Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce

Blues and BBQ under the Full Moon at Crooked River Lighthouse
2024-12-15 18:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Crooked River Lighthouse, 1975 Hay 98 , Carrabelle, Fl, 32322
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.

For brave souls who are bold enough to venture to the top of the tallest lighthouse on the Forgotten Coast, evening climbs are scheduled at 15-minute intervals throughout the event. Climbers will be rewarded with breathtaking views of St. George Sound. Discounted advance evening climb tickets available for $5 and regular evening climb tickets are $10. Timed climb tickets are needed due to limited availability. Climbers must be at least 44 inches tall. Children 12 and under are free with a ticketed adult.

Tickets for both admission and climbs can be purchased in the gift shop or at https://www.crookedriverlighthouse.com/full-moon-events/. The Lighthouse is located in Carrabelle at 1975 Hwy 98 West. For details, https://www.crookedriverlighthouse.com/, 850-697-2732 or carrabellelighthouse@gmail.com. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

Full Moon Event at Crooked River Lighthouse
2024-12-15 18:00 - 21:00 | Crooked River Lighthouse, 1975 Hay 98 , Carrabelle, Fl, 32322
Looking for a break from Christmas music? Warm up with some tunes to get you through the cold season at the annual Blues & BBQ Full Moon Event at Crooked River Lighthouse on Sunday, December 15, from 6:00-9:00 pm ET in Carrabelle, FL. This special outdoor event will feature live Blues music, a glowing bonfire at the fire pit, and a delicious BBQ meal. Visitors can enjoy the gorgeous natural surroundings of St. George Sound and Carrabelle Beach under the glow of the sunset and rising Cold Moon.

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). Bring a chair and enjoy the evening.

For this special event, admission tickets are required. Purchase early and save—tickets are $17 if bought by December 7, or $22 from December 8 until they sell out. Admission includes live music, a bonfire, a delicious BBQ plate, and access to the museum. Evening climbs are also available for an additional fee. Tickets can be purchased in the gift shop or online at www.crookedriverlighthouse.com/full-moon-events.

For those brave souls who are bold enough to venture to the top of the tallest lighthouse on the Forgotten Coast, evening tower climbs are scheduled at 15-minute intervals throughout the event. Climbers will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the bay. Evening climbs cost $10 and timed climb tickets are needed due to limited availability. All climbers must be at least 44 inches tall. Children 12 and under are FREE with a ticketed adult.

Crooked River Lighthouse is located in Carrabelle, just west of the Carrabelle Public Beach Park at 1975 Hwy 98 W, Carrabelle. For more information, contact the gift shop at 850-697-2732, carrabellelighthouse@gmail.com or https://www.crookedriverlighthouse.com/. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

December Sunset and Full Moon Climb at the Cape St. George Lighthouse
2024-12-15 17:30 - 19:30 | Cape St. George Lighthouse, 2B East Gulf Beach Drive, Eastpoint, FL, 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.

Sunset and Full Moon Climb at Cape St. George Lighthouse
2024-12-15 17:30 - 19:00 | St. George Island Lighthouse, 2 east Gulf Beach Drive, St. George Island, Florida, 32328
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 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 are 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 St. George Lighthouse Association members. Cash or credit card payments are 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 on either side of the park.

Carrabelle Holiday on the Harbor & Boat Parade of Lights
2024-12-14 12:00 - 19:00 | City of Carrabelle, 306 Marine St, Carrabelle, florida, 32322
The Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce would like to invite residents and visitors to the 2024 Holiday on the Harbor Street Festival and Boat Parade of Lights on Saturday, December 14 from 12-7 pm in beautiful downtown Carrabelle, FL. This street festival will feature terrific children’s activities, arts and crafts, delicious food and drink, live entertainment, a lighted boat parade and a fireworks finale. This free, family-friendly festival has become a favorite Christmas tradition for the entire Forgotten Coast community and beyond!
The children’s activities will include traditions like visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, mini-train rides, a bouncy house (courtesy of the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department) and a book giveaway by Bring Me a Book Franklin. In keeping with the Carrabelle tradition, Santa will make his grand entrance on the City of Carrabelle Fire Truck. Children and families are welcome to come by Santa’s booth, visit with Santa, and get their photos with Santa for free.
This event will also include yummy holiday treats, a variety of delicious food and wonderful art, crafts and goods for holiday gifts. There will be live music by Kevin Whoo as well as festival favorite DJ Beanie Baby spinning those holiday and festival tunes. Guests can also enjoy wonderful dance performances from the Forgotten Coast Dancing Witches, Tallahassee State College Dance Company and, new this year, the Mountain Dew Cloggers. The majority of the festivities will take place along the Carrabelle harbor along Marine Street.
While in Carrabelle, visitors are invited to complete their holiday shopping with unique and one of a kind items at Carrabelle’s wonderful stores, gift shops and art galleries conveniently located within walking distance of the festival. Then guests can enjoy delicious fresh seafood and tasty home-style cooking at one of several cafes, restaurants or festival food vendors.
After enjoying hours of food, festivities, and fun, festival-goers are invited to watch the magical Christmas parade of boats decked out in lights, décor, music and even some holiday outfits! Find a spot along the water and enjoy this parade with double the lights as the Carrabelle harbor beautifully reflects back the glow of the lighted boat decorations. See this special nautical tradition from an unbeatable viewing point by entering your own decorated boat for free!
The parade starts around 6:15 pm and proceeds around the Carrabelle harbor between the Marine Street Fishing Pavilion and the Tillie Miller Bridge on US 98 so it can be enjoyed from many viewing spots. (Please stay in public access areas only. Do not enter private property.)
Then the Holiday on the Harbor & Boat Parade of Lights will conclude with a fireworks grand finale! The boat parade trophies including the Marina Challenge Trophy will be awarded at a ceremony shortly after.
A big thank you to the wonderful volunteers and sponsors, including Centennial Bank, who help make Holiday on the Harbor possible. For more information and vendor or boat parade registration forms, please visit https://www.carrabelle.org/ or contact Chamber@nettally.com or 850-697-2585. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

15th Annual Eastpoint Christmas Parade & Celebration
2024-12-13 16:30 | Eastpoint Fire House, 24 6th Street, Eastpoint, Florida, 32328
**Parade route starting at South Frankin Street and ends at 2nd Street.

SGI Art & Wine Splash
2024-12-13 13:00 - 17:00 | FL
St. George Island will host its 8th Annual Art and Wine Splash on Sunday, October 13th. The event will feature several talented artists and craftsmen offering original and unique items. The event offers a Wine Walk which will take place from 1 -5 p.m. with regional wine stations and musical entertainment.

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
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. Those interested can also visit the FFCPL website at https://friendsfcpl.com for more details. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

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
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 or visit the FFCPL website at https://friendsfcpl.com for more details. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

Eastpoint Beer is pics with Santa & Santa Paws
2024-12-08 13:00 - 15:00 | Eastpoint Beer Company, 374 Highway 98, Eastpoint, Fl, 32328

Apalachicola Bay Chamber Presents: The Holiday Fresh Market
2024-12-07 10:00 - 15:00 | Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce, 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.

Click here for application

Scrooge on Commerce
2024-12-06 20:00 - 2024-12-07 21:00 | FL
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.

Carrabelle History Museum Hosts a Special Exhibit: Home for the Holidays Featuring Paintings of Historic Carrabelle by Buz Putnal
2024-12-04 00:00 - 2025-01-12 00:00 | The Carrabelle History Museum, 106 Avenue B SE, 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.
The Carrabelle History Museum is located at 106 SE Avenue B, in historic downtown Carrabelle, FL. For more information, visit www.carrabellehistorymuseum.org or contact carrabellehistorymuseum@gmail.com or 850-697-2141. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

Anniversary of Pearl Harbor and Christmas During the War
2024-12-03 11:00 - 2025-01-04 17:00 | Camp Gordon Johnston Museum, 1873 Hwy 98 West, Carrabelle, Fl, 32322
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 3, 2024 and be on display until Saturday, January 4, 2025. The museum is open every Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm and there is no charge for admission. (Closed Wednesday, December 25 and Wednesday, 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.
