Events

Northwest Florida Ballet's production of The Nutcracker is the Emerald Coast's premier holiday tradition, and the Mattie Kelly Arts Center staging is its most spectacular form. Now in its 46th year, this full-length ballet brings together more than 140 cast members — professional dancers alongside local students — performing Tchaikovsky's beloved score live with the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra in the pit.

Expect the full spectacle: the iconic Christmas tree that grows to the rafters, the battle with the Mouse King, the journey through the Land of Snow, and the dazzling Kingdom of Sweets. The MKAC's 1,650-seat theater delivers the kind of crisp acoustics and unobstructed sightlines that open-air venues simply cannot match, making this the definitive holiday night out for families and arts lovers alike.

Performances run Friday through Sunday the weekend before Thanksgiving. Multiple shows are offered each day — check nfballet.org for the exact schedule and to reserve seats early, as this production reliably sells out. Tickets are $48 for adults and $22 for children under 12.

More information here: NFB Nutcracker at Mattie Kelly Arts Center | Destin Events

Join us for the 5th Annual Sandestin Turkey Trot 5K fun run and 1-mile fun walk at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. Start your Thanksgiving week with an invigorating run through the beautiful landscapes of Sandestin. Packet pick up begins at 6am, 1-mile fun walk at 7:00am and 5k fun run at 7:30am. After the race, stick around for a festive post-run tailgate party at 11am featuring beer, food, prizes, and NFL food and beverage specials available after—it's the perfect family-friendly event!

Registration is $50 for adults, $40 for military, and $40 for participants 17 and under, with the first 150 registrants receiving a free t-shirt, walk up registrations will not be applicable for a shirt, unless there are extras. Plus, your participation supports a wonderful cause: all proceeds from this event will benefit the Sandestin Foundation for Kids.

More information here: Sandestin Turkey Trot | Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

This brand-new holiday market brings together local vendors, festive fun, and a worthy mission under one roof at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center. The inaugural Ruthlake Farm Christmas Market is hosted by SAFE in the Panhandle — a nonprofit dedicated to fighting exploitation — in partnership with Ruthlake Farm, making every purchase a step toward a better community.

Browse unique holiday gifts, handcrafted goods, and seasonal finds from local artisans and makers. Kids can write letters to Santa, snap a holiday photo, and get in the spirit while parents shop. Raffle baskets and prize drawings add extra excitement throughout both days.

Admission is just $10 and includes a complimentary shopping bag and raffle entry — children are free with a paying adult. The market runs Friday, November 21 from 1-6 PM and Saturday, November 22 from 8 AM-5 PM, making it the perfect start to your holiday shopping season on the Emerald Coast.

More information here:Ruthlake Farm Christmas Market | Destin Events