September 28, 2026 · Sandestin, FL Emerald Coast beer season peaks mid-October at The Village of Baytowne Wharf. The 18th Annual Baytowne Wharf Beer Festival lands Friday and Saturday, October 16-17, 2026, in Sandestin with a new Friday Backyard Bash, Saturday's grand tasting, Seltzer Lane, bourbon tastings, and food tents by the lagoon. Friday's Baytowne Backyard Bash runs 6-8 p.m. with football on the big screen, beer, bourbon, bonfires, bites, and live music from 55 South. Presale general admission is listed around $55 ($65 day-of if not sold out). Saturday's Grand Craft Beer Tasting runs 2-5 p.m. with 150+ domestic and international craft beers, brewery reps, local and import tasting lanes, Seltzer Lane, and live music. Saturday tickets include early-bird and presale tiers (about $45-$50) plus a limited Pour Pass around $80 with dedicated entry and specialty tasting access. A two-day ticket is listed around $95. All tickets include a tasting glass; 21+ only; rain or shine. Tickets and updates: baytownebeerfestival.com. Baytowne Wharf already packages lodging with festival tickets for guests who want a short walk from room to pour. A portion of proceeds benefits Fisher House of the Emerald Coast and the Sandestin Foundation for Kids. If you are building a Florida Panhandle fall trip, sandwich the fest between beach time and Village shopping without leaving Sandestin. October 16-17 is the weekend. Book the Backyard Bash, the Saturday tasting, or both, and drink for a local cause. Sources: Baytowne Beer Festival official site; Destin Life (Sept. 13, 2026) ticket and schedule feature; SoWal.com festival notice; BigTickets event listing.Two days, two vibes
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