November on the Forgotten Coast is a magical time, blending rich traditions, community spirit, and festive celebrations against the backdrop of breathtaking coastal beauty. From mouthwatering seafood feasts to honoring veterans, grooving to local tunes, and kicking off the holiday season, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this month’s lineup promises memorable experiences for all ages. Get ready to explore the best of the Forgotten Coast with these exciting November events!
FEATURED EVENTS
Florida Seafood Festival
Battery Park | Apalachicola
November 1st & 2nd, 2024
The Florida Seafood Festival is a two-day event annually drawing tens of thousands of visitors to the historic town of Apalachicola. The festival is held at the mouth of the Apalachicola River under the shady oaks of Battery Park. The festival features delicious seafood, arts and crafts exhibits, seafood related events, and musical Entertainment. Some of the notable events include Oyster Eating and Oyster Shucking contest, Blue Crab Races, Photo Contest, Parade, 5k Redfish Run, The Blessing of the Fleet, History of the Festival Exhibit, and Tonging For Treasure.
Lantern Fest
Crooked River Lighthouse | Carrabelle
November 9th, 2024
Lantern Fest is a unique, outdoor festival known for its display of over a hundred colorful, hanging lanterns that lights up the night with magic and history at the 1895 maritime landmark. Special activities include amazing music by gifted Irish musicians, Killavil, the spectacular glow-in-the-dark performance from the Tallahassee State College Dance Company, and superb, traditional Chinese music performance by Master Zheng Player Dr. Haiqiong Deng and members of the Florida State University Chinese Music Ensemble. Festival-goers can also enjoy evening tower climbs, ancient craft demonstrations, museum exhibits, and delicious food and desserts. Don’t miss this evening of music, dance, glowing lanterns and more.
St. George Lighthouse Association Annual Veterans Day Celebration
St. George Island Lighthouse | St. George Island
November 11th, 2024
The St. George Lighthouse Association, in partnership with SGI Veterans Reveille Group and the 106th American Legion in Apalachicola, invite everyone to attend the Veterans Day Ceremony in Lighthouse Park on Monday, November 11th at 11AM.
Centennial Building Grand Re-opening
Centennial Building | Port St. Joe
November 16th, 2024
Step back in time and rock out with the iconic 1960s band, The Villagers, at our third Classless Reunion! This special evening not only brings back the golden tunes of the past but also showcases a lineup of stellar local talent who have shaped our community’s musical heritage.
Pickelball Tournament presented by the Junior Service League of Port St. Joe
River Road | Port St. Joe
November 16th & 17th, 2024
The Junior Service League of Port St. Joe is hosting its Inaugural Pickleball Tournament! All proceeds are going to the Junior Service League of Port St. Joe to support the Women and Children of Gulf County. Categories include mens doubles, womens doubles, and mixed doubles.
2024 Forgotten Coast Festival of Trees – Reception & Silent Auction
The Joe Center for the Arts | Port St. Joe
November 22nd, 2024
Join us from November 22nd to December 13th for a holiday event like no other. Experience breathtaking holiday exhibits, a silent auction with unique items, and a Gift Shop stocked with the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. Take a stroll through our festive displays and enjoy a sleigh-full of fun activities for the whole family! Santa and Mrs. Claus will be onsite November 22nd and 23rd.
Thanksgiving Turkey Trot
Under the Palms Park | Mexico Beach
November 28th, 2024
Come kick off Thanksgiving Day with the Mexico Beach Turkey Trot 5K Fun Run! All ages are invited to participate in this family fun event. Participants will start and end at the same location with volunteers along the road to route runners through the course. This is a non-chipped, non-official timed race. All participants will be responsible for capturing his/her own time. Race will start at 8:00am at Under the Palms Park on Thanksgiving Day. From walkers to runners and those joggers in between we hope you’ll join the fun.
Apalachicola Downtown Christmas Celebration
Riverfront Park | Apalachicola
November 29th, 2024
The Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce Presents the Apalachicola Downtown Christmas Celebration on November 29 from 3-8PM. Apalachicola lights up the day after Thanksgiving and the streets will be lined with luminaries as merchants stay open late to welcome the season and early holiday shoppers. Santa arrives on a shrimp boat at 4 pm at Riverfront Park on Water Street and the Chamber will hand out hot dogs for all the children who come to visit Santa.