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Spending The Holidays On The Forgotten Coast

by Ed Tiley
Publisher
Forgotten CoastLine

Here on Florida's Forgotten Coast we are doubly blessed. First the weather in November and December is decidedly milder than most other places around the country. Now the idea of wearing shorts and flip flops on Christmas Day might not jive with some folks idea of a White Christmas, but hey, we already have lots of bright white sand. All you have to do is put a decorated tree next to your favorite sand dune, step back, squint your eyes a bit and use your imagination.

Our other major blessing is this amazing place itself. The Forgotten Coast and its upland river and forest ecologies remain one of the seven natural wonders of the world. We are one of the major nurseries to fish populations in the Gulf. Our uplands are among the most biodiverse regions in North America, and despite the fact that the world's economy is just now catching up to what locals around here have been experiencing for three years, we have much to be thankful for. That pelicans, otters, bears, cypress trees and tarpon have no understanding of economics is a good thing. 

Thanksgiving on the Forgotten Coast is a quiet, family and community oriented holiday. Many families come to our area to celebrate Thanksgiving. There's something about having the family gathered around turkey and all the trimmings with an ocean view that adds an extra dimension to the festivities. Don?t forget the oyster stuffing!

And the next day, November 28th this year, everyone gets a chance to walk off the big meal by strolling through the streets of Historic Apalachicola as the town kicks off the Christmas season with their annual celebration.

Throngs of folks, visitors and locals alike, gather at the end of Avenue E for the lighting of the town tree and Santa's arrival. Santa will get here, as always, aboard a shrimp boat around 4:00. There will be music and a little light entertainment, and Santa will visit with hundreds of children.

As the sun dips out of the sky Apalachicola will take on a glow as folks stroll through town, their way lighted by uncountable luminaries lining the sidewalks. The shops will be open late, Christmas carols will ring through the crisp evening breeze, and a great evening of peace and good will towards men will once again be celebrated.

December 6 the folks of Eastpoint put on their annual Christmas parade. Lots of maritime influences and Santa on a fire truck highlight this celebration. The parade begins about 10:00 Saturday morning. Then it?s off to the Apalachicola Holiday Fresh Market where you can get fresh made seasonal wreaths and decorations and walk through the bazaar atmosphere of the town as all sorts of crafts and artworks are on display and for sale.

Friday December 5th is the date set for St. George Island?s annual Lighting of the Lights and the arrival of Santa Claus. There is always good fun, something to munch on, and Santa arrives courtesy of the St. George Island Volunteer Fire Department to visit with the kids and hand out presents. This is one of those simple, homespun, uniquely American celebrations that leaves you with a warm feeling whatever the weather.

That same weekend, December 5 & 6, the folks in Port St. Joe will roll out their red carpet as they hold their annual Christmas on the Coast celebrations. There is a 5K run/walk, a lighted boat parade, and a big community parade down Reid Avenue with Santa making his first visit to Gulf County of the season. There is always a lovely tree lighting ceremony in Frank Pate Park complete with lots of music and fun activities for the kids. For complete schedule times, and to register for the race check out www.gulfcountychamber.org.

Saturday, December 13, it is Carrabelle?s turn to shine, literally. Marine St. comes alive with music and food, and one of the best lighted boat parades on the Gulf Coast with their Holiday On The Harbor celebration. There is a tree lighting ceremony, Santa visits with the kids, and there are lots of activities for everyone. This year the celebration will begin in the afternoon with lots of live music and the City will be feeding the throngs with free hot dogs and hamburgers. For more information call the Chamber at 850-697-2585.

Happy Holidays Y'all!