Outdoor Family Fun

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Little wren speaks with a big voice

Commonly found in Walton County, the Carolina wren is a bird with many voices By Jessica Basham, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission If you’ve ever wondered which bird sings the familiar, loud “doodalee, doodalee, doodalee” song, it is one of the most common backyard birds in Florida, the Carolina wren. The Carolina wren is a lively little bird that often fluffs itself into a puffy, round shape to appear larger than its 6- or 7-inch body. For its size,...

Christmas Reflections light up Lake DeFuniak Nov. 26 – Dec. 31

Celebrate the season of lights along the lake Location: Circle Drive, DeFuniak Springs Time: 5 – 9 p.m. nightly through Dec. 31 Enjoy a holiday family tradition in DeFuniak Sprigs as the Lakeyard lights up with the annual Christmas Reflections displays. A variety of Victorian, animal and toy soldier cutouts, Santa’s workshop, the grandfather clock ticking away; and the real reason for the season, the Nativity Scene all surrounded by twinkling trees. More than 3 million lights reflect on to...

Alaqua Animal Refuge holiday open house and shopping fair Dec. 11

Enjoy a tour of refuge, live music, shopping and a visit from Santa Alaqua Animal Refuge, is hosting their annual holiday open house from Noon to 4 p.m. Dec. 11. Live entertainment by Blackwater, holiday treats and beverages, a petting zoo, children’s games, photos with Santa, all while showcasing the unique refuge in Freeport. Guests will have an opportunity to meet Champ, a miniature horse that was rescued in September and quickly became an international online sensation through his courageous...

Freeport Town Planters Society hosts Christmas Tour of Homes Dec. 5

Proceeds benefit civic projects The Freeport Town Planters Society will host its sixth annual Christmas Tour of Homes from 1:30 to 5 p.m. on Dec. 5. Houses include the Blount house in Freeport behind the old Post Office across from Kelly’s; Russ Barley and Tim Ard’s home in Waterview Cove; Leta-Fern and Michael Bickers home on Whitfield Road off of Hwy. 20 in Portland; and Jacque and Harroll Castle’s horse ranch on Hwy. 20 in Portland. Tickets are $5 presale...

Give holiday gifts to the birds at Coastal Branch Library Dec. 4

Make edible ornaments and decorate the cedar tree in front of the library Date/time: Dec. 4, Noon – 2 p.m. The Friends of the Coastal Branch Library will be hosting their Christmas For The Birds on Dec. 4. Children can enjoy making edible ornaments and decorate a cedar tree in front of the library. Pine cones will be coated with peanut butter and seed, then hung with care as a special treat for the birds. Santa will arrive on a...

Artists at Gulf Place hosting holiday open house Nov. 26-27

Two days of interactive art and entertainment for kids of all ages The Artists at Gulf Place will be hosting their annual Holiday Open House on Fri. and Sat., Nov. 26-27 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Make your own holiday gifts: Raku firing, tie dye, lucky stars, jewelry and recycled art projects will be available during the two day event. Santa will be arriving on Saturday and will be available for professional photos from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m....

South Walton Fire District hosting Elf Ride Dec. 5

Bring an unwrapped toy and ride your bike to benefit the Angel Tree Date/Time: Sunday, Dec. 5, 1 p.m. Location: Seaside Post Office to SWFD Station 2, Seagrove South Walton Fire District announces their 3rd Annual Elf Ride on Dec. 5. Help make Christmas brighter by bringing an unwrapped toy for the SWFD Angel Tree to benefit Caring and Sharing. Children and their parents will meet at the Seaside Post Office at 1 p.m. and bicycle/walk to the SWFD Station...