Year 2012
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Press Kit: Special Events
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From peg-legged, patch-eyed pirate parties to scrumptious seaside seafood-fests, Destin * Fort Walton Beach * Okaloosa Island feature a continuous calendar of special events and festival fun. Whether it's tantalizing taste buds with deep-water delectables, taming the winds with a multi-colored medley of sails or reeling in the really big ones from the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," beach town bashes are a Northern Gulf coast specialty.
February 12
The Okaloosa Island Mardi Gras Parade starts on Santa Rosa Boulevard with Mardi Gras theme floats, beads, beads and more beads. Following the party, Helen Back restaurant hosts a 'block party' for all attendees and participants.
FEBRUARY 26
This festive parade, led by The Dent Bros and New Orleans Ramblers, makes its way down the Destin Harbor and through the crowds at the party-filled HarborWalk Village. A post-parade party includes zydeco jam – with music by Terry and the Zydeco Bad Boys – and award celebration.
March 12-April 30
As thousands of cobia from the Caribbean travel to upper Gulf waters to spawn, they come closest to shore in the shallow emerald waters. Over a two-month span, 15,000 fishing fanatics enjoy the best sport fishing in the country while spectators watch weigh-ins in amazement.
April 4-5
Okaloosa Island plays host to this high-flying festival, with activities including kitemaking, large show kites, stunt and power kite demonstrations and music.
June 2-6
Ruffian pirates aboard 300 flag-flying fleets invade the harbor to “capture” the Emerald Coast in honor of local pirate legend William Augustus Bowles known as “Billy Bowlegs.” The week-long buccaneer bash features the largest fireworks display in Northwest Florida, Moonlit Ironman Triathlon, Sundown Kiddie Triathlon, coastal treasure hunts, torchlight parades and more!
August
Poker enthusiasts take part in the 19th annual Poker Run, which takes participants through eleven stops including AJ’s Club Bimini, Harbor Docks and Fudpuckers Beachside Bar & Grill.
August
From taking part in the “World’s Largest in the Water Boat Party” to ski shows and sailing regattas, party-goers enjoy a week full of events and celebrations.
Oct 1-31
The 57-year tradition of the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” attracts thousands of eager anglers around the world to comb inshore, offshore, bays and bayous for a month-long fishing frenzy. The tournament offers more than 450 awards and giant dock parties with thrills for first-time fishermen as well as seasoned “old salts.”
October 1-3
To kick off the world-renowned Fishing Rodeo, more than 50,000 seafood aficionados savor every deep-water dish imaginable, from shark-kabobs and barbecued shrimp to fried alligator and crawfish cheese bread. Toe-tapping entertainment, crafts and curiosities fill the playful weekend.
December
Holiday cheer and celebration abound at the Gulf Breeze Zoo with merry visits from Santa Claus, a revelry of twinkling Christmas lights and a New Year’s Eve winter wonderland with fantasy snow.
December
Starring the largest charter fleet in Florida, a sparkling procession of festively bedecked boats parade through Destin Harbor as mesmerized celebrants observe merrily from beaches, harbors, bridges, decks and docks.
December
This event introduces the holiday season by lighting up the Destin Harbor with a festive reflection of holiday lights surrounding the water. Boat cruises and other festivities will take place during the event.
Additional visitor information about these and other seaside special events is available by calling the Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. at (800) 322-3319 or by visiting us at www.emeraldcoastfl.com.
