A Winter Weekend Getaway: Savor the Flavors of the Sandestin Gumbo Festival
Words by Paige Townley
When the temperatures drop and the winter blues start creeping in, there’s no better remedy than a weekend escape to the Gulf Coast—especially when it involves a steaming bowl of gumbo. The Village of Baytowne Wharf is spicing things up on February 21 and 22 for the 36th Annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival.
For more than three decades, the Sandestin Gumbo Festival has been a must-attend event for food lovers and festivalgoers alike, turning a winter weekend into a flavorful celebration of Cajun tradition, coastal charm, and unbeatable culinary competition. As one of the biggest (and most delicious) winter food festivals on the Gulf Coast, it brings together some of the best chefs, restaurants, and home cooks to compete for the coveted title of “Best Gumbo on the Emerald Coast.”
The festival kicks off on Friday, February 21, with a traditional shrimp boil at Somewhere Bar & Grill. This laid-back, come-as-you-are event is the perfect way to ease into the weekend with fresh Gulf shrimp, corn on the cob, boiled potatoes, and gumbo, of course, along with cold drinks and live music starting at 4pm. It’s a Gulf Coast tradition that sets the tone for a weekend of good food and great company.
The heart of the festival happens on Saturday, February 22, when Baytowne Wharf transforms into a gumbo lover’s paradise. As chefs compete in the highly anticipated cook-off, festivalgoers get to sample an endless array of gumbo creations, from thick and hearty to more smoky roux, all loaded down with fresh Gulf seafood. While sampling each gumbo style and awaiting the judge’s decision on the top prize, festivalgoers can also cast their vote for the “People’s Choice” award winner for the best gumbo and vote for the “Best Bloody Mary at the Beach.”
Beyond the gumbo, Saturday’s main event will feature live music, children’s activities, local and regional breweries pouring refreshing drinks, and plenty of fun for the whole family. It’s the perfect excuse to gather your friends, book a weekend getaway, and soak in the lively energy of Baytowne Wharf.
Grab your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate winter weekend on the Gulf Coast. For tickets and more information, visit SandestinGumboFestival.com.
