March is when things really start picking up around the Forgotten Coast. Spring break brings more visitors to town, the weather starts warming up, and the calendar fills up with local events, live music, and outdoor activities.
If you are local or planning a visit this month, here are a few things happening around Port St. Joe, St. Joe Beach, Mexico Beach, and Cape San Blas.
As always, events are subject to change and I might not have caught everything, so check with the venue before heading out.
First Friday Sip and Shop
Friday, March 6
Downtown Port St. Joe
First Friday Sip and Shop is always a fun way to kick off the weekend. Shops along Reid Avenue stay open late with drinks, snacks, and special deals.
It is a great excuse to walk downtown, see friends, do a little shopping, and then stay for dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Salt Air Farmers Market
Saturday, March 7 and 21st
Downtown Port St. Joe near the lighthouse
The Salt Air Farmers Market happens on the first and third Saturdays of the month. You will find fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, plants, and local art.
It is also dog friendly and a great way to spend a relaxed Saturday morning before heading to the beach.
Panama City Comedy Night
Saturday, March 13th at 7:30
Port Inn Hall and Chapel
If you are looking for something different for a night out, Panama City Comedy Night is coming to Port Inn Hall and Chapel. Expect an evening of stand up comedy and a lively crowd. It is a fun option if you want a break from the usual beach activities. Tickets available here.
Forgotten Coast En Plein Air
March 20 through March 29
Port St. Joe and the surrounding areas
Artists from around the country will be painting outdoors across the Forgotten Coast during the annual En Plein Air event. You may see artists set up around downtown Port St. Joe, Cape San Blas, and some of the most scenic spots along the coast.
The week ends with a gallery showing and sale where visitors can view and purchase artwork inspired by the area. More info here
Blues on Reid
Saturday, March 21
Downtown Port St. Joe
One of my favorite music events of the year. Blues on Reid is one of the biggest spring events in Port St. Joe. Reid Avenue fills with live music, vendors, food, and a lot of people enjoying the afternoon downtown.
If you have never been, it is a great excuse to spend the day walking around Reid Avenue and listening to free live music. Bring your chair and sunscreen!
Happy Tails Casino Night
Friday, March 27
Pomodoro's Restaurant
Port St. Joe
Happy Tails Casino Night supports the St. Joseph Bay Humane Society and is always a fun evening for a good cause. Guests can enjoy casino style games like blackjack, craps, and roulette along with food, drinks, and a silent auction. Tickets can be purchased here.
Duck Derby Spring Festival and 5K
Saturday, March 28
Lake Alice Park, Wewahitchka
The Duck Derby Spring Festival includes a 5K race, live music, food vendors, kids activities, and the famous duck race on the water. Participants can adopt a racing duck for a chance to win prizes while supporting local causes.
Easter Egg Hunt and Games
Saturday, March 28
9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Centennial Park, Port St. Joe
The Junior Service League of Port St. Joe is hosting its annual Easter Egg Hunt and Games at Centennial Park.
Families can visit with the Easter Bunny, hunt for eggs including the special golden egg, and enjoy games like egg and spoon races, bounce house fun, and more. It is a free event and everyone is encouraged to bring a basket.
Live Music Around Town
Live music is happening most weekends around Port St. Joe, especially once spring break rolls around. Check their Facebook pages for updates
Many of these spots have bands or acoustic sets Thursday - Sunday.
A New Wine Bar Opening Soon
A new wine bar called Botld is expected to open soon on Reid Avenue.
It will be a great addition to downtown and another nice stop if you are out walking Reid Avenue for dinner, shopping, or live music.
Spring Break on the Forgotten Coast
March also means spring break season. Unlike some beach towns, things stay pretty relaxed here and that's how we like it. If you are visiting, take time to explore places like St. Joe Beach, Mexico Beach, Indian Pass, and Cape San Blas. Each area has its own personality and some of the best views on the Gulf.
Please remember not to walk on the dunes or leave your items on the beach overnight.
Touring Homes While You Visit
While many people come for vacation, some start thinking about what it would be like to own a place here.
If you are in town and would like to look at homes or investment properties while you're visiting, I am always happy to show you what is available in Port St. Joe, St. Joe Beach, Mexico Beach, Cape San Blas, or Apalachicola.
Spring is also when more buyers start looking in our area, so if you have been thinking about listing your home, I am happy to share a quick value range based on recent sales.
Linda Surles
Realtor, Selling the Coast
850.329.5771
linda@sellingthecoastfl.com