Events in Okaloosa County, FL

Enjoy coffee and conversation at a regular Thursday gathering.

Bike Night at Task Force Pizza Co. welcomes all bikes, rain or shine. Riders can stop by to hang out, enjoy ice-cold beer, and get free pizza slices. If the weather is not suitable for riding, bringing a bike key still qualifies you for free pizza.

Enjoy a relaxed night of karaoke and open mic, with singing, dancing, cheering, laughter, and playful banter from the married hosts. The atmosphere is family friendly, mostly until about 8, and there is a full bar. No pressure to perform, just a chance to have fun and feel like a rockstar.

Enjoy a lively game of bingo with songs from a range of genres and decades instead of numbers. Listen, mark your card, and play along, no music knowledge required. Prizes, bragging rights, and free food and drink giveaways add to the fun. Space is limited.

Paint a dramatic raven artwork while investigating clues in a murder mystery filled with secrets, suspicion, and intrigue. Guests can sip, laugh, socialize, and make an accusation as they try to uncover who killed the raven. The gathering offers a chance to enjoy creativity and fun together.

Presented by 99 Rock, Steve Hall Productions, and Club L.A., this stop on the Not Broken Enough Tour brings Austin hard rock band Catch Your Breath to Club L.A. with special guests TX2, Arankai, and Colorblind. The group features vocalist Josh, guitarist Teddy, bassist Cianan, and drummer Onell, blending alt rock and metal with synth-driven textures and refined production for an emotionally charged sound. Recent milestones include the single Dial Tone appearing on SiriusXM Octane, growing traction on Pandora, and coverage from Knotfest.com. This event is for ages 16 and older. Three VIP packages, each including a show ticket and available through Soundrink, offer options ranging from early entry and merch shopping to a meet and greet, Q&A, photo opportunities, exclusive keepsakes, and for the top tier, sidestage viewing during the first three songs along with a prestage photo.

Explore communications and technology through informative, educational demonstrations designed to advance skills in STEM environments. Everyone is welcome.

Stop by this honor system stand for baked goods on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It is open until the goods sell out.

Discover local support and connect with organizations ready to help with health, careers, and long term well being. The event honors service and focuses on building a stronger community. Offerings include legal assistance, health screenings, employment services, clothing, haircuts, guidance on VA benefits, breakfast and lunch, housing resources, hygiene kits, and mental health support, with additional help available. Families are welcome to take part in a day built around practical care and connection.

Locals on the Harbor features a first Friday tradition where free beer is given away to benefit Road Dogg Rescue. The shelter brings adoptable puppies for plenty of furry cuddles while you sip. Each month also includes a live Facebook drawing for Stock the BarK, with entrants vying for a prize pack filled with gift cards and free goodies. Raffle entries are available for $20 online or in person, or bring a 20 lb bag of dog food to Boathouse to receive a free ticket.

At Northwest Florida State College in Niceville, the Emerald Coast Rodeo features Southern Grace & Grit showcasing western-style apparel, accessories, and on-site custom hat shaping. Attendees can browse favorite pieces and see handcrafted hats and accessories in person to create a distinctive rodeo look. The experience pairs the excitement of the arena with the signature Southern Grace & Grit touch.

Enjoy karaoke and dancing with friends and family. Sing for the first time, try a new song or genre, or simply watch the crowd while the DJ keeps the night going. The event is open to the public on Friday nights.

Explore movement, confidence, and personal expression in an adult mixed-level heels dance class. The session includes a jazz-inspired warm-up, technique drills, across-the-floor work, and choreography, blending jazz, ballet, and contemporary movement. It is suitable for beginners and experienced dancers. Athletic wear is recommended, with jazz shoes, ballet shoes, socks, stilettos, or ballroom shoes as footwear options.

Enjoy a free trivia night in Bluewater Bay, where you can put your knowledge to the test alongside other trivia enthusiasts and enjoy brews.

Take on a 5K in Destin with a course that follows Main Street and heads into the local Planet neighborhood. After the finish, awards will be presented inside American Legion Post 296, with food, beer, and prizes available. Runners and walkers are welcome.

Explore local farm stands, discover new favorites, and support the small businesses and families that make the community special. Visit at least six participating stands and collect a sticker or stamp in a booklet provided at each stop. Drop off your completed booklet at any participating stand to enter a drawing for a collection of local farm stand goods. You can visit more than six stands, and every visit, purchase, share, and kind word helps support these businesses.

The 1LIFE Run Club hosts a 3-mile fun run in Destin. Run, jog, or walk at your own pace, and meet other people while getting moving. First-timers are welcome, and no sign-up is needed. Bring a great attitude. The run takes place in rain, shine, or snow.

Fort Walton Beach Beasley Park hosts the Emerald Coast Out of the Darkness Walk, a community event focused on suicide prevention and mental health. Walkers come together to raise awareness, support one another, and honor and remember loved ones. The event also helps fund critical efforts that protect mental health and prevent suicide, turning collective steps into meaningful impact.

This Community Build Day focuses on assembling the Geek Lights show for its 19th season, celebrating a festive mix of lights, fun, and a joyful birthday celebration for Jesus. Attendees learn what goes on behind the scenes while everything needed is provided, including snacks, drinks, and a full lunch. No experience is required, and tasks avoid heavy lifting, climbing, and technical work. Participants may stay for a short time or for longer, since the emphasis is friendly fellowship and contributing a few hours to a project that will welcome thousands of visitors during the upcoming season. Teens can have their Community Service forms signed. There is also a chance to meet The Geek and Spouse Peripheral and hear early insights about this year’s display, with all supplies and refreshments covered. Those planning to attend are asked by the organizers to mark their intention on Facebook to help with food planning and to send a message if bringing guests. Questions are welcome.

DeFrance hosts its annual Holiday Market, featuring a wide mix of vendors offering Christmas decor, jewelry, home decor, holiday wreaths, gift ideas, and more. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be grilled, with proceeds benefiting Cinco Baptist Childrens Ministry. It is a convenient chance to get a head start on holiday shopping. Vendor inquiries may be directed to 850-314-7500 or defranceantiques@gmail.com.

Explore a craft fair filled with unique, handmade finds from local creators. Shop creative gifts, artisan goods, and treats, and look for food trucks and jewelry among the offerings. The lineup of makers changes on a weekend schedule, so there is always something new to discover. Enjoy a scenic setting while you browse, and find vendor previews and updates on the event page. For more information, contact stevenpaulsignup14@gmail.com.

Active-duty service members, veterans, and families in the NWF area can enjoy a game night with pizza donated by Task Force Pizza, prizes provided by GameMasters Guild and TBS Comics, and free childcare offered in partnership with Operation Childcare Project. Registering provides an additional chance to win a giveaway.

Celebrate Santa’s grand arrival and the start of Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops. The festivities include family fun, holiday cheer, and a mini reindeer plush giveaway.

Southern Grace & Grit will be on site at the Emerald Coast Rodeo at Northwest Florida State College, presenting western inspired boutique apparel and accessories, plus custom hat shaping. Visitors can explore standout pieces and view handcrafted hats and accessories in person. The experience blends the excitement of the rodeo with the distinctive style of Southern Grace & Grit.

Blakgraz brings a powerhouse night of live music to Eagle's Nest at Blackwater in Crestview, Florida, showcasing a deep songbook of more than 113 originals alongside fan-favorite covers. The performance stretches across 11 musical styles, from rock and blues to country, folk, jazz, pop, rap, and more, creating a set that encourages singing along and time on the dance floor. Look for interactive moments, prize giveaways, and an extended run of nonstop songs. The show spotlights six signature guitars with names and personalities, including Tiff, Rosa, Betty, Stella, Chosette, and Sandy. Led by Tom, the project is known for inventive storytelling and a blend of genres, with a history that includes chart-topping tracks on MP3.com, national radio play, appearances with major touring artists, and multiple albums released since 2010 such as Lust, Soveran, and the ongoing 2025 project Rufus. The song What If I Told You has surpassed 1.8 million plays online, and recent recognition includes eight nominations at the 2025 International Music Awards along with steady international streaming growth. Admission is free, and food and drinks are available on site.

The Emerald Coast Poodles host an evening of island elegance featuring entertainment, music, and dancing. The event supports the group’s community impact and service initiatives. Guests can choose from three admission experiences, with attire ranging from tropical formal to island elegance.

Enjoy a made-to-order breakfast for $12, with weekly specials, Bloody Marys, and mimosas. The morning also offers good food and company, plus a chance to watch volunteers balance plates and coffee cups. Those interested in volunteering can check in with the cashier.

Browse a selection of free books, or bring up to 10 gently used books per household to exchange. DVDs and CDs are available for $1, and video games start at $3.

The Playground Amateur Radio Club’s informal Sunday gathering welcomes interested participants to test, tune, develop, and learn about amateur radio. The club works on projects, instruction, experiments, and radio frequency topics, while also making worldwide DX contacts and helping others learn operating procedures across analog, digital, and computer-assisted contesting modes.

Escape The Fate takes the stage at Club L.A. in Destin, FL, presented by 99 Rock, Steve Hall Productions, and Club L.A. This event is open to ages 16 and up, with additional performers to be announced. The Las Vegas quartet of Craig Mabbitt, Robert Ortiz, Thomas “TJ” Bell, and Kevin “Thrasher” Gruft is known for pairing soaring hooks and emotive ballads with hard hitting tracks. Their recent work, created with producer Howard Benson through a highly collaborative writing process, spans both heavy cuts and catchy, melodic moments. Songs such as Alive, Remember Every Scar, Breaking Me Down, Let Me Be, and Just A Memory showcase that range and the group’s renewed momentum.

A Lunch N Learn featuring Dr. Elvira Chiccarelli as guest speaker on the topic of celebrating women in military service. Presented by Executive Air. Free for Chamber members, with registration required.

Young Professionals of Destin hosts a Sunset Social sponsored by AJ's Seafood & Oyster Bar. AJ's has served Gulf Coast oysters and refreshing drinks since 1984, growing from a neighborhood hangout into a well known destination on the Destin Harbor. Admission is $20 for those employed by a business that belongs to the Destin Chamber and $30 for nonmembers. Registration with prepayment is required. Attendees receive a complimentary drink and appetizers.

Get in-person legal help at a free community clinic at Destin Library. Guests can drop in without an appointment, and assistance is offered in the order of arrival while capacity allows. Bring any documents connected to your legal issue to make the most of your visit. For questions, email Volunteer@LSNF.org.

A ribbon cutting shines a light on Bayside Yoga, a boutique yoga and wellness studio in Fort Walton Beach that emphasizes small, personalized classes for people of any age and level of experience. Offerings range from yoga and mat pilates to restorative and somatic practices, meditation, and specialty wellness options that foster movement, relaxation, connection, and overall well-being. The studio also hosts community gatherings, workshops, and unique experiences throughout the year. Thoughtful touches include the cozy Zen Den, complimentary beverages such as coffee, hot tea, and water, and a quiet porch by the water for relaxing before or after class.

The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce’s monthly luncheon offers local professionals a chance to connect, build relationships, and strengthen their networks. Hosted by The Place on Beal and catered by Vibe Productions, the gathering combines networking with a dining experience. Advance registration is required, and Chamber members can apply their complimentary benefit when registering.

Marking four decades of romance, reliability, and brilliance, this anniversary gathering offers champagne, a ribbon cutting, and complimentary jewelry cleaning. It honors years of love stories and trust while recognizing a significant milestone.

The Crestview Amateur Radio Club, also known as the North Okaloosa Amateur Radio Club (NOARC), holds a monthly gathering focused on amateur radio. Attendees discuss radio topics and coordinate plans for community events, public outreach, education, training, and service activities. The meeting supports involvement in local communities while connecting with people around the world and even into space through radio.

Network and connect at Business Before Hours, sponsored by Eglin Federal Credit Union, at Brotula's Seafood House & Steamer. The program features a non-profit spotlight on DEFENSEWERX. Eglin Federal Credit Union, established in 1954, is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution with nine branches serving members in and around Okaloosa County. It supports active duty and retired military, their families, employees of many local businesses, and eligible residents within its field of membership, and offers services that include auto loans, credit cards, and mortgages. Advance registration with payment is required. Pricing is $25 for members and $45 for non-members. Walk-ins are accommodated only if space is available, with at-the-door pricing of $40 for members and $50 for non-members.

This Friendsgiving-themed Homeschool Day at Bongo’s Fun Center celebrates homeschool families with opportunities to connect with old friends and meet new ones. Enjoy Friendsgiving-inspired fun alongside skating, the FunZone playground, arcade games, and the Pixel Floor, with food and fall treats available for purchase. Pricing includes a Single Activity option for $12.99 covering one choice of skating, FunZone, or the Pixel Game Pack, or an All Access option for $24.99 that includes skating, FunZone, the Pixel Game Pack, and a $10 arcade card.

Treat the kids to a fun evening that combines creativity and a cozy film. Children will paint a Santa wood blank to make their own keepsake, then relax with a themed movie while enjoying pizza, beverages, popcorn, and snacks. Everything is included, and the setting is supervised so parents can enjoy a worry-free night out. Admission is $35 per child, with each additional sibling at $15. Advance registration with payment is required, and marking yourself as going on social media does not reserve a seat. To pay by phone, call 850-333-1596. Space is limited, so only paid guests may attend. Sessions start promptly, and late arrivals may miss individual guidance and might not finish their artwork. If children are attending with friends, provide a group name during booking to help with seating. Masks are welcome, disposable aprons are provided, and bringing personal hand sanitizer is encouraged. Cancellations made at least 48 hours in advance receive store credit. Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice, as well as no-shows, are not eligible for refunds or credits. Classes may be postponed or canceled due to unforeseen circumstances or low enrollment, with notification provided and a full refund if the class is canceled.

A week dedicated to creativity features a wide range of mini classes offered throughout. A detailed class schedule will be available, and the program includes an opening reception. Friends and family are welcome, and admission is free and open to all.

Duchess performs live at Jake and Henry's. Enjoy an in-person show from this act at the venue.

Explore a lively outdoor market featuring handcrafted goods, fresh produce, local artisans, and culinary offerings in a welcoming community setting. The market takes place year-round, rain or shine.

Returning for its second year at Village Church, this festive market offers a cheerful mix of shopping, food, and family-friendly Christmas fun. Browse vendor booths for unique handmade and seasonal gifts, then stop by the gift wrapping station to have purchases ready to give. Children can enjoy the Kids Korner with inflatables, face painting, and crafts while families take in the market atmosphere. Rumor has it the Dad’s Tent will be back, giving chauffeurs a place to catch College GameDay or the opening kickoff of a favorite game.

Returning to its original home at DeFrance Antiques, this showcase brings together modern and vintage muscle, beloved classics, and custom builds across cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Presented by DeFrance Antiques and HulkSmash, the day features judged competition and concludes with an awards presentation. Judges evaluate exterior finish and detailing, lighting, brightwork and trim, wheels and tires, and suspension. They also consider drivetrain and undercarriage appearance, interior and trunk elements including audio, dash layout, coverings, and specialty items, plus engine bay details such as intake and exhaust, inner fenders, firewall, wiring, and components. Craftsmanship is recognized in both customization and restoration, weighing originality, authenticity, workmanship, effectiveness, and overall appeal. Extra credit may be given for complete vehicle displays, including build boards, and for entries that stand out. Expect a 50/50 drawing and multiple raffles throughout the day. All participants are required to complete a registration form and a liability form, which will be provided on site. Award categories will be announced. New twin size bed in a bag sets and pillows will be collected for distribution with upcoming bed deliveries. Proceeds support Sleep Heavenly Peace.

Celebrate Milo's birthday with a party at the FWB Landing Park.

At Grateful Hearts Yoga in Crestview, Joanne guides an immersive breathwork workshop centered on healing, balance, and release. Using a two-stage pranayama approach taught by breath expert David Elliott and combined with her own healing modalities, the session invites participants to work with the breath to clear stagnant energy and let go of old emotions and limiting beliefs. The practice is intended to help engage the body’s relaxation response, support detoxification, and increase oxygen flow to the brain. It offers a deeper experience than the breathwork typically found in a yoga class and is designed as a powerful journey of surrender and renewal. Wear comfortable clothing and consider bringing your favorite yoga mat, blanket, pillow, eye pillow, journal and pen, and a water bottle. Plan to eat lightly and avoid heavy meals within the hour beforehand. If you have medical questions or conditions, consult your healthcare provider about whether breathwork is appropriate for you. Space is limited, so advance registration is recommended. Joanne Klepal is a facilitator focused on transformation and personal growth. Her background includes certifications as a Master Practitioner of NLP and NLP Coaching, Master Practitioner of TIME Techniques, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Change Management Professional, and Reiki Master Trainer. She is also a Kundalini Yoga Instructor and breathwork practitioner, and the author of Mastery of the Mind: The Pathway to Empowerment, Inner Revolution, Embracing Change to Achieve Greatness, and Natural Healing Techniques: Get Well & Stay Well with Asian Bio-Energetic Therapy.

Motorcyclists come together for the 47th Annual Toys 4 Tots Ride organized by ECHOG #3605, setting off from Emerald Coast Harley-Davidson. Participants are asked to bring $10 per person and a new toy or a gift card to donate, creating a holiday season ride centered on generosity and community support.

All are welcome to an Emerald Coast showcase of wedding and special event professionals at Home2 Suites by Hilton Fort Walton Beach, conveniently located near Eglin AFB. It is designed for anyone planning a wedding, charity function, baby shower, birthday, retirement celebration, holiday party, military event, or any other gathering. Explore the venue’s event spaces and meet a variety of local vendors in one place. Admission includes a chance to receive a swag bag for the first 30 guests, one entry per attendee for drawings with vendor door prizes valued at $50 or more, tastings from catering and bar partners, entertainment, and more. Participating businesses include A Rogue Idea with decor and planning, Emerald Coast Vibe for catering and bar service, DJ services by Kevin Price, Bridal Directories as a planning resource, hair and makeup by Bride Guide Pros, jewelry from Beachside Blessings, face and body art with tinsel by Dancing Canvas, photography by Pix.byhan and Katie Vito Media, custom shell keepsakes from Salty Beach Gifts, silent disco along with DJ and lighting from Soundwave Events, signature event scents from The Be Joyful Boutique, and DJ, lighting, and a photobooth from Emerald Coast Entertainment Services. Presented by A Rogue Idea, Emerald Coast Vibe, and Our Day Our Way. Tickets are available online, and admission can also be purchased at the door with cash or Venmo.

Make space for creativity and calm at Eglin Community Library’s quarterly program, The Open Journal. Designed for teens and adults, this relaxed gathering provides an optional prompt and supports any style of journaling, whether writing, sketching, collage work, planning, reflection, fine tuning systems, or experimenting with new ideas. Materials are supplied on site, and the session unfolds in a quiet setting with gentle background music to foster a soothing atmosphere. No registration is necessary. To preserve the environment, children under 13 are not allowed. Details are subject to change.

A ribbon cutting celebrates the opening of Homeport Neurosurgery and Spine’s new Destin location. Dr. Critides is board certified and fellowship trained in spine care, serving patients with neurosurgical trauma, spine surgery needs, and other neurosurgical conditions. The office prioritizes patient well-being and strong outcomes by combining conservative treatment options with innovative surgical techniques. Services include Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion, laminectomy with fusion, lumbar interbody fusions, vertebroplasty, carpal tunnel release, and cervical disc replacement.

Enjoy an evening of BUNCO with other players at the Legion. The gathering is open to the public, and there is no obligation to attend every monthly game. Players pay a $10 buy-in and play three to four rounds, with four cash-prize winners recognized for the most BUNCOS, the most wins, the most losses, and wearing the crown by rolling all 2s. Guests are welcome to contribute a snack for a small potluck, though bringing one is optional. Drinks are available for purchase at the bar, and outside drinks are not permitted.

This lunch at the Destin Chamber of Commerce brings together tourism and hospitality professionals, along with anyone interested in area tourism. The program will be shared soon. The Tourism & Hospitality Group leads the effort to support the Destin tourism community through training and information, serving as a unified voice for hospitality-based businesses that rely on the local tourism industry. Registration is required, and lunch will be provided. The cost is $15 for Destin Chamber members and $30 for non-members. For sponsorship information, call (850) 837-6241 or email mail@DestinChamber.com.

Emerald Coast Storytellers is expanding west with a Fort Walton Beach series that brings new voices, fresh stories, and a growing community to the mic. Hosted at The Craft Bar, Destin Harbor, this gathering pairs a coastal vibe and craft drinks with live, in-the-moment storytelling that helps strangers feel more like neighbors. Settle in and listen, or step up and share. Participants can reserve a mic slot during registration if they already feel the nudge. If a spot was not claimed in advance, add your name on arrival by finding Breanna. Writers, poets, musicians, performers, and first-timers are all welcome. Fiction, nonfiction, poetry, true tales, or work that blurs the lines, if it matters to you, it belongs here. The evening features Meredith Wild, a #1 New York Times, USA Today, and international bestselling author of 22 novels. After self-publishing her debut Hardwired in 2013, she applied a decade of tech entrepreneurship to launch her first publishing imprint, forged relationships with major retailers, and became one of the first indie authors fully stocked in brick-and-mortar bookstore chains nationwide. Both traditionally and self-published, her books have reached No. 1 on the New York Times and Wall Street Journal lists, and her work has been highlighted by CBS This Morning, The Today Show, the New York Times, The Hollywood Reporter, Vanity Fair, Publishers Weekly, and The Examiner. Her foreign rights have been sold in more than 23 languages. She also supports fellow authors as CEO and Editor of Page & Vine, a romance publisher, and lives in Florida with her family and many furry companions. Admission is free with RSVP, and space is limited. If plans change, please release your spot so someone else can attend. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, with a special happy hour for attendees. The theme for the night will be announced soon.

Birthing in Grace is a childbirth education series led by Carlee Anderson and Katie Howze of Stronger Together Birth Collaborative. This session focuses on baby’s arrival and the first moments after birth, often called the golden hour. It is created for expectant parents and their birth partners to build knowledge, confidence, and a sense of calm as they prepare for birth and the transition to parenthood. Couples take part in interactive activities and hear insights from two local birth doulas, with opportunities to learn from the instructors as well as fellow participants. Each class aims to leave attendees more prepared and connected, while honoring the natural unpredictability that can be part of birth. Participants are welcome to bring dinner or snacks. Enrollment is limited. The total cost is $275, and a $50 nonrefundable deposit is required. Booking is handled through the Niceville office at 850-696-0363.

Marking six decades of service to the business community, the Destin Chamber’s 60th Anniversary Bourbon Gala, presented by Eglin Federal Credit Union, blends the Chamber’s milestone celebration with the 14th edition of its Bourbon at the Bay gathering at The Henderson. Guests can expect bourbon and champagne tastings, a special 60th anniversary cocktail, a celebratory champagne toast, a silent auction, a wine pull, and an array of food and dessert stations. General admission is $105 and includes three bourbon or champagne tastings. VIP admission is $145 and adds three additional tastings from the Beach Liquors VIP table. Henderson Beach Resort is offering a special overnight rate for attendees, and details are available by emailing mail@DestinChamber.com. For sponsorship inquiries, email membership@DestinChamber.com. Support is provided by presenting sponsor Eglin Federal Credit Union, bourbon presenting sponsor Hand Arendall Harrison Sale, venue sponsor Henderson Beach Resort, VIP tastings sponsors Beach Liquors and Warren Averett, signature cocktail sponsor Jackacuda’s Seafood | Sushi, champagne toast and tasting table sponsor HCA Florida Healthcare, centerpiece sponsor Legendary LLC, bourbon tasting table sponsors The Baldwin Group - Affordable Home Insurance, CRC Data Technologies, and Gibson Beach Rentals, wine pull sponsor Renasant Bank, silent auction sponsor RealJoy, food station sponsors Ascension Sacred Heart and loanDepot, cookie sponsors Covenant Cookie Creations LLC and Emerald Coast Title Services LLC, powder room sponsor Diana Health, cocktail napkin sponsor Okaloosa Gas, and valet sponsor Island Film & Finish Supply Co.

This event offers a relaxed walk along the Destin shoreline with a focus on exercise and connection. Participants meet at the pavilions at James Lee Park by the Crab Trap, then follow Scenic Highway 98 for about a mile before returning to the starting point. Strollers and friendly pups are welcome.

This breastfeeding support group focuses on the fundamentals of introducing solid foods, with guidance on when to begin, how to approach those first meals, and what to offer. Weight checks are offered. The setting is relaxed and welcoming, with a blend of professional insight and peer encouragement. The group is led by Christy Shields, IBCLC, who is available to answer questions and provide support as needed. All are welcome, whether breastfeeding is going smoothly and you want to share what is working, you are working through challenges and need a place to talk them through, or you are expecting and want to learn from those with experience. This group is open to the public and meets on the first and third Friday of each month.

This Lunch N Learn features Victory Health Coaching presenting on managing stress, food, and feelings during the holidays. The program is free for Chamber members, and registration is required.

Active-duty service members, veterans, and their families in the NWF area can enjoy a game night with pizza, prizes, and free childcare provided in partnership with Operation Childcare Project.

A festive gallery exhibition celebrates the season with a theme focused on filling the space with Christmas spirit. A kickoff reception is planned, and there is no admission charge so anyone may attend. The show highlights work across all media. For artists, entry forms and a call for entries with complete details will be available from ADSO.

Head to Eagle's Nest at Blackwater for a lively music bingo experience at no cost to play for those 21 and older. Enjoy Crab Night in Crestview while listening to songs for a chance to win free jello shots. A well-known local MC from Crestview hosts and keeps the fun rolling.

Riptide Cardcon takes place at the Fort Walton Beach Fairgrounds in Fort Walton Beach.

Experience a candlelit tribute to ABBA and more at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center. Performed by the Palafox String Quartet, this concert offers an intimate, sensory-rich setting as string arrangements bring new life to favorites like Dancing Queen, SOS, Money, Money, Money, Voulez Vous, Waterloo, Super Trouper, Mamma Mia and Gimme Gimme Gimme, alongside Queen classics such as Bohemian Rhapsody, I Want to Break Free, Killer Queen, Don’t Stop Me Now, We Will Rock You and We Are the Champions. The performance lasts 60 minutes, with doors opening one hour beforehand and no late entry once the music begins. Seating is assigned on a first come first served basis within each zone. Guests must be at least eight years old, and anyone under sixteen must be accompanied by an adult. The venue is ADA compliant.

Santa will be at Henderson Beach State Park in Destin for family photo sessions. There are five mini session slots. Each session accommodates up to six people, and larger families can inquire about arrangements. The price is $250 and includes five edited photos. Booking is available for these limited spots.

Immerse yourself in a candlelit celebration of Vivaldi at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, where a string quartet brings a multi-sensory atmosphere to beloved Baroque masterpieces. The program features all four concertos from The Four Seasons along with La Follia, Sonata No. 12 in D minor, RV 63. Music is performed by the Listeso String Quartet. This is a tribute concert and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the artist, their estate, or official representatives. Guests ages 8 and up are welcome, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The venue is ADA compliant. Seating is assigned within each zone on a first come, first served basis.

This full day class introduces the fundamentals of blacksmithing in a structured, hands-on format. It begins with a thorough review of shop safety, then shifts to hammer control as you forge several nails and finish with a simple hook. Along the way you will practice core techniques such as drawing out, hot punching, hardening, quenching, forming tapers, bending, and final finishing. Wear long cotton trousers and closed toe shoes, with leather preferred for footwear. A long sleeve natural fiber shirt is recommended since scale can sting bare arms. All required safety gear is provided, and you are welcome to bring a leather apron if you have one. Open to ages 12 and up. Participants under 18 need a parent or guardian present to sign a waiver, and they may choose to stay and help as a striker. For questions, call 850-974-1548. After completing this introduction, you can explore a rotating lineup of follow-on classes at Traditions Workshop that cover intermediate and advanced projects, including hardware, tool making, homeware items, and knives.

Take a break from school and dive into crafting with a hands-on introduction to knife making. Lunch is included with the class. For blacksmithing activities, wear long pants made from natural fibers like cotton and closed toe footwear, with leather recommended and no Crocs. A long sleeve natural fiber shirt is suggested since flying scale can sting bare arms. All required safety gear is provided, and you may bring a leather apron if you have one. Participants must be at least 12 years old. Anyone under 18 needs a parent or guardian present to sign a waiver, and they are welcome to stay and help as a striker. For questions, call 850-974-1548.

As part of a Thanksgiving break intensive, this school-break crafting session offers an intimate class size with plenty of hands-on guidance. Participants will complete a project they can put to use at Thanksgiving dinner. Open to ages 12 and up. A parent or guardian must sign a waiver for anyone under 18.

Downtown Fort Walton Beach transforms into a cheerful holiday marketplace at the Landing Park, featuring more than 100 local vendors with handmade creations, locally sourced goods, unique gifts, and seasonal treasures. Live music sets the tone as visitors browse, eat, and enjoy the spirit of the season. Children can decorate cookies, and a stilt-walking elf brings extra holiday cheer. Santa and Mrs. Claus make a special appearance for photos and greetings. Food trucks serve a range of bites to keep the celebration going. The festivities conclude in collaboration with the City of Fort Walton Beach with Light Up the Night, a tree lighting that provides a bright finale to the market.

This annual arts and crafts Christmas market invites creators to offer handmade pieces such as jewelry, paintings, pottery, decorations, photographs, crafts, and note cards. There is a $35 entry fee, and participants keep all proceeds from their sales. Each artist may display up to 15 items at a time and can restock as pieces are purchased. For smooth processing, mark every item with a unique number, your initials, and a price, and provide a matching inventory list. For questions, please contact the office at 850-244-1271.

Contractors Connect, a quarterly networking gathering hosted by Beespoke Consulting, brings together contractors, subcontractors, and home specialists from across the Emerald Coast with construction industry professionals in a relaxed, social setting focused on building real business relationships. Tickets are $25, and sponsorship opportunities are available.

Holiday Fest features the Extension Homemakers’ Cookie Walk, a hot cocoa booth with Santa cookies, craft booths, entertainment, and vendors offering unique holiday gifts with free gift wrapping available. Lunch options include the returning chicken and noodles.

Bowling For Business Tournament & Lunch offers a festive blend of bowling and business networking at Hurricane Lanes. The tournament features awards for the highest scoring male and female bowlers, along with the top team, and anyone who achieves a perfect score receives a complimentary one year Chamber business membership. Registration with prepayment is required. The fee is 25 dollars for members and 45 dollars for nonmembers. Walk ins may be accommodated if space permits, with pricing of 40 dollars for members and 50 dollars for nonmembers.

Settle into a calming Yoga Nidra session with Neil at Yoga By You. He will guide you through breath, body awareness, and deep relaxation to ease you into the peaceful space between waking and sleep. Get comfortable and allow the guidance to carry you into deep rest. No prior yoga experience is required.

This hands-on blacksmithing class is geared a bit beyond the introductory level and focuses on forging at least two styles of candle holders. Most of the work takes place at a coal forge using traditional techniques, and a power hammer will be available. If you already have some experience and a design in mind, guidance is available to help you see your project through. Bring a snack or lunch in case the session runs long. Wear long trousers made from natural fibers and closed toe shoes, preferably leather, and avoid Crocs. A long sleeve natural fiber shirt is recommended since scale can sting bare arms on occasion. Required safety gear is provided, and you may bring a leather apron if you have one. Open to ages 12 and up. Participants under 18 must have a parent or guardian present to sign a waiver and they may stay to help as a striker. For questions, call 850-974-1548. Additional weekly classes rotate through houseware, hardware, tools and weapons for those looking to continue learning.

De'France Indoor Fleamarket Antiques & Collectibles presents an annual Christmas open house created as a thank you to customers. Storewide vendor deals set a festive tone, and sweet treats are available to enjoy while visitors browse. Children can write letters to Santa with provided stationery and drop them in a special mailbox. A decorating station offers sugar cookies with icing and sprinkles. Santa and his elf will be on site to add extra holiday cheer. The celebration continues even if it rains. Additional holiday shopping is available at DeFrance Antiques on Beal and at DeFrance Boutique.

Santa and Mrs. Claus visit Crestview for a cheerful photo experience presented by Moe’s Custom Tees and Paint & Sip at Brooklyn Bar & Grill. Families can capture keepsake portraits with packages offered by photographer Yani Torres, and children will have time to share their holiday wishes with Santa. Before departing, Mrs. Claus will give each child a festive treat, creating a warm start to the season.

Santa will be on site at The Property Group 850 for a festive photo session, with professional images captured by photographer Kayla Reeder. Guests can enjoy cookies, milk and light snacks, receive a special gift, and take home holiday memories with photos alongside Santa. Festive attire is encouraged to help create a keepsake photo for the season. Photo notice: By attending, participants consent to being photographed, and images may be used and publicly shared by The Property Group 850 and the event photographer, including on social media and other public platforms. Individual photos will not be available through a private viewing gallery. Consent also applies to images of any minors in a participant’s care.

Relay For Rescue, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, brings people together to address pet overpopulation and ease animal suffering. This gathering centers on spreading awareness, mobilizing local supporters, and raising funds for multiple causes, all carried out in a lively, fun atmosphere.

Celebrate the holiday season with hot cocoa, sweet treats, Santa visits, and festive activities for families. The community is welcome, and donations are appreciated but not required. Contributions support the Crestview Area Shelter for the Homeless as it works toward purchasing the building it calls home. Requested items include hoodies, sweatpants, socks, underwear, hand warmers, deodorant, and lip balm. Monetary donations toward the building purchase are also welcome.

Auditions are being held for The Producers, Mel Brooks’ Broadway musical comedy about down-on-his-luck producer Max Bialystock and nervous accountant Leo Bloom, whose plan to stage a surefire flop goes awry when their show becomes a success, leading to mayhem and an unexpected friendship. Performers ages 16 and up, open to men and women, are sought for a cast of approximately 22 to 26. Principal and featured roles include Max Bialystock, Leo Bloom, Ulla, Franz Liebkind, Roger De Bris, Carmen Ghia, Mr. Marks, Hold-Me, Touch-Me, usherettes, courtroom figures such as a judge, jury foreman, and bailiff, as well as prison trustees, guards, and convicts. The ensemble includes accountants, little old ladies, chorus girls, showgirls, Bavarian peasants, storm troopers, first-nighters, prisoners, and prison guards. The show blends broad comedy with music, dance, and classic Broadway chaos. More information will be provided soon. This is day one of two for auditions.

Explore the science of the unseen in a Maker Days workshop all about the power of air. Children will build a small model of lungs, design and test flying creations in a wind tube, and examine the invisible forces at work around them. Through hands-on challenges, they investigate air pressure, lift, drag, and Bernoulli’s principle while making a new project in each session. Maker Days is a drop-off program that brings student scientists together with educators and peers in a classroom setting. It welcomes homeschoolers seeking collaborative experiences in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Activities are designed to engage, encourage, and challenge young learners through guided, creative exploration. The same lesson is offered on both days. Please send a snack or light lunch, as food is not provided. Preregistration is required. Cost is $35 for members and $40 for nonmembers, with $10 off for each additional sibling.

This ribbon cutting celebrates Bayside Yoga, a boutique yoga and wellness studio in Fort Walton Beach that focuses on intimate, tailored classes for people of every age and experience level. Offerings include yoga and mat Pilates along with restorative and somatic practices, meditation, and other specialty wellness sessions that nurture easeful movement, relaxation, connection, and overall well-being. More than a classroom, it is a place to move, breathe, connect, and belong, with community events, workshops, and special experiences throughout the year. Visitors can relax in the cozy Zen Den, enjoy complimentary coffee, hot tea, or water, and take in a peaceful waterfront porch before or after class. First-time guests receive their initial class for free.

During the holiday season, this gathering offers a quiet space to honor those cared for over the past year and to recognize the families who have been served. Held at Heritage Gardens Funeral Home, the program includes thoughtful words, gentle music, and a memorial slideshow that celebrates cherished lives and memories. Families can share remembrances, receive a keepsake in honor of a loved one, and connect with others in a caring setting. Light refreshments will be available.

At Live Oak Baptist Church, the Crestview Amateur Radio Club, also known as the North Okaloosa Amateur Radio Club (NOARC), meets each month to discuss amateur radio and to plan events, outreach, education, training, and community service activities. Conversation highlights radio communications that span the globe and reach into space.

A homeschool Christmas party at Bongo’s Fun Center brings holiday cheer with themed games and activities, festive music, skating, the FunZone playground, arcade games, and time on the Pixel Floor. Seasonal treats will be available, and wearing a favorite Christmas outfit is encouraged. Tickets are offered as a Single Activity option for $12.99, which includes your choice of Skating, FunZone, or the Pixel Game Pack. The $24.99 All Access option includes Skating, FunZone, the Pixel Game Pack, and a $10 arcade card.

Learn to shape festive iron angles from three nails using a careful touch at the anvil. Instruction focuses on bending and collaring, and the finished pieces are light enough to hang on a tree or give as last minute Christmas gifts. This is an open air workshop, so dress warmly. Wear long pants made of natural fibers and closed toe shoes, preferably leather, and avoid Crocs. A long sleeve natural fiber shirt is recommended to protect your arms from scale. Required safety gear is provided, and you may bring a leather apron if you have one. Participants must be at least 12 years old. Those under 18 need a parent or guardian to sign a waiver and that adult may stay to help as a striker. Registration is available through the Find Tickets link, which also lists additional classes at Traditions Workshop. For questions, call 850-974-1548.

The Panhandle United Roller Derby 7’s Tournament is confirmed and will span two days of competition this winter. More announcements are on the way, with updates to follow as details are finalized.

Celebrate the ARRL’s Year of the Club at a festive annual holiday gathering hosted by the North Okaloosa, Eglin Amateur Radio Service, and Playground Amateur Radio Clubs at Basil & Baxter’s Kitchen and Cocktails. The evening includes presentations of Ham of the Year honors from participating organizations and a spirited White Elephant gift exchange. To take part in the exchange, bring a wrapped, family friendly gift valued at about 25 dollars. Gifts can be humorous or practical, such as home decor or books, and they do not need to be radio related. Please avoid including alcoholic beverages so every recipient can enjoy the exchange. Basil & Baxter’s will offer a curated menu for the group and provide separate family checks to keep the night relaxed and easy. An accurate headcount is required for the restaurant, so attendees should email their club Activities Directors to be counted. Contact John N8JDD for NOARC or Queenie KQ4FRB for PARC.

Josh Davis returns to Eagles Nest on the Blackwater with a high-energy night of outlaw country. Expect full solo acoustic sets that mix original songs with gritty country favorites. The event is open to the public, there is no cover, and it is family friendly, making it easy to settle in for the evening. Food and drinks are available, and the atmosphere is lively and welcoming.

Enjoy a candlelit celebration of the season at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, where a 60 minute program blends cherished carols and contemporary holiday favorites in an intimate, multi-sensory setting. The evening features pieces like Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy from The Nutcracker, Greensleeves, Carol of the Bells, O Holy Night, O Tannenbaum, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, Let It Snow, Feliz Navidad, Jingle Bells, and Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree, along with Love Is All Around, Let It Go, Once Upon a December from Anastasia, Maestro from The Holiday, It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, Last Christmas, and All I Want for Christmas Is You. Doors open 60 minutes before the performance, and entry is not permitted once the music begins. Seating is assigned on a first come, first served basis within each zone. Attendees must be at least 8 years old, with anyone under 16 accompanied by an adult. The venue is ADA compliant.

A candlelit concert brings the sound of Christmas carols to life with a string quartet in a sensory-rich setting at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center. The program features beloved favorites including 12 Days of Christmas, Angels from the Realms of Glory, Angels We Have Heard on High, Away in a Manger, Carol of the Bells, Deck the Halls, Ding Dong! Merrily on High, Do You Hear What I Hear, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Good King Wenceslas, Greensleeves also known as What Child Is This, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, In the Bleak Midwinter, Joy to the World, O Christmas Tree, O Come All Ye Faithful, O Holy Night, Silent Night, and The First Noël. Guests ages 8 and up are welcome, with those under 16 accompanied by an adult. The venue meets ADA accessibility standards, and seats within each zone are assigned in order of arrival.

Shape a knife from a railroad spike in a hands-on blacksmithing class at TraditionsWorkshop, designed as a welcoming first step into knife making and part of a school-break crafting series. Lunch is included in the class price. Wear long pants made from natural fibers such as cotton and closed-toe shoes, with leather preferred, and avoid Crocs. A long-sleeve natural-fiber shirt is recommended because hot scale can sting bare arms. All required safety gear is provided, and you may bring a leather apron if you have one. Open to ages 12 and up, with a parent or guardian required to sign a waiver for anyone under 18, and they may stay to help as a striker. For questions, call 850-974-1548.

Choose an experience over a typical gift by learning to craft a Viking-era knife sheath modeled after a piece uncovered at the Berka site, a 900 AD village roughly a two-hour boat ride west of modern-day Stockholm. This project features a design that uses just one stitched seam and can be tailored to the knife you bring. Please bring a knife for sizing and pack a snack in case the class runs long.

Choose an experience instead of a standard gift by learning how to turn a bowl. Shape a practical piece you can place on the table for snacks or keep on a nightstand as a convenient catch-all.

Forge a practical tool for the grill by creating a long-handled, two-pronged BBQ fork. Participants practice splitting steel, drawing out the prongs, adding a decorative twist, shaping a folded-back handle, and, if you are up for it, attempting a steel knot. This project is more advanced than beginner level, so previous blacksmithing experience helps you complete the work more quickly. If you are unsure of your pace, bring a snack in case your time at the forge runs long. Wear long pants made from natural fibers such as cotton and closed-toe shoes, with leather preferred and no Crocs. A long-sleeve natural fiber shirt is recommended since flying scale can sting bare arms. Required safety gear is provided, and you are welcome to bring a leather apron if you have one. Open to ages 12 and up. Participants under 18 must have a parent or guardian present to sign a waiver, and they may stay to help as a striker. For questions, call 850-974-1548.