📅 When
February 19, 2027 – February 20, 2027
17:00
📍 Where
9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy W, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
About this event
One of the Emerald Coast's most beloved culinary traditions enters its 38th year at the scenic Village of Baytowne Wharf. The Sandestin Gumbo Festival is a two-day celebration of Gulf Coast cooking culture, kicking off Friday evening with a shrimp boil cookout and culminating Saturday in an epic all-you-can-taste gumbo cook-off competition.
On Saturday, local restaurants and chefs battle it out for People's Choice and judges' prizes while attendees roam the village sampling unlimited gumbo and Bloody Mary pours, cheering on their favorites with a cold drink in hand. Live music fills the air, and a dedicated kids' area keeps young seafood fans entertained throughout the afternoon.
Set against the backdrop of Baytowne's charming lagoon village, this late-February festival is a perfect winter getaway — Gulf Coast warmth, incredible food, and the kind of laid-back Southern hospitality that makes this stretch of Florida legendary. Hotel packages through Sandestin make it easy to make a full weekend of it.
Best for: Foodies, couples, families, Gulf Coast cuisine enthusiasts
What to expect: Friday evening shrimp boil kickoff, Saturday unlimited gumbo and Bloody Mary samplings, live music, cook-off competition with People's Choice voting, and kids' activities.
Planning tip: Buy tickets in advance as this event has sold out in previous years. Book a Sandestin hotel package to make it a full winter getaway weekend.
Cost: Ticketed event. Saturday main event includes unlimited tastings. Check sandestingumbofestival.com for pricing.
