26th Annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival Feb 13-14

Gumbo is more than just a passion. It's a way of life! Our winter festival favorite is back for the 26th time - the Annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival - great gumbo paired with first-rate family fun, Friday and Saturday, Feb. 13-14 at the resort. Visitors and gumbo-lovers from across the Southeast are expected to join in the festivities during the extended Presidents Day weekend. 

The Sandestin Gumbo Festival has been known as one of the largest and most popular winter food events along Florida’s Emerald Coast. Now in its 26th year, the event takes over the Village of Baytowne Wharf during Presidents Day weekend. Kick-off the weekend Friday, Feb. 13 at Fat Tuesday with a delicious Baytowne Seafood Boil starting at 4 p.m. On Saturday, Feb. 14 from 12-4 p.m. guests will enjoy live Zydeco music from Dikki Du and the Zydeco Krewe, family activities and the best gumbo cook-off on the Gulf Coast.
 
“It’s been so exciting to build this event with local restaurants in one of our largest and most popular events. And this festival will have all types of gumbo – whether it is dark roux, light roux, chicken, seafood, long time veterans and first year participants. You simply can’t beat fresh gumbo at your favorite beach” says Julie Stuckey, events manager for the Village of Baytowne Wharf.
 
Festival guests can vote for “The People’s Choice” awards in gumbo and become eligible for raffle items from the participating restaurants. After “The People’s Choice” honors are given, judges will award 1st, 2nd and 3rd place for the participant categories, and even a “Best Display”. The awards ceremony will begin at approximately 4 p.m.  
Tickets are $20 in advance or $30 on event day and are now available for purchase online at sandestingumbofestival.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at Graffiti & the Funky Blues Shack, Aloha Surf Company and the Sandestin Welcome Center’s front desk.
 
The Sandestin Gumbo Festival is proud to partner with the Sandestin Foundation for Kids (SDFK), where a portion of the net event proceeds benefit SDFK’s causes and organizations that have the most impact and make a meaningful and positive difference in the lives of children.
 
The Village of Baytowne Wharf invites local businesses and restaurants to join in the fun by becoming a gumbo participant. Participants of the Sandestin Gumbo Festival will be included in the event’s marketing package, have an opportunity to win radio and print advertising through sponsors and award winners will receive prize money. Email contact@baytownewharf.com for more information.
 
In addition to the Gumbo Festival, the Mardi Gras Dog Parade, one of the premier canine events in the South will fill the Village streets on Feb. 15 with costumed dogs and their owners tossing a myriad of throws, beads and parade favors. Themed convertibles, small floats, golf carts, bicycles, and decorated wagons will line the festive parade route and Mardi Gras music will fill the air. For people who want to travel for this special event with their four legged friends, Sandestin offers various pet-friendly accommodations. 
 
For travelers tempted to stay a little longer, Sandestin is also hosting the Annual Fat Tuesday Baytowne Bash Parade on Tuesday, Feb. 17 in the Village. This family-friendly event invites people of all ages to “let their hair down” on what many consider the most festive day of the year. Complete with colorful floats, golf carts, street performers and marchers dressed up in their best Mardi Gras costumes, guests will leave with a barrage of beads, moon pies and other trinkets.  
 
Special Rates and Packages Sandestin is making it easy to get away for the weekend with a variety of options and deals for individuals and families. Discounted packages are available with rates starting at only $115 per night (Code: GUMBO). Other special deals include 30% off with the purchase of three or more nights (Code: SAVE30). Book your Presidents Day Weekend at sandestin.com or call 866.91.BEACH.
 
All of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort’s packages and accommodations come with a wide variety of recreational activities including complimentary bike rental, tennis court time, on-site tram service, access to fitness center access and so much more.