January on the Forgotten Coast is nothing short of magical. With cool breezes, scenic coastal beauty, and a calendar full of can’t-miss events, it’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in the charm of this beloved region. Whether you’re diving into icy waters to start the year fresh, savoring smoky BBQ flavors, or gazing at the Wolf Moon’s glow, the events this month offer something for everyone. From Cape San Blas to Carrabelle, it’s all about community, fun, and making memories. Let’s dive into the top January events that promise to make your winter unforgettable!
FEATURED EVENTS
2025 Polar Plunge at Cape San Blas
Cape Palms Park | Cape San Blas
January 1st, 2025
You can bet that a crowd of local residents and visitors to Cape San Blas alike will be there, standing side by side and ready to take the plunge. Will you? We run in at 10:00 EST sharp, so come early! The Polar Plunge has become a staple of Cape San Blas, an annual event that brings people together for the sole purpose of welcoming in the new year. Of starting off fresh, with the cold water washing everything else away. Whether capping off a period of time, or using it to mark the start of something new, the Polar Plunge on Cape San Blas might just be exactly what you’re looking for. You couldn’t ask for a better place, or a better community, to share the moment with.
2025 Winter Guest “Welcome Back” Reception
Gulf County Welcome Center | Port St. Joe
January 9th, 2025
Kick Off Your “Sunny Side Up” Winter in Gulf County! Join us for our Welcome Back Reception, where sun, smiles, and new connections await! Celebrate the start of your winter escape with food, music, and an unbeatable view of St. Joseph Bay. Whether you’re reconnecting with friends or discovering Gulf County for the first time, this event is your gateway to our warm and welcoming community. Explore volunteer opportunities, enjoy local flavors, and enter for fun giveaways—it’s the perfect way to dive into your winter adventure!
Howl at the Wolf Moon at Crooked River Lighthouse
Crooked River Lighthouse | Carrabelle
January 12th, 2025
Visitors can enjoy the gorgeous natural surroundings of St. George Sound and Carrabelle Beach under the glow of the sunset and rising Wolf Moon. Visitors can enjoy an after-hours tour of the Keeper’s House Museum and see the exhibit of the lighthouse’s original, historic Fresnel lens constructed in 1894 in Paris, France. Browse the unique nautical gifts and souvenirs in the gift shop and gather around the glowing Wolf Moon bonfire, complete with spirited howling and lighthearted activities designed to bring out a sense of youthful fun while maintaining respect for the surroundings. Bring a chair and enjoy the evening!
January Sunset and Full Moon Climb
Cape St. George Lighthouse | St. George Island
January 13th, 2025
The January Sunset and Full Moon Climb at the Cape St. George Lighthouse on St. George Island will be held on Monday, January 13, 2025. Visitors can enjoy this opportunity to view St. George Island, the Gulf of Mexico, and Apalachicola Bay under the evening sky. The sun will set at 6:02 p.m. and the “Wolf” moon will rise at 5:50 p.m. on January 13th. The January full moon is called the Wolf moon because wolves often hunt at night and the howling of wolves could be heard outside Indian villages.
Apalachicola Oyster Cook-Off
Battery Park | Apalachicola
January 18th, 2025
The countdown is on! Come to Apalachicola to enjoy oysters galore, local beer, live music, kids’ activities, silent auction, and 5K run! Make plans to attend the Oyster Cook-Off to benefit the Apalachicola Volunteer Fire Department. This annual event is held the Saturday before Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in downtown Historic Apalachicola at Riverfront Park. All proceeds go directly towards paying for the brand-new fire truck they were able to purchase a few years ago, due to this sole fundraising event!
Butts and Clucks Cookoff
Battery Park | Apalachicola
January 24th – 25th, 2025
The 8th Annual Butts and Clucks Cookoff will be held in Apalachicola’s Battery Park. Witness culinary mastery as top-notch teams from across the Southeast converge to showcase their skills in smoking and grilling. They’ll be vying for over $15,000 in cash and prizes, demonstrating their prowess in four tantalizing meat categories: Chicken, Ribs, Pork Butt, and Brisket. Each category promises a feast for the senses, offering mouth-watering aromas and flavors that embody the essence of Southern BBQ.
Junior Service League of PSJ Annual Chili Cook-Off!
Port St. Joe
January 25th, 2025
For 14 years, residents of Port St. Joe and the Junior Service League (JSL) have hosted an annual chili cook-off on the last Saturday of January. In addition to the cooking competition, there will be a family bazaar, car show and music to enjoy throughout the day. The event requires no cover charge to attend, but you will need to buy tickets ($1 per ticket) to taste the different chilies.