🔍 What’s Up in Apalachicola & Forgotten Coast

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🌴 WHAT’S UP IN APALACHICOLA & THE FORGOTTEN COAST: SEPT. 28–OCT. 4

We're saying goodbye to September and hello to October this week, and the Forgotten Coast calendar has a little bit of everything: library programs, local government, history, live music, a farmers market and a Saturday paddle into one of our wildest backyard treasures.

Here's what's happening around Apalachicola, Eastpoint, Carrabelle and the Forgotten Coast.

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📚 LIBRARIES & LEARNING

🧠 Brain Builders: Monday, Sept. 28, 4 p.m.
Kids ages 8 and up can head to the Eastpoint Branch Library for another Brain Builders challenge featuring problem-solving, design and hands-on fun. Programs are free and open to the public.

Source: https://www.carrabelle.org/events/

🧶 Crochet Workshop: Monday, Sept. 28, 4:30–5:30 p.m.
The Carrabelle Branch Library hosts a free crochet workshop with staff-led instruction. A nice excuse to learn a new skill, or finally figure out what to do with that ball of yarn.

Source: https://www.carrabelle.org/events/

💻 Tech Help: Tuesday, Sept. 29, 11 a.m.
Phone acting smarter than you again? The Carrabelle Branch Library offers free one-on-one Tech Help for devices, email and everyday digital questions.

Source: https://www.floridasforgottencoast.com/event/tech-help-3/2026-04-21/

🀄 Mahjong Open Play: Tuesday, Sept. 29, 1–4 p.m.
The Eastpoint Branch Library wraps up September with another afternoon of Mahjong open play. All players are invited.

Source: https://www.floridasforgottencoast.com/event/mahjong-club/2026-09-15/

📚 Story Time: Wednesday, Sept. 30, 10:30 a.m.
Little readers can head to the Carrabelle Branch Library Wednesday morning for Story Time, part of the Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries' free weekly programming.

Source: https://www.carrabelle.org/events/

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🎨 HISTORY & CULTURE

🏛 Foundations of Freedom: Final Day Wednesday, Sept. 30, noon–5 p.m.
Last call for the Carrabelle History Museum's special exhibit, “Foundations of Freedom: Carrabelle's Role in America's Story.” The exhibit explores the community's contributions to the American story and closes Wednesday.

Source: https://www.carrabelle.org/events/

⭐ Operation Market Garden: A Bridge Too Far: Tuesday, Sept. 29–Saturday, Oct. 3, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
It's also the final week for Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum's special exhibit exploring the ambitious 1944 Allied operation in the Netherlands. Admission is free, with donations appreciated. Editor's Choice: If you've been meaning to see this one, Saturday is your last chance.

Source: https://www.floridasforgottencoast.com/event/special-exhibit-on-operation-market-garden-a-bridge-too-far-2/

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🌊 OUTDOORS & LOCAL FLAVOR

⭐ Country Farmer's Market: Saturday, Oct. 3, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Head to the foot of the Crooked River Lighthouse in Carrabelle for local produce, baked goods, handmade items, art and other community-made treasures. Editor's Choice: Market shopping with a lighthouse in the background is a pretty good way to start an October Saturday.

Source: https://www.carrabelle.org/events/

⭐ Tate's Hell Annual Paddle Festival: Saturday, Oct. 3, 10 a.m.–noon
The Florida Forest Service invites paddlers into Tate's Hell State Forest for a free guided paddle from the Gully Branch area. Bring your own canoe or kayak and come prepared for wilderness conditions. Editor's Choice: This one's a little different, wonderfully local and a great excuse to experience the wild side of Franklin County.

Source: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tates-hell-annual-paddle-festival-tickets-2001236402953

🏕️ Tate's Hell Paddle Festival Camping Weekend: Friday, Oct. 2–Sunday, Oct. 4
Want to make a weekend of it? Limited camping is available around the paddle festival, with Friday afternoon check-in, Saturday's guided paddle and Sunday breakdown. Reservations are requested, and campers should note there is no potable water at the site.

Source: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tates-hell-annual-paddle-festival-tickets-2001236402953

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🎶 LIVE MUSIC

🎸 Chance Stanley: Friday, Oct. 2, 6 p.m.
Bandsintown lists Chance Stanley performing Friday evening at Crooked River Grill in Carrabelle. Dinner, music and the start of an October weekend sounds about right.

Source: https://www.bandsintown.com/c/apalachicola-fl

🎶 Big Al and the Heavyweights: Friday, Oct. 2, 7 p.m.
Looking for another Friday-night option? Bandsintown lists Big Al and the Heavyweights at Fathoms Restaurant in Carrabelle.

Source: https://www.bandsintown.com/c/apalachicola-fl

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🏛 COMMUNITY & CITY

🏛 Final Budget Hearing & Special Meeting: Tuesday, Sept. 29, 6 p.m.
The City of Apalachicola holds its final budget hearing and special meeting for final adoption of the millage rate and city budget at the Commission Meeting Room, 74 6th Street.

Source: https://www.cityofapalachicola.com/events/list/

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🚗 SATURDAY GAME PLAN

If you're looking for one day to get out of the house, Saturday, Oct. 3 belongs to Carrabelle and Tate's Hell.

Start with the Country Farmer's Market at 9 a.m., head into Tate's Hell for the 10 a.m. guided paddle, and leave yourself enough time afterward to catch the final day of the Operation Market Garden exhibit at Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum.

Market goodies, paddling and World War II history: that's a pretty uniquely Franklin County Saturday. 🌊🛶🏛️

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📅 A LITTLE LOOK AHEAD

Apalachicola itself is fairly quiet this particular weekend, but that's about to change. Porch Fest Apalach is coming Saturday, Oct. 10, with musicians performing around town, so we'll give that one a closer look in next week's roundup.

Dates and times may change — verify before heading out.

That's what's up around Apalachicola and the Forgotten Coast this week. Learn something at the library, squeeze in a museum exhibit before it disappears, browse the market or grab a paddle and head for Tate's Hell. 🌴🛶🌊

Happy exploring!

Photo Courtesy of GritsandPinecones.com   

Easy Halloween Pasta (Spooky Spaghetti)

Grits and Pinecones uses spinach noodles, a jar of sauce, and frozen meatballs with candy eyes. About 30 minutes — a Halloween supper that does not need a special shopping trip. 

Full recipe:  https://www.gritsandpinecones.com/halloween-pasta-spooky-spaghetti/

Photo Credit FOMO Photography 

A few local notes worth sharing this week:

💧 Three board members named for Apalachicola’s

new water district

Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed Mark Milliken, Jimmy Gander, and Torben Madson III to the Apalachicola Water and Sewer District board, the Apalachicola Times reported Friday. They join Donna Knutson, appointed by the city, and Billy Fuentes, appointed by the county. The Times says the city and the district have to finish the financial and operational side of the turnover by December 1.

👉 https://franklincounty.news/2026/09/25/governor-appoints-three-to-new-apalachicola-water-and-sewer-district/

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✈️ Aviation academy opens at the Apalachicola airport

Tom P. Haney Technical College’s East Extension Aviation Academy held a ribbon cutting Sept. 17 at Apalachicola Regional Airport. The Times names the first two students as Gary “Trey” Silvernell III, from James Madison Prep, and Robert Landrum, from Port St. Joe High School.

👉 https://franklincounty.news/2026/09/21/haney-opens-academy-at-apalachicola-airport/

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📉 Franklin County’s August jobless rate edged down

 Preliminary figures from the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity put Franklin County’s August unemployment rate at 5.1 percent, down from 5.3 percent in July and 0.2 points lower than a year earlier, the Times reported.

👉 https://franklincounty.news/2026/09/22/unemployment-rate-improves-in-august/

Franklin County Humane Society Needs Volunteers

The Franklin County Humane Society is looking for people who can help the forgotten pets of the Forgotten Coast. On their volunteer page they list several ways to pitch in: walk and socialize dogs and cats, foster (including puppies, nursing mothers, or animals recovering from surgery), drive transports to a midpoint in Chiefland (van and gas provided), take a “Dog for a Day,” help at events, or drop off supplies.

If any of that fits, call (850) 670-8414 or start here:
👉 https://www.forgottenpets.org/volunteer/

More info and how to get involved: Franklin County Humane Society 

👉 https://www.forgottenpets.org/volunteer/

or Volunteer Info - Facebook Post 

 or visit their Facebook page:

👉 Franklin County Humane Society

Breeze, a one-year-old Lab and Shepherd mix, is ready for adoption at the Franklin County Humane Society.

This gentle pup is known for his friendly nature and gets along well with other dogs and children.

During a visit with the office cat, Breeze showed calm behavior and curiosity.

Breeze is still learning leash manners and basic commands, but he’s very smart and responds quickly to training from the shelter’s dedicated volunteers.

To meet Breeze or explore other adoptable pets, visit the Franklin County Humane Society’s adoption page.

Breeze has been waiting a little while — now could be the perfect time to bring him home.

Explore local dining favorites across Apalachicola, St. George Island, and Carrabelle, each offering distinct flavors and inviting atmospheres.

The Tap Room at the Owl features a casual waterfront vibe, an impressive beer list, and popular happy hour deals just steps from downtown Apalachicola.

Apalachicola Chocolate & Coffee Company is known for its handmade chocolates, fresh-roasted coffee, and a welcoming spot perfect for starting your morning or grabbing a sweet treat.

Crooked River Grill in Carrabelle delivers fresh seafood and sunset views, plus live music on select nights—making it a true local staple.

Paddy’s Raw Bar on St. George Island is beloved for fresh oysters, bayfront drinks, and an always-buzzing crowd of locals and visitors.

Hole in the Wall Seafood & Raw Bar brings a laid-back, no-frills charm with top-notch seafood—often called one of Apalachicola’s best-kept secrets.   

Discover a Hidden Waterfront Retreat in Goodland

Nestled in the serene fishing village of Goodland, just five miles from Marco Island, this charming three-bedroom, two-bath haven offers classic Old Florida vibes and peaceful canal-front living.

Step outside to direct water access for boating or simply soak in the tranquil views from the dock.

Families, beach enthusiasts, and pet lovers enjoy airy interiors that truly feel like a cozy home away from home.

The location is unbeatable—an easy stroll brings you to four beloved local eateries, where fresh seafood and lively conversation are always on the menu.

Days here start with the sound of gentle waves and often end with spectacular sunsets over the water, creating memories that keep guests coming back.

For a genuine, welcoming stay on the water, this Goodland gem is ready to host your next getaway.

I write Apalach Current because I love this coast. This next part is just me.

There have been seasons in my own life when everything felt like too much — work, family, the pace of it all. During the hardest parts of burnout, when I felt lost, uncertain, and ready to give up, I rediscovered something I’d been missing:

my faith.

What started as a search for a little more freedom turned into something deeper — a return to God, and a stronger relationship with Him.

If you’re walking through a hard season and something feels missing, I want you to know it is possible to find God in the middle of that and come out the other side. I did.

I’d like to share a link to a church that helped me when I was out of sorts.

If you need someone to talk to or would like more info:

👉 Flatirons Church

Whether you click or not, just know this:

You’re not alone.

Keyla