Our Top Picks for April 16-19 Entertainment on the Emerald Coast

If you are fond of wine, live music, fashion or pirate invasions, then this weekend’s events on the Emerald Coast will have no problem keeping a smile on your face! Be sure to check weather.com or tune in to the Weather Channel for the latest updates on local weather conditions.

The  crew wishes everyone a safe and beachy weekend! Enjoy!

Thursday, April 16 – Sunday, April 19:

29th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival

Village of Baytowne Wharf

The Sandestin Wine Festival brings an opportunity for discovery. Four days of unique events open up a wide range of experiences like wine dinners with celebrity chefs, preview events throughout the year and wine tastings that showcase hundreds of wines.

Event Schedule:

4/16: Official Kick-Off Party at Rum Runners in Sandestin and Wine Dinner at Marlin Grill

4/17: Champagne & Seafood Voyage onboard Sunquest Cruises – Solaris and Grand Wine Tasting

4/18: Mind. Body. Beach. and Grand Wine Tasting

4/19: Brunch on the Bay at Marina Bar & Grill at Sandestin

Tickets are available at sd.xorbia.com. For more information, visit SandestinWineFestival.com.

Friday, April 17, 2015:

Sandestin Wine Festival Kick-Off Seafood & Champagne Cruise

SunQuest Cruises

Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort/Baytowne Marina

9300 Emerald Coast Parkway

Miramar Beach

Celebrate the kick-off of the highly anticipated Sandestin Wine Festival on a luxurious 125-foot yacht that cruises the open waters while indulging in fresh, local seafood and premium champagnes. The SOLARIS chefs are featuring an elaborate four-course, Gulf Coast seafood menu, each paired with premium champagnes. Patrons will embark on an unforgettable day that begins with a Dockside Reception at noon with hors d’oeuvres and sparkling bubbly. It’s smooth sailing for the rest of the afternoon as guests enjoy all three decks of the SOLARIS yacht, including the open-air sky deck, and three additional coastal cuisine courses and champagne. Reservations required online at SunQuestCruises.com or by calling 850.650.2519.

The Mulligans in Concert

Ramada Plaza Beach Resort

1500 Miracle Strip Parkway

Fort Walton Beach

Saturday, April 18, 2015:

Pirate Day at the Emerald Coast Science Center

31 Memorial Parkway

Fort Walton Beach

Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Come join the science center for sea monster dissections, navigation and pirate and sea crafts. Come dressed as your favorite pirate. You can even visit the William Augustus Bowles Mobile Pirate Museum, which will be present for the event.

Spring Style Event at Silver Sands Premium Outlets

Silver Sands Premium Outlets

10562 Emerald Coast Parkway W., Suite 200

Miramar Beach

Shoppers are invited to enjoy this fun event that will feature a fashion show, food, Abrakadoodle art project for kids, Facetime PhotoBooth, prize drawings and more. The first 50 to check in at the event will also receive a free Premium Outlets signature shopping tote. The event will be held in the space to the left of Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5^th, next to Rack Room Shoes.

Attendees will get to preview spring fashion trends at a fashion show hosted by guest bloggers Jami Ray of 30A Street Style and Jessica Fay of Lipstick, Heels & A Baby. These fashion trendsetters will bring their expertise to the event by exclusively styling looks for the fashion show and hosting the live event.  

Attendees can also enjoy a taste of Silver Sands Premium Outlets with delicious samples from an array of eateries at the center including Pino Gelato Café that will offer samples of Italian coffee, gelato and their famous Ferrari Flatbread Sandwich. The event is sponsored by Southern Vacation Rentals.

Bowlegs Pirate Invasion!

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

1010 Miracle Strip Parkway

Fort Walton Beach

Local Color Artists to Exhibit at Destin Library

Destin Library

150 Sibert Avenue

Destin

The Destin Library will host an art exhibit of the Local Color Artists Club through April 18. The exhibit will feature the works of local artists from the Destin/Fort Walton Beach/Niceville area. The fifteen-piece exhibit includes the works of:

Sue Tarkin

Bill Stephenson

Dr. Theresa McRee

Dennis Rosati

Amy Jo Rosati

Lynette Miesen

Helen Blair

Jackie Lynch

Gini Simpson

Marie Jackson

Tamara Lee Sturgeon

Lou Kaunzinger

Barbara Brook

Sue Peck Hamm

Priscilla Bonjour

Exhibit hours at the Destin Library’s Calhoun Room are:

            Monday                                   9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

            Wednesdays                          1-5 p.m.

            Tuesday/Thursday              9 a.m. – 8 pm.

            Friday                                       9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

            Saturday                                  9 a.m. – 1p.m.

For more information, please contact Amy Jo Rosati at ajrdjr112@cox.net.

Sunday, April 19, 2015:

ArtWalk on the Harbor

HarborWalk Village

10 Harbor Boulevard

Destin

Each month, HarborWalk Village transforms into a mini art district. Happening every third Sunday, dozens of artists come out to showcase their vibrant, engaging and creative artwork ranging from traditional to contemporary art, jewelry, paintings and more. You’ll find a mix of unique, handcrafted items from both emerging and established artists.

Some Sunday Brunch spots in and around Destin:

Crab Island Cantina, Destin Harbor crabislandcantina.com

Harry T’s, Destin Harbor harryts.com

Angler’s Beachside Grill, Okaloosa Island Boardwalk anglersgrill.com

McGuire’s Irish Pub, Destin mcguiresirishpub.com

March-April, 2015

2015 HarborWalk Marina 18th Annual Cobia Tournament

The tournament takes place at HarborWalk Marina, located on the Destin Harbor, just minutes away from the intracoastal waterway and the Gulf of Mexico. The tournament ends April 30 at 8 p.m. All events are free and open to the public.

Our Top Picks for April 11-12 Entertainment on the Emerald Coast

This weekend is all about getting outdoors! Whether you are attending a walk with your dog to fight cancer or you are watching an outdoor concert performance at the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, experiencing these events outside will make them that much more enjoyable. Especially so, since spring on the Emerald Coast has been absolutely beautiful thus far. Be sure to check weather.com or tune in to the Weather Channel for the latest updates on local weather conditions.

The Life's A Beach crew wishes everyone a safe and beachy weekend! Enjoy!

Saturday, April 11, 2015:

Run 4 Science – Healthy Okaloosa Day

Time: 7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Join the 5^th Annual Run 4 Science 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run! The race will begin at 7:30 a.m. in the Seabreeze Neighborhood. After the race, there will be a family-friendly post party at the Emerald Coast Science Center with food, fun and beer!

ecscience.org

Downtown FWB Farmers’ Market

DeFrance Antiques

230 Eglin Parkway SE

Fort Walton Beach

Time: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

The Downtown FWB Farmers’ Market will be open the second Saturday of every month, beginning in March and continuing through October. An array of vendors will be set up with many different locally grown and handmade items such as fresh farm produce and fruit like Asian pears, local honey, grass-fed beef, baked goods, fresh eggs, jams, jellies, handmade soaps and scrubs, and so much more! Feel free to stroll down the streets of Downtown Fort Walton Beach after the Farmers’ Market and check out our local flavor and Southern hospitality. Our community offers many unique boutiques, restaurants and bars, perfect for a Saturday afternoon!

Bark For Life of the Emerald Coast

Destin City Complex

4200 Indian Bayou Trail

Destin

Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The American Cancer Society Bark For Life is a noncompetitive walk event for dogs and their owners to raise funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society's fight against cancer. By supporting Bark For Life, you help the American Cancer Society save lives, helping them move closer to their ultimate goal of a world with less cancer and more birthdays. So, bring your best canine friend out for a fun-filled day, starting with a walk and continuing with demonstrations, contests and games.

The Junior League of the Emerald Coast Presents Touch-a-Truck

The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island

1450 Miracle Strip Parkway

Fort Walton Beach

Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The JLEC is proud to bring Touch-a-Truck to the Emerald Coast for the first time! This community event will provide families with the opportunity to learn about and explore trucks, construction vehicles and public safety equipment. Each vehicle will have a driver present to answer questions and let the kids explore! There will also be crafts and games for the kids, free ice cream from Cinco Baptist Church and a Touch-a-Truck logo coloring contest. The winning logo will be featured on our website! Bryan Pest Control is the event sponsor.

All donations benefit the Junior League of the Emerald Coast and help to ensure the success of their programs such as the Child Clothing Project, Kids in the Kitchen and Back to Books Bash. Free admission for all ages. Donations will be accepted. The Junior League of the Emerald Coast, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the affective action and leadership of trained volunteers. The JLEC's purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

December ’63 to Perform Tribute to Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons

Dugas Pavilion in Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village

4323 Commons Drive West

Destin

Time: 7 p.m.

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) is walking down memory lane with the help of memorable music. In partnership with Ocean Reef Vacation Rentals & Real Estate, Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation continues a yearlong celebration of its 20^th anniversary with a rousing special performance by December ’63. The five-member band is named for Frankie Valli’s 1975 hit "December 1963 (Oh What a Night)," which topped the music charts at No. 3 in the U.S. in 1975. December ’63 celebrates the indomitable spirit of the charismatic ‘60s crooner with the unmistakable falsetto voice with such memorable hits as “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “Walk Like a Man,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” “My Eyes Adored You” and more.

Bring a chair, blanket and picnic or purchase dinner prepared onsite from food trucks and local restaurants serving up delicious dinner menu options. Bring your own beverages or purchase water, soft drinks, beer and wine at the event. Tickets for this benefit concert are $25 for adults or $20 for MKAF members. Children (under 12) get in for free. Tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis by calling 850.650.2226. Proceeds from the event will benefit MKAF’s mission to support cultural events and educational programs.

Sunday, April 12, 2015:

Some Sunday Brunch spots in and around Destin:

Crab Island Cantina, Destin Harbor crabislandcantina.com

Harry T’s, Destin Harbor harryts.com

Angler’s Beachside Grill, Okaloosa Island Boardwalk anglersgrill.com

McGuire’s Irish Pub, Destin mcguiresirishpub.com

March-April, 2015

2015 HarborWalk Marina 18th Annual Cobia Tournament

The tournament takes place at HarborWalk Marina, located on the Destin Harbor, just minutes away from the intracoastal waterway and the Gulf of Mexico. The tournament ends April 30 at 8 p.m. All events are free and open to the public. 

Our Top Picks for Entertainment on the Emerald Coast: EASTER WEEKEND EDITION

This weekend is sure to be characterized by lots of colorful, plastic eggs filled delicious candies, family gatherings, and, of course, appearances by the Easter Bunny himself. With the holiday ahead, we are dedicating this week’s blog post to a select few of the Easter-centered events that will be taking place Saturday and Sunday. From festive brunches to lunch cruises, the Emerald Coast has got your Easter weekend plans covered! Be sure to check weather.com or tune in to the Weather Channel for the latest updates on local weather conditions.

The Life's A Beach crew wishes everyone a safe and beachy, Easter weekend! Enjoy!

Saturday, April 4, 2015:

Destin’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Morgan Sports Complex

4200 Indian Bayou Trail

Destin

Time: 9:15 am.

Happy Easter!

Sunday, April 5, 2015:

Visit with Easter Bunny & Brunch at HarborWalk Village

HarborWalk Village

10 Harbor Boulevard

Destin

Time: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Enjoy an Easter Brunch with a view from the Harborview Room from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Then, hop down to HarborWalk Village for a festive afternoon complete with free kids’ activities and have your picture taken with the Easter Bunny! For Brunch Reservations, contact 850.424.0622.

Easter Brunch at Beach Walk Café

Beach Walk Henderson Park

2700 Scenic Highway 98

Destin

Time: 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Easter Sunday Brunch at Ruth’s Chris

15000 Emerald Coast Parkway

Destin

Time: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., 5-8 p.m.

Brunch menu with regular menu available also. For details, visit ruthschrisdestin.com.

Easter Lunch Cruise on the Solaris

Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort

9300 Emerald Coast Parkway

Miramar Beach

Time: 1-3 p.m.

Our Top Picks for March 27-29 Entertainment on the Emerald Coast

Sprinkled along our gorgeous Emerald Coast this weekend are events like the Annual FWB Beer Festival, Spring Break Concert Series, the Annual Easter Extravaganzoo and so much more! Be sure to check weather.com or tune in to the Weather Channel for the latest updates on local weather conditions.

The Life's A Beach crew wishes everyone a beachy, SPRING weekend! Enjoy!

Friday, March 27, 2015:

3/27-3/29

Mary Poppins Musical

Fort Walton Beach Civic Auditorium

107 Miracle Strip Parkway, Fort Walton Beach

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Mary Poppins: A Musical is based on stories by P.L. Travers & the Disney film Mary Poppins. Directed by Jean Starkey. Curtains open at 7:30 p.m. nightly, and at 2 p.m. Sunday matinee. Tickets are $20; students pay $10 at the door. This tells the story of the world’s most beloved nanny, who brings enchantment and excitement with her everywhere she goes as she becomes a most unusual nanny to Jane and Michael. For more information, visit stagecraftersfwb.com.

Saturday, March 28, 2015:

Knitting Class at the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida

115 Westview Avenue, Valparaiso

Time: 9 a.m. – noon

Learn the fun and useful craft of knitting at the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida during a Heritage Alive! Craft Class with instructor Carol Burkhard. Learn basic stitches and begin a project of your choice. Bring your own yarn and size 8 circular needles. Space is limited. Pre-registration is required. Cost is $20 or $15 for Museum members. Please call 850.678.2615.

ADSO’s First Ever Starving Artists Sale

Arts & Design Society

17 First Street SE, Fort Walton Beach

Time: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

ADSO artists will be selling their art and/or new or gently used artist's materials or books that they no longer need. The sale will be indoors—inside the gallery and studios. This is a great opportunity to buy art and art supplies! This may include jewelry, ceramics, paintings, or whatever art the multi-talented group produces. For further information, visit artsdesignsociety.org, or call the office, Tuesday-Friday, noon - 4 p.m., 850.244.1271.

2^nd Annual Easter Extravaganzoo

Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge Zoo

5262 Deer Springs Road, Crestview

Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Celebrate the season and enjoy a spring day of fun with arts and crafts, flower planting, a meet-and-greet with the Easter Bunny and more! Guests will be able to decorate eggs for some of their favorite zoo animals, and there will also be Easter egg hunts at 11 a.m. (ages 8-12), 11:15 a.m. (ages 0-3) and 11:40 a.m. (ages 4-7). Admission: $8 for adults, $5 for children and free for guests ages 2 and under. For more information, please call 850.682.3949.

Fort Walton Beach Beer Festival

FWB Wine World in Uptown Station

99 Eglin Parkway, Fort Walton Beach

Time: 1-4 p.m.

Spring Break Concert Series

HarborWalk Village

10 Harbor Boulevard, Destin

Time: 7 p.m.

Come rock the docks during this free concert series on the HarborWalk Village stage! This event is free and open to the public. The Gable Bradley Band will perform from 7-9 p.m.

Sunday, March 29, 2015:

SunQuest Cruises SOLARIS Kicks Off Spring With Crawfish Cruise

SunQuest Cruises

Sundestin Golf & Beach Resort/Baytowne Marina

9300 Emerald Coast Parkway, Miramar Beach

Time: Boarding begins at 12:45 p.m., cruise is from 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Enjoy Cruise & Blues, Bugs & Brews on SunQuest Cruises SOLARIS’ 2^nd Annual Crawfish Cruise. Guests will indulge in a spread fit for a Cajun King (or queen) as the SOLARIS chefs serve freshly boiled, perfectly seasoned crawfish while cruising the beautiful waters and listening to live blues music by Cadillac Willy. The SOLARIS Crawfish Cruise is $45/per person, including a choice of crawfish, shrimp or jambalaya, live music and a three-hour cruise. Cost is $25 for kids 10 and under to purchase a hot dog and chips. Reservations required online at SunQuestCruises.com or call 850.650.2519.

Some Sunday Brunch spots in and around Destin:

Crab Island Cantina, Destin Harbor crabislandcantina.com

Harry T’s, Destin Harbor harryts.com

Angler’s Beachside Grill, Okaloosa Island Boardwalk anglersgrill.com

McGuire’s Irish Pub, Destin mcguiresirishpub.com

March-April, 2015

2015 HarborWalk Marina 18th Annual Cobia Tournament

The tournament takes place at HarborWalk Marina, located on the Destin Harbor, just minutes away from the intracoastal waterway and the Gulf of Mexico. The tournament ends April 30 at 8 p.m. All events are free and open to the public.