Sandestin Gumbo Festival, Feb. 14-15

The New Orleans influence runs deep in South Walton and Destin. With many famous chefs and restaurant owners opening restaurants and bringing Cajun flavor and traditions to the beach. From New Orleans native AJ Tusa who opened Poppy’s Seafood Factory and Hammerhead’s in the Village of Baytowne Wharf to Jim Richard from Lafayette Louisiana who shares his Cajun roots at Stinky’s Fish Camp to V Seagrove Executive Chef David Cunningham direct for Commander’s Palace, the spicy goodness of the bayou is infused along the Emerald Coast.

So what better way to celebrate the New Orleans culinary delights? A Gumbo Festival of course!

The 25thAnnual Sandestin Gumbo Festivalwill kick off on Friday, Feb. 14 with a Seafood Boil at 2 p.m. at the Baytowne Marina (Cost: $15). On Saturday, the main event features more than a dozen gulf coast restaurants competing for the title of “Best Gumbo” along the coast. Other categories include People’s Choice, Best Display, and Most Creative. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 day of the event.

For guests who are in town now, the Destin Fishing & History Museum will host its Gumbo Contest, Sat. Jan. 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Check out the Northwest Florida Daily News for details and practice your gumbo tasting and judging skills this weekend.

Reserve one of Newman-Dailey’s premier South Walton or Destin vacation rentals and laissez les bons temps rouler!

Next up: Mardi Gras!