Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce

Special Exhibit: Stories in Glass - Vintage Bottle Exhibit
2025-10-25 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-10-30 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-10-31 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-01 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-06 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-07 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-08 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-13 10:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Carrabelle History Museum, 106 SE Avenue B, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
The Carrabelle History Museum is pleased to announce a special display featuring vintage bottles of the Forgotten Coast. This exhibit will be on display from Wednesday, October 1 through Sunday, December 28. This unique exhibit will showcase a wide variety of interesting and historical bottles that tell the story of Franklin County’s heritage, industry, and everyday life. Visitors can explore this special exhibit on Wednesdays from 12 to 5 pm ET, Thursdays through Saturdays from 10 am to 5 pm ET, and Sundays from 12 to 5 pm ET. Admission is free, with donations warmly welcomed.
The display will feature Dr. Pierce’s Golden Medical Discovery bottle, found on nearby St. Vincent Island, once part of the estate of Dr. Raymond V. Pierce, a physician and patent medicine maker. His products, such as Dr. Pierce’s Favorite Prescription, Golden Medical Discovery, and Pleasant Pellets, made him a millionaire, with nearly a million bottles shipped each year. He also founded the Pierce Glass Company, which produced bottles for his own medicines and brands like Pond’s Extract and Lydia Pinkham. In 1907, he purchased St. Vincent Island in Franklin County, where he built a private preserve with roads, cottages, and imported game animals, until his death on the island in 1914.
Other highlights of the exhibit include Coca-Cola bottles bottled locally in Apalachicola. The Apalachicola Coca-Cola Bottling Plant, in operation through the late 1970s, is remembered for its classic green glass bottles embossed with “Apalachicola, FLA” on the bottom. Today, these bottles are sought-after collectibles.
Also on display are bottles from the shipwrecked SS Tarpon, including cherry bottles and beer bottles. Visitors will also see medicine bottles once used by local midwife Tillie Miller, local milk bottles, as well as perfume bottles, and other rare glass finds. All of which provide a glimpse into past daily life in Franklin County.
The Carrabelle History Museum is located at 106 SE Avenue B, in historic downtown Carrabelle, FL. For more information, visit www.carrabellehistorymuseum.org or contact carrabellehistorymuseum@gmail.com or 850-697-2141. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

Special Exhibit: Stories in Glass - A Vintage Bottle Exhibit
2025-10-26 12:00 - 17:00, 2025-10-29 12:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-02 12:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-05 12:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-09 12:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-12 12:00 - 17:00 | Carrabelle History Museum, 106 SE Avenue B, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States

Free Tech Help Sessions at the Carrabelle Library
2025-10-28 11:00 - 12:00 | Carrabelle Branch Library, 311 St James Ave, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) are pleased to announce that a popular series of free educational Tech Help sessions will continue this September at the Carrabelle Branch Library. These sessions are part of the Program Series, offering something for everyone – young children, students, and lifelong learners. These events are open to the public—no library card is required—and offer a welcoming, inclusive space for individuals of all ages to learn, explore, and connect through technology.
The Tech Help sessions will be held every Tuesday in September- September 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 – at 11:00 am ET at the Carrabelle Branch Library, located at 311 St. James Ave. SE (Highway 98), Carrabelle, FL. These relaxed, judgment-free sessions provide one-on-one technology assistance for guests who need help with devices, email, digital resources, and basic tech skills. No registration is necessary—drop-ins are welcome!
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries, a 501(c)(3) organization, offers the Program Series to ensure that the libraries in Eastpoint and Carrabelle continue to provide informational, educational and cultural materials for the benefit of persons of all ages in the community. For details or to join the Friends, please visit https://friendsfcpl.com or contact the Carrabelle Branch at 850-275-9895. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

Special Exhibit: Operation Paperclip
2025-10-28 11:00 - 2025-11-01 17:00 | Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum, 1873 Hwy 98 West, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum in Carrabelle is presenting a special exhibit about Operation Paperclip. This exhibit will open on Tuesday, October 7 and be on display through Saturday, November 1. The museum is open every Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm. There is no charge for admission, but donations are gladly accepted.
Operation Paperclip was the secret US campaign to move German scientists, some of whom had Nazi records of wrongdoing, to the US to help develop the rocket technology for defense and eventually space exploration. Keeping these human assets out of the hands of the Soviet Union as the Cold War ramped up required turning a blind eye to their pasts as operatives in the Nazi Regime. These scientists, led by Werner Von Braun, were key to the success of the US missions into space.
This exhibit is a cooperative venture between the Museum and the Challenger Learning Center in Tallahassee. The Challenger Learning Center is the K-12 Outreach Facility for the Florida A&M University-Florida State University College of Engineering. Portions of this exhibit will be presented in November at the Challenger Learning Center located at 200 S. Duval Street in Tallahassee.
Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum is located in Carrabelle, directly across from Carrabelle Public Beach Park at 1873 Hwy 98 West. For more information, contact the museum at (850) 697-8575 or museum@campgordonjohnston.com. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

Glow-In-The-Dark Monster Mash at the Eastpoint Library
2025-10-29 15:30 - 16:30 | Eastpoint Branch Library, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, FL, United States
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) will wrap up the month of October with free, engaging, and educational activities for children, teens, and adults as part of their popular Fall Program Series. All library programs are free and open to the public with no library card required.
The Glow-In-The-Dark Monster Mash will be held Wednesday, October 29 at 3:30 pm at both branches.
NO SCHOOL? NO PROBLEM! SPEND YOUR DAY OFF AT THE LIBRARY FOR A FRIGHTFULLY FUN AFTERNOON.
WE’LL LIGHT UP THE LIBRARY WITH:

GLOW-IN-THE-DARK PARTY ACCESSORIES
MAKE-YOUR-OWN GLOWING SLIME
MONSTER MASH-UP FUN FOR ALL AGES

COME READY TO GLOW, CREATE, AND CELEBRATE!
These programs are supported by the Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries, a 501(c)(3) organization which supports the libraries in Eastpoint and Carrabelle. For details or to join the Friends, please visit https://friendsfcpl.com or contact the Carrabelle Branch at 311 St. James Ave SE (Hwy 98), 850-275-9895 or the Eastpoint Branch, at 160 Hickory Dip Rd, 850-670-8151. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

Glow-In-The-Dark Monster Mash at Carrabelle Library
2025-10-29 15:30 - 16:30 | Carrabelle Branch Library, 311 St James Ave, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States

Video Game Teen Hangout at Carrabelle Library
2025-10-31 16:30 - 17:30 | Carrabelle Branch Library, 311 St James Ave, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) invite residents and visitors to enjoy free, fun, and educational activities for all ages as part of their popular Program Series. These programs foster creativity, learning, and connection in a welcoming environment. All library programs are free and open to the public with no library card required.
Video Game Hour
Teens and tweens are invited to unwind and compete on the Nintendo Switch during this fun and casual gaming hour. Attendees are welcome to bring a friend.

Date & Time: Friday, August 15, 22 & 29 and September 5, 12 & 26 at 4:30 pm (Please note: Sept 19 will be a Pirate activity program.)
Location: Carrabelle Branch, 311 St. James Ave SE (Hwy 98), Carrabelle, FL.

These programs are supported by the Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries, a 501(c)(3) organization which offers the Program Series to ensure that the libraries in Eastpoint and Carrabelle continue to provide informational, educational and cultural materials for the benefit of persons of all ages in the community. For details or to join the Friends, please visit https://friendsfcpl.com or contact the Carrabelle Branch at 850-275-9895 or the Eastpoint Branch at 850-670-8151. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

Country Farmer's Market at Crooked River Lighthouse
2025-11-01 09:00 - 13:00 | Crooked River Lighthouse, 1975 Hwy 98 West, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
The Country Farmer’s Market is held every 1st and 3rd Saturdays from 9:00 am-1:00 pm, nestled at the foot of the Crooked River Lighthouse, 1975 Hwy 98 West, Carrabelle, FL for a delightful showcase of local talent and treasures. Our community’s finest vendors will be there, offering a diverse array of goodies that make perfect gifts or treats for yourself at this open-air market.
Indulge in locally handmade jewelry, farm-fresh produce, freshly roasted coffee, mouthwatering baked goods (yes, we’re talking cinnamon rolls and artisan breads!), handcrafted balms, grass fed beef, aromatic herbs, stunning art and photography, handmade crafts, and so much more. Plus, there will be book signings, unique t-shirts, vegetable seeds, and exotic starter plants to explore.
While you’re here, don’t miss out on a visit to the free Keeper’s House Museum, where you can marvel at our brand new exhibit featuring the historic Fresnel lens. And be sure to pop into the Lighthouse Gift Shop for one-of-a-kind, nautical-themed holiday gifts.
For those seeking adventure, seize the opportunity to climb to the top of the tallest lighthouse on the Forgotten Coast for an awe-inspiring view of the Bay (small fee applies).
Mark your calendars for every 1st and 3rd Saturday (excluding holidays), and don’t forget about our larger spring and fall County and Flea Markets.
New and returning vendors are always welcome! Sign up anytime for just $10 per market. Vendors, please come prepared with enough cash/change for the day, as the Gift Shop doesn’t provide extra change. Remember to bring all necessary supplies, including signage, tables, chairs, and hand sanitizer.
For more information, contact the lighthouse at 850-697-2732 or carrabellelighthouse@gmail.com. This event is funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council. We can’t wait to see you there!

Special Exhibit Honoring Native American Servicemembers
2025-11-04 11:00 - 2025-11-08 17:00, 2025-11-11 11:00 - 2025-11-15 17:00 | Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum, 1873 Hwy 98 West, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum in Carrabelle is excited to announce a special exhibit honoring Native American Servicemen, opening Tuesday, November 4 and on display until Saturday, November 29, 2025. November is National Native American Heritage Month, and the museum salutes their service and sacrifice. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 am to 5 pm ET with free admission. (Closed Thursday, November 27 for Thanksgiving.)
“During World War I and World War II, hundreds of American Indians joined the United States armed forces and used words from their traditional tribal languages as weapons. The United States military asked them to develop secret battle communications based on their languages—and America’s enemies never deciphered the coded messages they sent. “Code Talkers,” as they came to be known after World War II, are twentieth-century American Indian warriors and heroes who significantly aided the victories of the United States and its allies.
The Code Talkers’ role in war required intelligence and bravery. They developed and memorized a special code. They endured some of the most dangerous battles and remained calm under fire. They served proudly, with honor and distinction. Their actions proved critical in several important campaigns, and they are credited with saving thousands of American and allies’ lives.” (Source: The National Museum of the American Indian).
Visitors are invited to learn about the Native American Servicemembers, including members of the Choctaw, Navajo, Cherokee, Pima, Comanche and other nations that served their country in World War II. Guests can discover the story of the Code Talkers, who used their unbreakable code based on their native tongues to help defeat the enemy and the stories of the seven Native American Medal of Honor Recipients from WWII.
Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum is located in Carrabelle, directly across from Carrabelle Public Beach Park at 1873 Hwy 98 West. For more information, visit CampGordonJohnston.com or contact (850) 697-8575 or museum@campgordonjohnston.com. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

Special Addition to the Veterans Tribute Exhibit
2025-11-05 12:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-06 10:00 - 2025-11-08 17:00, 2025-11-09 12:00 - 17:00, 2025-11-12 12:00 - 17:00 | Carrabelle History Museum, 106 SE Avenue B, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
The Carrabelle History Museum is honored to announce a special additional display for its Veteran Tribute Exhibit in recognition of Veterans Day. The Veteran Tribute Exhibit pays heartfelt tribute to several local men who bravely served in the armed forces from World War I through Vietnam. Deeply meaningful to the community, this display has touched the hearts of local families and visitors alike. The special addition will be on display from Wednesday, November 5 through Sunday, November 30, 2025.
The exhibit continues to celebrate military veterans with strong ties to Carrabelle and Franklin County, sharing their personal stories of courage, service, and sacrifice. In honor of Veterans Day, this year’s special addition will be Aviation Radioman Petty Officer Second Class David Learoy Rickards. David Rickards was born on October 12, 1921 in Carrabelle to Omer “O. E.” Rickards, a fisherman, and Della Rickards.
At the age of 20, David Learoy Rickards registered for military service in Franklin County. At the time he was working for J.T. Millinor in Carrabelle, FL. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II as a radio operator aboard naval aircraft, a critical part of the aircrew.
On May 30, 1944, Rickards died while in service to his country when the Naval aircraft that he was aboard tragically crashed near Chincoteague Naval Auxiliary Air Station in Virginia. The crash, which happened while the crew were attempting an emergency landing, took the lives of all eleven of the crew. There is a plaque at the Carrabelle Airport in memory of him and two others. His story reflects the deep local roots and ultimate sacrifice of so many Franklin County service members.
In the Veterans Exhibit, visitors will find a moving collection of artifacts offering a glimpse into their experiences both in uniform and at home. The museum extends a special thanks to the families of the honored veterans for sharing their stories and treasured items. Additionally, the museum is grateful for the support of Lisa Keith-Lucas and Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum, whose invaluable collaboration helped make the exhibit possible. The Carrabelle History Museum warmly invites the public to visit and celebrate the legacy of these local heroes.
The Carrabelle History Museum is open Wednesdays from 12–5 pm, Thursdays through Saturdays 10 am–5 pm, and Sundays 12–5 pm. Admission is free, with donations gratefully accepted. The museum is located at 106 SE Avenue B, Carrabelle, FL. For more information, visit www.carrabellehistorymuseum.org or contact carrabellehistorymuseum@gmail.com or 850-697-2141. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

Magical Jellyfish Lantern-Making Workshop
2025-11-07 13:00 - 16:00 | Lanark Village Boat Club, 2364 Hwy 98 E, Carrabelle, FL, United States
The Crooked River Lighthouse will be offering one of their very popular lantern-making workshops on Friday, November 7 from 1:00-4:00 pm ET at the Lanark Boat Club at 2364 Hwy 98 East, Carrabelle, FL. A wonderful volunteer, Lisa Keith-Lucas, will guide attendees in making the very popular Jellyfish Lanterns! These enchanting lanterns are highly admired at Lantern Fest and are fairly easy to make.
Basic materials, instruction and hands on help will be provided at the workshop. Attendees are invited to bring any additional materials – ribbons, beads, tulle – they may like to really personalize their creations! Cost is $10 a person to cover the cost of materials. Participants will be able to explore their creative side and personalize their lantern to make it uniquely their own. At the end of the workshop, attendees will go home with their own lovely, finished lantern.
Participants are encouraged to bring their glowing creations back for Lantern Fest at the Crooked River Lighthouse on Saturday, November 8 from 6-10 pm, where the lanterns will add to the festival’s spectacular display.
Space is limited. Reservations are required by contacting the gift shop at the Crooked River Lighthouse at 850-697-2732 or carrabellelighthouse@gmail.com. Participants are asked to bring their $10 fee (cash only and correct change if possible) to pay at the door. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council. Special thanks to the City of Carrabelle.

Downtown Carrabelle First Friday
2025-11-07 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Carrabelle/ First Friday, 102 St. James Avenue (US Hwy 98), Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
Give thanks for good friends, great food, and our wonderful community at the Downtown Carrabelle First Friday! Join us for an evening filled with autumn charm, live music, local shopping, and the warm spirit of the season.
🍁 What to Expect:
• Live Music & Local Art: Enjoy the smooth sounds of the Rio Jazz Quartet and light refreshments at The Gallery at Rio Carrabelle.
• Live Music at Fathom’s: Feast on coastal favorites and enjoy live music at Fathom’s Steam Room & Raw Bar.
• Happy Hour & Karaoke: Stop by Harry’s Bar for Happy Hour from 4–6 PM, then sing your heart out during Karaoke at 7 PM.
• Late-Night Shopping: Local shops will stay open late with Thanksgiving specials, fall treats, and refreshments—the perfect chance to find unique gifts before the holidays.
🍂 Why You’ll Love It:
This cozy, festive evening is a great way to kick off the holiday season while supporting the small businesses that make Carrabelle special. Come shop, mingle, and give thanks for the community we love!
🛍️ Participating Businesses:
C-Quarters Marina
Carrabelle Dive Shop
Coastal Cup
Fathom’s Steam Room & Raw Bar
Forgotten Coast Branch & Brush
Gina’s Flowers & Such
Harry’s Bar & Marine St Grill
Marine Street Mercantile
Mornin’ Bite
Old Carrabelle Hotel
Pirate Girl’s Treasures
Rio Carrabelle Art Gallery
Shop by the Sea
SOS Galley

Lantern Fest 2025
2025-11-08 18:00 - 22:00 | Crooked River Lighthouse, 1975 Hwy 98 West, Carrabelle, FL, 32322, United States
Crooked River Lighthouse Hosts a Night of Magical History
Glowing lanterns, music, dance and night time tower climbs bring magic & history together.
Lantern Fest will be celebrated on Saturday, November 8, 2025 from 6-10 pm ET on the park grounds at Crooked River Lighthouse, 1975 Highway 98 West, Carrabelle Beach, FL. This unique, outdoor festival, best known for its awesome display of over a hundred colorful, hanging lanterns, lights up the night with magic and history at the 1895 maritime landmark. Special activities include amazing music and Bluegrass harmonies by the Bottom Dollar Boys, the spectacular glow-in-the-dark performance from the Tallahassee State College Dance Company, special evening tower climbs, ancient craft demonstrations, enchanting glowing lantern display, museum displays, gift shop, and delicious food and desserts. Don’t miss this evening of music, dance, night tower climbs, glowing lanterns and yummy food.
Crooked River Lighthouse is excited to announce the return of the remarkably gifted and entertaining musical group, the Bottom Dollar Boys. This group has been delighting audiences for over 40 years, with traditional Bluegrass harmonies and mighty fine pickin’. They’ve been toilin’ in the fields of Bluegrass, Old Country, Gospel, Americana with a pinch of Blues. Now they will be performing their energetic tunes under the glow of over a hundred hanging lanterns. In addition, the talented Tallahassee State College Dance Company will dazzle guests with their superb choreography, amazing talent and imaginative use of glow-in-the-dark props and illusions.
Over a hundred colorful, hanging lanterns will be on display throughout the grounds of the lighthouse park. Many of these lanterns are truly works of art and have been painstakingly hand-made by the incredible Joan Matey and other gifted local artists. John Pfund and Chris Cauthen will set up the blacksmith forge and Ken Horne will weave rope from local plant fibers as the two ancient crafts demonstrations. Delicious food will be available for purchase from a couple of food trucks and desserts from the Beacon Bistro. Plus guests will enjoy keeper’s tales, lighthouse museum and gift shop, Fresnel lens exhibit, wandering Lantern Ladies and the Giant Moth.
All are invited to come revel in this unique birthday party as the Crooked River Lighthouse turns 130 years old with music, dance, night tower climbs, glowing lanterns and yummy food. Advance tickets are recommended. Tickets, for those 13 and up, are $15 in advance and $20 at the gate. Admission is free for kids 12 and under. Local residents can receive a discount on advance tickets purchased in person. Details and tickets are available at CrookedRiverLighthouse.com/Lantern-Fest/ or at the lighthouse gift shop. For additional questions, contact carrabellelighthouse@gmail.com or (850) 697-2732. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.

Free STEM Workshop - Creation Station: QR Code Scavenger Hunt
2025-11-12 16:00 - 17:00 | Eastpoint Branch Library, 160 Hickory Dip Rd, Eastpoint, FL, United States
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) are pleased to announce another exciting event in their Fall Program Series – Creation Station: QR Code Scavenger Hunt. Participants will explore the library to scan codes, solve puzzles, and learn fun science facts. This interactive workshop will take place at the Eastpoint Branch Library, located at 160 Hickory Dip Road, on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at 4:00 PM. This workshop is free and open to the public—no library card required—and provides a fun, inclusive space for children ages 7–12 to learn, explore, and create.
Creation Station is a series designed to spark curiosity and support learning for children ages 7–12. Each Creation Station event features hands-on STEM challenges and creative tinkering, with activities such as building structures, working with simple circuits, and mixing technology with art.
The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries, a 501(c)(3) organization, offers the Program Series to ensure that the libraries in Eastpoint and Carrabelle continue to provide informational, educational and cultural materials for the benefit of persons of all ages in the community. For more information, please call 850-670-8151. For details or to join the Friends, please visit https://friendsfcpl.com. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.
