With the holidays behind us and a few more months before spring break arrives, you may be wondering what there is to do at the beach this time of year. If so, you’ve come to the right place! Every January, thousands descend on South Walton for one of the most anticipated events of the year – a music festival that brings the best of the best to our shores.
Between the big-name headliners and intimate venues, it’s a festival that gets you up close to some of the most incredible talent in the industry. Still not sure what we’re talking about? That’s ok. This month, we’re giving you everything you need to know about the 30A Songwriters Festival – just in time for you to take advantage of this increasingly popular event during your winter vacation!
Check it out below and start planning your perfect lineup today.
What is the 30A Songwriters Festival?
Since its inaugural year in 2010, the 30A Songwriter Festival has brought together top writers and artists from all genres, offering four days of phenomenal live performances throughout 30A.
As the primary fundraiser for the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that promotes the arts throughout the region, the festival donates net proceeds to local programming, leadership, and educational experiences that further the reach of arts initiatives in the area.
From humble beginnings that saw 800 attendees, the festival has grown into one of the songwriting industry's most prestigious events, now welcoming more than 5,000 guests each year. Visitors can look forward to more than 125 artists performing more than 200 shows in roughly 30 venues, providing days of memorable songs and stories from the people who tell them best.
When is the 30A Songwriters Festival?
Held each January, this year marks the 16th anniversary of the 30A Songwriters Festival. This year’s dates are January 16-20, 2025.
Who’s Headlining the 30A Songwriters Festival This Year?
While previous years have included the likes of the Indigo Girls, The Bangles, and the late great Mr. John Prine, 2025 is equally as impressive. Headliners include the incomparable Melissa Etheridge, Amos Lee, The Jayhawks, Devon Allman Project, Maggie Rose, and Secret Sisters.
Each of these artists has contributed to the vast music landscape, covering genres from Rock and Roll to country to Americana/Roots, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What Venues Are Hosting Events During the 30A Songwriters Festival?
Venues all across the 30A communities, ranging from bars and restaurants to performing spaces, will host stages for the festival, so no matter where you are during your beach vacation, you’re probably close to a show!
Here’s the list of venues for the 2025 festival:
- AJs Grayton Beach (Main Stage and Second Stage)
- ANR at Camp Creek Inn
- Beach Happy Café
- Bud and Alley’s
- Caliza
- Central Square Records
- Corcoran Reverie
- Drive the Coast
- Fish out of Water
- Fonville Press
- Grand Boulevard
- Grayton Beer Taproom
- Havana Beach Bar and Grill at the Pearl Hotel
- Headquarters at Watercolor Marina Park
- Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa
- Hotel Effie
- Hayatt Place – The Placery
- Laco
- North Beach Social
- Old Florida Fish House (Bar Stage and Porch Stage)
- Pickle’s
- Raw & Juicy (Alys Beach)
- Raw & Juicy at Hibiscus Coffee and Guest House (Grayton Beach)
- Red Fish Taco
- Rosemary Beach Town Hall
- Seaside Lyceum
- The Bay
- The Big Chill
- The Rep Theatre
- Watercolor Lakehouse
How to Get Tickets to the 30A Songwriters Festival?
Tickets are still on sale and can be purchased online here.
Choose from a variety of pricing levels.
The Weekend Passes are $445 and include access to all venues, including the Saturday and Sunday afternoon headline stage. Day Passes are available and start at $175. View the festival schedule to find the artists you most want to hear and plan which ticket option is best for you and your group.
Where Is the Best Place to Stay for the 30A Songwriters Festival?
One of the best things about 30A is that no matter where you stay, you’re surrounded by excellent restaurants, great entertainment, beautiful white sand beaches, and gorgeous vacation rentals.
If you’re looking for the perfect home base for your 30A Songwriters Festival vacation, be sure to browse 30A Luxury Vacations’ complete inventory of stunning homes in popular areas like Rosemary Beach and Grayton Beach, or search by community to choose select your favorite area.
When you find your dream getaway, remember to secure the best price on your rental by booking directly with us here on this site. Our excellent staff of 30A locals is ready to assist you with everything you need during your stay, ensuring it’s a vacation you’ll cherish forever.