The second annual All the proceeds from Wellstock will be donated to South Walton Academy and Westonwood Ranch, which offer services that educate and support young people with special needs, particularly autism. Wellstock Festival will take place November 3, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village in Destin. This year’s festival has a youth theme, says founder Maurice Hunter.

“The intention is to inspire and educate young people about living a lifestyle of wellness and self-love,” he says. “All the proceeds from Wellstock will be donated to South Walton Academy and Westonwood Ranch, which offer services that educate and support young people with special needs, particularly autism.”

Hunter says he designed Wellstock to take the popular “wellness festival” concept to the next level. “It’s more than an event—it’s an experience. An experience of inspiration, education and interactivity that supports a lifestyle of total well-being of the mind, body, heart and soul.”

The family-friendly festival is intended to appeal to people of all ages, he says. “Everyone can benefit from good vibes and the joy of a healthy and happy experience, and everyone has room to grow some area of their lives, whether that’s fitness, nutrition, mindset or connection with themselves or others. Wellstock gives guests the opportunity to have hands-on experiences with the essential components for living a well life.” 

 

Yogathon, Art and More

In addition to traditional wellness festival fare—speakers, local vendors and healthy food and beverages—there will be games, music, interactive art and a “yogathon,” among other activities.

Hunter will start the day with a Pure Barre class. The yogathon will feature a full day and range of yoga classes for all ages, including Family and Kids Yoga, Self-Love Flow and Kundalini. 

“Amazing instructors from Fort Walton Beach to 30A have donated their expertise to guide participants in yoga classes to nourish the body, heart and soul for a great cause,” he says. Participation is by donation, with all proceeds are benefiting South Walton Academy and Westonwood Ranch.

Guests can also visit the festival’s Fitness Park to consult with fitness professionals about workout options that fit their current lifestyle and fitness level, and they can join in scheduled workout sessions that will take place throughout the day, such as Martial Arts, Pure Barre, Boxing, Cross Fit and Boot Camp. In the Nutrition Garden, they can learn how to start and maintain an organic home garden; how and where to shop for and prepare organic foods and beverages (smoothies and juices); and how to develop healthier eating practices and incorporate them into their lives.

The Art Village, which offers fun and easy interactive art activities, is a popular hangout for adults and kids, Hunter says. “It’s where you can unleash your inner artist and learn how art and creativity lead to enhanced well-being.” 

  Expert speakers will give free presentations on subjects such as fitness, nutrition, creativity and intuition, understanding essential oils, and the benefits of natural juices and smoothies. There will also be a Vendor Marketplace where guests can explore various products and services.

“Every feature of our festival is designed to inform and inspire people to improve their health and wellness,” Hunter says.   

Cost: $8. Location: 4323 Commons Dr. W., Destin, FL.  For tickets and vendor/volunteer information, visit WellstockFestival.com.