Those celebrating Martin Luther King Day in Fort Walton Beach have even more to look forward to during their stay. The following are the top five Fort Walton events for Martin Luther King Day to add to your itinerary to make even more of the experience!
Top 5 Fort Walton Events for Martin Luther King Day
One of the most highly anticipated area events in Fort Walton Beach, FL travelers over Martin Luther King Day can enjoy is the annual MLK Day parade. This parade kicks off around 9:30 am and begins and ends at Chester Pruitt Park. Finding a great place to watch the parade is easy thanks to a route that runs west on Hollywood Boulevard to Beal Parkway before heading over to Walter Martin Road. From here, the route meanders east to Harbeson and finally south back to Chester Pruitt Park. This is a family-friendly event that guests of all ages will enjoy that’s typically followed up by a rally at the park. In years past the rally has included a number of guest speakers. There are also awards handed out for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day oratorical and poster contest winners.
Check Out the 30A Songwriters Festival
When Martin Luther King Day comes around and you find yourself in Fort Walton Beach, you’ll be well within reach of the 30A Songwriters Festival happening January 13th through 16th in 2023. This creative and inspiring annual event welcomes over 175 artists to the Florida coast to enjoy time writing and performing in good company! Participants will have access to over 225 performances and a listing of 30 music venues to choose from too. It’s considered the largest gathering of nationally recognized songwriters in this area and a one-of-a-kind experience worth having while you’re here. Music at this festival over MLK Day features everything from rock and folk to Americana and more. Tickets can be purchased in advance in order to secure your place. 2023 headliners have been announced to include artists like Rickie Lee Jones, Yola, Morgan Wade, Gin Blossoms, Tom Rush, and Kathleen Edwards just to name a few.
Enjoy Time at Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone
Those who are heading to Fort Walton Beach over Martin Luther King Day with the little ones in tow and are looking for some adrenaline-pumping fun to enjoy will find it waiting for them at Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone. This family-fun stop in Fort Walton Beach hosts thrills of all kinds scattered across 17,000 square feet of entertainment space. A visit here can include everything from mini-golf and go-karts to a rope course and arcade fun as well. There’s plenty of pizza and ice cream options to go around when cravings come calling. Don’t be surprised if you end up lingering longer than you planned!
Explore John Beasley Park
No matter what time of year travelers arrive in Fort Walton Beach, a highlight of a visit is often taking time to get out and embrace the best that nature has to offer in the way of stunning views. A trip this way over Martin Luther King Day is no exception to the rule and when you’re looking for a locale that’s bursting with beauty and outdoor options for fun, John Beasley Park checks every box on the list. A visit to John Beasley Park is a chance for guests to make the most of picnics on the sand as well as time soaking up the sun. The waves are endlessly beautiful, and the shorebirds are worth admiring as well. John Beasley Park also hosts hiking trails to explore and plenty of options for those who enjoy photography to capture amazing landscapes on camera. This history of John Beasley Park fits in seamlessly with the MLK Day celebrations too. The park first opened in 1960 and during the time of segregation, was considered the only beach where African Americans were allowed in Northwest Florida. The park became a place of peace, where visitors could enjoy time in nature without having to worry about the detrimental effects of racism that were running rampant at the time. Today, the fact that the park has always been such a haven of equality still rings true as one of its most valuable qualities among locals and visitors alike.
Dine at The Crab Trap Fort Walton Beach
Top off your Martin Luther King Day adventure to Fort Walton Beach with a delicious dinner at The Crab Trap. This is an amazing stop for sensational seafood selections that’s located right on the busy Boardwalk. Guests can enjoy multi-level patio seating with views over the white sand and the Gulf. From the shrimp and fish to the handcrafted cocktails, it’s a savory experience that’s worth making the most of while you’re here.
Book Your Stay Today
Enjoy every moment in Fort Walton Beach and let the team at The Breakers of Fort Walton Beach handle your accommodations while you’re in town. Reach out today to learn more about our Martin Luther King Day vacation rentals in Fort Walton Beach. Enjoy these events in Fort Walton Beach, FL over MLK Day and make memories!