May Means Art: Festivals, Music, and Creative Vibes All Month Long

Posted by Robin Maynard on Wednesday, April 30th, 2025  12:56pm.


Art Month is Back—and It’s Bigger Than Ever!

Every May, Walton County turns into a creative wonderland—and 2025 is shaping up to be the most exciting yet! Art Month Walton County is back, thanks to the Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) and Visit South Walton, with a packed schedule of over 50 events celebrating the arts in all their forms.

From live music and theater to digital art and storytelling, something is happening almost every day—and everyone’s getting involved: artists, performers, businesses, and community members.

At the April 22 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners officially proclaimed May as Art Month Walton County, showing continued support for local artists and creative growth in our community. As CAA President and CEO Jennifer Steele shared, “This official designation amplifies the value of the arts and highlights the many talented artists and experiences available all month long.”

Just a Few Highlights:

Underwater Art Party – April 30
Kick off Art Month with Dine + Dive, a fundraiser for the Underwater Museum of Art at Grand Boulevard. Expect tasty bites from The Bay and Surfing Deer, a live band from New Orleans, and a first look at the new sculpture exhibit. Learn more

Legally Blonde: The Musical – May 2–18
Catch Elle Woods in action at the Emerald Coast Theatre Company! It’s a fun, upbeat show you won’t want to miss. Tickets here

ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival – May 3–4
Now in its 37th year, ArtsQuest brings over 120 artists to Grand Boulevard. Enjoy live music, interactive demos, kids’ activities, and a brand-new VIP experience. More info

Concerts in the Village – Every Thursday
Bring the whole family to Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s weekly outdoor concert series in Destin, featuring everything from rock to reggae. Lineup here

Storyteller Nights – May 8 & 29
Enjoy an open mic night with Emerald Coast Storytellers at Grayton Beer on May 8, or join the writer hangout at Bayou Arts Center on May 29. Details

Longleaf Writers Conference – May 10–17
Writers, take note! Workshops, readings, and one-on-one sessions with visiting authors—all happening in SEASIDE®. Register here

Digital Graffiti – May 16–17
Alys Beach comes alive with art projected onto white walls—an unforgettable blend of technology, architecture, and creativity. Get tickets

Tchaikovsky x Drake – May 17
Symphony meets hip-hop in this unique mash-up presented by Sinfonia Gulf Coast. Tickets

Memorial Day Concert – May 25
Close out the month with a free, family-friendly concert at Alys Beach, presented by Sinfonia Salutes.

Plan Your Month

There’s so much more—from kids’ theater and art walks to improv boot camps and gallery openings. For the full schedule, visit:
 CulturalArtsAlliance.com/art-month