Upcoming Events

Holiday outdoor markets in north and south Walton

Enjoy a variety of hand-crafted art, food, and fun around Walton County this holiday season.

Annual Old Florida Holiday and Winter Market Nov. 30
The 17th annual Old Florida Holiday & Winter Market kicks off the season on Saturday, November 30, 2024 from 3-9 p.m. in WaterColor’s Town Center and Cerulean Park. This nostalgic holiday event is complete with falling snow, carriage rides around the park, bonfires and s’mores, pictures with Santa, tree lighting, holiday music, strolling carolers, food trucks, a festive winter market and more.
This event is free and open to the public.
WaterColor Town Center is located at 45 Watercolor Blvd W, Santa Rosa Beach.

Hometown Christmas Nov. 30 – Dec. 1 in DeFuniak Springs
The DeFuniak Springs Business and Professional Association is hosting their annual Hometown Christmas at the Walton County Fairgrounds Nov. 30, 2024 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Dec. 1, 2024 from 12 Noon – 4 p.m.
There will be arts, crafts, food, Santa house, kids crafts, and drawings. The Walton County Fairgrounds is located at 790 N. 9th St., DeFuniak Springs.

Mistletoe Market in DeFuniak Springs every Saturday evening Nov. 30 – Dec. 21
Main Street DeFuniak Springs is hosting Mistletoe Market November 30, December 7, 14 and 21, 2024 from 3 – 8 p.m.
Enjoy the holiday spirit while perusing the vendors along Baldwin Ave.

Holiday Bazaar at Alaqua Animal Refuge Dec. 7
NOTE: This event has entry fee of $10 adults, $5 children, kids under 2 free.
Step into a festive wonderland at the Alaqua Animal Refuge’s annual Holiday Bazaar, where the spirit of the season comes alive on December 7, 2024 from 11am to 4 pm.
Wander through rows of unique vendors offering one-of-a-kind gifts, artisan crafts, and delectable treats.
Visit the Winter Wonderland section, where enchantment awaits around every corner.
The Holiday Bazaar is the perfect place to embrace the joy of the holidays and find something special for everyone to treasure this season.
**Please no community pets**

Winter Wonder Watersound market Dec. 8
Celebrate the holiday season at Winter Wonder Watersound on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024 from 1 – 7 p.m.
Enjoy a meet and greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus, an Improv Show from The Rep Theatre, carolers, cookie decorating, letters to Santa and more! End the day with a viewing of a holiday favorite: “Elf.” This event is FREE and open to the public and hosted by Watersound Town Center
Schedule:
1– 3 p.m.: Visit with Santa and Mrs. Clause
1– 3 p.m.: Carolers performing holiday favorites
3– 5 p.m.: Balloon artist & face painter
3:30 p.m.: Improv show from The Repertory Theatre
4:15 p.m.: Live music from Weston T. Hine
5 p.m.: ELF film showing
170 N. Watersound Parkway, Panama City Beach, FL. For more information go to https://www.watersoundtowncenter.com/

_________________________________________________

Garden inspired gift lecture in DeFuniak Springs Dec. 4

The Walton County Master Gardeners are hosting their December lecture, “Gifts from the Garden,” presented by horticulture expert Karen Doud. The lecture will be held at 10 a.m. on Wed., Dec. 4, 2024 at the Walton County Extension Office, 732 N. 9th St., DeFuniak Springs.

This enlightening session will cover a wide array of natural garden-inspired gifts, including herbal teas, soothing herbal baths, body care products, spices, jams, natural cleaners, salves, extracts, and more.

Join in for this fun and informative lecture, where Karen will share her expertise on crafting gifts directly from the garden’s bounty. With over 25 years of experience as a live nursery specialist with Lowe’s in the Southeast and a professional background that includes a bachelor’s degree in Design from Southern Illinois University and a master’s in Horticulture from the University of Illinois, Karen brings a wealth of knowledge to share.

Currently employed at Nature’s Way Plant Farm in Miami, Karen will provide valuable insights and inspiration for creating sustainable, natural gifts for friends, family, and yourself.

_________________________________________________

Eden Gardens State Park Wesley House lights up for the holidays, candlelight tour Dec. 7

Are you seeing visions of sugarplums dancing in your head? Are you anticipating the patter of tiny hooves on the roof? Perhaps you may enhance your excitement about the holidays by taking a trip to Eden Gardens State Park. Not only will you be able to enjoy the grounds, with the early blooming Sasanqua camellias; but you will find an additional treat to add to your enjoyment.

This Walton County tradition will afford you an oasis of peace, and a chance to step back in time to the late 1800s, to contemplate Christmas traditions of families in years gone by. In keeping with the style of the Wesley House, this year’s theme for decorating the rooms and exterior will be a Victorian Christmas. The house and all the rooms are open for tours from Thursday, November 14, 2024 – Jan. 6, 2025. The House is open for tours each hour Thursday to Monday each week, from 10:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. You will be learning the history of the house, and getting a chance to enjoy the very creative ways in which each room has been decorated by an amazing group of dedicated volunteers.

The groups who have offered their time and talent to provide us with this glimpse into the past are:

    • • Coastal Seniors of South Walton
    • • Daughters of the American Revolution, West Florida Chapter

• Friends of Eden

• Grace Corradino and Family, FOE

• Green Thumb Garden Club

• Historic Point Washington Association

• Ladies of Impact 100

• Master Gardeners of Walton County

• Point Washington Medical Clinic

• Seaside Kids

• Seaside

• South Walton High School Community Garden Club

The Christmas Candlelight Open House at Eden Gardens will be held on Saturday, December 7, from 5 to 8 p.m., weather permitting. You will enjoy a ride through luminary lined pathways at Eden Gardens after sunset, and be able to tour the historic Wesley House at no charge. Live music, cookies, and hot beverages will be provided by the Friends of Eden in the Pavilion.

Make plans to come and to bring along any visitors you have during this celebratory time of year. It will be a visit to remember, and an interesting way to learn about the history of Walton County before we end its Bicentennial Year (1824-2024). This effort is sponsored by the Friends of Eden, the citizens support group that provides assistance to the state park staff to repair, maintain and enhance the park.

Learn more about the history of the Wesley House here.

The Park is opened from 8 a.m. to sunset each day, with a fee of $4.00 per vehicle.

Directions
Eden Gardens State Park is located in Point Washington, off U.S. 98 on C.R. 395.
For more information, call (850) 267-8320.
181 Eden Garden Road, Point Washington, Fl. 32459 ::MAP::

_________________________________________________

Guided plant walk at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Nov. 18

You’re invited to a plant identification walk at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park on the third Monday of the month.

The walk starts at 9:00 am at tram stop #2, and is led by Bill Kuenstler, Master Gardener and Master Naturalist. Learn about the many native plants at the park.

Driving Directions
Located in Santa Rosa Beach, the park is located 1/4 south of U.S. Hwy 98 on western end of Scenic Hwy. 30A.  ::MAP:

 

_________________________________________________

Mushroom log inoculation class in DeFuniak Springs Nov. 23

Come learn the skills you need to successfully grow mushrooms on hardwood logs on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. The event will be held at 980 Cat Island Road, DeFuniak Springs, taught by Amy Lowe owner of Breathe Easy Farm.

This easy method of mushroom cultivation is a great way to grow nutritious, protein-rich food for you and your family. Mushroom log cultivation can be used to grow a wide variety of edible and medicinal mushrooms. Whether you are interested in backyard cultivation or market production, this hands-on introductory class will get you on your way.

Each participant will make their own shiitake log to take home! We will also have pre-made logs and additional supplies for purchase so you can make your own logs at home.

This event will be held outside so please dress accordingly. Advanced registration required. $40 per person. Please click here https://square.link/u/qNdMOoka to reserve your spot.

_________________________________________________

Seaside holiday parade Nov. 30

Kick off the holiday season with Seaside joyful holiday parade on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. Starting at 3:00 p.m. in Seagrove Plaza, the parade will make its merry way down 30A, spreading cheer as it heads toward Central Square. Gather along the route to watch as festive floats, jolly performers, and a special guest from the North Pole light up the afternoon. Join us for this beloved tradition, and celebrate the spirit of the season in the heart of Seaside.

Stay for the magic that follows at 5:00 p.m. as the Turn on the Town ceremony takes place as Santa himself lights up Seaside, illuminating the square and town with dazzling holiday lights.

Seaside is located between WaterColor and Seagrove along Scenic Hwy. 30A.

APPLY FOR THE HOLIDAY PARADE HERE: https://www.eventeny.com/events/seasideholidayparade2024-13242/

_________________________________________________

Christmas Reflections in DeFuniak Springs Nov. 29 – Dec. 31

Bring the entire family any night of the week or come and stay the weekend in beautiful, historic DeFuniak Springs, Florida Nov. 29 – Dec. 31, 2024. The annual Christmas Reflections display will show off more than 10 million lights reflecting off a perfectly round spring-fed lake glowing in holiday splendor.

Enjoy a holiday family tradition that is a delight to all ages as the City lights up Chipley Park with the annual Christmas Reflection displays. A variety of Victorian, animal, and toy soldier cutouts, Santa’s workshop, and the grandfather clock ticking away are among the thousands of decorations that adorn these historic grounds. This event is orchestrated and hosted by the City of DeFuniak Springs.

Details:

  • Day after Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve. Open 7 days a week, 5:30 – 9:00 p.m. The last car is at 9 pm.  Lights are out by 9:30 pm. Open as the weather permits. For more information

    Christmas Reflections Information: (850) 892-8500, ext. 1121, Christmas Reflections Hotline (850) 253-7642, Volunteer Information or Cancellation (850) 951 – 3030 or email

Admission:

  • $5 per person
  • Free for children 5 and under
  • Tuesday Discount for Military:  $10 for a carload of up to 6 people
  • Season Passes a vailable for $50

Directions:
3 Circle Drive, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435. Entrance on 331 and Live Oak Ave.

      • From Pensacola/Crestview:
        Take U.S Highway 90 East; turn right onto U.S Highway 331 South. Turn left onto Live Oak Avenue (first red light); follow the Christmas Reflections entrance path.
      • From Alabama:
        Take U.S Highway 331 South to DeFuniak Springs; turn left onto U.S. Highway 90 West; turn right onto U.S Highway 331 South. Turn left onto Live Oak Avenue (first red light); follow the entrance to Christmas Reflections.
      • From Tallahassee:
        Take Interstate 10 West to Exit 85 (DeFuniak Springs); turn right onto U.S. Highway 331 going north; turn right onto Live Oak Avenue; follow to the entrance of Christmas Reflections.
      • From U.S. Highway 98:
        Take U.S Highway 331 North; turn right onto Live Oak Avenue (sixth red light); follow the entrance into Christmas Reflections.
        _________________________________________________

        Ranger led nature hike at Camp Helen State Park Dec. 5

        Enjoy a ranger-led nature hike at Camp Helen State Park on Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024 from 10 – 11 a.m.

        Join in for a ranger-guided nature hike. Camp Helen boasts nine distinct natural communities throughout the park with varied flora and fauna. Learn about our rare coastal dune lake, Lake Powell, as well as the park wildlife. Hike is suitable for all ages. Dress for the weather; water and bug spray are recommended.

        The Friends of Camp Helen are excited to be open for kayak and SUP rentals 7 days a week from 9 am – 5 pm. Reservations can be made online at www.friendsofcamphelen.org or by calling (850) 238-1900. Walk ins are also welcome.

        Park Fees
        There is an honor entrance station. The fee is $4.00 per vehicle and $1.00 per bicyclist or pedestrian. Click here for park website.

        Driving Directions
        Camp Helen is located at 23937 Panama City Beach Parkway, Panama City Beach, FL, just west of the Phillips Inlet bridge on the Bay County and Walton county line. The entrance is south of U.S. Hwy 98. ::MAP::

        _________________________________________________

        History tour at Camp Helen State Park Dec. 7

        Enjoy a history tour of Camp Helen State Park from 10 – 11 a.m. on the first Saturday of the month.

        Join park ranger staff for a guided history tour of the grounds at Camp Helen. Follow along as staff share park history from the Hicks family building the historic structures that still stand on the grounds, all the way through the colorful history of Avondale Textile Mill’s utilizing the property as their employee summer retreat. Please dress appropriately for the weather, and bring water and insect repellent.

        Program is free with paid park entry of $4 per vehicle.

        Event Essential Eligibility Criteria

        For further questions, feel free to contact the office at Camp Helen at (850) 233-5059.

        Driving Directions
        Camp Helen is located at 23937 Panama City Beach Parkway, Panama City Beach, FL, just west of the Phillips Inlet bridge on the Bay County and Walton county line. The entrance is south of U.S. Hwy 98. ::MAP::

        _________________________________________________

        Christmas tour of homes in DeFuniak Springs Dec. 7

        St. Agatha’s Episcopal Church is hosting their annual Christmas tour of homes on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Proceeds from the tour benefit the church’s Preservation Fund which is reserved for major repairs of their three historic structures on Circle Drive.
        Homes for the tour are selected for a variety of reasons such as unique architecture or history,outstanding Christmas decorations, interesting owners and/or furnishings, unique collections,
        ghosts and more. Especially for the car lovers some antique or classic cars will be scattered about town. Restoration may be just starting, in progress, or complete for some of the historic homes or business structures. Everyone seems to enjoy hearing about the fun and foibles associated with
        historic restoration whether buildings or vehicles.
        While not all sites are on Circle Drive, they are within the historic district, so be prepared to tour by car. In addition to 8-10 homes, restored downtown businesses, three Circle Drive Churches, as well as St. Agatha’s parish house and vicarage are shown as extras. A demonstration of the church’s organ by Lona Robinson and caroling, with soprano soloist and flautist Uma Jolly, will take place at 2 and 4 pm.
        Attractions such as the library, museum, and winery will be open. The Festival of Trees, Main Street’s Merry Market, and Christmas Reflections will be in progress.
        Tickets are $25 and can be purchased here: www.bit.ly/DFS-TOH24

    _________________________________________________

    Christmas parade and tree lighting in Freeport Dec. 7

    The City of Freeport is hosting their annual Christmas parade and tree lighting on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024 at 5:15 p.m. The parade will start at Freeport Elementary School, then goes to Business 331, S.R. 20 to Blueberry Road.

    The Christmas tree lighting begins after the parade at City Hall. Enjoy live music, food vendors, photos with Santa, and the Festival of Trees inside City Hall.

    If any business, organization or individual would like to participate in the parade, please click here: https://freeportfl.rja.revize.com/forms/10179 . For more information, email cityclerk@freeportflorida.gov or call 850-835-2822 x219.