The award-winning CoolCraft Summer beverage competition runs now through September 1 and invites you on a summer safari across West Volusia. Twenty-two local coffee roasters, breweries, tea purveyors, and mixologists have crafted special, animal-inspired beverages for travelers to discover and vote on. Enjoy these drinks in their natural habitat—featuring fun concoctions like the kangaroo-kick shake, gorilla jungle juice, and manatee mango coolada. With both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, there’s something for every explorer. Grab your friends, don your safari cap, and embark on a CoolCation road trip to sample these wild flavors, then vote for your favorites!
Extend your stay overnight at one of the CoolCation partners, from downtown DeLand hotels to riverside resorts on the St. Johns River. While you’re in town, grab a bite at one of West Volusia’s newest restaurants. For scratch-made food, quality meats, brunch, and a late-night menu in Downtown DeLand, head to Hunters & Gatherers. Check out the Salted Goat, a farmer-driven gastropub in DeBary that brings premium hyper-local ingredients, craft beer and spirits together in a casual and creative environment. Or try out The DeLand Eatery, located within The DeLand Hotel. They offer handmade American cuisine casual, speakeasy vibe. While you’re there, try Deland Cocktail Company’s summer safari beverage, the Peacock.
Keep the Excitement Going
West Volusia keeps the excitement going well beyond your last sip. From high-speed racing to handmade gifts and artistic fun, check out these upcoming events that bring even more flavor to your summer and early fall:
August Events
- Live Bluegrass with Remedy Tree — Aug 2
Northwest Square, an event venue and food hall in West Volusia, will host Remedy Tree for one night. Enjoy drinks from Chapel Tap, and food from one of the food vendors within Northwest Square for a memorable night. - Labor Day Racing Weekend – Aug 29–31
Catch the Labor Day Classic at Volusia Speedway Park, three days of full-throttle racing action.
September Events
- Fire & Ice – Sept 6
Indulge your taste buds in the best of both worlds as you sample and judge this year’s Chili Cook-Off and Ice Cream Churn-Off with competitors at Barberville Pioneer Settlement. Plus, enjoy live acoustic music, storytelling and history demonstrations. - DeLand Craft Show – Sept 27–28
Stroll artisan booths, enjoy hands-on demos, grab a bite, and let the kids explore the play zone. - DeLandtoberfest – Sept 27-28
Fill your steins and your stomachs during the most historical beer festival of the year as DeLand transforms into Bavaria. With classic live polka music, authentic German food and beer, and even a stein holding contest.
October Events
- Fall Harvest Market – Oct 5
Bring the whole family to Artisan Alley in DeLand for a fun-filled day of shopping and treats. Discover one-of-a-kind items from talented artisans, makers, and local boutiques. - Fall Classic – Oct 25
Rev up your weekend with heart-pounding action at Volusia Speedway Park—home of the DIRTcar Nationals.
West Volusia County, Florida, is conveniently located between Orlando and Daytona Beach and includes 14 distinct communities along the St. Johns River, I-4, and US-17/92. With a variety of unique accommodations and a growing collection of new restaurants, cool shops, craft beverage trail, and outdoor adventures, it’s a destination where every visit offers something new to explore.
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Experience summer magic in West Volusia, Florida at local markets, live concerts, and seasonal crafted drinks.
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