April Happenings on Florida’s Forgotten Coast

The Forgotten Coast of Florida is the perfect place to be during the month of April! With stunning beaches and attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From outdoor adventures to cultural events, something fun and exciting is always happening on Florida’s Forgotten Coast. Get ready for a month of fun in the sun as you explore all the wonderful things the area has to offer. Here are a few things happening on Florida’s Forgotten Coast through April.

Easter Egg Hunt at Carrabelle Country Market April 1
The Crooked River Lighthouse is hosting its outdoor Country Market on Saturday, April 1, from 9 am to 1 pm at 1975 Hwy 98 West, Carrabelle, FL, at the foot of Carrabelle’s lighthouse. An Easter egg hunt has been added to the fun for this Saturday’s coastal market. The 2^nd annual Easter Egg Hunt will start at 11 am.

Apalachicola Farmers Market April 8, 22
Located at the beautiful Millpond Pavilion at the end of Market Street, the Apalachicola Farmers Market offers local seafood, produce, honey, homemade breads, pies, and other regional specialties every 2nd and 4th Saturday from 9 am until 1 pm in Apalachicola.

Carrabelle Country Market April 1, 15
This market at the Crooked River Lighthouse in Carrabelle will be held April 1st and 15th from 9 am to 1 pm and features vendors from the community with perfect gifts and goodies. There is freshly roasted coffee, delicious baked goods including cinnamon rolls and artisan bread, gorgeous art and photography, handcrafted balms and soaps, fresh herbs, vegetable seeds, handmade goods, and craft items, produce, and exotic starter plants.

Camp Gordon Johnston Holocaust Exhibit in April
Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum in Carrabelle will host a Holocaust exhibit April 4 through April 29. 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.

The Susan Buzzett Clementson Author Series: featuring Paul Bogard
Paul Bogard visits as part of the Susan Buzzett Clementson Author Series, sponsored by the Friends of the Library group PALS (Patrons of the Apalachicola Library Society) and supported by Downtown Books and Purl. The Series brings authors to the library to speak about their work. All events at the library are free and open to the public. Books are available for purchase and signing, and light refreshments will be served.

Wednesday Farmers Market April 5, 12, 19, 26
The market offers a charming outdoor shopping experience from 9 am to 1 pm every Wednesday in downtown Apalachicola for all who appreciate delicious food—located at Bee Inspired Too, 56 Commerce Street. You’ll find fresh vegetables and micro greens, farm-fresh eggs, grass-fed beef, artisanal food, homemade kombucha, Bayside Coffee Co., gourmet foods, condiments, and more! Come support local artisans as well as indulge in delicious, homemade foods! 

Cape St. George Lighthouse Full Moon Climbs April 6
The April Sunset and Full Moon Climb at the Cape St. George Lighthouse on St. George Island will be held on Thursday, April 6 from 7:30-9:30 pm. Visitors can enjoy this opportunity to view St. George Island, the Gulf of Mexico, and Apalachicola Bay under the evening sky. 

The Crooked River Lighthouse Full Moon Climb April 6
The April Sunset and Full Moon Climb at the The Crooked River Lighthouse on Carrabelle Beach will also be Thursday, April 6 from 8 pm until 10 pm. Visitors can enjoy this opportunity to see the gorgeous natural surroundings of St. George Sound and Carrabelle Beach under the glow of the rising Wolf Moon. If the night skies are clear enough, guests might be able to spot Dog Island. Also hosting entertainment by the gifted musical group, The Bog Lilies, who focus on vocal harmonies mixed a unique blend of instruments including banjo, mandolin, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, and cajone (a wood percussion instrument).

Apalachicola Boat & Car Show April 15
Apalachicola will host its annual Apalachicola Antique & Classic Boat & Car Show on Saturday, April 15. Come to Riverfront Park in Apalachicola to see many Antique & Classic Vessels, Workboats and Runabouts. Sponsored by the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce, the event will feature unique boats and cars. New to the event this year will be a golf cart show.

Panhandle Players Present Nunsense Play April 21-23
Panhandle Players presents “Nunsense” April 21-23 at the historic Chapman Auditorium. This live musical is a hilarious spoof about the misadventures of five nuns trying to manage a fundraiser. Sadly, the rest of the sisterhood died from botulism after eating vichyssoise prepared by Sister Julia, Child of God. Thus, the remaining nuns – ballet-loving Sister Leo, street-wise Sister Robert Anne, befuddled Sister Mary Amnesia, the Mother Superior Sister Regina, and mistress of the novices Sister Mary Hubert – stage a talent show in order to raise the money to bury their dearly departed. With catchy songs and irreverent comedy, ​Nunsense​ is sure to keep audiences rolling with laughter.

6th Annual SGI Brewfest April 22
The SGI Brewfest will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 1 – 4 pm in our new location at the public parking area adjacent to SGI Lighthouse Park. The SGI Brewfest is a one-day beer tasting festival to promote the appreciation of craft beer. All proceeds benefit the Franklin County Humane Society. 2023 will be our 6th year. This year’s event features an even broader selection of amazing craft beers, friendly faces and furry friends. We’ve got some really cool new features planned for 2023 so be there or be square! This is a very limited engagement and tickets must be purchased in advance. Tickets will NOT be sold at the door. This event will SELL OUT, so buy your tickets early! VIP and early admission ticket holders will be granted access at noon. Beers, beaches, and bettering the lives of animals. What’s not to love?

Bits and Pieces Mixed Media Art Class
Let us help you find your inner artist at Art of Glass, with our 1 hr Bit & Pieces art classes! Just call ahead, we have 3 convenient classes held daily: 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm.

April is a special time of year on Florida’s Forgotten Coast. The weather is warm and the landscape is lush. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, April on Florida’s Forgotten Coast is the perfect time to explore this hidden gem.

*Photo courtesy of Instagram @phphil63