Let’s Talk Podcast: Celebrating Destin’s 40th Birthday Bash

Welcome back to the Let’s Talk Podcast, where we keep Northwest Floridians connected with their local leaders. In this episode, hosts Schuyler Black and Bobby Dewrell are joined by Destin Mayor Bobby Wagner and Public Information Director Tamara Young to discuss the exciting upcoming 40th birthday celebration for the city of Destin.

Meet the Guests

• Bobby Wagner: Mayor of Destin
• Tamara Young: Public Information Director, City of Destin

A Milestone Celebration

Next Saturday, August 10th, marks a significant milestone for Destin as it turns 40 years old since its incorporation in 1984. While the area has a rich history that predates 1984, this celebration will honor its journey as an official city.

What to Expect at the Celebration

The birthday bash will take place at Harbor Walk Village and promises a fun carnival atmosphere. Here’s a sneak peek of what’s in store:

• Free Parking: For the first time, all city-owned parking lots at Harbor Walk Village will be free for attendees.
• Live Music: Enjoy performances from local bands starting around 6 PM.
• Drone Show: A unique first for Destin, the drone show will feature custom shapes celebrating the city.
• Fire Spinning: Watch an exciting fire-spinning performance to cap off the evening.
• Fun Activities: Expect stilt walkers, cute photo booths, and delicious cupcakes!

Year-Long Celebrations

The festivities won’t stop on August 10th. Throughout the year, Destin will host various events, including:

• Sandcastle Pop-Up: A creative event featuring the 40th logo.
• Open House: Part of Florida Government Week, this event will include a fish fry with local recipes and live music in October.

Community Engagement

Mayor Wagner and Tamara Young emphasize the importance of community involvement. They encourage residents to reach out via Facebook or Instagram with ideas and feedback. The city aims to maintain a high response rate, ensuring that the voices of the community are heard.

Upcoming Projects

Beyond the birthday celebrations, several exciting projects are on the horizon for Destin:

Florida Sun Trail

• The Florida Sun Trail aims to connect various pathways across the Emerald Coast, enhancing local mobility for residents and visitors alike.
• A 12-foot multimodal pathway is planned, offering safe routes for biking and walking.

Underground Utilities Project

• This project will enhance the aesthetics of the city while improving resilience against severe weather. By placing utility lines underground, Destin aims to ensure quicker recovery during hurricanes.

Conclusion

The 40th birthday celebration of Destin is not just a look back at its history but also a step forward into a vibrant future filled with community engagement and exciting projects. Join us on August 10th at Harbor Walk Village for a day of fun, festivities, and connection.

For more information, stay tuned to the Let’s Talk Podcast and follow the City of Destin on social media!

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Let’s Talk. We look forward to keeping you informed about all things Destin and connecting you with your local leaders.