Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce

Kaleidoscope Play & Learn
2025-05-06 10:30 - 12:00, 2025-05-13 10:30 - 12:00, 2025-05-20 10:30 - 12:00, 2025-05-27 10:30 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Eastpoint Public Library, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, Fl, 32328
Kaleidoscope Play & Learn is a fun, development-focused playgroup for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers. It’s a great space for caregivers to connect, build friendships, and explore how kids learn through play. This program will including singing songs, creating arts, storytelling and dramatic play. Join this free weekly play group for Caregivers & Children! For more information: jessie.buchanan@elcnwf.org and 850-704-0746.

Date & Time: Every Tuesday – April 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, at 10:30 am – 12 pm
Locations: Eastpoint Branch.

Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum Presents a Special Exhibit on the Liberation of Paris
2025-05-06 11:00 - 2025-05-31 17:00 | Camp Gordon Johnston Museum, 1873 Hwy 98 West, Carrabelle, Fl, 32322
Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum in Carrabelle is presenting an exhibit on the Liberation of Paris during World War II. This exhibit will open on Tuesday, May 6 and be on display at the museum until Saturday, May 31. The museum is open every Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm. The museum will also be open special hours on Sunday, May 25 and Monday, May 26, 12 pm to 4 pm to honor Memorial Day. Admission is free, though donations are gladly accepted.

The exhibit will present the military and civilian efforts that led to the liberation of Paris on August 25, 1944, after four years of German occupation. The liberation was a turning point in World War II, involving the strategic efforts of the Allied Forces, Free French forces, and the French Resistance. As Allied troops advanced through France following the D-Day invasion, the citizens of Paris, led by resistance fighters, initiated an uprising against the occupying German forces. The Allies initially did not consider Paris to be a priority at first, but the push by the French, who felt the need for this symbolic city to be cleared of Germans, changed their mind.

Supreme Allied Commander General Dwight D. Eisenhower ordered the intervention of the Free French 2nd Armored Division, led by General Philippe Leclerc, alongside the U.S. 4th Infantry Division. After intense fighting and the strategic surrender of German forces under General Dietrich von Choltitz, Paris was officially freed on August 25, 1944.
The exhibit features compelling historical photographs and firsthand accounts from soldiers in the U.S. 4th Infantry Division – one of the first American units to enter Paris. Known as the “Ivy Division,” the 4th played a crucial role in the D-Day landings at Utah Beach and the subsequent campaign across Nazi-occupied France. Their dramatic entry into Paris along with the French 2nd Armored Division marked a defining moment in the war. The 4th Infantry were trained in amphibious assault at Camp Gordon Johnston. This preparation proved vital throughout their combat operations.
Visitors to the exhibit will gain insight into the soldiers’ experiences and the broader significance of their actions, from their training at Camp Gordon Johnston to their role in liberating one of Europe’s most iconic cities.
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 the museum at (850) 697-8575 or museum@campgordonjohnston.com. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

May Chamber Member Luncheon
2025-05-07 12:00 - 13:00 | Mangia, 35 Island Drive, Eastpoint, FL, 32328, United States
The May Chamber Luncheon will be held at Mangia at 379 Hwy 98 In Eastpoint at noon

Apalach Ghost Tour
2025-05-07 20:00 - 21:30, 2025-05-14 20:00 - 21:30, 2025-05-21 20:00 - 21:30, 2025-05-28 20:00 - 21:30 | Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce, 17 Avenue E, Apalachicola, FL, 32320, United States
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.

Panhandle Players Presents: Little Shop of Horrors
2025-05-08 19:30 - 2025-05-11 20:30 | Chapman Auditorium, 159 Ave E, Apalachicola, Fl, 32320
Little Shop of Horrors is a horror-comedy musical about Seymour Krelborn, a meek flower shop employee who discovers a strange, talking plant he names Audrey II, after his crush, Audrey. The plant, however, has a sinister secret—it thrives on human blood and grows increasingly demanding. As Audrey II becomes a sensation, Seymour struggles with his moral dilemma while also trying to win Audrey’s love. But as the plant’s appetite grows, Seymour realizes too late that he’s nurtured a monstrous force with deadly intentions. The story blends dark humor, catchy songs, and a cautionary tale of ambition gone awry.

Buoy Brewing Ribbon Cutting
2025-05-09 17:15 - 17:30 | Half Shell Dockside, 301 Market Street, Apalachicola, Fl, 32320
We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of Buoy Brewing! Join us for a special event filled with craft beers, fun activities, and a celebration of bringing great brews to Apalachicola.
Grand Opening Details:
📅 Date: Friday, May 9, 2025
🕒 Time: 5:15 PM
📍 Location: 301 Market St., Apalachicola, FL
Come be part of our official ribbon-cutting ceremony and enjoy exclusive tastings, live music, and more! Cheers to new beginnings and great beer! See you there! 🍻

Apalachicola Farmers Market
2025-05-10 09:00 - 13:00 | Mill Pond Pavillion, 468 Market St, Apaplachicola, Florida, 32320
Located at the beautiful Millpond Pavilion at the end of Market Street, 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. Can’t wait till the weekend? The Apalachicola Growers Market is back this month, featuring fresh vegetables, gourmet goodies, and more on most Wednesdays from 56 Commerce Street in Apalachicola.

Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
2025-05-10 20:00 - 22:00, 2025-05-24 20:00 - 22:00 | FL
Join us on our haunted pub crawl in downtown Apalachicola. Your ghostly guide(s) will tell you local ghost stories and haunted history while making stops at local bars and pubs along the way. Those who attend this tour will get a FREE “Boos and Booze” Haunted Pub Crawl koozie at the start of the tour for your beverage. This tour is for ages 21+ only. 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 encompasses up to a mile walk and may last up to 2-hours. This tour is not recommended for people with mobility issues.

The May Sunset and Full Moon Climb at the Cape St. George Lighthouse
2025-05-12 20:00 - 23:00 | Cape St. George Lighthouse, 2B East Gulf Beach Drive, Eastpoint, FL, 32328
The May Sunset and Full Moon Climb at the Cape St. George Lighthouse on St. George Island will be held on Monday, May 12, 2025. This is a unique opportunity to enjoy the view of St. George Island, the Gulf of Mexico and the Apalachicola Bay under the evening sky from the top of the lighthouse.
The Sunset and Full Moon Climb will begin at 8:00 p.m. and run until 11:00 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 open at 7:30 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 8:24 p.m. and the “Flower” moon will rise at 8:44 p.m. on May 12th. The May full moon is called the “Flower” moon because flowers are in abundant bloom at this time. 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.

Novels & Nibbles – Monthly Book Club
2025-05-13 12:00 - 13:30 | Eastpoint Public Library, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, Fl, 32328
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) invite residents and visitors to enjoy free, fun, and educational events for all ages—no library card required! All supplies are provided. These programs foster creativity, learning, and connection in an inclusive environment.
Novels & Nibbles – Monthly Book Club
Patrons are invited to this month’s book discussion featuring “Beautiful Ugly” by Alice Feeney. Guests can enjoy engaging conversation and light refreshments in a welcoming atmosphere. Free and open to the public. No library card required.

Date & Time: Tuesday, May 13, 12:00 to 1:30 pm ET
Location: Eastpoint Branch

Storytime at the Libraries
2025-05-13 15:30 - 17:00 | Eastpoint Public Library, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, Fl, 32328
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) invite residents and visitors to enjoy free, fun, and educational events for all ages—no library card required! All supplies are provided. These programs foster creativity, learning, and connection in an inclusive environment.
Storytime introduces young children to books, rhymes, music, and activities designed to spark a love of reading. This month’s book, Are You My Mother? written and illustrated by P.D. Eastman. In this timeless message of the bond between mother and child, a baby bird hatches while his mother is away and sets off on a whimsical journey to find her, asking various animals and machines if they are his mother. Despite the confusion and adventure, the little bird’s determination leads him to a joyful reunion. Attendees will then make a Mother’s Day craft. This program is best suited for those 2-6 years old.

Date & Time: Tuesday, May 13, at 3:30 pm ET
Locations: Eastpoint Branch, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, FL and Carrabelle Branch, 311 St. James Ave. SE (Hwy 98), Carrabelle, FL

In Celebration of Debe Beard and Oyster Radio’s “Glance at the Past”
2025-05-13 17:00 - 17:30, 2025-05-13 17:00 - 18:30 | Raney Carriage House
The Apalachicola Area Historical Society (AAHS) is hosting a program, In Celebration of Debe Beard and Oyster Radio’s “Glance at the Past”, about Historian, Botanist, Community Leader and Bibliophile, Debe Beard as part of their Spring Speaker Series. The event is on Tuesday, May 13, at 5:00 pm ET at the Raney Carriage House, 126 Market Street, Apalachicola, FL.
Debe Beard was a well-known figure in the Apalachicola community with many abilities and interests – historian, botanist, community leader, and passionate bibliophile – whose contributions touched many aspects of Apalachicola’s cultural life. Known for her deep knowledge of history, Debe captured the spirit of the region and beyond in her long-running radio segment, Glance at the Past, which aired on Oyster Radio. These memorable radio broadcasts brought history to life and offered listeners a broad exploration of topics, with an emphasis on local history and culture. Even after she no longer worked at the station, her voice and knowledge remained a cherished part of the community’s collective memory.
In addition to her work in local history, Debe had an interest in historic architecture. She was a speaker at the Passion for Preservation Symposium sharing her knowledge about the historical development of the town and its iconic wood-framed vernacular architecture, commonly referred to as “The Cracker House”. This highlighted two of her favorite topics – Apalachicola history and old house construction.
A Master Gardener affiliated with the University of Florida, Debe also brought her botanical knowledge to the beautiful Chapman Botanical Gardens, a place she held dear. Her passion for the Gardens continues to bear fruit even now after her passing. Her desire was to promote the Botanical Gardens in Apalachicola and create a larger and more diverse variety of flowers along with outdoor art by local artists. Her family and community are carrying that idea forward, with donations being made through GoFundMe to help bring her vision to life. Whether through her work as a librarian, her gardening expertise, or her preservation efforts, Debe Beard’s legacy is one of deep care, curiosity, and commitment to her community and its stories.
These Speakers events are part of a well-established, popular series by the Apalachicola Area Historical Society. Local and tourist history enthusiasts have gathered for these informative talks for a number of years. Seating is limited so come early to get a spot.

Apalachicola Downtown Walkabout
2025-05-16 05:00 - 20:00 | FL
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.

Apalach Ghost Tour
2025-05-16 20:00 - 22:00, 2025-05-23 20:00 - 21:30 | FL
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

Riverpalooza
2025-05-17 08:00 - 17:00 | Apalachicola Riverkeeper’s, 232 B Water Street, Apalachicola, FL, 32320
On Saturday May 17, 2025 Apalachicola RIverkeeper will host its second annual RIverpalooza event in Apalachicola, FL. Riverpalooza begins with a community coastal clean up at 8:00AM EST, with Apalachicola RIverkeeper staff and volunteers collecting trash in and around the Apalachicola River and Bay by boat, bike or on foot. After the cleanup, participants are invited to come to The Apalachicola Yacht Club at 12:00PM EST for an evening of music, food and a raffle to win a tandem kayak and trailer. A $10 donation at the door is encouraged. Participants in the cleanup will receive free raffle tickets. Locally produced oysters will be provided by Water is Life Oysters. Guest speaker will be Josh McLawhorn, director of the award winning documentary Unfiltered: The Truth about Oysters. Music will be provided by Tommy Cooper, The Ukulilies, Funky Taters, Clayton Mathis, and Chris Matechik.
Here is a link to our website page for the event:
https://apalachicolariverkeeper.org/riverpalooza/

Celebrate the Flower Moon at Crooked River Lighthouse
2025-05-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Crooked River Lighthouse, 1975 Hay 98 , Carrabelle, Fl, 32322
The Crooked River Lighthouse will be hosting a Moonlit Evening at the Lighthouse event on Sunday, May 11, 2025 from 7:00-10:00 pm ET in Carrabelle, FL. Visitors can enjoy the gorgeous natural surroundings of St. George Sound and Carrabelle Beach under the glow of the sunset and rising Flower Moon. Admission is $10 and climbs are $5. Mothers get free admission and free climbs at this event in celebration of Mother’s Day.

For this special Mother’s Day evening, guests will be enchanted by mesmerizing “Dance of the Butterflies” performances. The event will feature Butterfly and Moth dancers, including Tallahassee State College (TSC) dancers and the Monarch Butterfly Homeschoolers plus visits from the lighthouse’s very own ethereal Moth Lady. These performers will be surrounded by the soft glow of night-blooming moon flower lights, creating a magical and unforgettable experience.

Visitors can experience 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. Bring a chair and enjoy the evening.

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. Climb reservations are strongly encouraged due to limited availability. Climbers must be at least 44 inches tall and children under 12 (FREE) with ticketed adults. Admission tickets and advance climb tickets can be purchased online at https://www.crookedriverlighthouse.com/full-moon-events/ or in the lighthouse gift shop.

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.

Adult Crafternoon at the Franklin County Public Libraries
2025-05-20 14:30 - 17:00 | Eastpoint Public Library, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, Fl, 32328
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 workshop. This engaging program will take place on Tuesday, January 21, at 2:30 pm ET, at both the Eastpoint and Carrabelle branches.

Participants will have the opportunity to create their own faux stained glass. This project offers guests an opportunity to make their own colorful work of art without the need for expensive equipment or advanced artistic skills, making it perfect for crafters of all experience levels. Supplies are included, and the event is free and open to all adults—no library card required.

Adult Crafternoon is part of the Franklin County Public Libraries’ Program Series, which provides engaging activities for all ages. The Program Series is packed with exciting events, including StoryTimes for children, STEM Space for young explorers, Kids Crafts and more. Each program is 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, 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 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. 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.

Honoring The Brave
2025-05-24 08:00 - 17:00 | Apalachicola Riverfront Park, Apalachicola, Florida, 32320
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the Franklin County School Track Team, is excited to announce our inaugural 5K event titled “Honoring The Brave.” This event will take place on Memorial Day Weekend, Saturday, May 24, 2025, in Apalachicola.

We are eager to work with these young athletes to create a fun and meaningful way to commemorate Memorial Day while raising funds for the youth in our county. The net proceeds from this event will directly benefit the track team and support potential youth events sponsored by the Sheriff’s Office. All participants will receive a finisher medal and a nice dry fit “Honoring The Brave” official race shirt.

Funds will be processed through our Charity Fund, so sponsorships or registrations may be tax-deductible.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We appreciate your support!

Apalachicola Farmers Market
2025-05-24 09:00 - 13:00 | Mill Pond Pavillion, 468 Market St, Apaplachicola, Florida, 32320
Located at the beautiful Millpond Pavilion at the end of Market Street, 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. Can’t wait till the weekend? The Apalachicola Growers Market is back this month, featuring fresh vegetables, gourmet goodies, and more on most Wednesdays from 56 Commerce Street in Apalachicola. Check out the events page for more info.

Starla's Special Shore
2025-05-24 15:00 - 18:00 | River’s Edge Gallery, 59 Commerce St, Apalachicola, FL, 32320, United States
Illustrated children’s book about a brave sea turtle returning to the beach where she was born.
Book Signing & Turtle Art Reception
Author Jim McClellan – Illustrated by Dr. Lynn Wilder

Memorial Day Celebration
2025-05-26 10:00 - 12:00 | Veterans Memorial Park, 230 Market Street, Apalachicola, FL, 32320, United States
