The Ultimate 30A Art and Music Festivals Guide 🎤🌴
Discover the most inspiring 30A art and music festivals. If you’re looking for the creative heart of 30A, you’ll find it pulsing through its many art and music festivals. Whether yo u’re swaying to jazz in Alys Beach or discovering new artists under the lights in Seaside, this scenic stretch of the Gulf comes alive with color, sound, and coastal soul.
Here’s your guide to the most popular and beloved 30A art and music festivals — perfect for couples, families, friend groups, and anyone who loves creativity with a side of ocean breeze.
1. 30A Songwriters Festival 🎶🎸
When: January
Where: Multiple venues all along 30A
With over 175 artists and intimate performances across restaurants, beach bars, and amphitheaters, this legendary festival is the way to experience live music on 30A. Big names, local talent, and powerful storytelling make it a can’t-miss weekend.
Best for: Music lovers, romantic getaways, serious concert fans
Pro tip: Book tickets and lodging early — they sell out fast!
2. Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach 🎥✨
When: May
Where: Alys Beach
This immersive nighttime festival turns the iconic white buildings of Alys Beach into a glowing canvas for projection art. Think light, sound, and motion in one of the most unique art experiences anywhere.
Best for: Art lovers, photographers, couples
Dress code: Light-colored outfits glow beautifully under the lights
3. ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival 🎨🖼️
When: Mother’s Day weekend
Where: Grand Boulevard at Sandestin
Featuring 100+ juried artists from around the country, this festival includes live music, local food, and hands-on art stations for kids. It’s colorful, casual, and community-focused.
Best for: Families, collectors, laid-back art fans
Bonus: A great place to grab one-of-a-kind gifts and original artwork
4. Flutterby Arts Festival 🦋🎨
When: November
Where: Watersound Origins
This whimsical, butterfly-inspired festival celebrates creativity through hands-on art activities, storytelling, live music, and community. Kids will love the crafts and puppet shows, while adults can shop local vendors.
Best for: Families, creative kids, and laid-back weekends
Feel-good factor: Supports the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County
5. Seaside Amphitheater Live Music Series 🎤🌅
When: Spring, summer & holiday weekends
Where: Seaside town center
This ongoing seasonal series features free concerts at sunset on the green. Bring your lawn chair, grab food from a nearby airstream, and enjoy live music under the stars.
Best for: Everyone — couples, families, locals
Tip: Arrive early and bring snacks or a picnic blanket
6. Rosemary Beach Music in the Square 🎻🍷
When: Spring and fall weekends
Where: Barrett Square, Rosemary Beach
Soothing string quartets, jazz, and acoustic sets fill the air during these community concerts on the lawn. It’s refined, relaxing, and the perfect evening with wine in hand.
Best for: Romantic evenings, elegant weekends
What to bring: Lawn chairs, a blanket, and maybe a charcuterie board
7. 30A Art Walks & Pop-Ups 🖌️🛍️
When: Various dates year-round
Where: Gulf Place, Seaside, and Grand Boulevard
Local artists and makers pop up along sidewalks and courtyards to show off their latest creations. You’ll find jewelry, photography, pottery, and live demos — often with live music nearby.
Best for: Casual browsing, spontaneous finds
Local tip: Follow the Cultural Arts Alliance for pop-up dates
8. Under the Sea Fundraiser & Art Show 🌊🎭
When: Varies
Where: Rotating venues
This one-of-a-kind event combines performance, visual art, and community fundraising in a totally immersive setting. Think glowing jellyfish lights, ocean-inspired paintings, and live installations — all to support local arts.
Best for: Bold art lovers, creatives, and patrons of the arts
Bonus: Your ticket supports cultural programs in Walton County
Final Thoughts 🎨🎶🌞
Whether you’re clapping along to a songwriter on a Seaside stage or soaking up digital art after sunset in Alys Beach, the 30A arts scene is alive, soulful, and totally unforgettable. These festivals don’t just entertain — they connect you to the local community, creativity, and spirit of the Emerald Coast.
Want help timing your trip around a festival, finding art-friendly rentals, or getting involved in a local art class or pop-up? I’ve got you covered — just ask! 🎤📍🎨
