7 Unmissable Fall Events in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, & Mexico Beach

By Carrie | Updated: May 07, 2025

Experience the charm of fall along Florida's Forgotten Coast with seven seasonal events in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach featuring music festivals, seafood feasts, community celebrations, and scenic outdoor activities for all ages.

More than just summer spots, Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach are beloved year-round destinations. One of the main reasons is the great array of events and festivals that keep these towns lively. Each season offers its own special appeal and activities, but fall in this region is especially captivating. The pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and stunning coastal scenery provide a beautiful backdrop for some of the most unique events of the year.

Wondering what events take place in the Forgotten Coast during the season? You're in the right place. This blog is your go-to guide for the best fall events in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach.

At Pristine Properties, we're all about making your vacation unforgettable. We offer a fantastic selection of vacation rentals in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach, all close to some of America's most beautiful beaches. Beyond finding you a dreamy rental, we're here to help you discover the best activities these charming towns have to offer.

And since we're at it, if you ever need tips on Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach, you can dive into our local destination blog. We've got the scoop on everything from the best nightlife spots to dog-friendly beaches and where to score the best coffee in town. There's always more to come, so keep an eye out for our latest posts!

But for now, let's dive into those exciting fall events!

Contents

1. Port St. Joe Scallop Festival (September)

2. Music in the Park (September)

3. License-Free Saltwater Fishing Day (September)

4. Blast on the Bay Songwriters Festival (October)

5. Ghost on the Coast (October)

6. Forgotten Music Festival (November)

7. Annual Florida Seafood Festival (November)

8. Bonus Activity for Fall: Bonfires in Cape San Blas

9. Why is fall the best time to visit Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach?

10. FAQs About Fall Events on Florida's Forgotten Coast

11. Where to stay when visiting Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, & Mexico Beach?

1. Port St. Joe Scallop Festival (September)

family-friendly, local culture, food

I caught the Port St. Joe Scallop Festival on a warm weekend in early September, and it's easily one of the best events of the season. The air was filled with the sounds of live music and the smell of sizzling seafood. Local artists lined the park with handmade crafts too, but the real showstopper was the scallops. They were fresh, sweet, and perfectly cooked. The festival is timed right with scalloping season, and you can absolutely taste the difference.

Held at George Core Park, this celebration of the area's maritime heritage also hosts live performances by famous musicians and local artists selling unique crafts. Even if you're not a fan of seafood, the Port St. Joe Scallop Festival is a must-go event to experience a lively atmosphere set against the gorgeous coastal bay-side — don't forget to bring your camera for memorable photos!

2.  Music in the Park (September)

family-friendly, music, local culture

Need to hear some great tunes and enjoy a sunset? You're in luck! The Music in the Park concert series takes place every Thursday in September from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Parker Park in Mexico Beach. Featuring live music from local favorites, each concert is free and open to the public.

When we visited Mexico Beach, we packed up a couple of folding chairs and a blanket, then strolled over to Parker Park just before sunset. I didn't bring food, but the fire department had hot dogs sizzling on the grill—and somehow, they hit the spot better than any picnic I could've packed.

The concerts are a wonderful way to experience the community spirit of Mexico Beach while enjoying great music and beautiful views.

3.  License-Free Saltwater Fishing Day (September)

family-friendly, outdoor, local culture

Ready to fish without having to purchase a license? The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission offers license-free fishing days, typically on the first Saturday in September. This is the perfect time to explore the waters around Mexico Beach, Cape San Blas, and Port St. Joe.

On these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for all recreational anglers, including both Florida residents and non-residents. The waiver applies to any recreational harvest requiring a saltwater fishing license, including crabbing, lobstering, and scalloping.

Whether you're an experienced angler or just looking to try something new, License-Free Saltwater Fishing Day is your chance to enjoy the abundant marine life of the Gulf Coast.

4.  Blast on the Bay Songwriters Festival (October)

music, local culture, adult

Typically held in October, the Blast on the Bay Songwriters Festival is a three-day music extravaganza in Port St. Joe. This festival provides songwriters with a platform to reconnect with their roots and showcase their original compositions. It's a celebration of songwriting and storytelling, where talented artists come together to share their stories and melodies.

The festival offers a diverse lineup of music, featuring performances by both well-known and emerging songwriters. Hosted by different venues throughout the city, you can attend workshops, jam sessions, and late-night performances, allowing you to connect with the musicians and hear the stories behind their songs.

5. Ghost on the Coast (October)

family-friendly, local culture, Halloween

Ghost on the Coast is a Halloween event held in downtown Port St. Joe, featuring trick-or-treating, costume contests, and spooky activities for all ages. The highlight is the trick-or-treating along Reid Avenue, where local businesses hand out candy to costumed children, creating a safe and fun environment for everyone.

The costume contests are also a hit! Divided into different age groups and categories, amazing prizes are awarded for the most creative and impressive outfits. Other attractions and activities include haunted houses, spooky mazes, pumpkin painting, face painting, and carnival-style games — all adding to the eerie fun.

Local bands and performers provide live music, and food trucks and local vendors offer a variety of treats, from traditional Halloween goodies to local delicacies.

6.  Forgotten Music Festival (November)

music, local culture, family-friendly

The Forgotten Music Festival is a celebration of diverse musical genres, from blues and rock to folk and soul. This festival brings both nationally recognized performers and local musicians to George Core Park in Port St. Joe, creating an eclectic and vibrant event catered to all musical tastes. Add to that the breathtaking Gulf Coast setting, and you've got a winning fall event.

We forgot to bring bug spray one time we attended this festival, which turned out to be a rookie mistake once the sun went down. Still, the music made it worth the mosquito bites. Between the food trucks and the waterfront views, we found a rhythm that made us forget the itch.

Forgotten Music runs over a weekend and also features local vendors and food trucks providing a variety of food and beverages. Bring cash—some of the food trucks didn't take cards last year, and the nearest ATM can have a long line during peak hours.

7.  Annual Florida Seafood Festival (November)

family-friendly, local culture, food

The Florida Seafood Festival in Apalachicola is a celebration of local cuisine, held every November. This two-day event draws tens of thousands of visitors to the historic town, set under the shady oaks of Battery Park. It's a short drive from Port St. Joe and Mexico Beach.

You'll find a maritime exhibit area where you can learn about the local ecosystem and meet local wildlife up close. Demonstrations and educational exhibits also highlight the hardworking fishermen of the community. The oyster eating and shucking contests are crowd favorites, showcasing impressive skills and competitive spirit.

Other attractions include a colorful parade with bands, floats, and regional dignitaries, arts and crafts booths, seafood vendors, and live performances. If you're an active type, the festival even features a 5k race through the charming streets of Apalachicola.

Bonus Activity for Fall: Bonfires in Cape San Blas

family-friendly, local culture

Bonfires on the beach are a cherished tradition in Cape San Blas, especially during the fall months. As temperatures cool, locals and visitors gather to soak up the serene beauty of the Gulf Coast, with the sound of the waves and the warmth of the fire creating the perfect atmosphere for cozy evenings.

You don't need a permit to enjoy a beach bonfire in Cape San Blas, but you do need to follow Gulf County's safety and environmental guidelines. Fires must be at least 100 feet away from any structure—including boardwalks and homes—and only natural wood is allowed (no pallets, nails, or treated lumber). All fires must be fully extinguished and cleaned up before leaving the beach.

With the rules in mind, a beach bonfire can be a memorable family activity. Roasting marshmallows, telling stories, strumming a guitar, or taking a moonlit walk along the shore are all part of the magic. Cape San Blas's wide, quiet beaches make it easy to find a spot to enjoy the moment—just don't forget to bring your own firewood and a bucket of water for cleanup.

Why is fall the best time to visit Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach?

As vacation crowds thin out, fall becomes the prime time for soaking up the vibes of the Forgotten Coast. From mid-September through early November, the weather's just right — nice and mild with plenty of sunshine. It's not too hot, not too chilly, just perfect for relaxing on the beach or getting into some outdoor fun.

And there's a bonus: the sea waters are extra clear during this season, ideal for swimming and all kinds of water activities. With less rain, there's less muck in the water, and the cooler temperatures and calmer winds add to the clarity.

In sum, with the comfy weather, fewer crowds, and clear waters, fall's definitely the time to hit up the region and have a great time.

FAQs About Fall Events on Florida's Forgotten Coast

Here are answers to common questions you may have about these events:

Do I need to buy tickets for any of these fall events? 

Most events, like Music in the Park and License-Free Saltwater Fishing Day, are free and open to the public. However, some festivals such as Blast on the Bay may have certain ticketed performances or VIP options. It's best to check each event's official website for the latest details.

Is parking available at the major festival venues?

Yes, but it can fill up fast, especially at places like George Core Park during the Scallop Festival or Forgotten Music Festival. Arrive early to snag a good spot, or plan to walk a bit if you're coming later in the day.

Can I bring my own food and drinks to these events? 

In most cases, yes, especially for outdoor events like Music in the Park. That said, food trucks and local vendors are a big part of the experience. Just a heads-up: bring cash in case some vendors don't take cards, and keep in mind that coolers may not be allowed at certain venues.

What should I pack for a fall trip to Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, or Mexico Beach? 

Layered clothing, sunscreen, bug spray, and beach gear are all smart choices. Don't forget a flashlight if you're planning a beach bonfire, and a portable chair or blanket for concerts and festivals. 

Where to stay when visiting Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, & Mexico Beach?

Stay like a local by booking a vacation rental with Pristine Properties. We are proud to offer a selection of Cape San Blas Vacation Rentals, Port St. Joe Vacation Rentals, and Mexico Beach Florida Vacation Rentals. are well-located, just steps away from beautiful beaches, great dining options, and an array of outdoor pursuits. That's how you ensure a perfect holiday on the Florida Gulf Coast!