Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Destin, FL

Fishermen both experienced and amateur flock to Destin for this month-long festival. Held in "The World's Luckiest...

Fishermen both experienced and amateur flock to Destin for this month-long festival. Held in "The World's Luckiest Fishing Village," the event invites all interested parties to comb the coastal waters for fish of all sorts. More than $100,000 in prizes is awarded in multiple categories, and there's no entrance fee if you fish on registered boats. Along with the competitions, parties are held throughout the month and welcome old and young, novices and long-time participants.

Hours: October 2012

Commemorating a pirate who once prowled coastal waters and crowned himself King of Florida, this festival centers around...

Commemorating a pirate who once prowled coastal waters and crowned himself King of Florida, this festival centers around a mock invasion of Fort Walton Beach. It also includes a pub crawl, torchlight parade, fireworks displays and concerts, races and exhibits. Treasure hunts are held for children, and Billy and his queen are crowned from among the townspeople. The festival is held each year in early June.

Hours: Event times vary; call for details Thu, May 31, 2012 Fri, Jun 1, 2012 Sat, Jun 2, 2012 Sun, Jun 3, 2012 Mon, Jun 4, 2012

In honor of the fish that once provided sustenance for body and economy in these parts, the Mullet Festival attracts...

In honor of the fish that once provided sustenance for body and economy in these parts, the Mullet Festival attracts more than 150,000 visitors annually. Most of them come for the food, which showcases the celebrated mullet, but vendors also offer foods of many cultures and traditions, including alligator on a stick, crawfish bread, tempura shrimp and apple dumplings. Arts and crafts are also for sale, and special activities for children are always prominent. Plus, there are multiple concerts by well-known performers. All venues are outdoors.

Hours: Fri, Oct 19, 2012 Sat, Oct 20, 2012 Sun, Oct 21, 2012