JANUARY

January 13
Self Taught Artist
End Date: February 21; Duration: 40 Days
On loan from the Brogan Museum of Art and Science in Tallahassee, Florida, this exhibition features work by self-taught artists of the Southeastern region of the United States. Generally, not formally educated, self-taught artists express themselves individually and go beyond traditional training and materials. This show integrates 19 talented artists’ works. There are 34 objects in media including paintings, collage, drawings and mixed-media assemblage.

Charles Gatewood Paintings
End Date: February 21; Duration: 40 Days
Charles Gatewood lives in Phenix City, Alabama; a small city southwest of Columbus, Georgia. His art takes simplicity to a new dimension with his moody, yet tranquil oil paintings. His paintings are done in oil on canvas or panel, either of which has been prepared with acrylic gesso or white lead oil priming. His subjects are often quiet interiors and solemn exterior scenes.

January 20
All occasions Photography & Beach Wedding Place Presents 2nd Annual Bridal & Prom Expo
"Here for the Party" Sunday, Jan 20 2008 at Northwest Florida Fairgrounds, Fort Walton Beach Fl Meet the area's Top Wedding & Event Professionals to help you plan your perfect Wedding or Prom. Admission $5.00. (850) 376-6749 or (850) 837-2525

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, Memorial Program
The MLK Celebration Committee's Memorial Program at Fort Walton Beach Civic Auditorium at 5:30pm Each year the Committee presents three awards at the Memorial program. Event Time: 5:30pm

January 21
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Day of Service Parade ~ March and Rally
Parade/March/Rally on Jan 21 at 8:30 am and Parade starts at 10:00 at the Fort Walton Beach Civic Auditorium Rally: at Ft Walton Beach High School (850) 862-8721 Parade Information. (850) 301-2095 for Rally information

January 25
45th Annual Antique Show and Sale
End Date: January 27; Duration: 3 Days
Held at Northwest Florida Fairgrounds. Over 55 Antique Dealers Cost $5 or $1 off with coupon from NWF Daily News or card from local Antique Shops

January 26
Cat Show at the Emerald Coast Conference Center
End Date: January 27; Duration: 2 Days
100’s of Pedigreed Cats from around the world-Hairless Sphinx, the Tailless Manx, Fluffy Persians, Spotted Bengals and more. Household Pets are welcome to participate. Saturday 9:00am-4pm & Sunday 9:00am-3pm at the Emerald Coast Conference Center, 1250 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Ft. Walton Beach. For more information call 850.420.2653 or email Amy at amy@evineacats.com

January 27
From Baroque to the Beatles
Move over Victor Borge and make way for today’s concert pianist with a Cheshire Cat sense of humor! Direct from world famous stages such as Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall, the Emerald Coast Concert Association presents the world renowed, award winning concert pianist Vladimir Zaitsev.

Great Night Of Singing
Great Night of Methodist Singing held at the OWC Arts Center. First United Methodist Church of Niceville 214 Partin Dr S, Niceville, FL 32578

January 28
Circus Pages
International circus stars and Exotic animals at Northwest Fairgrounds is a traveling circus that specializes in animal acts. The animals include the White Tiger, Liberty Horses, Acrobatic Dogs, elephants and camels. Put that together and add in some juggling, aerial and clown acts and you are in for a great family treat.

January 30
Annie
Leapin’ Lizards! Annie is coming to Niceville! This timeless tale of Little Orphan Annie will give a whole new generation the chance to experience this classic musical about never giving up hope, while warming the heats of those who remember it as a cherished old friend. Boasting one of Broadway’s most memorable scores, including “It’s the Hard-Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “N.Y.C.” and the ever-optimistic “Tomorrow,” Annie is a delightful theatrical experience for the entire family. . Don’t miss this all-new production that Variety calls “A winner!” and Chicago Sun Times called "As engaging as ever…a handsome, entertaining, and engaging production."

February

February 2
American Gospel Ministries The Village Singers (Bluegrass)
Concerts begin at 6:00 P.M. and conclude at approximately 8:00 P.M. On the first Saturday of each month the concerts are held at First Baptist Church located at 622 Bayshore Drive, Niceville, Florida.

Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra Ensemble Concert
Pieces featured-Arcangelo Corelli Concerto Grosso Op. 6 no. 8, BohuslavMartinu La Revue de Cuisine, Aaron Copland Appalachian Spring. Concert begins at 7:30pm and will be held at the Grace Lutheran Church in Destin. For information contact Mattie Kelly Arts Center Box Office at 850.729.6000 or online at www.owc.edu/arts or www.nfsymphony.org.

Carmen and Scheherazade
The Philharmonic of Northwest Florida, David Ott, Music Director/Conductor, will present Carmen and Scheherazade at 3:00pm at the Village Baptist Church in Destin. For information contact 850.218.8705 or visit www.philharmonicnwf.com.

Snowbird Sunday Concert – Banjorama
Live concert held at Destin Commons Center Plaza. Admission is free, bring your lawn chair and blanket. Time 2-4pm. For information call 337-8700 or visit on-line at www.DestinCommons.com.

Gumbo Contest Benefiting the Destin History & Fishing Museum at Destin Community Center
$10.00 per Person TO SAMPLE ALL OF THE AREA’S FINEST (Free Admission to the Museum on the day of the contest) 2 Divisions of Competition: Individuals & Restaurants (TBA)Silent Auction & Raffles! For More information or to enter contact: the Museum at (850) 837-6611 Pre Sale tickets available or pay at the door

February 4
Regional Science Fair
End Date: February 7; Duration: 4 Days
Come see unbelievable Science Fair Projects from Area Schools. Free to the Public

Mr. AL
Matinee children’s show for school groups. Limited seating for others may be available, contact the producer at 1-800-487-6725 for ticket details.

February 5
First Tuesday Lecture Series "What's Hot, What's Not: Decorating for Today"
Carol Stearns, NWFL Daily News decorating columnist, Lecture Series programs with coffee and cookies at 10:00 a.m. Crestview Public Library 1445 Commerce Drive (behind the Post Office)Crestview, FL 32539 850.682.4432

February 7
MOTHERHOOD: The Myth, The Magic, The Madness
Success Coach Desley Parker. For women of childbearing ages in Okaloosa and Walton counties, learn how to define your visions and goals, learn to live in balance and identify your support network. At the Two Trees Restaurant / Fort Walton Beach Golf Club. $10 registration fee, form can printed off our website at www.healthystartokawalton.org .

February 9
Champion Chili Competition
Fire-Up your cookers for this "Hot" Competition and Win! Sponsored by United Way of Okaloosa-Walton Counties, NWF Daily News and Santa Rosa Mall Prizes for Best Chili, Booth Showmanship and People's Choice

Sweetheart Gala and Auction
The Palms of Destin Resort and Conference Center with Master of Ceremony Ted Corcoran, Musical Sensation JONES & Co. The perfect chance to get unique gifts and have a great time.

February 10
Snowbird Sunday Concert – Dents Brothers Celebrate Mardi Gras
Live concert held at Destin Commons Center Plaza. Admission is free, bring your lawn chair and blanket. Time 2-4pm. For information call 337-8700 or visit on-line at www.DestinCommons.com.

OWC Soundsations Show Choir, Snowbirds Concert
Tickets available through local Snowbird clubs. OWC’s talented group of fine and performing arts scholarship students perform.

February 13
Murder Mystery Dinner Show "Death By Valentime" at Floyd's Shrimp House
The show features the comedic talents of Cynthia Bergquist, Mary Ann Averitte, Jessika Kelsh, Julie Shaw, Jim Downum, Dave MacKenzie and Chris Manson. The doors open at 6:15pm, with the dinner and show beginning at 7:00pm. The cost is $50 per person, and includes the show, and Fried Mahi, Bacon-wrapped Shrimp, Shrimp and Clam Strips, or Char grilled Sirloin and Sweet and Sour Glazed Chicken Breast. Please make your reservations early for this delicious meal and hilarious show by calling Floyd's Shrimp House at 850-243-2232.

February 15
Teen Internet Café at Robert L. F. Sikes Public Library, Crestview
Gaming! MySpace! IM! Teens only!!! To access the internet, you must have a library card in your name with internet permission and complete a library scavenger hunt! Gaming! MySpace! IM! Teens only!!! To access the internet, you must have a library card in your name with internet permission and complete a library scavenger hunt!

February 16
I Love A Piano
Multiple Dates: and Sunday 2/17/08 2:00pm
End Date: February 17; Duration: 2 Days
The Emerald Coast Concert Associations presents Brian Curl and Company in “I Love A Piano”. This years show stars pianist, vocalist, and entertainer Brian Curl together with Joey MacDonald, drummer Eddie Graham and Joe Bruno on bass. Join them as they create a colorful, panoramic journey into a world of music featuring a fantastic variety of styles including ragtime, rock ‘n roll, tin pan alley, showtunes, jazz, semi-classical, and pop favorites. Saturday February 16, 7:30pm and Sunday, February 17, 2:00pm at Fort Walton Beach Civic Auditorium. For information call 850.729.6000, 850.362.9356, 850.837.1742

Capital Steps, Sponsored by WUWF Public Radio
Tickets available December 1 for the national tour of this popular NPR political comedy/satire, call WUWF at 800-239-9893 or e-mail Lynne@wuwf.org.

February 17
17th Annual International Food & Wine Tasting Festival
At the Emerald Coast Conference Center, Okaloosa Island. Special Musical Performances. Silent Auction.

Snowbird Sunday Concert – Retroactive
Live concert held at Destin Commons Center Plaza. Admission is free, bring your lawn chair and blanket. Time 2-4pm. For information call 337-8700 or visit on-line at www.DestinCommons.com

February 20
25TH Anniversary "Needle Artistry"
End Date: March 8; Duration: 18 Days
In Celebration of their 25th Anniversary "The Sand Dunes Chapter" of Embroiderers Gild of America proudly presents "Needle Artistry". 17 First St, SE Fort Walton Beach

The Producers
Experience the biggest Tony Award winner in Broadway history with the Mel Brooks musical comedy, “The Producers” –- “Simply the funniest, most fearlessly irreverent thing ever seen on stage!” (USA Today). This is a laugh out loud, ‘I can’t believe they just did that’ extravaganza of quick wit and one show-stopping number after another. The nationally touring show features an energetic 22-member ensemble cast, luscious costumes designed by William Ivey Long, and brilliant choreography all wrapped around a howlingly funny plot.

February 22
Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra Stars of Tomorrow
Prestigious Concerto Competition winners will dazzle with their polish and virtuosity as they perform with the NFSO, the region’s premiere professional symphony now in its 21st season.

Cox Communications - Okaloosa Black History Arts Festival
End Date: February 23; Duration: 2 Days
At Emerald Coast Conference Center

February 23
Barbershop Goes to Broadway
Barbershop Harmony At Its Best! The Emerald Coast Chorus, Member of the Barbershop Harmony Society, presents Barbershop Goes to Broadway. 7:30pm at the Mattie Kelly Performing Arts Center. For information contact Brian Branagan at 850.897.6600 or email Branagan8@cox.net.

11th Annual Florida Sportsman Fishing Show
End Date: February 24; Duration: 2 Days
Held at Northwest Fairgrounds. Florida Sportsman Magazine will host their eleventh annual Fishing and Boat Show at the Okaloosa County Fairgrounds and the popular magazine promises that the Show will be bigger and better than previous years, with ongoing seminars, kids’ events, hands-on instruction and demonstrations. The most popular part of the event--a huge indoor tackle sale--will fill the 50,000 square foot Fairgrounds Expo Hall, with fishing boats and accessories added to the mix.

Fort Walton Beach Coin Club Show
End Date: February 24; Duration: 2 Days
Westwoood Retirement Resort, 1001 MarWalt Dr, Fort Walton Beach (across form FWB Medical Center). Saturday hours 10am to 5pm, Sunday 10am to 4 pm. Free parking, free admission. Twenty dealers from throughout the southeast will be on hand to buy, sell and trade coins, currency, tokens and medals from ths United States and around the world. Of interest to novice and serious collectors alike. Free state quarter to each attendee (while supplies last). More info: Dave Parenteau (850) 936-4892"

February 24
Snowbird Sunday Concert – Elivs Is In the House, Rod Adams and the Relics
Live concert held at Destin Commons Center Plaza. Admission is free, bring your lawn chair and blanket. Time 2-4pm. For information call 337-8700 or visit on-line at www.DestinCommons.com

Festival of Hymns
The Okaloosa Chamber Singers will present a “Festival of Hymns” 7:30pm at the First Presbyterian Church of Niceville. For details contact Dr. Marilyn Overturf at 850.682.9651 or marilyno@!cox.net.

February 25
Movin’ Out
Five-time Grammy winner Billy Joel and legendary director/choreographer Twyla Tharp joined forces to create this spectacular Broadway musical that Time Magazine declares "The #1 show of the year!" More than 24 Billy Joel rock classics are brought to electrifying new life as Movin Out tells the story of five life-long friends over two turbulent decades. – including their post-World War II idealism, the Vietnam War and its subsequent unrest, and finally, survival. It all adds up to one unforgettable Broadway musical with songs like “It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me,” “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” and “Pressure” that all come together to weave a poignant narrative.

February 28
The Magic of Ireland Championship Irish Dancing at Mattie Kelly Art Centre
The Magic of Ireland Championship Irish Dancing including Stunning music, Singing & Dancing Performing at Mattie Kelly Art Centre at Okaloosa Walton College Tickets (850) 729-6000

OKALOOSA KENNEL CLUB DOG SHOW at NWF Fairgrounds
End Date: February 29; Duration: 2 Days

February 29
African American Cultural Society - Black History Month Event
At Emerald Coast Conference Center

March

March 1
Old Fashion Destin Fish Fry Fundraiser
At Bass Pro Shop, Destin Commons, Under the Boat Tents, East side of Building. Advanced Tickets - $10.00 for Adults Available at the Destin History & Fishing Museum Day of the Event $12.00 for Adults Menu: Fried grouper, hush puppies, Cole slaw, baked

American Gospel Ministries The Hayes Family
Concerts begin at 6:00 P.M. and conclude at approximately 8:00 P.M. On the first Saturday of each month the concerts are held at First Baptist Church located at 622 Bayshore Drive, Niceville, Florida.

March 4
First Tuesday Lecture Series "The History & Geography of Coffee"
Jim Maas, Maas Coffee Roasters, Lecture Series programs with coffee and cookies at 10:00 a.m. Crestview Public Library 1445 Commerce Drive (behind the Post Office)Crestview, FL 32539 850.682.4432

March 7
12th Annual Fare for Child Care- Taste of the Bayou Charity Auction
Okaloosa Walton Child Care Services will host their 12th Annual Fare for Child Care- Taste of the Bayou Charity AuctionThe food tasting will be 5:00 - 6:00pm, with the silent auction following at 6:00-7:00 pm at Okaloosa Walton College, Bldg K, in Niceville, Florida. Call 833-9330 for tickets and information.

12th Annual HarborWalk Marina Destin Cobia Tournament
End Date: April 30; Duration: 55 Days
The 12th Annual Destin Cobia Tournament presented by HarborWalk Marina is a month long event that attracts hundreds of anglers from Northwest Florida. With a nickname like, “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” great fishing tournaments and Destin naturally go hand in hand. The tournament provides anglers with a great fishing experience and excellent payout. Last year more than $37,000 in cash and prizes was awarded! Cobia tournament kick-off party is March 7, 2008 and will be located on the Emerald Grande Vista Deck at 6:30 p.m. Entry forms and rules available at HarborWalk Marina. For more information, call HarborWalk Marina at 850-337-8250.

La Boheme
End Date: March 9; Duration: 3 Days
Pensacola Opera presents one of the most popular operas at Mattie Kelly Fine & Performing Art Center, OWC Niceville. Giacomo Puccini’s melodies tell the story of Parisian artists facing the hardships of love and life.

March 8
Zydeco-A-Go-Go “Zydeco Dance Party”
The Emerald Coast Concert Association will end its season with a high energy show that is guaranteed to get the audience on its feet celebrating the music of Mardi Gras and the Cajuns. Zydeco is a mixture of French-Caribbean Creaole music, Cajun, and New Orleans rhythm and blues. 7:30pm, First United Methodist Church Family Life Center, Niceville. For info For information please contact 850.362.9356, 850.837.1742, 850.729.6000.

March 9
OWC Arnie Hart Juried Student Show & OWC Mattie Kelly Arts Center Faculty Exhibition
End Date: April 17; Duration: 40 Days
Free and open to the public The annual juried art exhibition of the college’s finest student artists and a showcase of work from the college’s Fine and Performing Arts faculty is presented in both galleries.

Heroic Endings
The Philharmonic of Northwest Florida, David Ott, Music Director/Conductor will present Fingal’s Cave Overture by Mendelssohn and Eroica by Beethoven at the Village Baptist Church in Destin at 3:00pm. For information contact 850.218.8705 or visit www.philhqarmonicnwf.com

March 13
5th Annual Emerald Coast Writers Conference
End Date: March 15; Duration: 3 Days
Workshops on craft of writing, agent representation, and getting published. Registration March 13 p.m. Conference begins 3/14 with continental breakfast, published author sessions or professionals in their respective fields. March 14 evening cocktail party offers an excellent opportunity to network with agents, editors, authors, and other publishing professionals. Conference continues March 15, culminating in evening banquet featuring keynote speaker Carolyn Haines, author of the "Bones" series. Registration forms and details on website or email ECW President Joyce Holland at boatdollie@aol.com Location: Ramada Plaza Beach Resort, 1500 Miracle Strip Pkwy, Ft. Walton Beach at (800)472-1790

March 14
The Studio Series at Sybil Lebherz Center for Dance Education
End Date: March 16; Duration: 3 Days
A unique dance experience in the NFB studios. Seating is limited. Wine and hors d'oeurvres reception during intermission. Adults $28, Children under 12 $14

March 15
Kidz on The Coast 5th Year Anniversary Celebration at Destin Commons
Join the On the Coast Magazine for a Fun filled family day featuring lots of great entertainment, arts and crafts, exhibitors a great family day.

March 18
Easter Egg Clackers! At Robert L. F. Sikes Public Library, Crestview
Minimum age: 6. Registration required. Design your own Easter Egg clacker, and when it’s dry…make a joyful noise!

March 19
Twelfth Night
End Date: March 22; Duration: 4 Days
The OWC Fine and Performing Arts Division Spring theatrical production presents William Shakespeare’s comedy of mistaken identity that speaks to the madness of love.

March 26
Flat Stanley
Children’s show for school groups. Limited seating for others may be available for $6 each, call Delores Merrill, Mattie Kelly Arts Center House Manager at (850)729-6065. In a whirlwind musical travelogue, Stanley, the ultimate pen pal, scours the globe for a solution to his unusual problem – his flatness. He’s stamped, posted and cancelled from South Africa to Mexico, Russia, England, and beyond.

April

March 7 - April 30
12th Annual HarborWalk Marina Destin Cobia Tournament
The 12th Annual Destin Cobia Tournament presented by HarborWalk Marina is a month long event that attracts hundreds of anglers from Northwest Florida. With a nickname like, “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” great fishing tournaments and Destin naturally go hand in hand. The tournament provides anglers with a great fishing experience and excellent payout. Last year more than $37,000 in cash and prizes was awarded! Cobia tournament kick-off party is March 7, 2008 and will be located on the Emerald Grande Vista Deck at 6:30 p.m. Entry forms and rules available at HarborWalk Marina. For more information, call HarborWalk Marina at 850-337-8250.

March 9 - April 17
OWC Arnie Hart Juried Student Show & OWC Mattie Kelly Arts Center Faculty Exhibition
Free and open to the public The annual juried art exhibition of the college’s finest student artists and a showcase of work from the college’s Fine and Performing Arts faculty is presented in both galleries.

April 1
First Tuesday Lecture Series "Writers Aglow: The Christian Fiction Book Market"
C. J. Holbrook, local author, Lecture Series programs with coffee and cookies at 10:00 a.m. Crestview Public Library 1445 Commerce Drive (behind the Post Office)Crestview, FL 32539 850.682.4432

April 5
Annual Kite Fest & Beach Fun Fly
End Date: April 6; Duration: 2 Days
Kitty Hawk Kites hosts this annual event, at the Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island from 10am – 6pm. Mass kite ascension, free kitemaking, kid’s activities and games, stunt kite exhibitions, giant kite flying and more. 850.796.0102

American Gospel Ministries Soul’d Out Quartet
Concerts begin at 6:00 P.M. and conclude at approximately 8:00 P.M. On the first Saturday of each month the concerts are held at First Baptist Church located at 622 Bayshore Drive, Niceville, Florida.

April 14
Alexander & The Terrible, Horrible, No Good Very Bad Day
Children’s show for public school students. Limited seating for others may be available for $6 each, call Delores Merrill, Mattie Kelly Arts Center House Manager at 729-6065 This charming musical is based on the classic children’s book by Judith Viorst.

April 15
Visit the Renaissance At Robert L. F. Sikes Public Library, Crestview
Phoenix Glade is a Shire within the re-enactment group the Society for Creative Anachronisms (SCA) which is an international organization dedicated to recreating the historical life and combat of pre-17th-century Europe. Their Shire is just a small part of the 30,000 member world wide group known as the SCA.

April 16
Emerald Coast Volleyball Week
End Date: April 20; Duration: 5 Days
Four player volleyball tournament will be held at the Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island. Tournament play begins at 9am each day, reception at Fudpucker’s on Friday, player's party at The Swamp on Saturday. 850.243.2555 or www.emeraldcoastvolleyball.com for information

April 18
Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra, Beethoven and Friends
The NFSO’s professional musicians perform Mendelssohn’s Overture to the Beautiful Melusine, based on the story of The Little Mermaid, along with Haydn’s powerful Lord Nelson Mass, featuring the Northwest Florida Symphony Chorus, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 in A Major, the so called “Symphony of the Dance” as a jubilant conclusion to the orchestra’s 21st season!

April 25
Dance Facets 2008
End Date: April 26; Duration: 2 Days
Original choreography presented by OWC's dance students and faculty enhanced by special lighting effects designed by OWC students and faculty.

Musical Echoes 2008 at Fort Walton Beach Landing
End Date: April 27; Duration: 3 Days
Annual event at Fort Walton Beach Landing features music and dance performances by Native American artists, seminars on flute making and playing, and an outdoor market with Native American art, beadwork, clothing and more.

April 26
32nd Annual Saturday in the Park
At Perrine Park and at the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida in Old Valparaiso. A popular community festival to benefit the HMNF with live entertainment, artisans and traditional craft demonstrations, amusement and activities for children including pony rides and old-fashioned horse and carriage rides along the bayou, antique cars, food, fun and much more 850-678-2615, Michelle Severino, heritage-museum.org for details

Teddy Bear Clinic at Twin Cities Hospital
The Teddy Bear Clinic, which is currently entering its 16th year, is a free health fair for children 12 and under that allows them to come into the hospital, meet real physicians (who examine their teddy bears), and tour Twin Cities Hospital. With a variety of other health screenings including hearing, vision, and chiropractic, the kids also enjoy activities with the police department’s "Test Car Dummies", Nickelodeon characters, and face painting. This long standing and successful clinic is provided to the local community free of charge and promotes health in children and serves to help decrease children’s discomfort about hospitals. Twin Cities Hospital; 2190 Highway 85 N Niceville, FL 32578

6th Annual Wild Weekender Cobia Shootout
End Date: April 27; Duration: 2 Days
HarborWalk Marina presents the 6th Annual Wild Weekender Cobia Shootout. Tournament Kick-Off Party will be Friday, April 25th at Jet Ultra Lounge at 6:30p.m. Tournament weigh in will begin Saturday, April 26th from 10a.m. – 8p.m. and on Sunday, April 27th from 10a.m. – 7p.m. at HarborWalk Marina. Awards ceremony will be located at Jet Ultra Lounge at 7:00p.m., Sunday, April 27th. Entry forms and rules available at HarborWalk Marina. For more information, call HarborWalk Marina at 850-337-8250.

April 30
Destin "Week of Blessings" & Annual Blessing of the Fleet
End Date: May 3; Duration: 4 Days
Immanuel Anglican Church celebrates its 51st year of hosting this annual tradition at the Destin Harbor. Festivities include a Blessing of the City and Youth, the Blessing of the Fleet, a Blessing of Children and Families and the Blessing of the Marketplace. Call 850.837.6324

May

April 30 - May 3
Destin "Week of Blessings" & Annual Blessing of the Fleet
Immanuel Anglican Church celebrates its 51st year of hosting this annual tradition at the Destin Harbor. Festivities include a Blessing of the City and Youth, the Blessing of the Fleet, a Blessing of Children and Families and the Blessing of the Marketplace. Call 850.837.6324

May 2
OWC Soundsations Show Choir Finale
OWC’s talented group of fine and performing arts scholarship students perform their season finale.

May 3
American Gospel Ministries The Crist Family
Concerts begin at 6:00 P.M. and conclude at approximately 8:00 P.M. On the first Saturday of each month the concerts are held at First Baptist Church located at 622 Bayshore Drive, Niceville, Florida.

May 4
ADSO 16th Southeast Regional Fine Arts Show and 2007 Best in Show Winner
End Date: June 5; Duration: 33 Days
Free and open to the public The Southeast Regional Fine Arts Competition is an annual event at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center Galleries. This competition is put on by the Arts and Design Society and is a juried show, with cash prizes. The best-of show recipient from the prior year is featured in a one-person-show in the Holzhauer Gallery. The 2007 winner, Lance deHaven-Smith of Tallahassee, Florida will be featured this year.

May 6
First Tuesday Lecture Series programs "It's Geek to Me: An Intro to Tech Gadgets"
Jeff Werner, NWFL Daily News computer tech columnist,Lecture Series programs with coffee and cookies at 10:00 a.m. Crestview Public Library 1445 Commerce Drive (behind the Post Office)Crestview, FL 32539 850.682.4432

May 11
Northwest Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra Spring Concert
The full orchestra, featuring a group of more than 50 young musicians from Okaloosa, Walton and Santa Rosa County schools, will perform Classical and Pops musical selections. Mainstage

May 17
ABWA Billy Bowlegs Boating Poker Run
AHOY, MATES! The ABWA Billy Bowlegs Boat Poker Run is scheduled for Sat. May 17 2008. The event is sponsored by the ladies of the Emerald Coast Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) and is their annual Scholarship Fundraiser. Participants enjoy a leisurely day of boating and cruise to several local ports and try to get the best poker hand. The top three poker hands will win valuable prize packages including weekend stays at local resorts, certificates for dinner and other great items. Participants will enjoy the party at 3:00 pm where local restaurants donate their specialties for the boaters to enjoy. For more information about how to participate in the ABWA Billy Bowlegs Boat Poker Run, contact Shareen Ketchem at 850-863-9082. If you would like more information about being a sponsor or donating food, please call Jeanne Rief at 850-685-8027. You can also visit the website .

May 20
Magician Beau Broomall At Robert L. F. Sikes Public Library, Crestview
Experience the Magic of Beau Broomall: mysterious, delightful, professional entertainment.

May 29
World's Greatest Baby Shower at the Emerald Coast Conference Center
World's Greatest Baby Shower Thursday, May 29, 2008 at the Emerald Coast Conference Center, FWB starting at 5:30 pm. Food, exhibits, lots of big prizes, games and fun for pregnant women and new parents of babies up to 3 months old. Admission is FREE!

June

May 4 - June 5
ADSO 16th Southeast Regional Fine Arts Show and 2007 Best in Show Winner
Free and open to the public The Southeast Regional Fine Arts Competition is an annual event at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center Galleries. This competition is put on by the Arts and Design Society and is a juried show, with cash prizes. The best-of show recipient from the prior year is featured in a one-person-show in the Holzhauer Gallery. The 2007 winner, Lance deHaven-Smith of Tallahassee, Florida will be featured this year.

June 3
First Tuesday Lecture Series programs "Architecture of the Third Reich"
Brian Hughes, NWFL Daily News & Crestview News Bulletin travel columnist, Lecture Series programs with coffee and cookies at 10:00 a.m. Crestview Public Library 1445 Commerce Drive (behind the Post Office)Crestview, FL 32539 850.682.4432

June 7
American Gospel Ministries Bama Blu-Grace (Bluegrass)
Concerts begin at 6:00 P.M. and conclude at approximately 8:00 P.M. On the first Saturday of each month the concerts are held at First Baptist Church located at 622 Bayshore Drive, Niceville, Florida.

Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival
End Date: June 9; Duration: 3 Days
Fort Walton Beach Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival

June 13
Noise Guy At Robert L. F. Sikes Public Library, Crestview
Charlie "the Noiseguy" Williams is a vocal sound impressionist, illustrator and author who shows how to use onomatopoeia to enhance reading, writing and storytelling. Do your kids love noise? Charlie uses amazing vocal imitations that will inspire them to become roaring readers.

June 14
Environmental Triennial
End Date: July 24; Duration: 41 Days
Free and open to the public On loan from the Brogan Museum, this collection of artists’ works is conceptually based in ecological or environmental issues and solutions. Some of the best contemporary artists from the southeastern region are displayed – James Rosenquist, Linda Hall, Scott Groniger, Marilee Keyes, Tim Hunter, Kathryn Refi, Alex White, Meshakai Wolf, Stephen Shepard and Joe Walters. Though all of the artists are examining ecological issues, their means of expressions vary greatly.

June 15
Edward Duval Carrie' Mattie Kelly Fine and Performing Arts Center
Provocative paintings by Haitian artist, Edward Duval-Carrie', are a combination of African fables, world and Haitian history, mythology and present day events. McIlroy Gallery

June 21
ON THE EDGE 2008 at Mattie Kelly Fine & Performing Arts Center OWC
The season finale since 1996 this mixed repertory performance features international gust artists and an innovative combination of classic and contemporary choreography. Always exciting, always fresh. A "don't miss" performance for those who enjoy dance of all kinds

July

June 14 - July 24
Environmental Triennial
Free and open to the public On loan from the Brogan Museum, this collection of artists’ works is conceptually based in ecological or environmental issues and solutions. Some of the best contemporary artists from the southeastern region are displayed – James Rosenquist, Linda Hall, Scott Groniger, Marilee Keyes, Tim Hunter, Kathryn Refi, Alex White, Meshakai Wolf, Stephen Shepard and Joe Walters. Though all of the artists are examining ecological issues, their means of expressions vary greatly.

July 1
First Tuesday Lecture Series programs "Floridale: Rise & Fall of a Florida Boom Community"
Lecture Series programs with coffee and cookies at 10:00 a.m. Crestview Public Library 1445 Commerce Drive (behind the Post Office)Crestview, FL 32539 850.682.4432

July 5
American Gospel Ministries The Watkins Family (Bluegrass)
Concerts begin at 6:00 P.M. and conclude at approximately 8:00 P.M. On the first Saturday of each month the concerts are held at First Baptist Church located at 622 Bayshore Drive, Niceville, Florida.

July 15
The 2B Ranch Wild West Show At Robert L. F. Sikes Public Library, Crestview

August

August 2
American Gospel Ministries Forgiven Trio
Concerts begin at 6:00 P.M. and conclude at approximately 8:00 P.M. On the first Saturday of each month the concerts are held at First Baptist Church located at 622 Bayshore Drive, Niceville, Florida.

August 19
Nonie’s Ark At Robert L. F. Sikes Public Library, Crestview
Animals peak curiosity and interest like nothing else can! Nonie’s Ark Animal Encounters provides a wildly educating and entertaining hands-on show.

September

September 6
American Gospel Ministries The Ball Brothers
Concerts begin at 6:00 P.M. and conclude at approximately 8:00 P.M. On the first Saturday of each month the concerts are held at First Baptist Church located at 622 Bayshore Drive, Niceville, Florida.

September 19
Teen Internet Café At Robert L. F. Sikes Public Library, Crestview
Gaming! MySpace! IM! Teens only!!! To access the internet, you must have a library card in your name with internet permission and complete a library scavenger hunt!

September 20
Fall Harvest of Harmony
Regional Chorus and Quartet Contest & Show with 80-man Chorus. Held at the Christ Our Redeemer Catholic Church, 1028 White Point Road, Niceville. For information contact Brian Branagan at 850.897.6600 or email Branagan8@cox.net or Lee Leon at 850.243.3088.

September 24
8th Annual Ft. Walton Beach Dog Daze
Held at The Landing Park on Brooks Street in Downtown Ft. Walton Beach Contact: The Greater Ft. Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce at 850-244-8191 Check the Website:for Vendor and Registration Information. A community event for canines and their humans. Food, contests, music and fun ALL DAY! Leashes & Proof of Current Rabies shots required. Socialized dogs ONLY! Donations Requested! (Rain Date: Oct. 4th, 2008)

September 27
Fort Walton Beach Coin Club Show
End Date: September 28; Duration: 2 Days
Westwoood Retirement Resort, 1001 MarWalt Dr, Fort Walton Beach (across form FWB Medical Center). Saturday hours 10am to 5pm, Sunday 10am to 4 pm. Free parking, free admission. Twenty dealers from throughout the southeast will be on hand to buy, sell and trade coins, currency, tokens and medals from ths United States and around the world. Of interest to novice and serious collectors alike. Free state quarter to each attendee (while supplies last). More info: Dave Parenteau (850) 936-4892"

October

October 4
American Gospel Ministries Sons Of The Father
Concerts begin at 6:00 P.M. and conclude at approximately 8:00 P.M. On the first Saturday of each month the concerts are held at First Baptist Church located at 622 Bayshore Drive, Niceville, Florida.

October 18
ANNUAL SHALIMAR ARTS & CRAFTS HOLLY FAIR
Over 70 exhibitors display their exclusively handmade, painted or decorated items at the Shalimar United Methodist Church from 8:30 am-3 pm. Morning scones and lunch available in the Holly Berry Tea Room; hamburgers and hotdogs from the grill outside. Proceeds benefit church missions and local charities.

October 21
Pumpkin Painting At Robert L. F. Sikes Public Library, Crestview
Minimum age: 6. Registration required. Bring your own pumpkin and wear paint-able clothes! We’re painting pumpkins!

November

November 1
American Gospel Ministries The Mitchum Brothers
Concerts begin at 6:00 P.M. and conclude at approximately 8:00 P.M. On the first Saturday of each month the concerts are held at First Baptist Church located at 622 Bayshore Drive, Niceville, Florida.

November 7
The 21th Annual Thunderbird Inter-tribal Pow-Wow
End Date: November 9; Duration: 3 Days
This event will be held at the Mullet Festival Grounds in Niceville, FL. The first day of the event features Children’s Day from 9am to 2pm. main Pow-Wow starts at 7pm on Friday, again on Saturday 9am to 10pm, and Sunday from 10am until 4pm.