The music scene in Fort Walton Beach runs the gamut from funky folk music to classical symphony performances. Ideal year-round weather encourages many outdoor festivals featuring local musicians and well-known groups from around the country.

The younger set gravitates to The Swamp at the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk for energetic and loud alternative rock and dance music. Howl at the Moon, also located at the Boardwalk, features dueling piano players and audience participation. Great Gulf of Mexico views and a large outside deck make Howl at the Moon a favorite nightspot.

Many local restaurants feature cocktail or dinner music ranging from country singers to folk artists and ethnic entertainment. The White Sands Orchestra performs a repertory of over 400 “danceable” swing and big band era songs along the Emerald Coast. The Northwest Florida Symphony is acclaimed for their classical performances at the Arts Center Okaloosa-Walton College.