Creation Station: Sewing Felt Winter Animals
2026-01-14 16:00 (America/New_York) | Eastpoint Public Library, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, FL, 32328, United States
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) announces a week filled with creativity, connection, and community at the Eastpoint and Carrabelle Branches of the Franklin County Public Libraries through their popular Program Series. All library programs are free and open to the public with no library card required.
Creation Station: Sewing Felt Winter Animals, a program where children ages 7–12 can learn simple sewing while making a cozy critter to take home, will be held on Wednesday, January 14 at 4:00 PM at the Eastpoint Branch.

Winter Art &Music Series: Clayton Mathis & David Lloyd
2026-01-14 18:00 - 19:30 | Apalachicola Margaret Key Library, 12th Street and Avenue E, Apalachicola, FL 32320
Popular singer-songwriters Clayton Mathis and David Lloyd will kick off the Apalachicola Library’s 2026 Art and Music Series: “World Tour,” playing Americana music on Wednesday, January 14, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. The series will continue every other Wednesday evening in January and February in the library’s intimate listening room setting at 80 12th Street in Apalachicola. In addition to Americana music, performances will feature the music and culture of Greece and Nigeria and the fascinating travels of an international cyclist. Light refreshments; limited seating. FREE, thanks to Porch Fest Apalach 2022 and PALS–the Friends of the Apalachicola Margaret Key Public Library.

Coastal Birds of the Eastern Panhandle
2026-01-16 17:00, 2026-01-17 09:00 | Carrabelle Library, 311 St. James Avenue SE (US Hwy 98), Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) announces a week filled with creativity, connection, and community at the Eastpoint and Carrabelle Branches of the Franklin County Public Libraries through their popular Program Series. All library programs are free and open to the public with no library card required.
Audubon Florida will present Coastal Birds of the Eastern Panhandle on Friday, January 16 at 5:00 PM at the Carrabelle Branch as part of a free two-day workshop. On Saturday, January 17 at 9:00 AM, patrons can join a local biologist for a guided beach walk at McKissack Beach Parking Lot (end of Gulf Beach Dr., Carrabelle). All ages welcome, no sign-up required, and attendees may join one or both events.

Apalachicola Oyster Cook-Off
2026-01-17 | Apalachicola Riverfront Park, Water Street, Apalachicola, FL, 32320, United States
Apalachicola’s annual Oyster Cook-Off returns January 17 in downtown Historic Apalachicola at Riverfront Park. The event features oysters galore, local beer, live music, kids’ activities, dancing performances, and a 5K run! Enter your best recipe and be a contestant in the oyster cook-off or just come out and enjoy a day of wonderful food, refreshments and music. Well-mannered pets are welcomed on a leash. All proceeds benefit the Apalachicola Volunteer Fire Department.

Country Farmer’s Market in Carrabelle
2026-01-17 09:00 - 13:00, 2026-02-07 09:00 - 13:00 | Crooked River Lighthouse, 1975 Hwy 98 W, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
The Crooked River Lighthouse continues to host its popular Country Farmers Markets on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month from 9 am to 1 pm ET at the foot of Carrabelle’s historic lighthouse. These lively markets are the perfect chance to shop small, shop local, and discover unique gifts and tasty treats while supporting regional vendors, artists, bakers, artisans, and crafters. The lighthouse is located at 1975 Hwy 98 West, Carrabelle, FL.
Market-goers will find a wide selection of offerings, including organic farm-fresh produce, grass-fed beef, fresh eggs, aromatic herbs, artisan breads and baked goods, mouthwatering cinnamon rolls, batch-roasted coffee, assorted jellies, homemade hot sauces and salsas, handcrafted balms and sprays, locally made jewelry, stunning art and décor, unique clothing and t-shirts, plants and other handmade goods and craft items. Throughout the year, the market also features special activities like book signings, live music, children’s activities, paint parties, and photography classes, adding to the fun and community spirit.
Visitors are encouraged to extend their visit by exploring the free Keeper’s House Museum, which houses the historic Fresnel lens, and by browsing the lighthouse gift shop, open from 9 am to 5 pm ET. The shop offers an array of handcrafted items, jewelry, coastal art, nautical décor, souvenirs, and keepsakes. For those seeking a little extra adventure, a climb to the top of the lighthouse rewards guests with a breathtaking panoramic view of St. George Sound (small fee applies).
New and returning vendors are welcome to join any time for $10 per market by emailing carrabellelighthouse@gmail.com. For more information, call 850-697-2732 or visit www.crookedriverlighthouse.com. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

Carrabelle History Museum’s Speaker Program: History, Culture, and Stories of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation of Florida
2026-01-17 10:00 - 12:00 | C-Quarters Marina, Carrabelle, 501 St. James Ave (Hwy 98), Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
The Carrabelle History Museum is presenting a fascinating speaker program about the History, Culture, and Stories of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation of Florida on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm ET at C-Quarters Marina, 501 St James Ave (Hwy 98), Carrabelle, FL. This program will feature Misty Penton, Bio Archeologist, Muscogee/Creek Storyteller and Tradition Keeper, Education Director of the Fred George Museum, and founder of the Wildwood Preservation Society. There is no charge for this event.
At this session, Misty will discuss the rich history, culture, and stories of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation of Florida, a people whose resilience has endured despite the hardships of the Trail of Tears and centuries of efforts to erase their identity. Learn how small groups avoided removal by hiding in the swamps of North Florida, preserving their traditions through strength and secrecy. Misty will share the enduring legacy of Ekvnv Hvtke Tvlwv (White Earth Tribal Town) located at nearby Blountstown, FL—the only ceremonial square grounds east of the Mississippi with unbroken ceremonies since prehistoric times. Discover the sacred art of shell carving, a tradition dating back to the Mississippian era, and explore how generational storytelling, oral traditions, and sacred ceremonies continue to guide and sustain the Muscogee people today. Through Misty’s presentation, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the enduring spirit of the Muscogee people and their unbroken connection to the land, culture, and ancestors.
Misty Penton is the Tradition Keeper and Storyteller for the Muscogee Nation of Florida and serves as the Education Director for The Museum at Fred George Park and Greenway in Tallahassee, operated by the Wildwood Preservation Society. She also works as the Museum Director/Curator for the Muscogee Nation of Florida and an Education Specialist at WFSU Public Media. Penton holds a Master of Science degree in Physical and Biological Anthropology from the University of Oregon and two Bachelor of Science degrees in Political Science and Anthropology from Florida State University. She grew up near the land that is now Leon County’s Fred George Park and Greenway and helped create a coalition to help found the new county park.

Eastpoint Souper Celebration (Soup, Bread, and Book Sale Event)
2026-01-17 10:00 - 14:00 | Eastpoint Public Library, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, FL, 32328, United States
The Friends of Franklin County Public Libraries invite everyone to a delicious and fun-filled Souper Celebration, a Soup, Bread, and Book Sale Event on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at the Eastpoint Branch Library, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, FL. The general public is welcome from 10 am – 2 pm ET. Members of the Friends have exclusive early access to the soup sale starting at 9:30 am. Also new members, renewing members and those donating can get a Friends tote bag. This fun celebration will offer local culture and art. This is a family friendly event and all are welcome.
This annual event features delicious homemade soups, freshly baked artisan breads and used books and DVDs. Local residents bring their delicious homemade soups from seafood bisques and gumbos to chili and Brunswick stew, along with freshly baked breads. With dozens of soups ranging from exotic to healthy to old-fashioned, visitors are encouraged to come early to get the best selection before they sell out.

Yoga @ Apalachicola Library
2026-01-19 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-01-26 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-02-02 18:00 - 19:00 | Apalachicola Margaret Key Library, 12th Street and Avenue E, Apalachicola, FL 32320
Yoga class led by Kathy Jansen (CYT 200 & 500) with Spirit of the River Yoga Studio and Store (https://www.spiritoftheriveryoga.com/) . Class is by-donation, and begins shortly after 6pm when the library closes for business. Come early to sign a liability waiver, set out your mat and get comfortable. Some mats/blocks/straps/blankets available for use, though attendees are encouraged to bring their own.

Apalach Ghost Tour
2026-01-19 20:00 - 21:30, 2026-01-26 20:00 - 21:30, 2026-02-02 20:00 - 21:30 | Apalachicola
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 which is 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.

Tech Help
2026-01-20 11:00, 2026-01-27 11:00, 2026-02-03 11:00 | Carrabelle Library, 311 St. James Avenue SE (US Hwy 98), Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) are pleased to announce that a popular series of free educational Tech Help sessions will continue this March at the Carrabelle Branch Library. These sessions are part of the Program Series, offering something for everyone – young children, students, and lifelong learners. These events are open to the public—no library card is required—and offer a welcoming, inclusive space for individuals of all ages to learn, explore, and connect through technology.
A Tech Help session is scheduled for Tuesday, May 5 at 11 am at the Carrabelle Branch. Patrons may receive one-on-one assistance with devices, email, digital resources, and more. No registration is required; drop-ins are welcome.
A Tech Help session is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12 at 11 AM at the Carrabelle Branch. Patrons may receive one-on-one assistance with devices, email, digital resources, and more. No registration is required; drop-ins are welcome.

Butts & Clucks Cook-Off on the Bay
2026-01-22 - 2026-01-24 | Battery Park, 1 Bay Ave., Apalachicola, FL, 32320, United States
Join us at Battery Park for a weekend filled with flavor, fun, and fiery competition at the Butts & Clucks Cook-Off on the Bay, Thursday- Saturday, January 22-24, in Apalachicola’s Battery Park. Hosted by the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce, this award-winning culinary event has been featured on the Food Network’s BBQ USA and is a Florida BBQ-sanctioned event.
Witness culinary mastery as top-notch teams from across the Southeast converge to showcase their skills in smoking and grilling. They’ll be vying for over $11,000 in cash and prizes, demonstrating their prowess in four tantalizing meat categories: Chicken, Ribs, Pork Butt, and Brisket. Each category promises a feast for the senses, offering mouth-watering aromas and flavors that embody the essence of Southern BBQ. Don’t miss this opportunity to indulge in some of the finest BBQ the Southeast has to offer. Want to learn how to judge BBQ? Sign up to become a certified BBQ judge and be trained by industry leaders during the event. Sponsorships are also available.
Don’t miss this opportunity to indulge in some of the finest BBQ the Southeast has to offer. For more information, contact the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce at 850-653-9419 or email info@apalachicolabay.org. Join us at Battery Park for a weekend filled with flavor, fun, and fiery competition at the Butts & Clucks Cook-Off on the Bay!

Ilse Newell Concert Series: Ben Rosenblum
2026-01-23 18:00 - 20:00 | Apalachicola Trinity Episcopal Church, 79 6th Street, Apalachicola, FL, 32320, United States
Jazz Pianist & Accordion

Apalachicola Farmers Market
2026-01-24 09:00 - 13:00 | 133 Avenue E, 133 Avenue E, Apalachicola, United States
Located at 133 Avenue E, across from CVS, the Apalachicola Farmers Market offers local seafood, produce, honey, homemade breads, pies, and other regional specialties every 2nd and 4th Saturday from 9 AM until 1 PM in Apalachicola.

Winter Art & Music Series: Greek Music with Panayotis League
2026-01-28 18:00 - 19:30 | Apalachicola Margaret Key Library, 12th Street and Avenue E, Apalachicola, FL 32320
Immerse yourself in the lively sounds of Greek folk music as Panayotis (Paddy) League performs the songs of Greek sponge divers in Greece and across the Greek diaspora (including Apalachicola!). The Apalachicola Library’s exciting Winter Art & Music: “World Tour” continues on Wednesday, January 28, at 6 PM in the library’s intimate listening room setting. Light refreshments; limited seating. FREE, thanks to Porch Fest Apalach 2022 and PALS–the Friends of the Apalachicola Margaret Key Public Library.

Adult Crafternoon: Hanging Hand Towel
2026-01-29 08:00 - 17:00 | Eastpoint Public Library, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, FL, 32328, United States
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) announces a week filled with creativity, connection, and community at the Eastpoint and Carrabelle Branches of the Franklin County Public Libraries through their popular Program Series. Library programs are free and open to the public with no library card required.
Adult Crafternoon: Hanging Hand Towel will take place on Thursday, February 12 at 2:30 PM at the Eastpoint Branch. At this workshop guests will be sewing a hand towel to a potholder for hanging. This easy hands-on lesson with a sewing machine will be provided in a relaxed, welcoming setting and is open to adults of all skill levels.

Ilse Newell Concert Series: Leon Anderson
2026-02-01 16:00 - 18:00 | Apalachicola Trinity Episcopal Church, 79 6th Street, Apalachicola, FL, 32320, United States
Leon Anderson is an American jazz drummer from New Orleans, Louisiana, US, who trained as a classical percussionist, and has worked with Marcus Roberts and Wynton Marsalis. He performs and tours internationally.

CAPE ST. GEORGE LIGHT TO HOST FEBRUARY SUNSET AND FULL MOON CLIMB
2026-02-01 18:15 - 20:15 | Saint George Island Lighthouse, 2-B East Gulf Beach Drive, Saint George Island, 32328
CAPE ST. GEORGE LIGHT TO HOST FEBRUARY SUNSET AND FULL MOON CLIMB
Sunday, February 1, 2026 | 6:15–8:15 p.m. | St. George Island, Florida
ST. GEORGE ISLAND, FL – Experience the beauty of St. George Island under the glow of the full moon! The St. George Lighthouse Association will host its February Sunset and Full Moon Climb on Sunday, February 1, 2026, from 6:15 to 8:15 p.m.
Event Highlights
• Sunset at 6:18 p.m.
• Moonrise at 6:14 p.m.
Climb Details
• Time: 6:15 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.
• Tickets: Tickets can be purchased beginning at 5:45 p.m. in the Lighthouse Gift Shop,
No advance reservations will be accepted.
• Cost: General Public – $10.00 per climber; SGLA Member – $7.00 per climber
• Payment: Cash and credit cards are accepted.
• Format: Fifteen-minute lighthouse climbs are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Capacity: Each time slot is limited to 12 climbers to ensure safety and comfort.
Visitor Requirements
• All climbers must be at least 40 inches tall.
• For safety reasons, only children aged 13 and older may access the exterior catwalk.
Location – The Cape St. George Light is in Lighthouse Park at the center of St. George Island – End of Island Drive (off the bridge) at Gulf Beach Drive.
How to Participate
1. Arrive at Lighthouse Park and park in lots on either side of the park.
2. Visit the Gift Shop (opening at 5:45 p.m.) to purchase your climb ticket.
3. Proceed next door to the lighthouse tower and sign up with the lighthouse keeper for your
preferred 15-minute climb time.
4. Prepare for an unforgettable experience of sweeping panoramic views of Gulf waters and island shores.
Weather Permitting – The Sunset and Full Moon Climb is weather permitting. In the event of inclement conditions, updates will be posted on the St. George Lighthouse, Museum & Gift Shop Facebook page.
About the Snow Moon
The February full moon, often called the “Snow Moon,” was named by early Native American tribes and European settlers who associated it with abundant snowfall in the Northern Hemisphere. Some North American tribes named it the Hungry Moon due to the scarce food sources and hard hunting conditions during mid-winter, while others named it Bear Moon, referring to bear cubs being born this time of year. Celtic and Old English names for the February Full Moon are Storm Moon and Ice Moon.

Special Exhibit: Honoring African American Servicemen
2026-02-03 11:00 - 2026-02-28 17:00 | Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum, 1873 Hwy 98 W, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum in Carrabelle is presenting a special exhibit in recognition of Black History Month honoring the service of African-American servicemembers in WWII. This exhibit will open Tuesday, February 3, 2026 and will be on display at the museum until Saturday, February 28, 2026. The museum is open every Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm ET and there is no charge for admission.
African Americans served in large numbers during WWII despite being denied full rights as American citizens. They served in segregated units in both the Army and the Army Air Corps, one of the most recognizable being the Tuskegee Airmen. Many African American soldiers trained at Camp Gordon Johnston in transportation units such as Amphibious Truck Companies, where support units often worked close to combat and came under fire.
At Camp Gordon Johnston, these Amphibious Truck Companies trained in the use of the amphibious truck known as the DUKW, using the bay and sandy beaches in Carrabelle and all along the Forgotten Coast to practice operating, loading and unloading these truly amphibious vehicles. The Museum continues its research into the units that trained at Camp Gordon Johnston in Carrabelle and served in World War II including being part of the campaign on Iwo Jima.
This exhibit will share what has been uncovered about these servicemen who, like many African Americans of the era, served their country with honor in a still-segregated military and faced significant challenges along the way.
Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum is located in Carrabelle, directly across from Carrabelle Public Beach Park at 1873 Hwy 98 West. For more information, contact Camp Gordon Johnston Museum at (850) 697-8575 or museum@campgordonjohnston.com. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

Speaker Program on the “French, Spanish and British Years: From Discovery to an Exceptionally American Florida”
2026-02-07 10:00 - 12:00 | C-Quarters Marina, Carrabelle, 501 St. James Ave (Hwy 98), Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
The Carrabelle History Museum is proud to present a fascinating speaker program, “French, Spanish and British Years: From Discovery to an Exceptionally American Florida”, featuring Clinton Flowers, Interpretive Aide at the Missouri State Museum. This free program will be held Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm ET at C-Quarters Marina, 501 St James Ave (Hwy 98), Carrabelle, FL.
Flowers will discuss the critical events and interactions among France, Spain, and Britain that contributed to the development of the modern State of Florida. The narrative encompasses episodes of conflict, deception, and strategic alliances, while recognizing the enduring legacies of Florida—now celebrated as the “free state of sunshine!”
The Louisiana Purchase of 1803, though not directly including Florida, transformed the young nation and indirectly reshaped Florida’s role. Occurring during a period characterized by exploration, conquest, and expansion, it marked a major enhancement of American power, providing new territory, resources, wealth, and international influence. Once ruled by Spain, then Britain, then the U.S., Florida’s path to statehood reveals a layered history. While many believe Spain made the first permanent settlement at St. Augustine in 1565, the French actually established one earlier in 1562—decades before Jamestown. Divided into East and West Florida, the region remained outside the Continental Congress, yet was deeply entwined with America’s expansion story.
Clinton Flowers works as an Interpretive Aide at the Missouri State Museum, a history and cultural division of Missouri State Parks, in the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. He has retired from a career as Program Manager in the Missouri Department of Economic Development. Flowers has a Bachelor’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. As a certified Interpretive Aide, he provides guided tours and has developed history programs about our nation’s westward expansion, Lewis and Clark, the steamboat industry, and the Louisiana Purchase. In addition, he has been a long-time visitor to Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Flowers brings both expertise and personal passion to this talk.

Annual Crooked River Park Fest
2026-02-07 10:00 - 16:00 | Crooked River Lighthouse, 1975 Hwy 98 W, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
The Crooked River Lighthouse will host its 4th Annual Crooked River Park Fest on Saturday, February 7, in Carrabelle, FL. From 10 am–4 pm ET, visitors can enjoy an expanded Country “Super” Market with arts and crafts and food vendors, a car show from 10 am–2 pm, a fish and nature printing activity, and live music by The Waterbirds. Tower climbs, the Keeper’s House Museum with the 1894 Fresnel Lens, and delicious food will be available throughout the day. Admission is free. Admission and climb tickets are available online or in the gift shop.
The Country “Super” Market will feature regional arts and crafts, coastal décor, jewelry, bags, organic produce and eggs, grass-fed beef, locally roasted coffee, hot sauces, soaps, candles, balms, local books, tumblers, and baked treats such as artisan breads, cinnamon rolls, cookies, and candied nuts. From 10 am–2 pm, the car show will highlight classic, vintage, and custom vehicles with prizes and People’s Choice Awards, with participants from groups including the Forgotten Coast Cruisers and the Antique Automobile Club of America. The Waterbirds will perform aboard the Pirate Ship stage from 2-4 pm, bringing a lively mix of reggae, folk, jazz, rock, blues, and original music. Delicious food will be available from Mamaw’s Fresh Catch and LINK Sausage & Beer.
The Carrabelle Artist Association will offer a Fish and Nature Printing activity where participants can create nautical or nature-inspired artwork on rice paper, tea towels, or personal items. The cost is $20, including materials and instruction. Advance tickets are recommended and are available at the Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce, the lighthouse gift shop, or Ticketleap. For details or tickets, contact Marian Morris at 850‑294‑9664 or morrispottery@gmail.com.
For Park Fest, tower climbs will be available from 10 am – 5 pm for a special price of $5 for ages 13 and up. Current members climb free and children 12 and under climb free with an adult. Climbers must be at least 44 inches tall. Climbers enjoy panoramic views from the tallest lighthouse on the Forgotten Coast. Guests can also enjoy free entry to the Keeper’s House Museum to explore several exhibits and the original 4th Order Fresnel Lens. Nautical gifts and souvenirs are for sale in the gift shop.

Annual SGI ShrimpFest
2026-02-07 11:00 - 16:00 | Saint George Island Lighthouse, 2-B East Gulf Beach Drive, Saint George Island, 32328
The St. George Lighthouse Association is thrilled to announce that it will be hosting the 5th Annual SGI ShrimpFest on February 7th, from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm in the western parking area adjacent to Lighthouse Park.

Ilse Newell Concert Series: Billy Rigsby Band
2026-02-07 18:00 - 20:00 | Historic Holy Family Center, 223 Frederick Humphries Street, Apalachicola, FL, 32320, United States
Blues Soul Band
