1775 and the “shot heard round the world!” Military historian Karl Eschmann kicks off a yearlong celebration of America’s 250th anniversary with homeschool students. Ages 7+, $7 per student.
Register: 850-678-2615
Taylor Swift Album Release Party
Friday, Oct. 3 | 6–10 p.m. | Marina Bar & Grill, Sandestin
Calling all Swifties! Sequins, fringe, and sparkle required at this free marina bash celebrating Taylor’s brand-new album. DJ Quincy spins Taylor hits until the big first play at 7:30 p.m. Themed cocktails, pop-up jewelry, and prime rib on the menu. It’s a Swiftie’s dream night!
More info: https://sandestin.com
Cars of 30A at Alys Beach
Oct. 3–4 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m. daily | Alys Beach
Luxury meets horsepower! Over 150 rare and high-performance cars take over Alys Beach for two unforgettable days of automotive eye candy. Perfect for collectors, car lovers, and anyone who appreciates craftsmanship.
Tickets: https://carsof30a.com
Moonlight Glow: Hunter’s Moon Edition
Saturday, Oct. 4 | 7 p.m.–midnight | Bayside Sandestin
Glowing lights, DJ beats, fire performers, cocktails, and s’mores by the bay — all under October’s full Hunter’s Moon. This adults-only (21+) poolside bash promises the ultimate fall night out. Tickets $10.
Details: https://sandestin.com
‘Beetlejuice JR.’ by Mosaic Theatre Company
Oct. 3–5 | 7 p.m. Fri–Sat; 2 p.m. Sun | Mattie Kelly Arts Center Sprint Theatre, Niceville
He’s the ghost with the most! Local students reimagine Tim Burton’s cult classic in a musical comedy filled with laughs, catchy tunes, and spooky fun. Perfect for all ages. Tickets $15 students, $20 adults.
Info: https://mattiekellyartscenter.org
Toast on the Coast
Sunday, Oct. 5 | 12–2:30 p.m. | Henderson Beach Resort, Destin
Raise your glass! The Junior League of the Emerald Coast hosts its 3rd Annual Toast on the Coast — an afternoon of food, craft drinks, and community. GA $60, VIP $110 (with early entry). All proceeds benefit women and families locally.
Tickets: https://JLEC.org
Tom Glavine’s Field of Dreams Golf Outing
Monday, Oct. 13 | 9 a.m. shotgun start | Camp Creek Golf Course, Watersound
MLB Hall of Famer Tom Glavine invites golfers for a legendary day at Camp Creek Golf Course. Enjoy a world-class course, silent auction, and the chance to support Walton County students. Sponsorships and foursomes available.
Register: https://seasideschools.net
Baytowne Beer Festival
Oct. 10–11 | Friday 6–8 p.m.; Saturday 2–5 p.m. | The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin
Cheers to 17 years! Sample 200+ craft brews at the “Best Beer Fest on the Coast.” Festivities include Friday’s “Beer from Around Here” and Saturday’s Grand Tasting with live music. Proceeds support Fisher House and Sandestin Foundation for Kids.
Info: https://baytownebeerfestival.com
Bloody Mary Festival
Saturday, Oct. 11 | 11 a.m.–2 p.m. | The Market Shops, Miramar Beach
Raise a glass (or 18)! Sample unlimited bloody marys crafted by local restaurants and vote for your favorite. Non-bloody options available, plus live music and creative garnishes galore. Proceeds support Habitat for Humanity.
Tickets: https://themarketshops.com/bloody-mary-festival
Florida Chamber CEO Business Update
Tuesday, Oct. 14 | 11 a.m. | Crosspoint Niceville, 214 South Partin Drive, Niceville
The Niceville Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce welcomes Mark Wilson, President & CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, for an exclusive business update on Florida’s economic future. Wilson will share insights on Okaloosa County growth, workforce development, infrastructure investments, and the long-term competitiveness of Northwest Florida — all backed by data from TheFloridaScorecard.org. Named Floridian of the Year by Florida Trend in 2023, Wilson is one of the state’s most influential voices for business and policy. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear firsthand what’s ahead for our community.
Info & registration: Niceville Valparaiso Chamber, 850-678-2323
Harvest Wine & Food Festival
Oct. 16–19 | Times vary by event | Cerulean Park, WaterColor
Four days. World-class wine. Unforgettable food. From Friday’s sultry Harvest After Dark to Saturday’s legendary Grand Tasting and elegant Sunday brunch, this is one of the Southeast’s premier festivals. Proceeds benefit Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation.
Tickets: https://dcwaf.org
32nd Annual Single Handed Race
Saturday, Oct. 18 | 11 a.m. start | Bluewater Bay Marina, Niceville
One sailor. One boat. Bragging rights on the bay! Celebrate 32 years of this unique sailboat race. Skippers meeting Oct. 17 at LJ Schooners.
Info: https://bluewaterbaymarina.com or 850-897-2821
Cornhole Tournament Fundraiser
Saturday, Oct. 18 | 10 a.m.–1:30 p.m. | United Fidelity Bank, Fort Walton Beach
Bags, brews, and big prizes! $25 per adult team, $15 for kids. Enjoy food, DJ music, raffle, and kids’ activities while supporting the Emerald Coast Science Center.
Info: 850-974-1820
Fall Silent Auction for Emerald Coast Food Rescue
Friday, Oct. 24 | 6–9:30 p.m. | Local Market, Destin
Help fight hunger in Okaloosa and Walton counties while enjoying food, drinks, and community fun. Proceeds support ECFR’s mission to deliver 250,000 pounds of food monthly.
Details: https://emeraldcoastfoodrescue.org
Fleets and Eats: A Party for a Purpose
Saturday, Oct. 25 | 6 p.m. | Destin Harbor (Tailfins, The Edge, Harbor Docks)
Hop aboard tiki boats for a Lu’au-style harbor crawl with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and live music. Proceeds support autism services at ECAC. Afterparty at Tailfins!
Info: https://ecautismcenter.org
Barktoberfest
Thursday, Oct. 30 | 4:30–6:30 p.m. | Grand Park, Grand Boulevard at Sandestin
Paws down, the cutest fall fest around! Bring your pup in costume for trick-or-treating, a legendary doggie costume contest, live DJ, photo booth, and tasty bites. $15 preregistration ($20 day-of). Benefits Dog-Harmony.
Register: https://dog-harmony.org
Escape to Wonderland Halloween Party
Friday, Oct. 31 | 6–11 p.m. | Ara Rooftop Pool & Lounge, Hotel Effie Sandestin
Sip, dance, and play croquet with the Queen of Hearts at this Alice in Wonderland–themed rooftop party. DJ, costume contest, themed bites, and cocktails. Tickets $35.
Info: https://hoteleffie.com
Trick or Treat Street
Friday, Oct. 31 | 6–8 p.m. | The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin
Ghosts, ghouls, and goblins take over Baytowne! Trick-or-treat at merchant booths, enjoy live music, and don’t miss the fireworks at 8 p.m. Free admission.
Details: https://baytownewharf.com
Eggs on the Beach
Saturday, Nov. 1 | 10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Seascape Resort, Miramar Beach
Big Green Egg fans unite! Sample smoky bites from backyard grillers, chefs, and nonprofits. A fun foodie fest benefiting Fisher House and Food For Thought.
Tickets: https://eggsonethebeach.com
Pirate Brew Fest
Saturday, Nov. 1 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m. | Fudpucker’s, Destin
Ahoy, mateys! Pirates, pints, live music, magicians, and mermaids — this free festival has it all. Costumes encouraged (first 100 pirates get gifts).
Info: https://piratebrewfest.com
Decades on Display Car Show
Saturday, Nov. 1 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m. | Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida, Valparaiso
Shiny chrome, classic rides, and family fun! Vote for your favorite, browse vendors, and tour the museum (free admission all day).
Info: 850-678-2615
SOWAL Jazz Fest
Nov. 6–8 | Times vary by venue | Along Scenic Highway 30A
A cool new tradition debuts! Three nights of intimate jazz at local venues, with tributes to Sinatra, Billie Holiday, Amy Winehouse, and more. Tickets start at $50.
Tickets: https://sowaljazzfest.com
