SeaLight Festival Now-April 13
The SeaLight Festival has returned to Seascape Resort, open Thursday thru Sunday from 5:30-9:30 p.m. The whimsical outdoor walk-through experience showcases over a thousand intricately designed Chinese lanterns and invites visitors of all ages to explore a luminous landscape inspired by Chinese legends and lore, while others celebrate the beauty of nature. Enjoy live entertainment by the Zigong Acrobatic Troupe, an award-winning Chinese acrobatic collective. Each festival also features a variety of vendors, games, food & drink, and cultural booths boasting incredible artisanal gifts for purchase.
Tickets are now available for purchase: sealightfestival.com.
Emerald Coast Theatre Company: Always a Bridesmaid Feb. 20 – March 2
Emerald Coast Theatre Company presents Always a Bridesmaid at 7 p.m., Sundays and Wednesdays at 2 p.m. at ECTC’s space in Grand Boulevard Town Center.
In this hilarious comedic romp a la “Golden Girls,” four friends have sworn to keep the promise they made on the night of their Senior Prom: to be in each other’s weddings…no matter what. More than thirty years later, these Southern friends-for-life are still making “the long walk” for each other, determined to honor that vow. If you’ve ever elbowed a stranger out of the way to catch a bride’s bouquet, seriously questioned the mental stability of the duo saying “I do” or been forced to wear the world’s ugliest bridesmaid dress, this deliriously funny Jones Hope Wooten comedy is definitely for you…and your dearly beloved!
Tickets and information can be found at www.emeraldcoasttheatre.org.
6th Annual Shrimp & Grits Festival Feb. 22
Don’t miss out on the 6th Annual Shrimp & Grits Festival Feb. 22 from 12-4 p.m. behind Brotula’s Seafood House and Steamer, benefiting the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast. Delight your taste buds with creative twists on this classic southern dish from local chefs, sip on refreshing drinks, groove to a live DJ and cast your vote for the best Shrimp and Grits on the Emerald Coast. To purchase tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/5th-annual-shrimp-grits-festival-tickets-741754897867.
Dog-Harmony Hops for Hounds Feb. 23
Dog Harmony’s 5th Annual “Hops for Hounds” dog walk and after party, will be held February 23rd, 1-3 p.m. at Props Brewery in Hammock Bay, Freeport. The day will start with a picturesque, short stroll followed by a lively after-party at Props Brewery, complete with craft beer (for thirsty humans 21 and older), live music, vendors, food trucks and more.
To register, visit https://dog-harmony.org/hops-forhounds-2025.
Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show Feb. 28 – March 3
The Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show takes place at Aaron Bessant Park in Panama City Beach. This land based show will feature boat displays from all major manufacturers and the top dealers representing the latest in boats, high tech engines, electronics and marine accessories. Boats ranging from entry level bow riders and center consoles all the way up to the next generation 42′ center consoles with quad outboards that have become so popular. Buyers will find everything in-between. REAL. FUN. BOATS.
Making it much more than a boat show, this event features everything for the kind of active, outdoor beach living so popular along the Emerald Coast. From stand up paddleboards and fishing kayaks, to outdoor kitchens, diving, active wear and beach cruising bicycles.
Visit emeraldcoastboatshow.com to purchase tickets, check out the venue and registered exhibitors.
DeFuniak Springs Home and Garden Show March 1
The DeFuniak Springs Home and Garden Show takes place Saturday, March 1st from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Fair Grounds in DeFuniak Springs. Entry is free, but donations are greatly appreciated.
The show is a local marketplace where you can shop for home-related products and services, purchase unique decor and gifts from arts and crafts vendors, get products from local hobby farms, support small business owners, view displays to help inspire your next home project, connect with home improvement and real estate professionals, and enjoy informative presentations from local home and garden experts. Enjoy plant and food vendors as well as pet adoptions on-site.
Visit waltoncountyfair.com/events for more information
La Vie En Rouge Friday, March 7
Immerse yourself in the glamour of 19th-century Parisian cabaret at La Vie En Rouge, presented by Emerald Coast Theatre Company on Friday, March 7th 6-9 p.m. This exclusive signature event will feature exhilarating live performances, dazzling costumes, and a vibrant atmosphere for guests 21+. Get ready to indulge yourself in an evening of elegance, as we transport you to the iconic Moulin Rouge for a night of dinner, dancing, entertainment, silent auction, and many more unforgettable moments. Purchase tickets at emeraldcoasttheatre.org/special-events.
ECCAC’s Signature Gala & Golf Events March 8-9
The Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center (ECCAC) is putting on its annual signature Gala & Golf event this year, presented by Peggy and Jerry Swanson. The Gala features a cocktail hour starting at 5:30 p.m., with dinner at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 8, at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. Guests will enjoy dinner and live entertainment; an exciting live auction, as well as a featured guest speaker. The Gala is an energetic, yet important ECCAC fundraiser to benefit children by providing services at no cost to help identify, treat and support child victims in abusive situations.
The Golf Tournament, also to benefit ECCAC, will take place on Sunday, March 9, at Kelly Plantation Golf Club with registration and a cookout meal from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. to be ready for a tournament shotgun start at noon. An Awards Ceremony will follow the tournament. Please make reservations on-line at eccac.org. Sponsorships are still available.
Mac & Cheese Festival at Destin Commons March 16
Join us at the Mac & Cheese Festival on Sunday, March 16 from NOON – 3PM benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast. This family-friendly event will feature gourmet, chef-inspired twists on the South’s favorite comfort food. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit 7th Annual Mac & Cheese Festival.
