General News

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Sowal Comedy Fest Returns

 [[{“value”:” SOWAL COMEDY FEST RETURNS VALENTINE’S WEEKEND 2026 WITH THREE NIGHTS, THREE VENUES, AND A NEW “RESERVE YOUR PERFECT VIEW” SEATING EXPERIENCE  SOWAL Comedy Fest (formerly Sand Up Comedy Fest) returns Thursday, February 12 through Saturday, February 14, 2026, bringing three days of sharp, big-city stand-up to South Walton over Valentine’s weekend — an ideal date-weekend escape built around intimate rooms, capped attendance, and unforgettable nights out. After two straight years of sold-out crowds and sellout nights across the festival, early ticket purchase is strongly encouraged. For the first time, every show offers reserved seating by selection, so guests can secure the spot that matches their night—front-row energy, center-room immersion, or a quieter corner with friends. HEADLINERS  2026 headliners include: Peter Wong (New York, NY) — featured on Comedy Central and Nate Bargatze’s Nateland; returning for his third year. Anjelica Scannura (New York, NY) — Recently awarded Just For Laughs “New Face of Stand-Up” and the first Canadian woman to win the Boston Comedy Festival. Carter Deems (Atlanta, GA) — MTV’s Wild ’N Out alum with writing credits including Epic Rap Battles of History and Drop The Mic. Shows run across all three nights with two showtimes (6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.) at each venue. VENUE HIGHLIGHTS SOWAL House — an intimate, welcoming room at the heart of South Walton’s cultural scene, built for up-close stand-up. Wild Olives — located at 30A’s Greenway Station with a vibrant, stylish atmosphere, plus a full bar and food options available. Distillery 98 —... Read More

Upcoming Events January 2026

 [[{“value”:” Farmers Markets Grand Blvd. Saturdays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Grayton Locals Market Thursdays 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Hibiscus Guest House Seaside Amphitheater Saturdays and Tuesdays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Peddlers Pavilion Sundays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Rosemary Beach at North Barrett Square Sundays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Biophilia Center Kids Craft Day Jan. 17 Join the Biophilia Center for a joyful celebration of art and imagination at Kids Craft Day from 9 a.m. to noon. Young artists will get hands-on with three fun, kid-friendly crafts, all guided by talented local artists. This event is designed for children ages 2-12, and each child must be accompanied by an adult. While adults won’t receive their own craft supplies, they’re encouraged to help and cheer on their little creators as they bring their artwork to life. Get tickets at https://secure.qgiv.com/for/nokuseeducation/event/biophiliaartfestivalkidscraftday. Hops For Hounds Jan. 18 Get ready to grab your leash and raise a glass! Dog-Harmony announced the sixth annual Hops for Hounds dog walk and after party, happening from 1 to 3 p.m. at Props Brewery in Hammock Bay in Freeport. This paw-some event promises fun, furry friends, and craft beer for humans 21 and older. The day kicks off with a scenic, short stroll, followed by a lively after-party at Props Brewery featuring craft beer, live music, vendors, food trucks, and more. All proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships will support Dog-Harmony and its efforts to help local pups and their families. To register, visit https://dog-harmony.org/hops-for-hounds-2026. Coastal Branch Library Winter Program Jan. 21, Feb.... Read More

Walton County School District: Reflecting on 2025, Looking Ahead to January

 [[{“value”:” As we say goodbye to 2025, the Walton County School District reflects on a year marked by Keeping the Charge through Excellence, Professionalism, Innovation, and Collaboration. The district celebrated achievements that reinforced a shared vision: preparing students for real-world success while fostering a culture of EPIC. January marks the beginning of the new year, a time for moments of appreciation and reflection. School Board Appreciation Month recognizes the service and leadership of the Walton County School Board, whose guidance helps shape the district’s direction and priorities. The district also looks forward to celebrating excellence in education with the announcement of the 2025 Walton County Teacher of the Year on January 15 at 6 p.m. This annual recognition honors an outstanding educator whose passion, leadership, and commitment have made a lasting impact on students and school communities. We also celebrate the Educational Support Professional of the Year. January is also a time for remembrance and purpose. Schools will observe the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday, honoring Dr. King’s legacy of service, equality, and unity—principles that continue to guide learning and leadership throughout Walton County. There will be no school on MLK Day, January 19.  The post Walton County School District: Reflecting on 2025, Looking Ahead to January appeared first on South Walton Life | 30A News, Events and Community Information. “}]]  South Walton Life | 30A News, Events and Community Information  Read More

2026 Seaside School™ Race Weekend Returns Feb. 12–15 with Races, Flavor and Community Spirit

 [[{“value”:” One of the Emerald Coast’s most anticipated winter traditions is gearing up for another memorable year as the 2026 Seaside School™ Half Marathon + 5K Race Weekend returns Feb. 12–15, 2026. With race registration now officially open, runners, families and supporters are invited to be part of a high-energy weekend where scenic beauty, community connection and a meaningful mission come together along 30A. More than just a race, Seaside School™ Race Weekend is the school’s largest annual fundraiser, with every mile run directly supporting classroom technology, academic programs and teacher initiatives that impact students across Walton County. Each year, the event sells out, drawing participants from across the Southeast who come for the views and stay for the cause. “This weekend truly captures the spirit of our community,” organizers said. “From runners and volunteers to chefs, sponsors and spectators, everyone plays a role in supporting education while celebrating everything that makes Seaside special.” A Weekend Packed with Events Festivities begin with early packet pickup at Seacoast Collegiate High School, 109 Greenway Trail in Santa Rosa Beach, from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Feb. 12–13, and from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 14. Runners can also enjoy the Race Expo and official packet pickup from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday at Seaside Neighborhood School, 10 Smolian Circle. Race day arrives Sunday, Feb. 15, with the Half Marathon starting at 7 a.m. CST, followed by the 5K at 7:30 a.m. Participants will wind through Seaside’s iconic streets and... Read More

30a.news

Santa Rosa Beach Community Church

 [[{“value”:” Santa Rosa Beach Community Church will be celebrating its 75th birthday with an Open House on January 25, 2026, beginning at 10 a.m. with our worship celebration.  We can’t wait for you to be a part of this special occasion! The Community Church was formed in 1940 by a small group of people. The original chapel was built in 1950 by volunteers. This chapel is now used for El Shaddaii, the Hispanic Community. They meet on Tuesday and Sunday nights. They are a vital part of our church with Pastor Reyes as their pastor. In the mid-40s, a hurricane came through this area and destroyed three churches:  Baptist, Methodist, and Catholic. Instead of building three churches, one church emerged, and it is called Santa Rosa Beach Community Church. There have been several Pastors through the years:  Pastor Don Ulrich and Pastor Pete Hyde are the longest serving pastors. Dr. Steve Squires, our Senior Pastor, came to us in 2020 from Chicago. He teaches several Bible Studies, writes blogs and magazine articles, and oversees the direction of our church with the help of the church board. He also finds time to teach a Bible Study at Brookdale, in addition to visiting his congregation. His sermon on Sunday inspires every age group. There is something for everyone. Dr. Hilary (Scooter) Ward, the Associate Pastor and Minister of Music, is a man of many talents.  He came to our church in 2016. In addition to leading and orchestrating the music, he also... Read More

Preparing Students for Any Future: Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence at THE SEASIDE SCHOOL™

 [[{“value”:” This year marks 30 years of excellence for The Seaside School, a public charter school system recognized throughout South Walton for academic achievement, strong relationships, and a future-focused approach to education. Serving students in grades 5–12 through Seaside Neighborhood School and Seacoast Collegiate High School, The Seaside School has built a reputation for preparing students not only for college, but for life. At the foundation of The Seaside School’s success is a deep understanding of how adolescents learn, grow, and develop confidence. Across both campuses, students engage in rigorous academics while developing durable life skills including critical thinking, communication, collaboration, adaptability, leadership, and problem-solving that equip them for any path they choose. At Seaside Neighborhood School (grades 5–8), students experience a learning environment intentionally designed for adolescents. Small cohorts, strong teacher-student relationships, and engaging, interdisciplinary instruction help students feel safe, known, and academically confident during these critical years. SNS is known for its focus on literacy, numeracy, inquiry-based learning, and the arts, while also providing leadership and mentorship opportunities that empower students to find their voice. Community engagement is central to the SNS experience. Through arts programming, mentorship, service leadership, and community-based projects, students learn responsibility, empathy, and civic engagement, developing a strong sense of purpose and belonging while contributing meaningfully to the world around them. This strong academic and developmental foundation carries seamlessly into Seacoast Collegiate High School (grades 9–12), where students experience a reimagined high school model that blends traditional student life with advanced academic opportunity. Students... Read More


BREAKING: Lynn Haven Mayor Jesse Nelson announces resignation

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Lynn Haven Mayor Jesse Nelson announced his resignation Friday evening ahead of the recall election. On Friday evening, Nelson confirmed his resignation via an email to Interim City Manager Chris Lightfoot. “Mr. Lightfoot this email is to tender my resignation effective today at 7 pm.” Nelson said in the statement. […] Read More

Bay County alerts public to zoning scams and fake documents

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Bay County officials are investigating allegations of fraud tied to planning and zoning applications, which involve false documents and impersonating county representatives, raising concerns about permits, payments, and property development. Bay County officials say they’re seeing a growing number of suspicious planning and zoning applications. “You know, there’s all sorts […] Read More

Credit unions partner to build affordable home in Bay County

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Dozens gathered in anticipation Friday morning at the Habitat for Humanity Village in Bay County. Seven credit unions have joined forces to sponsor a new home for a deserving, local family. Back in October, seven credit unions broke ground together, after sponsoring the construction of a brand new home for […] Read More