What You Need to Know About the 2026 30A Songwriters Festival

Why 30A Songwriters Festival is Must-see 

If you love live music... the 30A Songwriters Festival checks every box. Each January, the scenic Gulf Coast towns along highway 30A come alive with acoustic sets, soulful performances, and community-driven energy, making it one of the most beloved winter music events in the country. 

But 30A isn’t just about music. It’s an immersive coastal getaway combining performances, beach days, and local charm making it perfect for couples, families, and groups of friends looking for a vibrant but chill January escape.  

Photo credit: 30A Songwriters Festival

Key Dates & What’s New in 2026 

• The 2026 festival runs January 16–19, 2026, over Martin Luther King Jr. weekend. 
• This year marks the 17th annual 30A Songwriters Festival. 
• The main-stage sets will take place at the beautiful outdoor amphitheater at Grand Boulevard Town Center in Miramar Beach, only 8 minutes from Dune Allen — giving you a central, walkable hub for the weekend's big shows. 

What to Expect: Music, Venues & Vibes 

• More than 125 artists will perform across the weekend, delivering 300+ shows at 25–30+ venues — from intimate listening rooms to large outdoor stages.  
• The festival spans multiple genres: folk, Americana, soul, country, and blues. There’s something for everyone! 
• This isn’t a generic “festival experience”. Many shows have the “songwriter-in-the-round” vibe, where you get up close to artists and hear stories behind the songs. That sense of connection is part of what makes 30A special. 
• Because there are so many venues, there’s flexibility: if one show fills up or isn’t your vibe, you can often pop over to a nearby venue and catch another great set.

Photo credit: 30A Songwriters Festival

Festival Logistics: Tickets, Transportation & Smart Planning 

• Tickets: Weekend passes and possibly VIP packages (for prime seating, amenities, etc.) are available via the official site. With high demand, tickets tend to sell out — so book early. 
• Shuttle Service: For main-stage shows at Grand Boulevard (near Dune Allen) on Saturday & Sunday, shuttle buses run from the overflow parking lot (near Silver Sands Premium Outlets) to the venue, which is convenient if you don’t want to deal with beach-town parking.  
• Venue Seating: Indoor venues usually provide chairs. For outdoor main-stage shows, general admission guests are encouraged to bring low-backed chairs or blankets.  
• Variety & Volume: The weekend lineup is massive and it’s impossible to catch every show. Your best bet? Plan ahead (maybe via the festival’s app), but leave room for serendipity. Some of the most memorable moments tend to happen at unexpected gigs! 

Why It Matters: More Than Just Music 

Beyond the fun and the concerts, 30A’s mission sets it apart. The Festival is the flagship event for the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) — with 100% of net proceeds going toward local arts programs, public art installations, youth scholarships, community arts education, and more. 

By attending, you’re not just seeing great music; you’re supporting the arts and helping foster cultural richness throughout South Walton! 

Your 30A Stay: How to Make the Most of It (and Where to Stay) 

Because 30A is more than the festival, it’s a full coastal experience, staying in a well-appointed, comfortable vacation rental makes a big difference. Below are homes that will keep you close to the action.  

• A centrally located home close to Grand Boulevard, ideal for quick access to main stage shows. Check out this Dune Allen home, which is only 8min away from the action!

• A gulf-view home for morning walks and sunset views when you’re not at concerts 

• A larger group-friendly rental for friends/families coming together — great for splitting costs and enjoying shared space after a full day of music.

View all availability for the 2026 30A Songwriters Festival. 

Pro Tips for 30A First-Timers 

• Book early: Tickets and rentals both sell fast. Plan ahead, especially if you want a home within walking distance of core venues. 
• Use the festival app and shuttle: The official app helps build and track your schedule, a must with 300+ shows across many venues. Shuttle service helps avoid parking hassles.  
• Embrace spontaneity: While it’s great to plan, some of the best performances may come from up-and-coming songwriters or surprise collaborations. Keep your schedule flexible. 
• Mix music with beach time: Don’t overbook yourself with shows; part of the magic of 30A is the laid-back coastal lifestyle. Plan for downtime on the beach, sunset walks, local dining, and exploring. 
• Support the arts: By attending, you contribute to the local arts community — from youth music education to public art installations. It’s a meaningful vacation with purpose. 

Why 30A Songwriters Festival Should Be on Your 2026 Bucket List 

The 2026 30A Songwriters Festival isn’t just another music festival — it’s a destination experience that blends soulful songwriting, coastal charm, community spirit, and warm Gulf breezes. Whether you come for the headliners or the hidden gems, for the music or the beach, it promises an unforgettable winter escape. 

If you’re dreaming of a getaway that hits all the right notes — great music, warm sand beneath your feet, and a cozy vacation rental to call home — start planning now.  

FAQ: 30A Songwriters Festival 2026 

What are the dates for the 2026 30A Songwriters Festival? 
The 2026 festival takes place January 16–19, over Martin Luther King Jr. weekend, making it a popular time for travelers planning a long-weekend getaway. 

Where is the main stage for the festival? 
The main-stage concerts are held at the Grand Boulevard Town Center, near Dune Allen, an outdoor amphitheater in Miramar Beach, a central and walkable hub for headliner shows. 

How many artists perform during the festival? 
More than 125 artists typically perform across 300+ shows at 25–30 venues throughout the 30A communities, creating an intimate, diverse music experience. 

Is the 30A Songwriters Festival family-friendly? 
Yes, many shows are family-friendly, especially daytime performances and outdoor stages. Some nighttime venues may have age restrictions depending on capacity or bar service. 

Do I need a car during the festival? 
A car can be helpful for exploring 30A, but shuttle service is provided for main stage shows, and many smaller venues are located close together within various beach communities. 

When should I book accommodations for the festival? 
It’s best to book early. January is a busy time on 30A, and vacation rentals near Grand Boulevard, Dune Allen, Seaside, WaterColor, and Rosemary Beach fill quickly for festival weekend. 

What should I bring to outdoor shows? 
Guests typically bring low-backed chairs or blankets for the general admission lawn seating at the main stage. Always check the weather and dress in layers — evenings can be cool in January. 

Where can I buy festival tickets? 
Tickets, weekend passes, and VIP packages are available on the official festival website. Because many shows sell out, it’s recommended to purchase passes in advance. 

See you on 30A.