Anniversary of Pearl Harbor and Christmas During the War
2025-12-02 - 2026-01-03 | Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum, 1873 Hwy 98 W, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum in Carrabelle is presenting two special exhibits in the month of December. The focus of one exhibit will be on commemorating the Anniversary of Pearl Harbor and the focus of the other exhibit will be on exploring Christmas During the War. These two exhibits will open Tuesday, December 2, 2025 and be on display until Saturday, January 3, 2026. The museum is open every Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm ET and there is no charge for admission. (Closed Thursday, December 25 and January 1.)
In honor of the Anniversary of Pearl Harbor, Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum is presenting an exhibit commemorating this dark day in America’s history. World War II came home for the United States on December 7, 1941, when the naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan attacked the US Western Fleet at the American base Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. President Franklin D. Roosevelt called it “a date which will live in infamy”. Learn about those that planned the attack, the sole Japanese POW taken, and the heroic efforts by Doris Miller of the USS West Virginia to shoot down attacking Japanese planes. This attack resulted in the declaration of war with Japan and the US entering World War II. Luckily, the Pacific Fleet’s aircraft carriers were at sea on that day, and escaped damage to fight later. “Remember Pearl Harbor” became the rallying cry of Americans as they enlisted by the thousands and built up the immense industrial effort needed to achieve victory in 1945.
The second special exhibit for this month will reflect on what Christmas was like during the war. Americans had to learn to do with less during the years they were fully engaged in fighting World War II. That had a significant impact on every aspect of American life including how Christmas was celebrated. Americans were encouraged to make their own toys and decorations, and commercially-made gifts emphasized materials that were not needed for war, including cloth, paper and wood. For example the popular Lionel Train toys were converted to cardboard and people learned how to cook and bake with corn syrup once sugar became scarce. Learn more about how rationing changed toys, food and even decorations during the war.

Country Farmer’s Market in Carrabelle
2026-01-03 09:00 - 13:00, 2026-01-17 09:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | 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.

JANUARY SUNSET AND FULL MOON CLIMB
2026-01-03 18:00 - 20:00 | Saint George Island Lighthouse, 2-B East Gulf Beach Drive, Saint George Island, 32328
ST. GEORGE ISLAND, FL – Experience the beauty of St. George Island under the glow of the first full moon of the new year! The St. George Lighthouse Association will host its January Sunset and Full Moon Climb on Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Event Highlights
-Sunset at 5:54 p.m.
-Moonrise at 6:17 p.m.
Climb Details
• Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• 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.
• Tickets: Tickets can be purchased beginning at 5:30 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.
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 5:30 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 Wolf Moon
The January full moon, often called the “Wolf Moon,” was named by early Native American tribes and European settlers who associated its appearance with the howling of wolves echoing through the cold midwinter nights. The Wolf Moon symbolizes renewal, reflection, and the quiet strength of the winter season making this climb a perfect way to welcome the new year with peace and purpose.

Variety Show
2026-01-03 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-01-04 15:00 - 17:00 | Chapman Auditorium, 155 Avenue E, Apalachicola, FL, 32320, United States
Live theatre with music, comedy, dancing and magic! Fun for 13 and older.
Tickets online or at the door

Yoga @ Apalachicola Library
2026-01-05 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-01-12 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-01-19 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-01-26 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
2026-01-05 20:00 - 21:30, 2026-01-12 20:00 - 21:30, 2026-01-19 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.

Special Exhibit: Operation Husky, the Invasion of Sicily
2026-01-06 - 2026-01-31 | 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 about Operation Husky, the invasion of Sicily. This exhibit will be on display from Tuesday, January 6, 2026 until Saturday, January 31, 2026. The museum is open every Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm. There is no charge for admission, but donations are gladly accepted.
Operation Husky was the Allied invasion of Sicily in 1943, devised in North Africa as the Allies drove German and Italian forces from the continent and prepared to advance into Italy. The campaign relied on a series of top-secret deceptions—fake units, fabricated communications, and the famed British Intelligence ploy known as Operation Mincemeat, which persuaded Germany that Sicily was not the next target. It set in motion one of the largest combined operations of World War II, involving nearly half a million Allied personnel.
Highlights of this exhibit include a set of top-secret plans for the JOSS segment (3rd Infantry Division) amphibious landings near Licata, Sicily, along with details for CENT (Forty-fifth Division near Scoglitti, Sicily) and DIME (1st Division near Gela, Sicily), the other two American landing forces. This copy of the top-secret plans was printed just 20 days before the start of Operation Husky, which involved amphibious landing of infantry and armor as well as parachute operations by the 82nd Airborne. It is also a secret as to why the museum holds this set of plans.

Tech Help
2026-01-06 11:00, 2026-01-13 11:00, 2026-01-20 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.
The Tech Help sessions are scheduled for Tuesday, April 7, 14, 21 and 28 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.

Adult Craft Workshop
2026-01-08 14:30 | 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.
Adult Crafternoon: Make-Up Crafts will take place on Thursday, January 8 at 2:30 PM at the Eastpoint Branch.This workshop gives guests the opportunity to participate in a craft activity they may have missed previously or to enjoy creating one of their favorite crafts again. With many leftover craft projects available, guests are invited to join in and make a craft together in a relaxed, welcoming setting and is open to adults of all skill levels.

Apalachicola Area Historical Society Presents Turpentine Industry in the Apalachicola Area
2026-01-10 16:00 | Raney House – Carriage House, 128 Market Street, Apalachicola, FL, 32320, United States
The Apalachicola Area Historical Society (AAHS) will be presenting a program on the turpentine industry in the Apalachicola area by Kermit Brown as part of their Spring Speaker Series on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 4:00 pm at the Raney Carriage House, 126 Market Street, Apalachicola, FL.
This presentation will explore the turpentine industry in the Apalachicola area—its history, significance, and the methods used to extract the many valuable products of the pine tree. Kermit will also discuss the lives of the people who worked in this trade, many of whom were trapped by harsh conditions and restrictive laws. Commonly known as the Naval Stores industry or simply Turpentining, this trade was Florida’s largest industry for many years.
Kermit Brown is a native Floridian whose mother’s ancestors arrived in Florida in the late 1700s and his father’s in the 1840s. He experienced many adventures during his childhood in Apalachicola. He enjoyed a long career in Florida museums – first at the Florida Museum of Natural History; then, the Museum of Florida History. Since his retirement in 1994, Kermit has continued to promote appreciation for the state’s natural and cultural history through writing, outdoor endeavors and storytelling. Kermit has published a few short stories and several articles including some on Florida history. In 2016, a book containing 12 of his short stories, My Life in North Florida, was published. In 2020, a second book, Stories from North Florida, was published. He continues to lecture on many subjects; but, his favorite is Florida’s history. In his past, he has raced hydroplanes, bicycles, and crewed on ocean racing sailing yachts. He was a certified scuba diver, and a skilled aerobatics pilot. He competed in shooting target pistols and won many awards. Since 2011, he has been competing in barebow recurve archery winning 16 gold medals, including six state championships, and a bronze medal from the 2015 National Senior Olympics.
These Speakers events are part of a well-established and popular series by the Apalachicola Area Historical Society with speakers January through May on Saturdays, mid-month, at 4pm in the Raney House Carriage House. Previous programs have covered Apalachicola’s predominantly African American North Side, Territorial City St Joseph, Early Maps of the area, Niles Register Florida History, the ice delivery industry, Cemetery Preservation, Apalachicola Historic Squares and more.

Ilse Newell Concert Series: Whitney Monge
2026-01-10 16:00 - 18:00 | Apalachicola Trinity Episcopal Church, 79 6th Street, Apalachicola, FL, 32320, United States
The 2026 Ilse Newell Concert Series kicks off January 10 with Whitnbey Monge, Whitney Mongé is a Nashville-based Americana Soul singer-songwriter and guitarist whose smoky, soulful vocals and raw, heartfelt songwriting reflect a life steeped in authenticity. Raised in the Pacific Northwest, she began her musical journey busking on the streets of Seattle, where her powerful voice and honest storytelling forged deep connections with listeners and shaped her signature sound—a bold fusion of soul, blues, indie folk, and rock.

Creation Station: Sewing Felt Winter Animals
2026-01-14 16:00 | 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. 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.

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.

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.
