Most people know 30A—the iconic stretch of scenic highway between Destin and Panama City—in the summer. But here’s a little secret: fall is when this ribbon of Florida’s Gulf Coast truly shines. The sun still gives warmth, but the air softens just enough to offer a little grace. The crowds quiet down. And the skies? Well, an autumn sunset on the horizon is something you just have to see in person to believe its splendor.
Right in the heart of this slower, sweeter season is one of the South’s most beloved festivals: The Harvest Wine & Food Festival hosted by Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF). This isn’t your average wine festival—it’s a thoughtfully curated celebration stretched over four days in the idyllic 30A town of WaterColor, Florida. And if you’ve never planned a weekend trip around this exceptional event, consider this your sign.
A Weekend Worth Building a Trip Around
The Harvest Wine & Food Festival officially kicks off on Thursday night with intimate Celebrity Winemaker Dinners, where you’ll enjoy rare vintages paired with chef-driven menus. Held in stunning settings like fine dining rooms and private coastal residences across South Walton, these exclusive dinners set the stage for a remarkable weekend ahead.
On Friday night, festivities continue with an elegant evening under the stars. Nestled beneath the canopy of live sand oak trees in Cerulean Park, Harvest After Dark welcomes guests to a beautifully lit setting for a night of wine pairings and dishes, all curated by Celebrity Chefs from across the region. It’s intimate, elevated, and effortlessly made memorable—Southern hospitality at its most delicious.
Saturday’s Grand Tasting is the crown jewel of the weekend. WaterColor’s Cerulean Park transforms into an open-air tasting room, with stations showcasing wines from across the globe and delectable bites from esteemed Southern chefs. Live music fills the air, glasses clink, and the golden light of late afternoon makes everything feel just a little more magical. Be sure to check out details on the VIP Experience online.
Just when you think you’ve had your fill, Sunday arrives with not one, but two brunch opportunities: the Better Together Cocktail Brunch, where spirits collide with a themed menu, and the brand-new Blanc de Brunch, a sparkling sendoff featuring crisp whites and bubbles poured alongside classic brunch-style cuisine.
This isn’t your average wine festival—it’s a thoughtfully curated celebration stretched over four days in the idyllic 30A town of WaterColor, Florida.
A Trip with Heart
As indulgent as the weekend may be, its impact runs even deeper. The Harvest Wine & Food Festival supports DCWAF, which has donated over $35 million to 17 children’s charities in Northwest Florida! Every ticket, every toast, and every auction helps change lives, and we’re proud to support this mission.
Good Grit’s Guide to the Perfect Wine Weekend
So, how should you plan your trip? Plan to arrive on Thursday evening, just in time to check into your rental and catch the sunset before heading to a Winemaker Dinner. Sleep in on Friday, enjoy a bike ride down 30A, and maybe even take a dip in the Gulf before dressing up for Harvest After Dark.
Saturday is for sipping and snacking your way through the Grand
Tasting, and Sunday brunch is your perfect farewell—sparkling wine in hand, and one last beach walk before heading home.
Fall on the coast is calling. All you have to do is answer!
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This year, guests can take advantage of new Friday + Saturday ticket bundles, which include a 15% discount, making it easier than ever to experience the full weekend.
Buy your tickets and see the full schedule at harvestwineandfood.com. Don’t forget to tag @dcwaf and @goodgritmag—we’ll be sipping right alongside you.
