February on the Forgotten Coast brings a vibrant lineup of events that celebrate community, culture, and coastal charm. From the Crooked River Park Fest in Carrabelle with its lighthouse tours and car show to the lively Apalachicola Mardi Gras Barkus Parade, there’s something for everyone. Savor local flavors, enjoy friendly competition, and the area’s natural beauty all month long. No matter your interests, February on the Forgotten Coast promises unforgettable experiences.
FEATURED EVENTS
3rd Annual Crooked River Park Fest
Battery Park | Carrabelle
February 1st, 2025
The Crooked River Lighthouse in Carrabelle, FL will be hosting their 3rd Annual Crooked River Park Fest on Saturday from 9AM to 3PM ET. The event features an expanded Country ‘Super’ Market, local food vendor, car show, and fish rubbing art activity. The Crooked River Lighthouse Museum & Gift Shop, lighthouse tower climbs, and the 1894 Fresnel Lens exhibit will also be open to visitors. Admission to the Crooked River Park Fest is free to the public.
Black History Month Kick-off: Free Community Breakfast
Corner of Avenue C & MLK| Port St. Joe
February 1st, 2025
Join the North Port St. Joe Community Development Corporation for a Free Community Breakfast to kick off Black History Month on Saturday, February 1, from 8 AM to 10 AM at the corner of Avenue C & MLK. While attending, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn about our initiatives and meet our new CEO!
Winter Bay Day
St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve | Port St. Joe
February 1st, 2025
Friends of St. Joseph Bay Preserves presents a day of education, shrimp, and music! Learn about the preserves and life along the bay. There will be lots to see and lots to do. Best of all, the Low Country Shrimp Boil will be delicious – as always! Meet you on the deck of the Visitors Center! … no admission fee! Tour the Preserves: Explore the preserves on a guided Tram Tour through the backwoods trails of the Buffer Preserve and learn about the native animal and plant life.
4th Annual SGI ShrimpFest
St. George Island Lighthouse | St. George Island
February 8th, 2025
The St. George Lighthouse Association is thrilled to announce that it will be hosting the 4th Annual SGI ShrimpFest from 11AM to 4PM in the western parking area adjacent to Lighthouse Park. Come and indulge in a feast for the senses with a variety of shrimp dishes prepared by local culinary experts. Groove to the beats of a live musical performance featuring The Blues Factor Band that will keep the energy high and the good times rolling throughout the event.
5th Annual Pickleball for Sea Turtles Tournament
1001 10th Street | Port St. Joe
February 14th, 2025
Join us at a fun-filled annual pickleball tournament benefiting the Florida Coastal Conservancy. The tournament includes: four ACTION packed days, 6 courts with permanent nets, USAPA refs for most matches and all medal matches, food truck(s), player hospitality tent, raffles/vendor/merchandise areas, awesome swag and tourney shirts, and the best pickleball court views in the panhandle!
Mexico Beach Annual Gumbo Cook-Off
109 44th Street | Mexico Beach
February 15th, 2025
Ladle up because the Special Events for Mexico Beach, Inc. beloved Gumbo Cook-Off is returning. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, February 15, 2025. Gumbo & Brunswick stew will be served up starting at 10am and run until it’s all gone. Tickets will be sold once the gates open and will be required to sample, and enjoy, any and all gumbo and stew. There will be live entertainment and free beads.
Apalachicola Mardi Gras Barkus Parade & Street Festival
Riverfront Park | Apalachicola
February 21st – 22nd, 2025
The Mystic Krewe of Salty Barkers will be celebrating Mardi Gras Apalach-style bigger and better than ever this year, with two days of fun. The celebration includes a lively street festival and of course the 14th Annual Mardi Gras Pet Parade. This event, taking place on Friday and Saturday, February 21 and 22, 2025 in Apalachicola, FL, will celebrate dogs and their people. All visitors and their furry friends are invited to join this paw-some event.