Ribbon Cutting Celebration at Henry Park!
Join us as the Walton County Board of County Commissioners, along with Beach Operations and the Tourism Department, celebrate the completion of exciting improvements to Henry Park, a treasured historic landmark in the heart of DeFuniak Springs.
Where: Henry Park, 1162 Circle Dr., DeFuniak Springs
When: Thursday, Jan. 15
Time: 11 a.m.
The ceremony will include a brief presentation highlighting the park’s rich history and the recent enhancements that make this space even more welcoming for residents and visitors alike.
This project marks an important milestone as the first capital improvement funded by the North Walton Tourist Development Tax (TDT)—a 3% tax on short-term rental accommodations that is not paid by residents. Since its implementation in 2021, the TDT has helped support meaningful projects that strengthen infrastructure and promote tourism throughout North Walton County.
A Park Steeped in History
Named for Dr. George P. Henry, the first mayor of DeFuniak Springs, Henry Park once served as a vibrant gateway for visitors arriving by train during the Chautauqua era. The park was a lively gathering place filled with music, including performances by bands welcoming travelers to town.
Henry Park is also remembered as a performance backdrop for the late Pappy Neal McCormick and the Hawaiian Troubadours, a beloved local musician and pioneer of steel guitar music in the Southeast.
Honoring a Lasting Legacy
The ceremony will also recognize the legacy of Robert Nelson, whose passion, leadership, and “Let’s just get some things done!” attitude were instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.
We hope you’ll join us to celebrate the past, present, and future of Henry Park!
For more information, contact Beach Operations at (850) 267-4578.
Join us as the Walton County Board of County Commissioners, along with Beach Operations and the Tourism Department, celebrate the completion of exciting improvements to Henry Park, a treasured historic landmark in the heart of DeFuniak Springs.
Where: Henry Park, 1162 Circle Dr., DeFuniak Springs
When: Thursday, Jan. 15
Time: 11 a.m.The ceremony will include a brief presentation highlighting the park’s rich history and the recent enhancements that make this space even more welcoming for residents and visitors alike.
This project marks an important milestone as the first capital improvement funded by the North Walton Tourist Development Tax (TDT)—a 3% tax on short-term rental accommodations that is not paid by residents. Since its implementation in 2021, the TDT has helped support meaningful projects that strengthen infrastructure and promote tourism throughout North Walton County.A Park Steeped in History
Named for Dr. George P. Henry, the first mayor of DeFuniak Springs, Henry Park once served as a vibrant gateway for visitors arriving by train during the Chautauqua era. The park was a lively gathering place filled with music, including performances by bands welcoming travelers to town.
Henry Park is also remembered as a performance backdrop for the late Pappy Neal McCormick and the Hawaiian Troubadours, a beloved local musician and pioneer of steel guitar music in the Southeast.
Honoring a Lasting LegacyThe ceremony will also recognize the legacy of Robert Nelson, whose passion, leadership, and “Let’s just get some things done!” attitude were instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.
We hope you’ll join us to celebrate the past, present, and future of Henry Park!
For more information, contact Beach Operations at (850) 267-4578.