This week on 30A, a diverse array of events brings the community together to celebrate the Emerald Coast’s vibrant spirit. From witnessing sea turtle releases and unraveling a captivating murder mystery to enjoying creative art workshops, live music, and lively Mardi Gras festivities, there’s an adventure waiting for every beach enthusiast.

1. Turtles Return: Double Release Celebration

Gulf World Marine Institute welcomes onlookers to witness two subadult sea turtles—Sea Pork and Ram Bam—released into the Gulf at 8:30 am on Wednesday, February 26. Early arrival is encouraged for those eager to support marine conservation and learn about wildlife rescue firsthand.

Gulf World Marine Institute Double Sea Turtle Release / Wednesday, February 26, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. @ Inlet Beach Regional Access

2. Final Suspense: Winter Community Speaker Series

On Wednesday, February 26 at 10 a.m., the Coastal Branch Library closes out its Winter Community Speaker Series with a thrilling Murder Mystery event. Attendees can immerse themselves in the intrigue and help unravel clues alongside fellow mystery enthusiasts.

Winter Community Speaker Series: Murder Mystery Event / Wednesday, February 26, 2025, from 10 a.m. onwards @ Coastal Branch Library

3. Starfish Spark: Creative Workshop & Book Signing

Shacks Art Grayton Beach invites guests to craft their own starfish characters from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., choosing outfits, colors, and accessories. Supplies are included, and each one-of-a-kind starfish creation costs $20, making for a fun, hands-on coastal art experience.

Create Starfish Characters Workshop and Book Signing / Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. @ Shacks Art Grayton Beach

4. Lifelong Vows: “Always a Bridesmaid”

Emerald Coast Theatre Company invites audiences to a hilarious romp celebrating decades of friendship on Thursday, February 27 at 7 p.m. This Southern-style comedy follows four friends who made a pact on prom night to always stand by each other’s weddings—no matter how outrageous the bridesmaid dress.

Always a Bridesmaid / Thursday, February 27, 2025, from 7 p.m. @ Emerald Coast Theatre Company

5. Mardi Gras Mix: Festive Cocktails at Ovide

On Friday, February 28 at 4 p.m., Ovide stirs up a NOLA-style celebration with specialty Hurricanes, Sazeracs, and a King Cake Martini. Guests can indulge in these vibrant Mardi Gras flavors through Sunday, March 2.

Mardi Gras / Friday, February 28, 2025, from 4 p.m. @ Ovide

6. Sail & Style: Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show

On Saturday, March 1 at 11 a.m., Aaron Bessant Park in Panama City Beach transforms into a vibrant hub for boat enthusiasts and coastal lifestyle aficionados. The event showcases everything from cutting-edge marine accessories to beach cruising bicycles, celebrating the best of seaside adventure and leisure.

Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show / Saturday, March 1 to – March 2, 2025 2025, from 10 a.m. @ Aaron Bessant Park

7. Americana Echoes: Pail Kamm & Eleanore MacDonald

Camp Helen State Park presents a soulful evening as Pail Kamm and Eleanore MacDonald take center stage. Doors open at 6 p.m. on March 1, inviting guests to enjoy live Americana tunes along with snacks and beverages provided by Friends of Camp Helen.

Pail Kamm & Eleanore MacDonald / Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 6 p.m. @ Camp Helen State Park

8. Brunch, Beats & Mardi Gras Magic

AJ’s Grayton Beach hosts its 6th Annual Mardi Gras Brunch & Live Music on Sunday, March 2, kicking off at 11 a.m. Revelers can savor Louisiana favorites and hurricanes, groove to Dikki Du & The Zydeco Krewe at noon, and stick around for Flow Tribe’s free performance at 6 p.m., making it a day-to-night celebration of Mardi Gras spirit.

Mardi Gras Brunch & Live Music / Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. @ AJ’s Grayton Beach

9. Carnival of Colors: Mardi Gras Parade

The Village of Baytowne Wharf transforms on Sunday, March 2 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. as vibrant floats, costumed dogs, and festive participants fill the streets. Lively Mardi Gras music accompanies a joyful shower of beads, moon pies, and trinkets, creating a truly unforgettable parade atmosphere.

Mardi Gras Parade / Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. @ The Village of Baytowne Wharf

To keep up-to-date with daily 30A events and other fun things happening here at the beach, bookmark the 30A Events page, and download the free 30A iPhone and 30A Android apps.