MKAF Showcases A Range of Music at 2024 Concerts in The Village
Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s (MKAF) Concerts in the Village, the area’s first live concert series, is held each spring on Thursday evenings at the MKAF Dugas Pavilion in Destin. This year’s 29th annual family-friendly series runs from April 4 to June 6. The 10-concert live music series features premier regional and national musicians and bands performing everything from rhythm & blues, classic and hard rock to disco to modern pop.
Upcoming Concerts:
April 11 features Wendy Moten from The Voice! Hailing from Memphis, Wendy Moten is an American R&B-infused pop singer based in Nashville. Best known for the UK hit Come In Out of the Rain, Moten has released major-label solo records, achieved international hits, and toured extensively. At 56, she took a bold step, entering The Voice and finishing as the runner-up. Tickets are $25 adults/$20 active-duty military in advance.
April 18 Black Jacket Symphony presents Prince’s Purple Rain. Relive the awesome ‘80s and celebrate the 40th anniversary of Prince’s most celebrated album from start to finish. Dance to hits like Purple Rain, When Dove’s Cry, I Would Die 4 U while experiencing a visual feast of rock and roll magic. Doors open at 6 p.m. and concerts start at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 adults/$30 active-duty military in advance.
April 25 get ready to chart your course to set sail for concert fun with Yacht Rock Revue. These top-notch musicians who have rocked onstage with John Oates, Eddie Money and now headline sold-out shows, personify the smooth sounds of West Coat ‘70s and ‘80s. Doors open at 6 p.m. and concerts start at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 adults/$30 active-duty military in advance.
May 2 The Mulligans perform everyone’s rock ‘n roll favorites. The diversified song list of this seasoned six-member Emerald Coast-based band founded by Edwin Watts includes The Beatles, Tom Petty, Eric Clapton, Elvis, the Eagles, Bee Gees, the Ventures, Rolling Stones, Buddy Holly, The Monkees, Roy Orbison, Moody Blues, Young Rascals, Billy Joel, The Outsiders and many others. Doors open at 6 p.m. and concerts start at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 adults/$20 active-duty military.
May 9 Rumours ATL: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute takes the stage. Since 2014, Rumours ATL has set stages ablaze across the U.S. with their scorching Fleetwood Mac renditions. With meticulous attention to detail and infectious energy, Rumours sells out venues and leaves fans dancing, singing, and discovering new facets of Fleetwood Mac’s magic at every performance. Believe in miracles and join the unforgettable experience of Rumours. Doors open at 6 p.m. and concerts start at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 adults/$20 active-duty military in advance.
May 16 Gotta Groove Band will put a fresh spin on popular cover tunes from the ‘60s to today. With outstanding vocals and top-shelf musicianship, they feature their own arrangements and mixing many popular tunes together to create a fun flow of entertaining energy. You will not want to miss the party this Land O Lakes, Florida, band throws down. Tickets are $25 adults/$20 active-duty military.
May 23 Mitch Malloy will rock Destin. Former frontman of Great White, rocker Mitch Malloy is a studio veteran and award-winning songwriter. With a career spanning decades, he’s navigated the music scene since the ‘80s, achieving chart success and even turning down a role as Van Halen’s lead singer in the ‘90s. Doors open at 6 p.m. and concerts start at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 adults/$30 active-duty military in advance.
May 30 Haley Reinhart’s timeless voice will transport you. With talent that transcends eras, blending pop, rock, and jazz in her 2019 album, Lo-Fi Soul. A finalist on American Idol, this Chicago-born singer is influenced by ‘50s music and enjoys playful lyrics. With a decade-long grind, platinum hits, and diverse collaborations, Reinhart’s multifaceted artistry shines, promising a lasting connection with her audience. Doors open at 6 p.m. and concerts start at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 adults/$30 active-duty military in advance.
June 6 Adam Ezra Group closes out the series. Fusing folk intimacy and rock energy with soul power and pop charm, the band first emerged from Boston in the early 2000s and quickly garnered widespread acclaim for their bold, insightful songwriting and interactive, euphoric performances. Tickets are $25 adults/$20 active-duty military.
Gates open at 6 p.m. with concerts beginning at 7 p.m. for this come-as-you-are family-friendly outdoor concert series. Bring a lawn chair, picnic, wine, or purchase food and beverages on-site prepared by featured restaurants and food trucks. A drawing will be held at each concert to award valuable raffle prizes donated by local businesses.
Proceeds fund MKAF’s community outreach mission to provide cultural outreach programs through ArtsReach serving K-12 students, adults and children with special needs, at-risk youth, and through MKAF’s Warrior Arts program serving active/veteran military.
Purchase tickets online at MKAF.org/events—$20 to $35 for adults. Discounts offered for active-duty military (must show ID). Purchase tickets in advance of concert day and save $5 per ticket at the door. Children (12 and under) are free. A limited number of VIP tables (reserved table for eight guests for the entire season) are available for $2,250. Corporate VIP tables are $2,750.
MKAF members enjoy early entry and free admission to every concert as well as discounted pricing to other MKAF events. For more information, visit MKAF.org.
Concert lineup is subject to change. All sales are final; sorry, no refunds. Pets, tables larger than two feet, and drones are not permitted. Children 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Top Hats & Tails April 13
Get your tickets for a stellar evening of food and fun – Tops Hats & Tails: A Space Odyssey. The universe will reward you for attending this gala benefiting Save Our Cats & Kittens (SOCKS) from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. April 13 at Bob Hope Village, 30 Holly Ave. Enjoy an out-of-this world delicious dinner by award-winning Knife’s Edge Catering; music and cat trivia by the universally talented ACE50 Media; and silent auction items that eclipse expectations. Also honor someone special in your world by naming an elegantly inscribed star in the evening’s decorative sky, then take your shining star home. General admission is $75. A table of eight is $500. Stars are $10. Purchase tickets at www.saveourcatsandkittens.com/tickets. Stars can be purchased at https://bit.ly/3uCiaQP.
Taylor Swift Album Release Party April 19
Join City Food Hall at Destin Commons on April 19th from 6-10 p.m. for an unforgettable Taylor Swift Album Release Party of the highly anticipated release of Taylor’s latest album, “The Tortured Poets Department.” Get ready to test your Taylor Swift knowledge with Swiftie Trivia kicking off at 6 p.m. Show off your expertise and compete for fabulous prizes! Following the trivia, immerse yourself in the magic of Taylor’s new album with a special Listening Party. But that’s not all! Indulge in delicious special cocktails and mocktails inspired by Taylor’s music as you mingle with fellow Swifties. Get crafty and make friendship bracelets to commemorate the occasion, and don’t miss out on Taylor Swift-themed games and swag to keep the fun going all night long. Capture memories with friends at the Taylor Swift-themed photo booth and dress in your favorite Eras look to truly embrace the Swiftie spirit! Free and open to the public. All ages welcome. Visit www.cityfoodhall.com or follow City Food Hall on social media for the latest updates and event details.
Navarre Sunset Stampede 5K April 20
Join Run With It for the 15th Annual Navarre Sunset Stampede 5K, April 20th, the largest race held in Navarre Beach. The 5k starts at 6 p.m. with a Kids, 1-mile fun run starting at 5 p.m. There will be an award’s ceremony and beach party at Juana’s Pagodas with live music, food and drinks right on the sand on beautiful Santa Rosa Sound. Registration is limited so SIGN UP EARLY! Stay for the After Party at Juana’s Pagodas with complimentary food, beer, live music and rum punch! Juana’s Pagodas will be hosting a registration party on Friday April 19th! All race participants MUST have a wrist band to be able to eat and drink free at the after party. Friends and families can purchase a wrist band for $20 for food and drink at the after party or during packet pick up. Register at RunWithItfl.com.
It’s Almost Here! The International Festival! April 21
You are invited to Conexion Media Group’s (CMG) 6th Annual International Festival at the beautiful Landing Park in Fort Walton Beach, Sunday, April 21, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. More than 60 nations will present with music, food, folklore and art with attendees traveling from as far as Tallahassee, Panama City, Pensacola and the surrounding states of Georgia, Mississippi and Alabama!
This year’s festival will benefit the local, non-profit, Advanced Sacred Hope Academy (ASHA). ASHA is a 501c3 nonprofit independent private school dedicated to the individualized learning of students with autism or other neurological disorders that prevent them from succeeding in a traditional school setting. Visit ASHA at advancedsacredhopeacademy.org.
Corporate sponsorships and vendor opportunities are still available. Contact David at 850-368-3505 or via conexionflorida@gmail.com.
11th Annual Taco & Tequila Fest! May 10-12
So. Many. Tacos! Chicken, Pork, Beef, Steak, Shrimp, Barbacoa – you name it; we’ve had it at the wildly popular Tequila & Taco Festival! Find your favorite at this year’s Tequila & Taco Festival where a variety of local restaurants and food trucks will be competing for the Best Taco on The Emerald Coast! May 10-12, 2024, at The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin.
Make plans now and purchase your tickets at https://www.efestevents.com/tandtfest2024/ “Guests from all over the Southeast come to celebrate this unique event on the Emerald Coast,” says event founder, Carlos Shaffran. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Fisher House Foundation, Sandestin Foundation for Kids and Emerald Coast Boys & Girls Clubs. Don’t miss out on the fun!
Fudpucker’s GatorFest 2024 May 4
Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill is hosting GatorFest 2024, which promises an exhilarating blend of entertainment, education and gastronomic delights, May 4th, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. To benefit Alaqua Animal Refuge, thrilling Gator shows will offer an up-close look at these magnificent reptiles and a Gator Tail Cook Off Competition will showcase culinary creativity. The dedicated Kid’s Zone includes face painting, airbrush art and Gator-themed games. Meanwhile, adults can savor Cocktail Tastings, indulge in Hot Sauce Tasting and live music. 20001 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. FudsGatorFest.com
ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival! May 4-5
In its 36th year, ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival will be held May 4th-5th! Produced by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County and presented by Grand Boulevard Town Center, ArtsQuest provides an opportunity to view and purchase original art from over 100 artists from throughout the country. ArtsQuest is a juried show that includes artists in the categories of Ceramics, Fiber, Glass, Jewelry, Metal, Mixed Media, Oils & Acrylics, Original Digital Art, Photography, Sculpture, Wood and Works on Paper (Watercolor, Printmaking, Pastels, Pencils, Ink). ArtsQuest awards $10,000 in cash prizes. The rain or shine event also features live performances, artist demonstrations, hands-on learning opportunities, student exhibits, ImagiNation: where kids rule, food, beverages and more! Join us in the Town Center of Grand Boulevard, from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 4th and again on Sunday, May 5th, 10am – 5pm. A $5 donation will be accepted at the entrance gate.
