This week on 30A, immerse yourself in a vibrant array of events! From the wisdom of Master Gardeners to the lively Charity Bingo and the delightful Grand Canine Carnaval, there’s an event for every interest. Celebrate womanhood at the Girls Getaway, indulge in a romantic dinner at Ovide, or explore career opportunities at the Walton Job Fair. Experience the 80’s glamour at the Chamber Gala, enjoy soulful melodies with James Riley, and groove with Duck Phat. Revel in nature’s beauty at the Camellia Celebration, get inspired at the Valentine Tour of Homes, and enjoy the festive Mardi Gras Parade. Cap it all off with the excitement of Game Day at Shunk Gulley. Don’t miss these amazing experiences on 30A!
On February 7th, the Walton County Coastal Branch Library’s Winter Community Program features Master Gardeners Margaret Zonia Morrison and Bill Kuenstler. Sharing their expertise under the theme ‘Right Plant, Right Place’, they’ll offer well-researched gardening advice and insights, drawing from the rich history of Walton County’s Master Gardener Program since 1998.
Winter Community Programs: Master Gardeners of Walton County / Wednesday, February 7, 2024, 10 a.m. @ Coastal Branch Library
Every Wednesday, adults 18+ can enjoy Charity Bingo, a lively evening of 6 bingo games with a twist of silly prizes including bar tabs, all in the spirit of supporting local charities. Don’t forget cash for the 50/50 raffle – it’s not just about winning, it’s about making a difference!
Dirty Charity Bingo / Wednesday, February 7, 2024, from 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. @ Redd’s Fueling Station
Join the joyous Grand Canine Carnaval on February 8th at Grand Boulevard in Grand Park hosted by Dog-Harmony. A perfect afternoon for you and your four-legged friends, this event promises a carnival-inspired doggie dance party and contest, photo opportunities, music, and treats for both dogs and owners. With a $15 donation, your pup gets a chance to strut their stuff in the dance contest and win fabulous prizes.
Grand Canine Carnaval / Thursday, February 8, 2024, from 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. @ Grand Boulevard
Mark your calendars for a four-day extravaganza dedicated to women! This special event features a variety of engaging activities including a welcoming bonfire, insightful design talks, creative workshops, a grand Saturday evening bash complete with dinner, dancing, and a silent auction, and a delightful Sunday brunch among other festivities. Not only is this a celebration of womanhood, but it also supports a noble cause. Proceeds will benefit the Watersound Women’s Diagnostic Center at Ascension/Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Hospital. For more details and to reserve your ticket, be sure to visit the event’s website.
19th Annual Girls Getaway / Thursday, February 8 – Sunday, February 11, 2024 @ Rosemary Beach Town Hall
Indulge in an unforgettable Valentine’s Dinner Experience at Ovide, the crown jewel of Hotel Effie Sandestin and 2023’s Best Romantic/Special Occasion Restaurant on the Emerald Coast. From February 8 to 19, Ovide offers a unique dining experience with Valentine’s Day-themed décor, including specialty linens and rose petals, creating the perfect setting for love to blossom. Savor a meticulously crafted menu featuring shareable appetizers like Yellow Fin Tuna Tartare and Octopus Carpaccio, followed by exquisite main courses such as Duck Confit Ravioli and Beef Tenderloin. Conclude your romantic journey with delectable desserts like Berry Cheesecake, complemented by a complimentary glass of sparkling wine. Priced at $120 per person, this culinary celebration of love awaits your reservation via OpenTable.
Romantic Valentine’s Dinner Experience / Thursday, February 8-Monday, February 19, 2024, 5 p.m. onwards @ Ovide
On February 9, 2024, the Walton County Tourism Department is hosting its third Hospitality & Service Industry Job Fair at the Boys & Girls Club in Santa Rosa Beach. This event, running from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., features over 30 local companies actively recruiting for various positions. It’s a prime opportunity for job seekers to network with major employers in Walton County. Attendees should come prepared with resumes. Local businesses can register at WaltonFL.com. For more details, contact Dana McDowell at the Walton County Tourism Department.
Hospitality & Service Industry Job Fair / Friday, February 9, 2024, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. @ Boys & Girls Club
Step back in time and glam up for the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Gala and Awards Celebration, with an “80’s Prom” theme, on February 9 at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa. Kicking off at 5:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception, this event offers a prime networking opportunity with local dignitaries, business leaders, and Chamber members. The night continues with a lavish dinner and an awards ceremony, ensuring an evening of nostalgia and recognition. For more details and ticket reservations, visit the event’s website.
Walton Chamber Gala & Awards Ceremony / Friday, February 9, 2024, from 5:30 p.m. onwards @ Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa
Experience the musical mastery of James Riley, a celebrated modern troubadour and guitarist from London, UK, known for his captivating Americana songcraft and charismatic storytelling. Hailed as “a folk genius” by BBC Wales, Riley’s debut album, Transatlantica, garnered critical acclaim upon its 2020 release. His innovative Rooftop Assembly live-stream concerts during the UK’s Covid shutdown spotlighted his unique talent, gaining national recognition. Apart from touring, Riley contributes as a choir leader at Heart ‘N Soul, an arts charity. For more event details and ticket reservations, visit the website.
An Evening With James Riley / Friday, February 9, 2024, 7:30 p.m. onwards @ The REP Theatre
Dive into the vibrant world of Duck Phat!, a band that masterfully blends soul, rock’n’roll, R&B, jazz, blues, and funk, all set to the infectious rhythms of New Orleans. Known for their funky vibes and eye-catching Hawaiian shirts, Duck Phat! transforms any venue into a lively party scene with their dynamic performances, ensuring a night of uninhibited fun and groovy tunes.
Late Night Mardi Gras Party w/ Duck Phat / Friday, February 9, 2024. from 10 p.m. @ Down Island Gulf Seafood Restaurant
Eden Gardens State Park, adorned with over 370 camellias, celebrates these stunning blooms during February. Visitors are invited to explore the Camellia garden, enjoy educational displays and presentations, and witness the beauty these flowers bring through the winter months. The event also features a fundraiser with Camellias for sale, supporting the park’s continuous beautification and preservation efforts.
Camellia Festival 2024 / Saturday, February 10, 2024, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. @ Eden Gardens State Park
Valentine Tour of Homes offers a unique opportunity to explore the most architecturally stunning and beautifully designed homes in the area, all while contributing to a great cause. Set for February 10-11, the self-guided tour showcases diverse architectural marvels, inspiring interior designs, and impressive art collections. The event, rain or shine, is not only a celebration of local homes but also a fundraiser for the Cultural Arts Alliance’s Art for All program, supporting arts education in Walton County. Tickets are $40 in advance, with prices increasing after February 4. Volunteers, who can sign up at the Cultural Arts Alliance website, receive a complimentary ticket.
Valentine Tour of Homes / Saturday, February 10, 2024, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. @ Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County
The Village streets will come alive with the vibrant and festive Mardi Gras parade, featuring an array of unique floats, decorated golf carts, and vehicles. Adding to the charm are costumed dogs and their humans, parading in style. As Mardi Gras tunes set the celebratory mood, participants and their four-legged companions will delight the crowd, tossing beads, moon pies, and an assortment of trinkets to the excited onlookers. For those interested in joining the parade, registration is available online.
Mardi Gras Parade / Sunday, February 11, 2024, from 2 p.m. @ The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Shunk Gulley invites you to Game Day in the Gulley Bar, the Emerald Coast’s prime spot for sports enthusiasts. Enjoy the thrill of football combined with delicious food and stunning Gulf views. It’s the perfect setting to cheer on your favorite team and indulge in a fantastic menu. Get ready for an unforgettable sports viewing experience!
SuperBowl Game Day Watch Party / Sunday, February 11, 2024, 5:30 p.m. onwards @ Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar
