The beaches, forests, and waterways of South Walton County are the setting for the 7th annual South Walton Community Council Back to Nature Festival on October 17, 18 & 19. Nature lovers from Florida and around the southeast flock to the festival each year to enjoy the unique natural beauty of Northwest Florida.
New to the festival this year will be a Family Fun Day on Saturday, October 18, in the Seaside Lyceum. Bring the whole family for a fun filled day of kid-friendly workshops, demonstrations, booths and events brought to you by several local “green” businesses, all in one convenient location! The Family Fun Day is sponsored and coordinated by South Walton Environmental and Low-Impact Living (SWELL).
During the weekend, some of the ways to celebrate the unmatched nature of South Walton are:
- Kayak along the calm waters of a coastal dune lake and experience the wonder of this rare ecosystem found in only two other places in the world.
- Learn about mole crabs, beach mice, and other elements of beach ecology at Grayton Beach State Park—ranked as one of the best beaches in America.
- See how history and nature blend at Coffeen Nature Preserve--a beachfront facility in Destin where rockets were tested during World War II.
- Honor the sunrise with an early morning yoga/meditation session on the beach.
- Take a river tour and learn about the flora, fauna, and early residents who lived along the Choctawhatchee River.
- Learn the history of the town of Grayton Beach on a walking tour with a long-time resident who will share stories about the eccentricities and experiences of life at the beach in another era.
- Stroll along the beach at night in Grayton Beach State Park and gaze at the stars with a local naturalist who will interpret the infinite night sky. Stay and enjoy a beachfront cookout and bonfire.
We also welcome you to join us at our opening night party at Bud & Alley’s on Friday evening, October 17, for cocktails and delectable local treats as well as Native American flute music, animal demonstrations presented by the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge, and Q&A sessions with our members.
For more information on the Back to Nature Festival, including event registration, visit www.southwaltoncc.org or call (850) 314-3749. The Back to Nature Festival is an approved event of Autumn Tides, a series of fall events supported by the Beaches of South Walton.
Info provided by Watercourseway - thanks WCW - please help keep us up to date on the BTN events.
