Here at Destin Commons, we’re all about celebrating special moments and creating sweet memories for our guests – and an early Independence Day is no exception. In fact, it might just be one of our favorite holidays to host!

Every year, we honor the medley of cultures and classic flavors that make up our great nation by gathering over 40 of the best food trucks from across the region to join us at our Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival, a culinary extravaganza and one of Destin’s best Independence Day events of the year. Come hungry and prepared to indulge in all things savory, spicy and sweet – there’s a food truck to satisfy everyone’s taste buds at this Destin food festival. 

Whether you want dishes that are fresh and light or fiery-hot – or frozen delicacies that keep you cool – you’re in for a treat. Classic American comfort food, internationally inspired fusion, decadent desserts, and refreshing drinks await at this inaugural event, kicking off summertime in the most delicious way. Pro tip: grab your crew and embark on a food truck “food crawl” for an epic dining experience before you peruse our shops and snap photos in front of our colorful murals.

Plus, want to know where to watch the best fireworks in Destin? Turns out Destin Commons has the best fireworks on the Emerald Coast. It is a show you do not want to miss. Add in live music by Duchess and Tobacco Road Band and you have another reason to celebrate at Destin Commons.
Prepare to feast in the name of patriotism: Here are just a few of the best food trucks in Destin – including some which are veteran-owned – that will be participating in this year’s Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival on July 3^rd (and keep reading for fun reasons why our center is the best place to celebrate the 4^th of July in Destin):

The EShack

The EShack is a veteran-owned and operated beef-based food truck in Destin, Florida. The team prides itself on sourcing high-quality beef directly from a family farm in Alabama, ensuring customers receive the freshest and most flavorful beef possible.

The EShack’s menu features a variety of delicious items, including:

• Specialty Burgers (try the Western BBQ, Bacon Jam & Brie, and Jalapeño Mushroom & Swiss!)
• Papa Giorgio Steak Sandwich, a mouthwatering masterpiece featuring tender, juicy slices of premium beef smothered in melted provolone cheese and topped with caramelized onions and sautéed bell peppers, all nestled in a perfectly toasted hoagie roll
• Cajun Chicken Egg Rolls, a crowd favorite combining Cajun flavors with goat cheese for a truly unique taste
• Fresh Gulf-Caught Fish Tacos paired with a refreshing green apple slaw
• Loaded Fries (enjoy the aromatic flavors of Epic Herb, the indulgence of Truffle and the fiery kick of Fire Nation)

“We are two entrepreneurs from different industries – one from the software and transportation industry and the other from the restaurant industry – who met at the gym, became best friends and decided in October of last year to combine our diverse skills to pursue our passion for food by opening ‘The EShack’ in January,” says co-owner David Berg. “Our journey has been incredibly busy and exciting over the past five months. We are staffed with trained and skilled chefs dedicated to delivering bold flavors with the freshest ingredients. I was a customer last year at this festival and am honored to be here this year with my food truck!”

Doughboy Burgers

Doughboy Burgers is a USMC Infantry Veteran-owned and operated food truck serving up mouthwatering hamburgers with a unique twist that carries a meaningful history in Mississippi. Named after the term affectionately given to infantrymen in World War I, “Doughboy” Burgers strives to bring a slice of American history back through its food. During this era, Mississippians were struggling to find ways to feed their families. These tough and trying times displayed their creativeness along with resilience – a result of which was the dough burger. 

Arrive hungry for a Sloppy Joe (AKA the “Sloppy Dough”), Double Dough Burger, Loaded Fries, and so much more. 

“We are absolutely excited about celebrating our independence in paradise while bringing a bit of Mississippi fare,” says owner Steve Rogers. “Come enjoy a slice of history with us this holiday weekend by trying our Dough Burger!”

Curry in a Hurry

Curry in a Hurry takes the rich, traditional flavors of Indian cuisine and presents them in a friendly and recognizable way. The team is obsessed with creating mouthwatering dishes that ensure every guest has an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Indian food or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone.

Vegetarian fans can enjoy meat-free options that pack all the flavor and satisfaction of Curry in a Hurry’s non-vegetarian dishes. Additionally, the fan favorite Tandoori Chicken Skewers are a must-try, bursting with flavorful, spiced perfection. Little ones can enjoy kid-friendly options to make the whole family happy.

“As a locally owned and operated business, we’re proud to be part of this community and strive to offer delicious, high-quality food with a personal touch,” says founder and owner Alpesh Patel. “Join us at Curry in a Hurry for a quick, flavorful meal that will leave you craving more!”

The Rican Vegan

An exciting rebrand of the former “Plant-based Wellness Con Sabor, LLC,” The Rican Vegan serves up unique and authentic Latin flavor in the form of its Puerto Rican Rice, Tangy Tacos, Banging Bowls, and Slaying Salads. The Florida Panhandle’s only Latin vegan food truck, The Rican Vegan is continuing to change everyone’s thoughts on the term “vegan,” one taco and bowl at a time.

Popular dishes include the Banging Tofu Bowl with Puerto Rican rice, as well as the Tangy Tacos.

“We cannot wait for this awesome event and are so excited to be back for the second time as we celebrate Independence Day,” say co-owners Aria and Josh Guzman. “It’s the most amazing thing to see customer enjoy our food and hear their feedback. Come and see why we have won local awards within the first year and half of business!”

Ăn Ăn

Ăn Ăn is Vietnamese for “Eat Eat” – and that’s exactly what owner/operator duo Greg and Nga Fulk like to do: eat! As foodies, the husband-and-wife team wanted to bring delicious twists to their love for Asian food (more specifically, food from Vietnam, where Nga moved from in 2018). The food truck’s name reflects its fusion concept: customers can enjoy authentic Vietnamese dishes and an American smash burger all under the same roof.

Ăn Ăn serves up traditional Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwiches) as well as some fusion sandwiches including Brisket and Teriyaki Chicken. Guests will also enjoy Ăn Ăn’s Bulgogi Fries, Pork and Shrimp Egg Rolls, and even some fusion burgers, like the Asian Smashburger.

“We are very excited to be a part of the Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival and celebrating our country’s independence,” said Greg Fulk. “Being a Marine Veteran, I am so proud to have served my country and I would do it again without hesitation. Looking at this event’s food truck lineup, it’s clear there are going to be some amazing things to eat!”

Comfy Food 2 Go

A female veteran-owned business, Comfy Food 2 Go offers unique and gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, hoagies and wraps that you won’t find elsewhere. The truck will be offering “Star-Spangled Specials” for the 4^th of July, including a Summer Charcuterie Box with a variety of meats, cheeses, fruits, veggies, and chocolates.

Fun fact: the food truck’s menu items are named after the Scooby-Doo characters. Must-try menu items include the “Scooby” Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese, which the truck sells more than 1,000 of monthly!

“We are thrilled to serve at the Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival. What a great way to celebrate America’s birthday, serving side by side with other local food trucks and businesses,” says owner Belinda Ates. “We love our community and the great city of Destin!”

Repicci’s  

From their All-American Gelati (Rainbow Italian Ice paired with Vanilla Gelato) to their Blue Raspberry Italian Ice and Tropical Paradise Gelati (Coconut Gelato paired with Pina Colada Italian Ice), Repicci’s has a frozen treat to satisfy everyone as they celebrate Independence Day.

“We feel blessed every day to be successfully pursuing our own American dream by bringing a sweet taste of Italy to everyone,” says Amber Williams, who owns Repicci’s of the Panhandle with her husband.  “We want to thank everyone here in the Destin area that has supported us, and we are thankful to live in America, where this is possible.”

Repicci’s of the Panhandle has been in operation for three years here in Destin and is honored to be among the select food trucks approved to serve the personnel at Eglin Air Force Base. 

“Nothing makes us prouder than to be able to bring some joy and happiness to those who are serving to keep us free,” says Amber.

Fyah Jerk Grill

Owned and operated by Jamaican Chef Errol Taylor, Fyah Jerk Grill, LLC is an authentic Jamaican style food truck serving up great Jamaican food such as Oxtails made with authentic Jamaican spices and herbs. All entrees are served with rice and peas, sauteed veggies and sweet plantains.

“We celebrate our culture through food, and we really love sharing it with our supporters,” says Errol. “Fyah Jerk Grill is humbled by the love and support shown from the local Pensacola community and nearby towns.”

Doggs Gone Wild

It isn’t a 4^th of July party without hot dogs – and these are some of the best ones you’ll ever have! Locally owned food truck Doggs Gone Wild prides itself on serving homemade toppings and sides to complement its impeccable quarter-pound all-beef jumbo dogs.

Kansas City Wings

Kansas City Wings will be serving up mouthwatering versions of its crowd-pleasing namesake menu item. Our suggestion? Grab your crew and try each of the different flavorful sauces, from Garlic Parmesan to Buffalo Lemon Pepper. 

The Thirsty Ranch

Providing both adult beverages and specialty kids’ beverages, The Thirsty Ranch is a popular Pensacola-based mobile beverage and bartending service that travels across the entire gulf coast.

To help us celebrate, they’ll be bringing a variety of drinks to the Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival, so we can all “cheers” to our beloved America.

Additional participating food trucks include:

• That’s What Cheese Said
• Frutas Locas
• Pressed
• Rise and Swine
• Sea and Snow Shaved Ice
• Kayat Filipino
• Emerald Coast Kettle Corn
• Sweet Libations
• Maria Taco Plus
• Jordan Valley Mediterranean Food Truck
• Cousins Maine Lobster
• Thai Taste Express Fusion
• Waffle Boutique
• La Chama Venez
• Lola’s Garden
• Sports 2 Geaux
• Real Grill Master BBQ
• Tonie’s Gumbo House
• Bourbon Street Café
• Thai 2 Go
• Lemon Love
• Who Cut the Grilled Cheese
• Retro Snow
• PJ’s Popcorn and Pork Rinds
• Dippin Dots

FUN WAYS TO CELEBRATE THE 4^th OF JULY AT DESTIN COMMONS

Looking to make the most of your Independence Day at Destin Commons? Here are a few other ways to celebrate once you’ve tasted your way around the Star-Spangled Food Truck:

SHOP SUMMER TRENDS, DÉCOR AND MORE

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your summer wardrobe or purchase products that will ensure you make the most of the season, consider Destin Commons your go-to destination for all things fashion, beauty, home décor, outdoor recreation and more.

SNAP PHOTOS WITH IMMERSIVE ART 

Capture 4^th of July memories and immerse yourself in art with The Collection, Destin Commons’ very own assortment of vibrant and thought-provoking pieces by internationally acclaimed and local artists. Send a virtual, Instagram-worthy “Destin, Fla.” Postcard, film a Reel or TikTok as you flock like a flamingo in front of the “Tropical Vibes” mural and play with the optical illusion of our “Gone Fishing” masterpiece. This art collection offers interactive culture the whole family will want in on. Pro tip: You can also transform into an artist with the help of our downloadable coloring pages that allow you to bring each mural to life using your own creative vision!

CATCH A SUMMER FLICK

It’s blockbuster season! Whether you want to laugh, cry, or be captivated by action and suspense, our resident AMC theatre is the perfect air-conditioned locale to kick back in a plush reclining seat and get blissfully lost in the magic of the movies.

SPLASH AND PLAY 

Grab your group and engage in some friendly competition with a fun round of bowling at Uncle Buck’s. Got little ones? Delight them with a day of fun as they ascend the Lucky Climber, frolic in the splash pad, and enjoy a ride on the Cubby Caboose. Bonus points if you get a funny group photo with the shark at Bass Pro!

Let’s celebrate freedom with a firework of flavors! Join us at Destin Commons for the Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival on Monday, July 3. 

For more information, visit https://destincommons.com/happenings-events/star-spangled-food-truck-festival-2/. 

As the days get longer and the temperatures rise, it’s time to refresh your wardrobe with the latest summer dress trends at Dress Up Destin. The summer of 2024 promises a stunning mix of styles, patterns, and fabrics for every taste and occasion. From bold colors to flattering silhouettes, here’s a guide to the must-have summer dresses for this season.

1. Bold, Bright Colors

This summer is all about making a statement with vibrant colors. Say goodbye to pastels and neutrals, and embrace bold hues like electric blue, fiery red, and sunny yellow. These bright colors not only capture the essence of summer but also elevate your mood and energy. Don’t be afraid to mix and match colors or go for a monochrome look that stands out in the crowd.

Style Tip: Pair a bright-colored dress with neutral accessories to let the color be the star of your outfit. For a more daring look, color block with contrasting bright hues.

2. Vintage Florals

Florals are a summer staple, and this year, they’re getting a vintage twist. Think large, bold floral prints reminiscent of the 70s and 80s. These prints add a touch of nostalgia while keeping your look fresh and vibrant. Whether it’s a flowy maxi dress or a chic mini, vintage florals bring a sense of whimsy and romance to your summer wardrobe.

Style Tip: To modernize vintage florals, opt for dresses with contemporary cuts or pair them with modern accessories like minimalist sandals and jewelry. Shop the best summer accessories at Dress Up Destin – starting at just $10!

3. Statement Volume

Dramatic sleeves and bubble silhouettes are hot this season, adding a touch of volume to your classic summer dresses. Whether it’s a subtle ruffle sleeve, tiered hemline or a bold puff sleeve, these elements create a sense of movement.

Style Tip: Balance bold voluminous styles with subtle accessories and footwear. Let the unique design of the dress be the focal point of your look.

4. Maxi Dresses with a Twist

Maxi dresses are a summer favorite, and this year, they’re getting a modern update. Look for maxis with unique features like tiered skirts, high slits, or unexpected prints. These dresses are versatile, offering a laid-back vibe for day outings and an elegant silhouette for evening affairs.

Style Tip: For a casual day look, pair a maxi dress with flat sandals and a straw hat. For a more polished evening outfit, add statement jewelry and heels.

5. Playful Patterns

Summer 2024 is bringing a wave of playful patterns that are sure to turn heads. From abstract prints and geometric shapes to quirky motifs and bold stripes, these patterns add a fun and dynamic element to your wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns for a bold and eclectic look.

Style Tip: When mixing patterns, stick to a similar color palette to keep your look cohesive.

The summer of 2024 is all about embracing individuality and expressing your personal style through fun, current trends. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant colors, pretty florals, or playful patterns, there’s a summer dress at Dress Up Destin for you. So, step into the new season with confidence and style, and make the most of the sunny days ahead!

It’s difficult–if not impossible–to adequately articulate the impact of motherlove or the gratitude we feel for their presence in our lives. When words fail to do our emotions justice, we like to take action–and, in this case, that means spoiling mom with beautiful and heartfelt gifts she’ll cherish for years to come. Whether you consider your mom to be your best friend, life coach, cheerleader, caretaker, all the above, or something more, chances are she’s had a tremendous influence on your life. So, how do you pick a Mother’s Day gift that says, “I know you, I love you, and I thank you”? Consider mom’s personality, passions, and interests–and perhaps the things that make your relationship unique. Then, head on over to Destin Commons, where a variety of retailers offer everything from fashion, beauty, jewelry accessories, home décor, outdoor recreation equipment, and much more! Without further ado, here’s our 2024 Destin Commons Mother’s Day Gift Guide, just in time to spoil the incredibly special moms and motherly figures in your life:

Style Star

Jewelry & Accesory Enthusiast

Beauty Queen

Sunshine Seeker

Happy Homebody

Here at Destin Commons, we’re joining you in wishing a Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible moms and motherly figures out there! For more information on Destin Commons retailers, restaurants, experiences, and more, visit DestinCommons.com

Spring is a season rooted in renewal and rebirth – which often translates into wardrobe refreshes, moments of celebration, and embracing new and exciting opportunities.   

Here at Destin Commons, we’re giving guests an opportunity to experience all the above with five new retailers that are elevating our options for all things fashion, jewelry, accessories, and even pet-approved products.

Ready for a seasonal upgrade? Visit these five new retailers this spring at Destin Commons!

ADEA Boutique

A women-owned boutique, ADEA features stunning fashion from the Mediterranean. More than half of the brand’s clothing is made from 100% cotton – which means you can look and feel your coolest under the Florida sunshine. From dresses and skirt sets to men’s shirts, kids’ clothing, accessories and footwear, ADEA has everything you need for a variety of occasions, whether you’re looking to enjoy summer in Destin or at a tropical destination abroad.

Ring Bar

A gorgeous piece of jewelry can instantly level up an outfit – or a manicure. Ring Bar has opened its second destination here at Destin Commons, offering women’s and men’s rings – as well as a variety of other jewelry – made of precious metals and semi-precious stones. Consider it a go-to spot for those special moments and heartfelt gifts.  

Salty Paws

Calling all pet parents: Salty Paws Boutique is sure to be one of your favorite new stores, whether you’re a canine crew, feline family, or both! Complete with its new “Boat Dog” line, this locally owned boutique has everything you’ll need for a memorable day out on the water. Shop for high-quality collars and harnesses, bandanas, life vests, designer-inspired toys and more – and don’t leave without a gourmet sweet treat for your good boy or girl! Better yet, Salty Paws offers “pawrents” plenty of shirts, cups, and accessories designed to help you show off your fur baby in a fun and fashionable way. Win-win!

Coming Soon: Pura Vida

Set to open at Destin Commons in late May, Pura Vida offers unique, artisan-made jewelry that is the stuff of spring and summer dreams. The beloved brand was initially launched in Costa Rica with a backstory that is both inspiring and uplifting. Today, Pura Vida’s clothing, accessories, and jewelry – including its signature, customizable and engravable bracelets, rings, anklets, necklaces, earrings and charms – are a popular symbol of the “pura vida” lifestyle: enjoying life’s pleasures, slowing down, and living life to the fullest.

Bonus: when you shop Pura Vida, you shop for a great cause: the brand supports artisans worldwide and has donated over $4M to more than 300 charities. 

Loving your new spring looks? Tag us in your photos for a chance to be featured on our social channels! Pro Tip: our murals make for impeccable backgrounds.

For more information on Destin Commons retailers, restaurants, art, events and more, visit DestinCommons.com.  

There’s a dazzling sense of magic and a heart-warming burst of excitement dancing through the air as the holiday season makes its merry entrance into our lives. Suddenly, the days are a touch cooler, the evenings feel cozier, calendars are being sprinkled with celebratory gatherings and holiday wish lists are being compiled as quickly as the season appears.

As you queue up your holiday playlist and deck your home out in festive decor, treat yourself to some shopping at Destin Commons, where a wave of holiday wonder sets the stage for inspired gifts–both for loved ones and yourself!

Whether you’re shopping for fashion-forward family and friends, homebodies, accessory enthusiasts, toy-loving toddlers, or self-care savants, our retailers are brimming with gifts so good, that you may just add them to your very own wishlist.

Here are just a few of our favorite things available at Destin Commons this holiday season:

’Fit for the “Nice” List

Chic dresses, luxe layers, and elevated, everyday wardrobe staples–these looks are sure to spark some major style joy and evoke confidence. Note to your gift receiver: prepare for compliments!

Step into the Season

We mean it when we say we’ve got looks from head to toe. From soft slippers and sporty kicks to striking shoes that are begging to be danced in, these pairs will carry anyone through the season in comfort and confidence.

Even Santa Needs A Bag and Belt

Just like ornaments top off a tree, no outfit is complete without eye-catching accessories–it’s a fact! Extras such as handbags, hair accessories, belts, and shades are sure to spruce up any look.

Run, Run, Reindeer

With New Year’s lingering around the corner, resolutions are on the horizon–help those on your shopping list achieve their goals with pieces and accessories that make exercise and outdoor activities all the more enjoyable.

Sparkle and Shine

There’s just something about receiving jewelry and timepieces that encapsulates the magic of the holiday season. Surprise and delight your loved ones with pieces that sparkle as beautifully as the lights that set the holiday season aglow.

Self-Care Sleigh

We all know that person: their skin is always glowing, their hair shines like they just left the salon, and their makeup appears natural yet photo-ready at all times. Treat the beauty and self-care gurus in your life to items that will take their product arsenal to the next level.

Smells Like Presents

Few compliments are as flattering as being told you smell good. These perfumes, colognes and body mists will have heads turning and passersby requesting the source of the scent.

Home for the Holidays

Whether you’re shopping for a homebody who thrives in a cozy environment or an aspirational host who loves nothing more than inviting people into their home, these gifts will have you deemed as the favorite house guest.

Toyland Town

The real magic of the holiday season? The look on kids’ faces when they open their presents. Inspire imaginative playtime for little ones with these enriching gifts, which are sure to draw miles you’ll remember for years to come.

Tech the Halls

No holiday gift guide is complete without items to satisfy the digital darlings! These gadgets are sleek while offering entertainment and convenience. We call that a win-win.

Feeling inspired?! Draft that holiday shopping list, head on over to Destin Commons and treat yourself to a fulfilling day spent shopping, dining, and securing gifts that will fill your loved hearts with joy. We can’t wait to welcome you during this most wonderful time of the year. For more information on our retailers, visit DestinCommons.com

There’s nothing like the promise of a new school year. It’s a welcome opportunity to hit the proverbial “reset” button – and for students, that often means enjoying a fresh start in the form of new outfits and accessories that prove they’re back and better than ever. 

Typically, as the first few days of the school year pass, the excitement of a new wardrobe fizzles … but that won’t be the case this time around. Student-approved brands are offering an exceptional lineup of trendy yet timeless pieces and cool classroom-approved products that will have them – dare we say it? – excited to wake up with their alarms and seize the school day.

Whether your student is a VPK cutie or a college-bound senior, these outfit-making pieces and “smart” products are sure to help them exude on-campus confidence all year long: 

Polished and Preppy

(Almost) Too Cool for School

Gym Class Heroes

Step It Up

Extra (Credit) Accessories

Tech It Out

Ready to celebrate the successful first week back to school? Come shop these looks and endless others right here at Destin Commons! 

For more information and a full list of our retailers, visit DestinCommons.com. 

The sun is shining, and the water is calling: Swimwear is no doubt the uniform of the season, particularly here in Destin, where pool and beach days are simply a part of our endless-summer lifestyle. 

Coming off the heels of Paraiso and Miami Swim Week’s globally viewed runway shows, we couldn’t be more excited to dive into all the 2023 summer swimwear trends, from the sultry and sporty to the minimally classic and playfully bold. Inspired by a variety of themes, including nature and this year’s nostalgic major motion picture debuts, these emerging trends are making up for the record heat index. Better yet, there’s a look to “suit” every member of the family here at Destin Commons!

Throw on some shades and lather on the SPF – these swimwear styles are bringing the heat all summer long: 

White Hot

Great news for brides: white was the neutral on this year’s swim week fashion runways – and it’s never looked better. Spotted in a variety of styles for men and women, it’s a classic shade that will keep you feeling breezy and looking chic.

Barbie World

TikTok’s “Barbiecore” aesthetic was already trending after the Barbie movie trailer’s release, so we’re guaranteed to see the iconic pink hue everywhere as the film now takes over cinemas across the globe. Unleash your playful inner Barbie and Ken and have fun in this vibrant, summer-friendly shade.

Into the Blue

Pulling inspiration from “Mermaidcore” (shout out to The Little Mermaid) and coastal Mediterranean vacations, oceanic vibes are all the rage right now. Think shades of blue, seashell accents, and shiny textures reminiscent of scales. 

Punchy Palette

From ombre to watercolor-inspired designs, this year’s multicolor trend proves shades look even dreamier when they’re blended. These pieces remind us of cotton candy or rainbow sorbet – the perfect complement to a warm summer day.  

Playful Prints

From retro florals to geometric shapes and brush strokes, prints are popping up all over the aisles and runways, adding a light-hearted and free-spirited touch to summer style. 

Ruched On the Runway

When it comes to the textures and flirty details we saw at this year’s Miami Swim Week, ruched fabrics might just be our favorite. This ultra-flattering scrunching effect can even help cinch in the waist, accentuate your natural curves, and make you feel as confident as ever. 

Surf’s Up

The sporty-cool surf vibes of the 70s are back. These fun, active-friendly pieces may just inspire you to grab a board and hit the waves. 

Ready to shop your favorite swimwear trends? Grab your family and friends and make it a summer shopping day here at Destin Commons. 

For more information and a list of our additional retailers, visit DestinCommons.com.