Skip New Orleans: Celebrate Mardi Gras in the Florida Panhandle

The Florida Panhandle might not be the first place you think of when it comes to celebrating Mardi Gras, but that might soon change.

The Village of Baytowne Wharf, in Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort’s entertainment district, goes all out for Mardi Gras celebrations with a full schedule of exciting events.

Travelers won’t want to miss the highlight of the season, the 37th Annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival. The event takes place Feb. 20–21 and is one of the area’s most anticipated food festivals of the winter. Local chefs and restaurants compete for the best gumbo. Guests can also enjoy live music, family activities and a Bloody Mary contest.

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Baytowne Beads Bingo Bash is another can’t-miss. On Feb. 17, from 6 to 8 p.m., head to The Village of Baytowne Wharf for a Mardi Gras-inspired Merchant Bingo Crawl. Grab a bingo card by the main stage and wander around the village for merchant specials and to complete your bingo card. Once completed, turn it in for a festive prize. The fun doesn’t have to end there; stick around for live music, Mardi Gras spirit and fun.

Additionally, visitors can experience festive energy throughout the season at Fat Tuesday Daiquiri Bar in The Village of Baytowne Wharf. The local favorite offers Bourbon Street energy with frozen daiquiris, tropical cocktails and laid-back vibes.

While there, opt for stays at hotels like Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, offering a 37th Annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival & Stay Package; Hotel Effie Sandestin, Autograph Collection; Osprey Pointe at Sandestin; and The Pensacola Beach Resort.