The stellar, 10-concert, live-music series, Thursdays, April 10 – June 12, will feature premier musicians and bands performing everything from classic rock and yacht rock to soulful tributes and high-energy hits. From iconic blues rock to soulful Amy Winehouse tributes, danceable yacht rock and Def Leppard classics—plus a special performance of Journey’s album Escape from start to finish by Black Jacket Symphony—the 2025 Concerts in the Village presented by the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation offers a dynamic lineup for every music lover.
The area’s longest-running live concert series is held each spring on Thursday evenings at the MKAF Dugas Pavilion in Destin. This year’s family-friendly series will run from April 10 to June 12, featuring premier regional and national musicians and bands performing everything from classic rock and rhythm & blues to modern pop and nostalgic tributes.
The series kicks off on Thursday, April 10, 2025, with an electrifying performance by The Fabulous Thunderbirds, setting the stage for an unforgettable season.
“This is an exceptional lineup of live music in a beautiful outdoor venue at an affordable price for a great cause,” says MKAF CEO Demetrius Fuller. “When you purchase a concert ticket, you’re helping us provide high-quality arts education and community engagement across Northwest Florida. Whether you’re a regular or joining us for the first time, we promise an unforgettable experience.”
Gates open at 6 p.m., and concerts begin at 7 p.m. This come-as-you-are outdoor concert series encourages attendees to bring a lawn chair, picnic, or wine. Food and beverages also will be available for purchase from local food trucks on-site.
2025 MKAF Concerts in the Village Schedule:
April 10 – The Fabulous Thunderbirds Kick off the season with blues rock legends known for hits like Tuff Enuff and Wrap It Up.
April 17 – Journeyman: An Eric Clapton Tribute Celebrate Clapton’s timeless hits like Layla and Wonderful Tonight with stunning authenticity.
April 24 – Yacht Rock Revue Dance to soft rock classics from the ‘70s and ‘80s by artists like Christopher Cross and Hall & Oates.
May 1 – Black Jacket Symphony: Journey’s Escape Relive Journey’s iconic album Escape, featuring Don’t Stop Believin’ and Open Arms.
May 8 – Dear Amy: Amy Winehouse Tribute The official estate-approved band, pays tribute to Winehouse’s soulful legacy with hits like Rehab and Back to Black.
May 15 – Kickstand Jenny Experience a high-energy night with this dynamic rock ‘n’ roll band.
May 22 – The Molly Ringwalds Journey through the ‘80s with this ultimate tribute to the decade’s greatest hits.
May 29 – Petty Hearts Celebrate Tom Petty classics like Free Fallin’ and American Girl.
June 5 – A1A: Jimmy Buffett Tribute Escape to Margaritaville with the original, Jimmy Buffett estate-approved tribute band.
June 12 – Adrenalize: Music of Def Leppard Rock out to Def Leppard’s biggest hits like Pour Some Sugar on Me and Love Bites.
General admission tickets are $35 per person, plus a ticketing fee. Save $5 by purchasing tickets in advance online at MKAF.org. Children under 12 attend for free. MKAF members enjoy early entry and free admission to every concert as well as discounted pricing for other MKAF events. A limited number of VIP tables (reserved for eight guests for the entire season) are available for $3,000. To reserve a VIP table, call Deb Nissley at (850) 650-2226.
To purchase tickets, become an MKAF member, make a tax-deductible donation or provide a corporate sponsorship, visit www.MKAF.org or call (850) 650-2226. Follow MKAF on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.
