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Stories, places, and small moments from Apalachicola and the Forgotten Coast

— week of June 29, 2026

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Franklin County celebrates summer with a packed calendar of colorful events for all ages.

CLICK HERE FOR LISTINGS OF ALL EVENTS THIS WEEK

July kicks off with unique workshops: create Egyptian jewelry, handcraft American flags, and whip up ribbon wands for Independence Day at your local libraries.

Don’t miss the Eastpoint Freedom Festival on July 1—an evening of live music, food, and fireworks for the whole community.

Fitness and creativity thrive with free yoga, sewing, drawing, and crochet classes at Apalachicola Library throughout the week.

The Mahjong Club gathers Tuesdays in Eastpoint for relaxed fun, while families can learn about sea turtle conservation during the “Turtle Talk” at Apalachicola NERR.

Weekend highlights also include the Crooked River Farmers Market, historic lighthouse climbs under the moonlight, live music downtown, and powerful WWII exhibits at local museums.

This July, experience Franklin County’s warm hospitality, hands-on learning, and patriotic spirit at every turn.

What's Happening around town:

Egyptian Jewelry Craft at Carrabelle Library

📅 Monday, June 29, 2026

🕒 2:00 PM

📍 Carrabelle Branch Library  - 311 St James Ave, Carrabelle

📞 850-275-9895

💰 Free

Get creative with an ancient twist! Join us at the Carrabelle Library for a fun Egyptian Jewelry making workshop. Perfect for all ages — create your own unique pieces inspired by Egyptian designs. Supplies provided.

👉 Click Here for the Flyer and full details: 

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Yoga @ Apalachicola Library

📅 Monday, June 29, 2026 

⏰ 6:15 PM – 7:15 PM - Call to confirm

📍 Apalachicola Margaret Key Public Library - 80 12th Street (on Hwy 98)

📞   Contact (850) 653-5335

❤️ Donation-based

🧘 Gentle yoga class led by Kathy Jansen of Spirit of the River Yoga.  All levels welcome — mats available.

👉 Click for Event details

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Moonlight Climb at Cape St. George Light

📅 Monday, June 29, 2026

🕒 8:45 -11:45 PM 

📍 Cape St. George Lighthouse  - 2-B East Gulf Beach Dr, St George Island

📞 Check website for contact

💰 Ticketed event $7-10 (see site for pricing)

Climb to the top of the historic Cape St. George Lighthouse for a breathtaking full moon experience! Enjoy stunning views of the Forgotten Coast under the moonlight. A magical evening for the whole family.

👉 Click Here for Tickets and full details

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Get ready for Apalachicola’s Waterfront July 3rd Celebration — the perfect way to start your Independence Day weekend in historic downtown.

Festivities kick off at Riverfront Park around noon, with headline events from 5 p.m.

Enjoy live music, tasty food trucks, unique local vendors, and family-focused fun throughout the afternoon.

Don’t miss the Red, White & Blue Parade — a highlight for kids and the young at heart — before ending the night with a dazzling fireworks show over the Apalachicola River.

This classic coastal celebration is a local favorite, bringing small-town spirit and big energy every year.

Gather your friends and family, wear your patriotic colors, and experience one of the Gulf Coast’s most memorable holiday traditions.

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Apalachicola Weather Forecast: June 29 – July 5

Prepare for steamy afternoons and balmy nights this week along Apalachicola’s coastline.

Daytime temperatures will reach the low-to-mid 90s, while overnight lows stay warm in the upper 70s.

Monday and Tuesday bring the best chance for scattered thunderstorms, with rain probabilities near 60%, especially in the afternoons.

Midweek promises drier weather, as partial sunshine makes a comeback by Thursday and stretches into the weekend.

This stretch of typical summer weather is ideal for early morning or evening outdoor adventures—just be ready for sudden pop-up showers and stay well-hydrated in the heat.

Locals and visitors are encouraged to monitor changing skies and take advantage of pleasant, sunny spells.

Stay safe as Apalachicola heads into another classic, sultry summer week!

Coastal Kitchen Recipes

From GritsandPinecones.com

 **Photo Courtesy of GritsandPinecones.com**

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Trivia Nights Around the Forgotten Coast:

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Looking for unique vintage treasures with serious island charm? Check out Auntie Tikki Vintage (https://linktr.ee/Auntietikki or @auntietikkivintage on Instagram)!

Curated by Kelsey Osborne (my favorite daughter-in-law),  this page is a delightful mix of retro Hawaiian shirts, classic tiki vibes, mid-century finds, and one-of-a-kind vintage pieces that bring nostalgia and Aloha spirit to your wardrobe or home. Whether you’re hunting for that perfect bold print or a touch of tropical history, Auntie Tikki delivers the goods with style.

Give her a follow and support a small business curator who’s keeping the vintage flame alive. 🌺

👉 More Info: linktr.ee/Auntietikki 

👉 Click for Instagram

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     Click Here for our Facebook Page  

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This Week Along the Forgotten Coast

As we head into Independence Day weekend, the Apalachicola area is buzzing with patriotic spirit and classic summer energy. Expect warm, humid days with highs near the low 90s and the chance of afternoon pop-up thunderstorms — a great excuse to enjoy the water early or catch the evening breeze.

The highlight? Friday’s Apalachicola Waterfront July 3rd Celebration  at Riverfront Park — live music, food trucks, family fun, the Red, White & Blue Parade, and a dazzling fireworks display over the river as soon as it gets dark. It’s the perfect way to kick off America’s 250th birthday celebrations right here on the Forgotten Coast!

Whether you’re watching the skies light up, hitting the water, or simply soaking in the small-town charm, have a safe and joyful 4th. Stay hydrated, watch for those quick-moving storms, and let freedom ring!

Enjoy the beauty around us and have a blessed week...

Apalach Current - June 29, 2026

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Souper Recipes Needed for the Library

The Franklin County Humane Society in Eastpoint is actively seeking volunteer drivers to support its animal rescue efforts across the Forgotten Coast.

This no-kill shelter relies on community members to transport pets to vet appointments and foster homes, helping save countless local animals.

Volunteering is flexible, with no ongoing weekly commitment required, making it easy to get involved even with a busy schedule.

If you have a clean driving record and feel confident operating a van, your help could make a big difference for pets in need.

Volunteers receive support and join a dedicated team right here in our community.

For more information, call (850) 670-8417 or visit the Franklin County Humane Society online or on Facebook to learn how you can make a real impact close to home.

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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.

Adoptable Pets - Admiral

Meet Admiral! 🐶

This handsome 2-year-old Lab mix is full of personality and charm. Admiral has a bright, open expression and a friendly, outgoing temperament that makes him a joy to be around. He’s happy, engaging, and would love nothing more than to be your hiking buddy, camping companion, or the perfect all-around family dog.

If you’re looking for a loyal, fun-loving boy to join your adventures, Admiral might just be the one!

👉 Click Here to Adopt a New Friend

Summer Reading Program

Unearth a Story – Summer Reading Program

🦕 Join the Franklin County Public Libraries for this year’s Summer Reading Program: “Unearth a Story” — a dinosaur-themed adventure for all ages!

Track your reading using the free Reader Zone app (or paper logs if you prefer) and earn badges and prizes as you go. The program features fun events, crafts, and activities all summer long at the Eastpoint and Carrabelle branches.

Perfect for kids, teens, and adults who want to make reading part of their summer!

📍 Eastpoint & Carrabelle Libraries

 👉 Register and learn more: fcpl.wildernesscoast.org/summer-reading

Local News Roundup - June 29, 2026

Franklin County & Forgotten Coast News

• Gulf Coast State College Campus Project Progressing: The new multipurpose classroom building and emergency shelter at the Gulf/Franklin Campus in Port St. Joe continues moving forward after its recent groundbreaking, with completion expected in 2027.

👉 https://franklincounty.news/2026/06/02/gulf-franklin-breaks-ground-on-new-campus-facility/

• Eastpoint Water District Referendum Update: Voters will decide in November on proposals to expand the Eastpoint Water and Sewer District, potentially including more of Eastpoint and all of St. George Island.

👉 https://franklincounty.news/2026/06/15/voters-to-weigh-expansion-to-sgi-of-eastpoint-water/

• What Do Floridians Really Know About the Threats Facing the Everglades?

 A new survey by the Everglades Foundation reveals insights into public awareness of the challenges facing one of Florida’s most vital ecosystems — an important read for anyone who cares about the state’s natural heritage and water resources.

👉 https://www.evergladesfoundation.org/post/what-do-floridians-really-know-about-the-threats-facing-the-everglades

• Community & Culture Highlights: Keep an eye on local library events, writer gatherings, and summer programming at the Margaret Key Public Library in Apalachicola. The area continues to celebrate its strong arts and storytelling tradition.

👉 https://franklincounty.news/2026/06/09/spotlight-on-authors-at-margaret-key-public-library/

• Beach Safety Reminder: As summer heats up, check for any active swimming advisories from the Florida Department of Health for local beaches due to occasional bacteria spikes.

👉 https://franklincounty.news (recent advisories section)

More Regional Coverage:

👉 franklincounty.news 

Photo from the website https://majesticjewelofapalachicola.com/

Local Spotlight: The Majestic Jewel of Apalachicola

Looking for a beautiful place to stay right in the heart of Apalachicola? Check out The Majestic Jewel — a charming vacation rental that offers comfort, style, and the perfect home base for exploring everything the Forgotten Coast has to offer.

Whether you're planning a family getaway, a romantic escape, or a fishing adventure, this lovely property is ready to welcome you.

👉 Learn more and book your stay: https://majesticjewelofapalachicola.com/

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Photo Credit FOMO Photography

Bright Spots on the Forgotten Coast This Week ✨💥

As we head into the July 4th weekend, the Forgotten Coast is shining with community spirit and good news. Apalachicola’s beloved Waterfront July 3rd Celebration at Riverfront Park is the highlight — expect live music, delicious food vendors, family fun, the Red, White & Blue Parade, and a breathtaking fireworks show over the river. Communities across Franklin County are joining the fun with parades and fireworks from July 1–4.

In other heartwarming local news, several abandoned puppies found in Franklin County are now looking for loving forever homes — a wonderful reminder of the compassion and rescue efforts that make our area special. Meanwhile, the Franklin County Public Libraries are seeking volunteers in Eastpoint and Carrabelle for shelving, book processing, and more. Teens are especially encouraged to join the Teen Advisory Board — a great way to give back while building experience.

Finally, the City of Apalachicola hosted a special retirement celebration honoring Chief Bobby Varnes and Greg Harris for their years of dedicated service to the community. These stories remind us how vibrant and caring our small coastal towns truly are.

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.

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Discover the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve — Our Area's Natural Treasure

Nestled in Eastpoint, the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve quietly protects one of the most vital ecosystems on the Forgotten Coast.

This unique reserve at 108 Island Drive serves as a hub where science, education, and the beauty of the Apalachicola Bay unite in harmony.

Visitors are welcomed by an engaging Nature Center, featuring interactive exhibits, local aquariums, and paved trails that lead to breathtaking bay views.

It’s a peaceful spot to stroll, observe wildlife, or simply enjoy the tranquility of our surrounding waters.

Year-round programs—like birding workshops and eco-friendly landscaping classes—offer locals fresh ways to connect with their environment while supporting coastal wildlife.

No matter how much time you spend, this hidden gem offers the ideal mix of learning, relaxation, and local pride.

Locals and visitors alike often wonder where to stay for a true taste of the Forgotten Coast.  

The Gibson Inn in Apalachicola stands out for its historic charm — built in 1857, it offers a genuine old Florida vibe with its creaky floors, iconic porch, and perfect downtown location.  

If you’re seeking peace and nature, consider camping at T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park in St. Joe.  

Wake up to water views, easy beach access, and the rare stillness that defines this region.  

Modern options near Santa Rosa Beach and 30A provide a lively community feel with walkable neighborhoods and luxury stays, like The Pearl Hotel in Rosemary Beach or cozy beachfront condos.  

Each stay is carefully chosen to help you experience the coast’s quiet beauty, whether you’re after history, nature, or contemporary comfort.

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.

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Thank you for reading this week’s Apalach Current — it really means a lot to have you here with me, noticing the small things that make this coast feel like home.

We'll be back next Monday with whatever the tide brings in. Until then, take care and enjoy the longer days.

Kiki

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