May on the Forgotten Coast is a celebration of nature, flavor, and small-town charm. From hands-on coastal learning and lively fishing traditions to festive gatherings, family brunches, sweet local heritage, and a glowing night sky over the water, the month is filled with experiences that reflect the heart of this unique shoreline.
FEATURED EVENTS
Estuaries Day
May 1st
Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve Nature Center | Eastpoint, FL
The Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve will celebrate Estuaries Day on Friday, May 1st, from 1:30-5:30 pm E.T. in Eastpoint. The event is free and will include fun educational activities for kids and adults, and estuary-themed games. Please note that all children must be accompanied by an adult.
New activities will be debuting this year such as ink block art printing, Be Bay Aware, the junior water quality lab, and living shoreline demonstrations. Old favorites will also be returning, including the cast net game, the wacky waterfront race, aquatic animal touch tanks, live oyster microscope viewing, glass grinding and sand art, Be-A-Bear, and more!
Attendees can also tour ANERR’s 5,400 square-foot Nature Center with its three large aquariums filled with local estuarine and marine life, an 80-foot-long mural depicting the area ecosystems, and a hands-on Bay Discovery Room.
Cinco De Mayo at Crooked River Lighthouse
May 5th
Crooked River Lighthouse | Carrabelle
This Cinco de Mayo, Crooked River Lighthouse turns into the kind of party you don’t stumble into… you plan for.
We’re talking fresh, handcrafted margaritas made the right way, smooth tequila flights that take you from crisp blanco to rich añejo, and bold, flavor-packed dishes that hit every note. Think loaded taco bowls stacked with all the good stuff, smoky queso bubbling with roasted peppers and sweet corn, and oversized burritos smothered and done right.
It’s loud, it’s lively, and it’s built for a full day of great food, strong drinks, and even better company. Noon to night, the energy stays high and the plates keep coming.
Show up hungry. Stay for the party.
Mother’s Day Brunch at Crooked River Grill
May 10th
Crooked River Grill | Carrabelle
Celebrate Mother’s Day in the most meaningful way, gathered around the table at Crooked River Grill for a beautifully curated brunch experience. Join us on Sunday, May 10th from 8am to 2pm for a morning filled with exceptional flavors, warm hospitality, and a setting designed to honor the incredible women in your life.
Our special brunch menu has been thoughtfully crafted for the occasion, complemented by bottomless mimosas and Bloody Mary specials to keep the celebration going. Whether you’re toasting to mom, grandma, or someone who’s made a lasting impact, this is the perfect place to slow down, connect, and enjoy the moment.
Tupilo Honey Festival
May 16th
Lake Alice Park | Wewahitchka
People come from all over the world to the small community of Wewahitchka, Florida each spring to taste and take home this locally grown rare, delicious delicacy.
Tupelo honey is harvested exclusively from White Tupelo Gum trees in Florida’s Apalachicola River basin. This distinctive variety possesses a floral scent — a hint of rose, some herby, earthy taste, pure sweetness and not a hint of bitterness.
Drone Light Show
May 30th
Battery Park | Apalachicola
Come out to Battery Park for an awesome light show!