Planning a trip to Clearwater Beach means more than just sunbathing and swimming. It means fun festivals and events for you and the whole family. Each week brings new events and activities to Clearwater Beach, so there’s always something exciting happening, whether you’re visiting now or planning ahead.
You’ll find once-per-year annual events, like the Clearwater Sea-Blues Festival, and recurring favorites that run throughout the year, like the nightly Sunsets at Pier 60. Our vacation homes make the perfect home base to explore all the best Clearwater Beach events, so be sure to book well in advance of the most popular festivals.
Keep in mind that dates and times can change, so always double-check details with official event organizers before traveling. Now, let’s dive into the most popular upcoming featured events happening in Clearwater Beach and the surrounding area.
1. Sunsets at Pier 60 Nightly Sunset Celebration
- Date: Nightly all year-round (weather permitting)
This nightly sunset celebration starts about two hours before sunset and continues two hours after. Enjoy street performers, local artisans selling handmade goods, small food vendors, and live music performances every evening.
2. Clearwater Sea-Blues Festival
- Date: February 28 & March 1, 2026
The Clearwater Sea-Blues Festival is a popular annual event held in late February and early March, featuring live blues music and delicious fresh local seafood. It offers a lively atmosphere where visitors can enjoy great music and community fun near Clearwater Beach.
3. Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival
- Date: March 27 – April 12, 2026
Billed as Florida’s #1 sand sculpting festival, this 17-day event features world-class sand sculptors creating massive illuminated sand art displays under a large festival tent. Enjoy live music, fireworks on select nights, sand sculpting workshops, children’s play zones, and local food and artisan vendors.
4. Reggae Rise Up Festival
- Date: March 12 – 15, 2026
Experience the vibrant sounds and culture of reggae music at the Reggae Rise Up Festival in the St. Pete-Clearwater area. This multi-day event features top reggae artists, local food vendors, craft booths, and family-friendly activities.
5. Mainsail Art Festival
- Date: March 28 & 29, 2026
One of the premier art fairs in the Clearwater area, the Mainsail Art Festival features hundreds of artists displaying original works across multiple mediums. Items on display include painting, sculpture, photography, and jewelry.
6. 4th of July Celebration
- Date: July 4, 2026
Enjoy Independence Day festivities on Clearwater Beach with live music, food vendors, and family activities at St. Pete Pier, plus a spectacular fireworks display over the Gulf of Mexico.
7. Clearwater Jazz Holiday
- Date: October 15 – 18, 2026
One of the most beloved music festivals in the area, the Clearwater Jazz Holiday attracts top jazz, blues, and contemporary artists each fall. Held at Coachman Park, the festival offers multiple stages, a wide variety of food and drink vendors, and a festive atmosphere for music lovers of all ages.
8. Frenchy’s Stone Crab Festival
- Date: October (2026 dates TBC)
Celebrate the delicious Florida stone crab season with live music, delicious fresh claws, and family-friendly activities. Hosted by Frenchy’s Original Cafe on Baymont Street in Clearwater, this block party showcases the best of local seafood and culture.
9. Lighted Holiday Boat Parades
- Date: December (2026 Dates TBC)
Watch boats decorated with thousands of colorful lights, holiday inflatables, and festive music parade along the waterway. Viewing options include marina areas, waterfront restaurants, and some waterfront hotels.
10. Clearwater’s Winter Wonderland Festival
- Date: Select evenings in December (2026 dates TBC)
This annual festival features thousands of holiday lights, kid-friendly rides and attractions, live performances, Santa visits, and seasonal treats.
11. Light It Up Clearwater New Year’s Eve Fireworks
- Date: December 31, 2026
Experience Clearwater Beach’s signature New Year’s Eve celebration with a spectacular midnight fireworks display over the Gulf of Mexico. Fireworks launch from Sand Key Park and are best viewed from southern Clearwater Beach.
Stay With Us for These Upcoming Featured Events
Whether you’re here for a weekend or an extended stay, Clearwater Beach’s event calendar offers plenty of things to enjoy, and this list is just the start.
With its warm weather, sugar-white sand, and year-round programming, Clearwater Beach is one of Florida’s best destinations for travelers who want more than just a place to lay their towel.
Our vacation homes are ready to welcome you to sunny Florida, so book your accommodation, pick out some fantastic events, load the suitcases, and get ready for an incredible beach break.
