Navarre is a beloved destination year-round, and it's no surprise why. Besides the pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush nature trails, there's a fantastic array of events, festivals, and live music that keep the area lively all year round. Each season has its magic, but fall in Navarre is truly special — the pleasant weather and stunning coastal scenery provide a beautiful backdrop for some of the most unique events of the year.
Wondering what events take place in Navarre during the fall? You're in the right place. This blog is your go-to guide for the best fall events in Navarre Beach, FL.
Before we start, here's an idea. While visiting, why not stay like a local? Book one of our Navarre Beach vacation rentals. They boast all the space, privacy, and home-like amenities you need. And if you ever want more tips to make your visit to Navarre Beach, Florida extra special, head to our destination blog, where you'll find posts about the best pet-friendly spots in town, a guide to inshore and offshore fishing, and what it's like to live in Navarre Beach year-round—to name a few!
Now, let's talk about some exciting fall events!
TLDR: Best Fall Events in Navarre Beach
Juana's Annual Oktoberfest Beer Tasting (Beginning of October): Enjoy a variety of local and international beers, live music, German food, and fun contests at this festive beachside event.
Navarre Fishing Rodeo (Early October): A family-friendly fishing competition with prizes for the biggest catches. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, food trucks, and local vendors.
Annual Navarre Beach Car Show (Beginning/Mid of October): Admire over 150 historical and custom cars with live music, food vendors, and family activities like face painting and games.
Movies on the Beach at Windjammers (A Few Days in October): Watch family-friendly movies under the stars on the beach, with pre-movie activities and food from Windjammers on the Pier.
Holland Farms Pumpkin Patch & Maze (End of September to Beginning of November): Enjoy hayrides, a pumpkin patch, a corn maze, and various family activities. Don't miss the homemade treats at the farm store.
Best Fall Events in Pensacola (45-minute drive from Navarre Beach)
Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival (Beginning of November): Explore works from over 200 artists, live music, heritage arts demonstrations, and children's activities in Pensacola's historic district.
Surfin' Santa Beach Parade (December 8): Experience a festive holiday parade with Santa on a surfboard, followed by live music, games, and pictures with Santa.
Best Fall Events in Destin (32-minute drive from Navarre Beach)
Destin Seafood Festival (Early October): Celebrate Destin's fishing heritage with fresh seafood, live music, craft vendors, and a Kids' Zone along the Destin Harbor.
- Destin Fishing Rodeo (October): Participate in or watch the month-long fishing tournament, enjoying daily weigh-ins, the lively atmosphere, and scenic views along the Destin Boardwalk.
Best Fall Events in Navarre Beach
Juana's Annual Oktoberfest Beer Tasting (Beginning of October)
adult, local culture, music
Juana's Annual Oktoberfest Beer Tasting in Navarre Beach is a lively celebration that brings the community together with a beachside twist on the traditional German festival. You can enjoy a vast selection of local and international beers, ranging from lagers to stouts, with a special focus on German-style brews.
The event also boasts live music, delicious German fare like bratwursts and pretzels, and fun activities such as stein-holding contests and cornhole. Don't forget to dress up in your best German attire for a chance to win the costume contest.
Navarre Fishing Rodeo (Early October)
family-friendly, outdoor, local culture
The Navarre Fishing Rodeo is a must-attend event for fishing enthusiasts of all ages. Over a weekend, you can try your luck at catching various fish species, including snapper, grouper, and flounder, from boats, the Navarre Beach Pier, or the shoreline.
The excitement peaks during the daily weigh-ins at Juana's Pagodas, where the largest catches compete for cash prizes, trophies, and fishing gear. Even if you're not fishing, the vibrant atmosphere, food trucks, and local vendors make it a fun event to attend.
Annual Navarre Beach Car Show (Beginning/Mid of October)
family-friendly, local culture
Car enthusiasts flock to the Annual Navarre Beach Car Show to admire over 150 historical and custom vehicles. You will find an array of classic cars, muscle cars, hot rods, and custom builds, each meticulously maintained and displayed with information about their history.
Live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities like face painting and games add to the fun. Special guest appearances by well-known car builders and designers often surprise attendees.
Movies on the Beach at Windjammers (A Few Days in October)
family-friendly, local culture
"Movies on the Beach" at Windjammers in Navarre Beach offers a magical movie-watching experience by the sea. With a large outdoor screen set up on the beach, you can watch family-friendly movies ranging from classics to recent releases, all while enjoying the salty breeze and sound of the ocean.
Bring your blankets, chairs, and picnic setups for a comfortable evening under the stars. Pre-movie activities, such as games and face painting, are great warm-ups. While you watch great movies, Windjammers has you covered with snacks, meals, and drinks to complete your night.
Holland Farms Pumpkin Patch & Maze (End of September to Beginning of November)
family-friendly, local culture
A short drive from Navarre Beach, Holland Farms Pumpkin Patch & Maze offers a fun-filled day for the whole family.
From late September to early November, this local farm hosts activities such as hayrides, pick-your-own pumpkin, and a corn maze. Kids will love the mega slide, ziplines, and train rides, while adults can relax and enjoy the scenic sunflower and zinnia fields. Don't miss the homemade treats like boiled peanuts, jams, and local honey available at the farm store. This is a classic way to celebrate the fall season.
Best Fall Events in Pensacola, 45-minute drive from Navarre Beach
Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival (Beginning of November)
family-friendly, local culture, music
The Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival in Pensacola is a top-notch arts event that takes over the historic district. Over three days, you can admire works from more than 200 artists, including painters, sculptors, jewelers, and graphic artists. You'll also find heritage arts demonstrations, children's art activities, and a student art show featuring over 2,000 pieces.
Live music sets the tone of the festival with bluegrass, jazz, and much more. When you feel like grabbing a bite, food vendors offer a variety of food options ranging from Tex-Mex to BBQ.
Surfin' Santa Beach Parade (December 8)
family-friendly, local culture, holiday
Experience the holiday spirit with a coastal twist at the Surfin' Santa Beach Parade in Pensacola. On December 8th, you can watch Santa Claus make a grand entrance on a surfboard, leading a parade of festively decorated floats, community groups, and marching bands down Via De Luna.
After the parade, enjoy live music, holiday-themed games, and pictures with Santa at the Gulfside Pavilion. Local vendors and food trucks offer seasonal treats, making this a perfect family event to kick off the holiday season.
Best Fall Events in Destin, 32-minute drive from Navarre Beach
Destin Seafood Festival (Early October)
family-friendly, local culture, music
Kick off October with the Destin Seafood Festival, a three-day celebration of the city's rich fishing heritage. You can savor the freshest seafood dishes prepared by local chefs while enjoying live music from various genres, including rock, reggae, and country.
Stroll along the Destin Harbor, browse over 100 food and craft vendors, and take in the stunning views of the Fishing Fleet. The festival also features a Kids' Zone with rides and activities, making it a fun outing for the entire family.
Destin Fishing Rodeo (October)
family-friendly, outdoor, local culture
Fostering a strong sense of community and showcasing the local fishing culture, the Destin Fishing Rodeo is a beloved tradition that runs throughout October.
Attracting anglers from all over, the rodeo turns Destin into an even more vibrant city. Even if you're not into fishing, you should definitely participate in some activities such as the daily weigh-ins, which take place at AJ's on the boardwalk where you can see fishers bringing in impressive catches. Besides that, there are plenty of fresh seafood delicacies on offer and beautiful views along the Destin Boardwalk.
FAQ: Fall in Navarre Beach
Planning a trip to Navarre Beach this fall? Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make the most of your visit during this delightful season.
What is the weather like in Navarre Beach during the fall?
Fall in Navarre Beach offers moderate and pleasant weather. From mid-September to early November, you can expect long, sunny days with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s (°F). It's warm enough to enjoy the beach but not too hot.
Are the beaches crowded in the fall?
No, fall is considered the shoulder season in Navarre Beach. With most of the summer vacation crowds gone, you'll find the beaches much less crowded, providing a more relaxed and spacious environment to enjoy the sand and surf.
Is it safe to swim in the Gulf during the fall?
Yes, the water temperatures remain comfortable for swimming during the fall. The Gulf waters are typically clear and calm, making it a great time for activities like swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
Are restaurants and attractions open during the fall?
Yes, most restaurants and attractions remain open during the fall. They are less crowded compared to the peak summer season, making it easier to get reservations and enjoy shorter wait times.
Are accommodation rates cheaper in the fall?
Yes, fall is considered the shoulder season, which means accommodation rates tend to be more affordable compared to the summer months. You can find great deals on vacation rentals and hotels.
What activities can I enjoy during the fall in Navarre Beach?
Fall is a great time for various activities including:
Beach outings and sunbathing
Swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkeling
Kayaking and fishing
Attending local festivals and events
Exploring less crowded attractions and restaurants
Is it a good time for family vacations?
Absolutely! Fall in Navarre Beach offers a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of activities for kids and adults alike. The less crowded environment and numerous fall events make it an ideal time for a family getaway.
Do I need to book activities and accommodations in advance?
While fall is less crowded than summer, it's still a good idea to book accommodations and any popular activities or event tickets in advance to ensure availability and secure the best rates.
Wondering Where to Stay on Navarre Beach, FL?
While visiting Navarre, stay like a local and book one of our Navarre Beach vacation rentals with all the space, privacy, and home-like amenities you need.
From luxury beachfront homes to amazing rental condos, at Navarre Beach Property, we guarantee you'll have a 5-star experience during your Navarre Beach vacation.
