One of the best ways to experience the culture of a destination is by attending its unique festivals and events. Navarre, Florida has plenty of exciting annual celebrations that spotlight local flavor, talent, and traditions. From seafood feasts to live music showcases, attending these lively Navarre happenings promises fun for visitors of all ages.
Mardi Gras
Navarre invites the spirit of New Orleans to town each February with its festive Mardi Gras celebration. The main event is the colorful parade along Highway 98 featuring outrageous floats, bead throwing, and costumed marchers. Before the parade, enjoy live music, Cajun fare, arts and crafts vendors while the kids play carnival games at the Mardi Gras festival grounds.
Navarre Seafood Festival
Foodies flock to this tasty festival held each March at Navarre Park. The star attractions are the impressive local seafood offerings including grilled oysters, fried shrimp, grouper sandwiches, crab cakes, gumbo and more. Enjoy live bands while browsing arts and crafts booths. Don’t miss the kids’ zone with rides and inflatables plus pirate shows and a mermaid pageant.
4th of July Celebration
Each Independence Day, Navarre celebrates in star-spangled style. The day begins with a patriotic boat parade at dawn. Later, a lively block party kicks off with live music and food vendors followed by family activities and fireworks over the Sound. The spectacular fireworks display perfectly caps off a day of seaside celebration.
Soundsations Summer Concert Series
From May through September, bring your beach chairs or blankets to this popular free concert series at the Navarre Park Amphitheater. A diverse lineup of bands plays each Thursday evening ranging from country and classic rock to reggae and blues. Vendors offer food and beverages. Grab some friends and enjoy toe-tapping tunes at sunset.
Run For The Reef
Taking place in August, this 5K run/walk and 10K run benefit the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center. Winding along scenic Gulf Boulevard, the course finishes under the famous wooden pier. After the race, participants enjoy a beach party cookout with awards and raffle prizes. Registration fees support local sea turtle protection programs.
Navarre Beach Oktoberfest
Hosted by Juana’s Pagodas, this German-themed bash brings an oompah band, brats, brews and fun contests to the beach each October. Don your lederhosen and hit the sandy “dance floor” to polka. Or opt for a dirndl-style dress to join in the chicken dance and other Oktoberfest traditions – along with refreshing beers and hearty fare.
Merry Little Sand Crab Christmas Festival
Santa trades his sleigh for a surfboard at this charming Christmas event held annually in early December along Navarre Beach. Kids can pose for photos with beach Santa or even paddleboard with him! Other activities include cookie decorating, making ornaments, face painting and live music. A stunning fireworks display over the Gulf caps off the family fun.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Ring in the new year with beachside celebrations and fireworks in Navarre. Daytime family activities like treasure hunts, music and movie screenings keep the fun going. As midnight nears, toast 2023 with champagne toasts, disco balls, live bands and beach bonfires. Count down to watch fireworks light up the night sky in spectacular fashion.
From Mardi Gras revelry to holiday charm, Navarre’s exciting annual events let you experience local traditions and make lasting memories. Mark your calendar for these awesome Navarre festivals and happenings when planning your future visits. It’s the perfect chance to mingle with residents while celebrating Navarre’s coastal culture.