DwightFest at Gulf Place Dec 7-8: A Local Musical Benefit

[SoWal Staff]

DwightFest, a non-profit 2-day music festival created for giving back to those who make our paradise possible, is set for Saturday, December 7 and Sunday, December 8. Performances by Paul Thorn & Joanna Cotten + their bands, along with other 13 other acts are scheduled. Food trucks, beverage stations & merchandise will be onsite for your enjoyment.

Get Your Tickets Now! Ticket prices will increase on the days of the festival. Choose from VIP tickets which include covered, upfront seating + a chair or General Admission tickets which do not include covered, upfront seating & you’ll need to bring your own chair.

DwightFest
Saturday, December 7: 10AM - 9PM
Sunday, December 8: 11AM - 7:45PM

Named and founded in honor of local pottery artist Dwight Ward, proceeds from DwightFest will benefit local service workers and musicians who need emergency financial assistance.

To view the FULL LINEUP and learn about DwightFest Inc, visit DwightFest on Facebook and social sites for updates and more!

Gulf Place is one of South Walton’s most beloved places to eat, shop, play and stay. Gulf Place is located on Scenic Highway 30A, at the intersection of CR 30A and CR 393.





Become A DwighFest Sponsor!
Download sponsorship details.

 

[Teresa]

Join us for a special Sunday Funday is Sunday, November 17 @ Stinky's Fish Camp & AJ's Grayton Beach! A raffle for 2 VIP Tix for DwightFest will take place + a portion of proceeds from both of these establishments will be donated to DwightFest Inc to help support our friend Dwight Ward! Come have a good time for a great cause as you get down to some sweet music by The Steenos & The Pickled Pickers!

 

[Teresa]

DwightFest.com:

We’d like to take a moment and share a bit more about Dwight Ward, the inspiration behind DwightFest. Please enjoy this piece written by local writer Paul Stanley with interviews from some of those closest to Dwight.

To say that Dwight Ward is an institution in the Emerald Coast art community is an understatement.

Through his pottery and wisdom, Dwight has inspired an entire generation. In many ways, he has given much more than he has taken.

Now it's time for Dwight to receive the generosity of his many friends and family members who have come together to honor his passion and commitment to artistic expression.

A hard worker, Dwight began working at Publix during high school, eventually becoming one of the company's youngest assistant managers. His entrepreneurial drive led him to open and operate several businesses while serving his country in the Army Reserve.

Although fifteen years separated him from his younger sister, Lisa, she still has fond memories of the big brother she admires. Their bond is a testament to Dwight's caring and supportive nature.

"Dwight was always the responsible one," said Lisa. "He's worked hard and has an excellent mind for business. Whether it's pottery, t-shirts, or works of other artists, Dwight loved the creative process."

For over three decades, Dwight developed and cultivated his creative passion. In 2002, he founded The Artists at Gulf Place, a vibrant community he nurtured and where he made it possible for him and other talented artists to join together in a unique space of colorful shacks that allowed them to showcase their art publicly.

His influence extends beyond his peers. Dwight has mentored many, including Autumn Johnson, a fellow artist who met Dwight when she moved to the Emerald Coast five years ago. Like many, she eventually earned a place in Dwight's world.

"My gosh, that man has taught me so much," Autumn fondly recalls.

"I've met many interesting people in my lifetime, but only one Dwight. He's taught me so much about art, life, and people. I'm honored to work alongside such a talented man. More importantly, I'm honored that he considers me a close friend."

If it's too loud, you are too old. - Dwight

Dwight's love of the arts also extends to music. Five of the seven Ward children, including Dwight, played musical instruments.
The Ward household was always filled with music, as five of seven siblings played various instruments. Dwight and his brother Sam formed a band that showcased his guitar and vocal abilities.

He is a fixture at several local venues. Most Sunday afternoons you'll find Dwight sitting stage left at AJ's in Grayton Beach, listening to one of his favorite local bands The Pickled Pickers. Other evenings, you might have spotted him at The Red Bar, Red Fish Taco, or The Bay performing "roadie duties" for his niece, singer-songwriter Casey Kearney.

Before her musical career blossomed, he encouraged Casey to pursue her musical ambition, inviting her to perform at his artist co-op. His influence on her career is a testament to the depth of his impact on those around him.

"Since I began playing and singing publicly, my Uncle Dwight remains my number one fan," stated Casey. "He had confidence in me when I didn't have it in myself and always believed I could achieve my dreams."

In 2023, Dwight faced a life-altering stroke. Since then, he's made significant lifestyle changes. Yet, his unwavering spirit and the love and support of his loyal friends have remained constant, inspiring us all with his resilience.

"I always knew that my brother had many friends and was a popular local figure," said Lisa.

"I had no clue just how loved and admired Dwight remains in the 30a area. The support everyone shows him doesn't go unnoticed, and we're so grateful for the generosity of so many, even those who have never met him. From the bottom of his heart and ours, all we can say is 'Thank you, and God Bless You.'"

Photo is of Dwight with his beloved niece Casey Kearney Music

 

[Teresa]

DwightFest NEWS

Featuring:
Paul Thorn, Joanna Cotten, Shelly Fairchild, Grayson Capps, Timothy Bloom, Blue Mother Tupelo, The Pickled Pickers, Percy Bady, Emily West, Casey Kearney Music, Laura Lamb, Queens Ransom, Geoff McBride, Waco Ramblers, Greg Barnhill, & Bucket of Bullets Band

Tix available at DwightFest.com! $100 wkd passes! Price increases days of festival, so get yours now! Children 12 & under get in free!

 

[Teresa]

Hearing and seeing world-class musicians is only one benefit when purchasing DwightFest tickets. Proceeds will directly benefit local artists and service industry professionals who may need financial assistance for emergency medical needs.

Serve those who serve us every day.

Tix available at DwightFest.com