June means it is the time of year when kids are out of school, the weather is warmer, and our favorite pirate festival, Billy Bowlegs has everyone talking like a pirate.
Billy Bowlegs is a local legend that comes to life and takes over Destin and Fort Walton Beach for a weekend of fun, resulting in the annual festival encompassing fireworks, pirates, live music, and a parade. Here is our list of the best things to do during this annual local tradition:
Billy Bowlegs Pub Crawl
Thursday, June 2 at 5pm -9pm Downtown Fort Walton Beach
Don your favorite pirate attire and bring your thirsty friends to the Bowlegs Pirate Pub Crawl. Walk along Downtown Fort Walton Beach starting at any of the participating local restaurants or bars to pick up your stamp card. Visit each of the local hangouts to sample their specialty drinks and enjoy the atmosphere while earning your stamp from each place. Make sure to finish at the Block for a prize drawing at 9pm.
Consider starting at Salty Duck and following the trail to Coasters, Café Italia, Fokkers, Green Door, and The Block.
Billy Bowlegs Schedule of Events
Friday, June 3 at 6pm Fort Walton Beach Landing
The Mayor’s Raiders will defend the city from the invading Captain Billy and his Krewe who are scouting the city. The Landing will also have live music from “Shenanigans” followed by fireworks at 9 pm on the Okaloosa Sound. See full schedule of Billy Bowlegs events here.
Saturday, June 4 at 3pm Fort Walton Beach Landing
Captain Billy Bowlegs and his Krewe land and take over the city to kick off the Bowlegs Festival. After the battle, hang around to enjoy a great day with the family. There will be a kids play zone, rock wall, and other interactive attractions for kids. Adults can check out the Billy Bowlegs Beer Tour with exclusive tastings of spirits from Timber Creek Distillery.
Billy Bowlegs 5K Run/Walk
Saturday, June 4 at 9 pm Fort Walton Beach High School
The 42nd Billy Bowlegs Run is a fun event has been going on for over 40 years. Dress like a pirate or pull out your favorite glow in the dark attire for this run. You can register day of and take home a commemorative t-shirt. The after party includes music, food, drinks and awards at nearby Liza Jackson Park.
Torchlight Parade
Monday, June 6 at 7pm Eglin Parkway
The Torchlight Parade is the final event to wrap up the merriment of our favorite pirate celebration. Wave goodbye to Captain Bowlegs and his Krewe on their boat. Bring your children to catch candy, beads, coins, and more as over 100 floats go by. Bring these unique souvenirs home for a reminder of the fun you had as a pirate!
Arrrrr Matey! Book Your Stay
Ready to join the swashbuckling fun? View our premier Destin vacation rentals including Destin condos at Jade East and comfortable colorful rooms at Beachside Inn online or call one of our friendly vacation specialists at 1-800-225-7652.
See you @ the beach!