7th Annual Shrimp & Grits Festival Benefitting Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast

The beloved Shrimp & Grits Festival is turning up the heat in 2026 with a new venue and a featured performance by rising country artist Erin Kinsey. Now in its seventh year, the festival will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Cultural Arts Village in the heart of Destin.

 

Attendees will enjoy unlimited samples of the Emerald Coast’s signature Southern dish, craft beverages, and live entertainment as local restaurants compete for the title of Best Shrimp & Grits on the Emerald Coast. All proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast, supporting youth programs in Pensacola, Crestview, South Walton, DeFuniak Springs, Destin, and Fort Walton Beach.

 

“Every year, the Shrimp & Grits Festival grows in impact, bringing our community together over great food, great music, and an even greater mission,” said Shervin Rassa, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast. “This year’s move to the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village in Destin and the addition of Erin Kinsey mark an exciting new chapter. Every ticket purchased directly supports the futures of the thousands of Club kids we serve across the region.”

 

Event details

• 7th Annual Shrimp & Grits Festival

• Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026

• 4 -7:30 p.m.

• Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village | 4323 Commons Dr W, Destin, FL
 

Tickets

VIP tickets: $175

VIP includes early entry from 3-4 pm, access to a VIP lounge with a private bar, exclusive sampling experiences and catering, and VIP concert seating.  

General admission tickets: $100

Includes unlimited food samples and drink tickets for craft beer and cocktail tastings.

 

*Day-of tickets are subject to availability. All sales are final. The event is rain or shine.