03 Jul Independence Day Celebrations on 30A
Fourth of July on the Emerald Coast is something everyone should experience. From fireworks, parades and boat races, Scenic Highway 30A has something for everyone and the festivities are not limited to the just one day. It seems as if every neighborhood tucked along 30A has something fun and festive going on, each event as unique as the neighborhood itself.
Parades will kick off the area’s celebrations early Friday morning in Seaside and Grayton Beach. On lookers can enjoy seeing local celebrities, furry friends and decked out automobiles, golf carts and bicycles parading through the streets dawning the greatest Independence Day garb.
Fireworks will not be the only thing filling the air on the night of the fourth. Many South Walton neighborhoods will have live music under the stars where they welcome locals and visitors alike to throw their blanket down and bring a cooler full of ice-cold beverages. Including Mama’s Blue Dress on the lawn in The Village of Baytowne, The Atlanta Allstars in Alys Beach and a festive Pop’s performance from the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra in Seaside.
The day will conclude with fireworks, as it very well should. The South Walton Fire District is encouraging locals and visitors to “Leave the Shows to the Pros” and enjoy a safe, professional fireworks displays. The scheduled July 4th firework shows for South Walton include:
- Rosemary Beach – 8:30 pm
- Alys Beach – 9:00 pm
- WaterSound – 9:00 pm
- Seaside – 9:00 pm
- Watercolor Inn & Resort – 9:00 pm
- Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa – 9:00 pm
- Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort – 9:15 pm
Saturday is the legendary 18th Rags to Riches Regatta, a Hobie Cat Race with a course between Grayton Beach and Seagrove. This event will include live music by the Courtyard Saints and a shrimp boil hosted by Grayton Beach Catering for only $5 a plate Grayton Beer Company will be pouring beer for $10 a cup, which is refillable until the beer runs out!
Legendary guitarist Junior Marvin, best known for his work with Bob Marley and the Wailers, is performing live on the Green at Gulf Place Saturday night.Regional favorite Boukou Groove will open for this performance you won’t want to miss! Gates open at 3:30pm and the show starts at 5pm. Food and beverages will be available for purchase at the event. General admission is $20 for advance tickets and $35 at the door. Bring your beach chairs and blankets and enjoy the show on the Green!
Spend your Sunday Funday enjoying one of the area’s farmer’s markets. At the Market at Gulf Place you will find fresh fruit, vegetables, handmade crafts and organic items all produced by local farmers and artisans! Stop by the Raw & Juicy Farmers Market at the Market Shops at the entrance of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort from 9am-1pm. There, you’ll see some familiar Seaside Farmers Market vendors and you’ll have an opportunity to buy fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods. Enjoy the 30A Farmers Market from 9am-1pm in Rosemary Beach. Stroll cobblestone walkways lined with shade trees in a beautiful park-like setting while sampling delicious vendor products. An array of appetizers and ready to eat dishes are available, including smoked tuna dip, homemade chips and salsa, hummus, fresh baked pita, Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie), homemade pasta, sauces, Chicken Curry, and more. See you at the market!