Florida's Forgotten Coast

Apalach Ghost Tour
2024-12-02 20:00 - 21:30, 2024-12-04 20:00 - 21:30, 2024-12-06 20:00 - 21:30, 2024-12-09 20:00 - 21:30, 2024-12-11 20:00 - 21:30, 2024-12-13 20:00 - 21:30, 2024-12-16 20:00 - 21:30, 2024-12-18 20:00 - 21:30 (America/New_York) and 2 more dates | Apalachicola, Florida, Apalachicola, 32320
Join us for local ghost stories, area legends, and tales of hauntings in downtown Apalachicola while using ghost-hunting equipment to seek out any lingering spirits. Select tour goers and volunteers will get to use EMF detectors, and other ghost-hunting equipment at select locations on the tour. Bring your positive energy and let’s try to say “hello” to the ghosts of Apalachicola. The tour will begin in front of the Chamber of Commerce located at 17 Avenue E next to the Dixie Theatre. This tour ranges in length from an hour and a half to an hour and 45 minutes. Tickets at: ApalachGhostTour.com

Special Exhibit: Home for the Holidays
2024-12-04 - 2025-01-12 | Carrabelle History Museum, 106 SE Ave B, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
The Carrabelle History Museum is pleased to announce a special holiday exhibit, “Home for the Holidays” featuring the folk art paintings of historic Carrabelle by beloved local historian, James W. “Buz” Putnal. These paintings reflect Buz’s love for Carrabelle’s heritage, capturing iconic scenes and memories that will resonate with locals and visitors alike.
This nostalgic special exhibit offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Carrabelle’s past through Buz’s artwork. The exhibit opens Wednesday, December 4 and will run through Sunday, January 12, 2025, at the Carrabelle History Museum. There will be an opening reception on Saturday, December 7 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. Visitors are welcome on Wednesdays from 12 to 5 pm ET, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm ET, and Sundays 12 to 5 pm ET. Admission is free, and donations are gratefully accepted. (Closed December 25 and January 1.)
Buz Putnal, born on October 16, 1936, in Carrabelle, spent his life dedicated to his community and family. He married his high school sweetheart, Genevieve Carrol, and together they raised four children. After a career with Gulf Oil Company and Buckeye Cellulose Corporation, Buz dedicated his retirement years to exploring his passions in painting, woodworking, historical preservation and his family. Buz also served his community as a City Commissioner and Mayor of Carrabelle.
“Home for the Holidays” features oil paintings that celebrate the scenic charm and historic character of Carrabelle in Buz’s folk art style. Visitors will be able to enjoy an intimate look at his depictions of the town’s landmarks and landscapes, as Buz saw them through his eyes and brushstrokes. His book, Echoes of Carrabelle, further preserves Carrabelle’s heritage, offering anecdotes and insights into the community’s unique stories.
Community members and visitors are invited to celebrate the holiday season and enjoy the legacy of Buz Putnal through his artwork—a tribute to Carrabelle and a reflection of his lifelong devotion to his family, community, and the history of this beloved coastal town.

Apalachicola Downtown Market
2024-12-04 09:00 - 13:00, 2024-12-11 09:00 - 13:00, 2024-12-18 09:00 - 13:00
Apalachicola Downtown Market’s intention is to add value to our community and support local artisans. We offer consumers the opportunity to purchase farm-fresh, locally grown food and homemade baked goods. The farmers market is a community hub-a place to meet up with your friends, bring your children, pets or just get a taste of small-town life. We encourage and welcome everyone to come support us every Wednesday 9am-1pm at 56 Commerce Street in Apalachicola, FL (Located in Bee Inspired Too’s front yard). New food vendors are always welcome, especially as we are nearing the Holidays. Vendors must follow The Florida Cottage Industry rules.

First Friday in Downtown Carrabelle
2024-12-06 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Carrabelle, 102 St. James Avenue (US Hwy 98), Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
Join us for a festive celebration at the Downtown Carrabelle First Friday Event on December 6th from 5-8pm!
The holiday spirit is in full swing as the vibrant Downtown Carrabelle business community comes together for an evening of fun, shopping, and celebration. Explore local shops, enjoy live music, savor delicious food and drinks, and take in beautiful art, all while mingling with friends old and new. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or simply a night out, this event has something for everyone!
– The Gallery at RIO Carrabelle will feature live music and light refreshments, providing a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy the art and the season.
– Harry’s Bar invites you to Happy Hour from 4-6pm, followed by lively Karaoke starting at 7pm—come sing your heart out!
– Local retail shops will stay open late with exclusive shopping specials, snacks, and refreshments, making it the perfect time to find something special.
Check out the list of participating businesses that will be open late for your enjoyment and support our local community this holiday season:
Artist Cove
C-Quarters Marina
Carrabelle Dive Shop
Gina’s Flowers & Such
Fathom’s Steam Room & Raw Bar
Gulf Coast Diner & Ice Cream
Harry’s Bar & Marine St Grill
Marine Street Mercantile
Mornin’ Bite
Pirate Girl’s Treasures
Rio Carrabelle Art Gallery
Salty Shenanigans Farm Store
Shop by the Sea
Wild River Nutrition

Scrooge on Commerce
2024-12-06 19:30 - 20:30, 2024-12-07 19:30 - 20:30 | Apalachicola, Florida, Apalachicola, 32320
Apalach Ghost Tour Presents “Scrooge on Commerce”, a street tour featuring characters from the Dickens classic telling the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old fellow who must learn the true meaning of Christmas from the Ghosts of Past, Present and Future before it’s too late. The tour also features other characters from the book.

Holiday Fresh Market
2024-12-07 10:00 - 15:00 | Apalachicola Visitor Center, 17 Avenue E, Apalachicola, FL, 32320, United States
On Saturday, December 7th from 10 am – 3 pm the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce Presents the Holiday Fresh Market. Why fight the crowds and traffic at the malls? Come for the day or the weekend and find one-of-a-kind unusual presents. Shop in a relaxed, hassle-free environment in an outdoor setting. Buy hand-crafted Apalachicola specialties such as baked goods, artwork, wood carving, pottery, and hand-knitted goods. Your gift shopping has never been easier! Located in front of the Chamber of Commerce on Avenue E.

Join Holiday Fun at the Franklin County Public Library’s Story Time Event!
2024-12-10 15:30 | Eastpoint Public Library, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, FL, 32328, United States
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) invite families from across the region to enjoy a fun Story Time event at the Eastpoint and Carrabelle Branch Libraries. This special program is scheduled for Tuesday, December 10, at 3:30 PM, at the Eastpoint Branch, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, FL and the Carrabelle Branch, 311 St. James Ave. (Hwy 98), Carrabelle, FL. These programs are free and open to the public, with no library card required!
The Story Time events will feature the children’s book “How Does Santa Go Down The Chimney” written by Mac Barnett. This playful children’s book tackles the age-old mystery of how Santa makes his way inside homes—headfirst, feet first, or maybe even by squeezing through unusual places like faucets! Barnett’s blend of humor and imagination explores each possibility, with hilariously creative solutions that are sure to become a holiday favorite. This holiday tale captures a child’s whimsical curiosity, making it perfect for family traditions.
The Story Time programs are filled with engaging storytelling and crafts, providing a time of fun to ignite a love for reading in young minds. The whole family is invited to participate, which are designed to build pre-reading skills and encourage social interaction in a relaxed atmosphere. This event is best suited for those 2-6 years old.
This event is just one of many in the Program Series sponsored by the FFCPL. Regular programs will continue as scheduled, including the Eastpoint Book Chat on the 1st Tuesday at 1:30 pm, the Carrabelle Book Chat on the 1st Friday at 1:30 pm, and the Eastpoint Writer’s Forum on the 3rd Wednesday at 1:00 pm.
The Fall Program Series is the perfect opportunity for families to connect, learn, and explore new interests together. The FFCPL is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting the Franklin County Public Libraries in Eastpoint and Carrabelle and offering valuable programs and resources.
For more information about the Story Time event or other upcoming programs, contact the Eastpoint Branch at (850) 670-8151 or the Carrabelle Branch at (850) 697-2366.

Homeschool Hour with FPAN
2024-12-11 13:00 | Eastpoint Public Library, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, FL, 32328, United States
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) will be hosting Homeschool Hour with Florida Public Archaeology Network on Wednesday, December 11, at 1:00 pm ET at the Eastpoint Branch, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, FL. Families with homeschooled children are invited to join a special hour hosted by the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN), featuring the book “Swap” by Steve Light. Participants will then engage in several hands-on activities including one where children will design and build their own boats and then test their seaworthiness, making for an exciting and educational experience.

Hanukkah & Christmas Connections
2024-12-11 18:00 - 19:00 | Apalachicola Margaret Key Library, 12th Street and Avenue E, Apalachicola, FL 32320
Join us at the Apalachicola Margaret Key Public Library for a very special holiday event. David Adlerstein, editor of the Apalachicola Times/Port St. Joe Star, will discuss the connections between the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah and the Christian holiday of Christmas. We’ll also light the menorah with holiday treats to follow. All are welcome to this FREE event!

The Carol Burnett Show
2024-12-12 - 2024-12-15 | Chapman Auditorium, 155 Avenue E, Apalachicola, FL, 32320, United States
The Carol Burnett Show Live will feature some of the funniest sketches from the famous TV show. Carol Burnett is known as one of the most brilliant comedians of all time, and her Carol Burnett Show ran for 11 years, garnering 25 prime-time Emmy awards and inclusion on Time Magazine’s list of “100 Best TV Shows of All Times.” All skits will be perfromed by some of your favorite local actors.

Make Some Holiday Magic at the Franklin County Public Libraries’ STEM Space Event!
2024-12-12 15:30 | Eastpoint Public Library, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, FL, 32328, United States
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) welcome young explorers to embark on an exploration of science, technology, engineering, and math at an upcoming STEM event. This engaging and educational program will take place on Thursday, December 12, at 3:30 pm ET, at both the Eastpoint and Carrabelle branches. Best of all, this event is completely free and open to the public—no library card is required!
This STEM Space event will feature fun, hands-on activity where young explorers will make Snow Dough. In a place where snow is only a winter dream, this activity provides a way to experience the texture of snow without the cold. Participants will create their own “snow” enhancing creativity and sensory play. This interactive activity promises to be both fun and educational for all involved.
The STEM Space is designed to inspire curiosity and foster a love for STEM in an interactive and supportive environment. Early exposure to STEM has been closely linked to future academic achievement and career success. By participating in activities that are both fun and educational, children can develop essential skills like critical thinking and problem-solving, setting them up for a bright future. This event is best suited for those ages 8-12 years old.
This event is just one of the many exciting programs included in the Fall Program Series at the Franklin County Public Libraries. The series offers a variety of activities for all ages, ensuring that there is something for everyone. In addition to the STEM Space event, the Fall Program Series features Story Times, Adult Crafternoons, Kids Crafts and more. Regular programs will continue as scheduled, including the Eastpoint Book Chat on the 1st Tuesday at 1:30 pm, the Carrabelle Book Chat on the 1st Friday at 1:30 pm, and the Eastpoint Writer’s Forum on the 3rd Wednesday at 1:00 pm.
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries, a 501(c)(3) organization, proudly sponsor the Program Series to ensure that the libraries in Eastpoint and Carrabelle continue to be vibrant community hubs offering valuable programs and resources. The FFCPL is dedicated to supporting the libraries and fostering a lifelong love of learning within the community.
For more information about this event or any of the other upcoming programs, please contact the Eastpoint Branch at 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, (850) 670-8151 or the Carrabelle Branch at 311 St, James Ave (Hwy 98), Carrabelle, (850) 697-2366.

Bay Area Choral Society Christmas Concert
2024-12-15 16:00 | Apalachicola Trinity Episcopal Church, 79 6th Street, Apalachicola, FL, 32320, United States
Bay Area Choral Society (BACS) will present “It’s Christmas!” on Sunday, December 15, at 4:00 at Trinity Episcopal Church.

December Sunset and Full Moon Climb at the Cape St. George Lighthouse
2024-12-15 17:30 - 19:30 | Saint George Island Lighthouse, 2-B East Gulf Beach Drive, Saint George Island, 32328
Sunset and Full Moon Climb at Cape St. George Lighthouse
The December Sunset and Full Moon Climb at the Cape St. George Lighthouse on St. George Island will be held on Sunday, December 15, 2024. Visitors can enjoy this opportunity to view St. George Island, the Gulf of Mexico and the Apalachicola bay under the evening sky.
The Sunset and Full Moon Climb will begin at 5:30 p.m. and run until 7:30 p.m. Fifteen-minute time slots will be allotted for each group on a first come, first served basis. No advanced reservations will be taken. You will purchase your tickets in the gift shop and then sign up for your 15-minute time slot with the lighthouse keeper. Up to 12 persons allowed in each 15-minute time slot. The gift shop will be open at 5:00 p.m. to begin selling tickets.
Cost is $10.00 per climber for the general public and $7.00 for members of the St. George Lighthouse Association. Cash or credit card payments accepted. All climbers must be at least 40 inches tall to climb the tower and children must be age 13 and over to access the outside catwalk. For more information, please contact the Lighthouse Gift Shop at 850-927-7745.
The sun will set at 5:43 p.m. and the “Cold” moon will rise at 5:58 p.m. on December 15th. The December full moon is called the Cold moon for obvious reasons: winter is about to arrive and temperatures are dropping. It’s getting cold! Full Moon names are attributable to Native American tribes, most notably the Algonquin, who named the moons to mark the changing seasons.
The Cape St. George Light is located in St. George Lighthouse Park at the center of St. George Island, where Island Drive (the road off the bridge) ends at Gulf Beach Drive. Parking is available in lots at either side of the park.

Blues & BBQ Full Moon
2024-12-15 18:00 - 21:00 | Crooked River Lighthouse, 1975 Hwy 98 W, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
Looking for a break from Christmas music? Warm up with some tunes to get you through the winter season at a special Blues & BBQ full moon event at Crooked River Lighthouse on Sunday, December 15, from 6:00-9:00 pm ET in Carrabelle, FL. This outdoor event will feature live Blues music from the talented “Blues Meets Girl”, a glowing bonfire, and a delicious BBQ meal. Visitors can enjoy the natural surroundings of St. George Sound and Carrabelle Beach under the glow of the sunset and rising Cold Moon. Bring a chair and enjoy the evening.
Powerful musical duo, Blues Meets Girl, is a collaboration of British Blues veteran Mr. Downchild and Texas born singer/songwriter Kasimira. These two bold artists weave their separate influences together to create down-home, smokin’, sexy blues music at its best. Listeners can feel and relate to the soulful and passionate songs, as well as their unique renditions of the classics by Muddy Waters, Etta James, Big Mama Thorton, Elmore James and more. Blues Meets Girl is bonafide Blues thru and thru.
Visitors can enjoy an after-hours tour of the Keeper’s House Museum and see the exhibit of the lighthouse’s original, historic Fresnel lens constructed in 1894 in Paris, France. Guests can browse the unique nautical gifts and souvenirs in the gift shop. Visitors may also enjoy the glowing bonfire in the park (weather permitting).
For this special event, admission tickets are required. Purchase early and save—tickets are $17 if bought by December 11, or $22 from December 12 until they sell out. Admission includes live music, bonfire, a delicious BBQ plate (choice of pork or chicken), and after-hours access to the museum.
Evening climbs are also available for those brave souls who are bold enough to venture to the top of the tallest Forgotten Coast lighthouse. Climbers will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the bay. Evening climbs cost $10 for climbers (ages 13 and up) and timed tickets are needed due to limited availability.

Creative Christmas Craft at the Franklin County Public Libraries’ Adult Crafternoon Event!
2024-12-17 14:30 | Eastpoint Public Library, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, FL, 32328, United States
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) invites visitors and residents to enjoy a relaxing and creative afternoon at the upcoming Adult Crafternoon event. This engaging program will take place on Tuesday, December 17, at 2:30 PM, at both the Eastpoint and Carrabelle branches. Participants will create their own Christmas candle — a wonderful way to relax, connect with others, and bring home a unique holiday handmade treasure!
Adult Crafternoon is part of the Fall Program Series at the Franklin County Public Libraries, offering engaging activities for all ages. This event promises a wonderful time for both experienced crafters or those just looking for a relaxing afternoon. Supplies are provided, and best of all, it’s completely free and open to all adults—no library card needed!
The Fall Program Series at the Franklin County Public Libraries is packed with exciting events, including StoryTimes for children, STEM Space for young explorers, Pirate Talks, Animal programs, Kids Crafts and more. Each program is thoughtfully designed to cater to different interests, ensuring that there’s something for everyone in the community. Regular programs will continue as scheduled, including the Eastpoint Book Chat on the 1st Tuesday at 1:30 pm, the Carrabelle Book Chat on the 1st Friday at 1:30 pm, the Eastpoint Writer’s Forum on the 3rd Wednesday at 1:00 pm, and Tech Help on the 4th Tuesday at 1:00 pm at both branches.
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting the libraries in Eastpoint and Carrabelle, proudly sponsor the Fall Program Series. Their continued efforts help ensure that the libraries remain vibrant community hubs, offering valuable programs and resources for all.
Guests are encouraged to seize this opportunity to craft and chill! For more information about the Adult Crafternoon event or any of the other upcoming programs, please contact the Eastpoint Branch at 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, 850-670-8151 or the Carrabelle Branch at 311 St, James Ave (Hwy 98), Carrabelle, 850-697-2366.

Cookies & Cocoa Holiday Party
2024-12-19 16:30 | Carrabelle Library, 311 St. James Avenue SE (US Hwy 98), Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) will be hosting a Cookies & Cocoa Holiday Party on Thursday, December 19, at 4:30 pm ET at the Carrabelle Branch, 311 St. James Ave. SE (Hwy 98), Carrabelle, FL. Families are invited to join the Carrabelle Branch of the Franklin County Public Library for an engaging event featuring tons of holiday fun including cookie decorating, hot cocoa, and a variety of festive holiday-themed activities.

Wizarding Wonderland
2024-12-20 14:30 | Eastpoint Public Library, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, FL, 32328, United States
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) will be hosting a Wizarding Wonderland on Friday, December 20 at 2:30 pm ET at the Eastpoint Branch, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, FL. Join an enchanting magical-themed holiday party that promises to be a spellbinding experience for all ages! Guests are invited to dust off their wizard hats and don their house colors to celebrate with an array of magical festivities. Visitors can enjoy delicious themed snacks and beverages while mingling with fellow magical enthusiasts.

Apalachicola Downtown Walkabout
2024-12-20 17:00 - 20:00 | Apalachicola
The Apalachicola Downtown Walkabout is a large-scale experience featuring local artists, shopping, and exciting in-store events.
Admission is free and all are welcome.
Participating stores and galleries have extended hours from 5PM-8PM.
