The Destin History & Fishing Museum will mark its 20th anniversary with a special celebration during its fourth annual ‘A Night at the Museum’ event on March 7, 2025.
- The museum, which opened its doors in 2005, has become a cornerstone of preserving local maritime heritage. The anniversary event will run from 6-9 p.m. at the museum’s location on 108 Stahlman Avenue.
“This museum was not founded on anybody famous,” said Executive Director Vivienne Williams, recalling how a board member once described the museum. “It is founded on ordinary people doing ordinary things and being great for it. Living in Destin was not an easy thing to do, especially in the 1800s, because being at the end of a peninsula, the best way to get here was by boat.”
This year’s event will feature several special additions to honor the anniversary.
- “We’re doing a special 20th anniversary edition scavenger hunt, and event attendees will be the first ones to experience it,” Williams said. The evening will also include a wine raffle and champagne at the doors with popsicles.
The celebration will take place under an outdoor tent where guest speaker Mike Thomin will give a presentation on shipwrecks or pirates. The event will also feature live music and heavy hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants. New this year is a custom martini bar where guests can specialize and curate their own martini.
‘A Night at the Museum’ is the second biggest fundraiser for the museum, slightly behind their 5K event. Williams noted that both events have successfully drawn both new visitors and those who haven’t visited in years.
The Museum holds special meaning in the city, as Destin is home to the largest licensed fishing fleet in the United States. “ We are privileged and excited to be able to continue that on for hopefully another 20 years at minimum,” added Williams.
Ticket prices are $75 and may be purchased online at Night at the Museum. There is an additional processing fee for all ticket purchases.
