Memorial Day weekend marks the start of Destin Florida’s many exciting summer activities. From beach bumming, to action-packed deep sea fishing adventures, Destin is the perfect venue to soak up the sun, and get outdoors with family and friends. But before we embark on one of the biggest vacation seasons of the year, let’s take some time to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom to enjoy all the fun and beauty that the emerald coast has to offer.

American Heroes

As Francis Scott Key proclaimed in what we now know as the Star-Spangled Banner, America is the land of the free, and the home of the brave. Here, in America, lifestyles are optional, and opportunity is given freely to each citizen. In Destin, we are thankful for the freedom to harvest the great fish of the Gulf of Mexico, to experience the beautiful public beaches of white sand and emerald waters, to cruise along the Emerald Coast in recreational vessels, and to trade in the coastal markets where luxury meets style and comfort. Businesses in Destin were built on the backs of hardworking Americans who were given the freedom of opportunity by the brave soldiers that fought to protect the peoples’ rights. Only one word can describe these soldiers, and what they have done to protect America as a free nation.

Heroes.

Destin’s Close Ties to Military Families

Though many view Destin as a vacation destination with the best deep sea fishing port in the world, the city is a neighbor to a number of military communities, and the loss of soldiers has hit close to home on many occasions. Local fishermen know that aside from wearing the hat of an American hero, these soldiers are also called father, mother, brother, sister, son, daughter, family, and friend.

Too often, tears have touched the waters of Destin to mourn the loss of those who were dedicated to preserving freedom for the ones that they held near, and for future generations to come. As for local fishermen, we know that memories of the fallen will continue to live on each day as we venture into the Gulf of Mexico to freely maintain and harvest these waters. We owe our way of life to the brave who have served our country, and made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

A Tribute to Fallen Soldiers from a Destin Fisherman

For the men and women who served in the United States military, and were lost in training exercises, battles, and illnesses while protecting this great nation, we extend our highest respect and gratitude for the sacrifices made as a contribution to our freedom. For their families and friends, thank you for the support and love that you shared to build the character of our American heroes. Know that they will never be forgotten. Blessed are we to have known such bravery and humility that one might give their life to protect ours’.

Memorial Day in Destin is reserved for the recognition of the fallen that fought and died during their service to our country. We invite family and friends to experience Destin this Memorial Day as tribute to one of the many freedoms that your loved ones protected during their service.

As we join together to show our respect for these soldiers, and their families, know that without their courageous acts, our recreational summer activities would not exist. The fishing community of Destin, Florida is thankful for the opportunity to show our gratitude for those who paid the price of freedom with their lives this Memorial Day.

Top 10 Things to do in Destin for Memorial Day Weekend

1.Memorial Day Deep Sea Fishing Charter
2. Relax at the Beach
3. Rent a Pontoon Boat or Wave Runner
4. Join the Party at Crab Island
5. Fireworks Cruises
6. Stroll along the Destin Harbor to see the day’s catch
7. Dolphin and Sunset Cruises
8. Enjoy Live Entertainment at HarborWalk Village’s Main Stage
9. Grab lunch or dinner at HarborWalk Village
10. Shop the Memorial Day Sale at Destin Commons

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Destin Events Honoring the U.S. Military

Memorial Day Concert Celebration @ HarborWalk Village

Saturday, May 28, 2016

• 6:00 PM: Emerald Coast Live! Winner
• 7:00 PM: Rumors ATL: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute

 Sunday, May 29, 2016

• 5:00 PM: Flash Flood
• 7:00 PM: DEPARTURE: The Journey Tribute Band
• 9:00 PM: FIREWORKS over the Destin Harbor

 SunQuest Cruises Memorial Day Weekend Destin Fireworks, Dancing & Dinner Cruise

Sunday, May 29, 2016

• 6:30 – 9:30 PM: For Reservations call 850-650-2519, or visit com to learn more about the special Memorial Day Weekend Cruise aboard the Solaris.

Red, White, and Blue Hero Celebration @ HarborWalk Village

Thursday, June 02, 2016 (Continues every Thursday June-August in 2016)

• 7:00 – 9:00 PM: Join the celebration at the Destin Harbor to honor our American Heroes. With an official presentation of the colors by the Eglin Air Force Honor Guard, a WWII vintage North American T-6 Texan stunt team air show over HarborWalk Village, entertainment by the Village Trios, FIREWORKS, and a fire dancing show. Admission is free. For more information, visit the Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village.