Celebrating Summer on the Emerald Coast: July Events Guide

July on Florida’s Emerald Coast is packed with excitement, offering a great mix of holiday celebrations, sporting events, and local culture. The month kicks off with Fourth of July weekend, featuring block parties, delicious food, and fireworks over the ocean - the perfect summer start for families and beachgoers looking to enjoy great food and live entertainment right by the water. Whether you're interested in some friendly competition, lively festivals, or just relaxing on the beach, there is something fun happening for everyone all month long.

Here’s what’s happening in July on the Emerald Coast:

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4th Annual Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival


Photo credit: Destin Commons

When: July 3 ︱ 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Where: Destin Commons, Destin

Kick off the holiday weekend with a massive gathering of the region's best food trucks, offering everything from fresh Gulf seafood to gourmet sweets, alongside live entertainment and family activities.

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Seaside Independence Day Celebration & Block Party


Photo credit: Seaside, FL Official Facebook

When: July 4 ︱ Starting at 9:00 a.m.

Where: Seaside Amphitheater & Beachfront, Seaside

Join the community of Seaside for an all-day Independence Day celebration, beginning with their annual block party, featuring live performances and the Children's Patritic Bike Parade. The festivites continue through the afternoon and evening, with live music, hot dog eating contests, and fireworks capping the night at 8:30 p.m.

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Celebration Talent Competition


Photo credit: New Attitudes Dance Studio

When: July 6 through July 10

Where: Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, Fort Walton Beach

This highly-acclaimed, national-level dance and talent showcase brings incredible young performers from across the country to the Gulf Coast for five days of competitive performance. Watch all types of artistry take stage, from classical dance to contemporary music, for a vibrant and diverse showcase of beachfront talent.

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Blue Marlin Grand Championship of the Gulf


Photo credit: Marlin Magazine

When: July 14 through July 19

Where: The Wharf ︱ Orange Beach, AL

Known as "The Greatest Show in Sportfishing," this high-stakes, big-money tournament draws elite sportfishing teams to the Gulf. The public weigh-ins are legendary, packed with big energy and massive fish. Throughout the tournament dates, guests enjoy sun-soaked parties and live entertainment.

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Coastal Country Friday Concert Series Finale


Photo credit: To Do in Destin

When: July 31 ︱ 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.

Where: HarborWalk Village, Destin

The grand finale of HarborWalk's running summer concert tradition is almost here! Catch live country music acts on the Main Stage, grab a drink, have a dance, and enjoy the sunset over the Destin Harbor.

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Pro-Tip for July Travelers: Traffic on Highway 30A and Highway 98 can get heavy around the July 4th holiday. If you are attending any of the beachside parades or fireworks, rent a bicycle or a golf cart early. It will save you hours of looking for parking!


This July, the Emerald Coast has got something for everyone. We'll see you out there!