Life's A Beach

What Are You Doing This Weekend? March 16-18

2012-03-15T10:14:00.000-05:00

Kick off the Weekend! March 16-18, 2012

What’s happening on the Emerald Coast this weekend?

Top o’ the morning to ya laddies! What fun-filled events are in store for you this St. Patrick’s Day weekend? The gorgeous weather makes it hard to stay away from the beach, but there are some great events happening this weekend that you may not want to miss. If you haven’t made any weekend plans yet, Life’s A Beach wants to help. We’ve highlighted a few of the area happenings for this coming weekend below – check it out!

Friday, March 16

The 6^th Annual Charity Golf Tournament Benefiting Children in Crisis will be held at the Fort Walton Beach Golf Course. Lunch will be served at 11 a.m. and shotgun will start at noon. Entry fee is $75 per player and $300 for a team. Drinks, prizes, raffle items, ditty bags, golf shirts and an awards party with hors d’oeuvres are included! For more information, contact Natalie Rodriguez at natalierodriguez@childrenincrisisfl.org, or call 850.864.4242.

Start your break with Spring Praise 2012 and join us for an evening of celebration and worship. The Spring Praise 2012 Concert with BarlowGirl, Jonny Diaz and Todd Agnew will take place at the Emerald Coast Convention Center beginning at 6:30 p.m. Sponsorships for this concert will benefit the Special Olympics of Okaloosa County.

www.emeraldcoastconventioncenter.com

Micky Mouth, Mixture, and 4 Beachcomber award nominee Homemadesoul will rock Destin Hard Rock with a little bit of soul during the Hip Hop Meets Rock II at Hard Rock Cafe Destin event. Doors open at 10:30 p.m.

http://www.facebook.com/events/235715503189405/

Saturday, March 17

Celebrate the luck of the Irish at the Village of Baytowne Wharf’s St. Paddy's Day Delight. Henri's Notions will provide traditional Celtic music in the Events Plaza from 6-9pm.

The 4th Annual HarborWalk Village Grogg Games & Irish Street Festival will take place from 12-11 p.m. Fun for the whole family! Enjoy live Irish music by authentic bag pipers Irish dancers, classic Irish fare and authentic Irish beers. Crafts and activities for children too! www.emeraldgrande.com

Don’t miss the Annual HarborWalk Village Grogg March taking place from 8-11 p.m. Each venue will entertain with music and games. Get your Pub Passport stamped at all the participating venues throughout the Harbor and you’ll be entered for a Grande giveaway.

www.emeraldgrande.com

The 5^th Annual St. Patty’s Day Pub Crawl will be taking place in downtown Fort Walton Beach from 6-10 p.m. Participating locations include Fokkers, Coasters, Salty Duck, Staff's, Golden Dragon and KC's Sandbar. Free entry! Food and drink specials, and lots of PRIZES! Must visit each location to be eligible for Grand Prizes!

The US Constitution Freedom Rally II - Fundraiser for the Navy SEALs and Veterans Families will be held at the Emerald Coast Convention Center from noon until 7 p.m. You won’t want to miss the special guest, Governor Scott.

www.theroguepatriot.org/Events_Page.html

Bring the kids out to this week’s HarborWalk Village Starbucks book signing, featuring Diane Box. This event will take place from 2-4 p.m. and will feature Diane’s children’s book Fred Visits the Emerald Coast.

www.emeraldgrande.com

Sunday, March 18

Not much going on in the way of events this Sunday, so maybe just enjoy the beautiful weather. Head to an area park, or beach access and soak up some sun! Or maybe just sleep away the lingering effects of St. Patty’s day festivities.

Have a GREEN and beachy weekend!

-The Life’s A Beach crew

What Are You Doing This Weekend? March 9-11, 2012

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What’s happening onthe Emerald Coast this weekend?

With the sunshine back in our midst, I know we are allexcited that the weekend is quickly approaching. If you haven’t already madeyour weekend plans, or if you think you can tear yourself away from a sunnybeach for a little while, check out some of the area happenings for this comingweekend.

Multi-Day Events

Southern Classic Gun and Knife Show atthe Okaloosa County Fairgrounds in Fort Walton Beach on March 9^thand 10^th. Check out hundredsnew and old guns, ammo, parts, reloading supplies, books, knives, coins, camouflageand other related items at discount prices. Concealed weapons classes will alsobe held at various times during the show.

www.floridagunshows.com

Friday, March 9

The Beach Walk Café at Henderson Park Inn will be holding anItalian Wine Dinner for FantasyFlight Friday. A mouth-watering four course meal with dishes inspired by thebeautiful Rome, Venice, Bologna, Naples, Florence and Sicily will be served andpaired with smooth, fine wine. Reservations are strongly recommended to attendthis event. Call 850.650.7100 to make yours today.

www.beachwalkhendersonpark.com

Saturday, March 10

Andy Gross anationally touring show, will be performed at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center inNiceville. Enjoy a night of comedy, illusions and more with Las Vegas’ #1Entertainer of 2010 -- Andy Gross, who will appear in Niceville to boggle themind with his ventriloquism and magic. Show begins at 7:30 p.m.

www.mattiekellyartscenter.org

The Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Crestview will be hosting Dance for Life, an evening of ballroomdance to benefit Covenant Hospice, in the Crestview High School Auditorium. Theevent starts at 6:30 p.m. and will feature Edyta Sliwinska and Alec Mazo fromABC-TV’s “Dancing with the Stars.” The show will also showcase amateur andprofessional dancers from across the Emerald Coast.

www.fredastairecrestview.com

Starbucks atHarborWalk Village will be hosting a Dean Minton BookSigning from 2-4 p.m. Meet DeanMinton, author of the historical fiction book, The Universal Essence. The book tells the story of the apprentice of an alchemistwho sets out on a journey to solve a mystery, rescue his master, and to findhimself along the way. Check out the book, and hear Dean’s inspiration for thismysterious, historical tale.

Sunday, March 11

Paradise Promotionsof the Emerald Coast presents The Emerald Coast Sing-Off - Clash for theCash at the Emerald Coast Convention Center from 5-10 p.m. Over $5000 inCASH and other prizes will be awarded at The Finals - with $2000 CASH to theWinner! www.EmeraldCoastSingOff.com

Enjoy the sunshine and have a beachy weekend folks!

-The Life’s A Beach crew

What Are You Doing This Weekend? March 2-4

2012-03-01T08:59:00.000-06:00

What’s happening on the Emerald Coast this weekend?

It’s going to be a HUGE and eventful Emerald Coast weekend this week. Wooooo! Who’s excited? No matter what your fancy, you will find some great events and entertainment to banish any and all boredom. If you haven’t made your weekend plans yet, Life’s A Beach wants to help. We’ve taken the liberty of highlighting a few of the area happenings for the upcoming weekend for your convenience. Take your pick!

Multi-Day Events

Calling all dog lovers! Head out the Okaloosa County Fairgrounds this Thursday and Friday, March 1^st and 2^nd for the Okaloosa AKC Dog Show. Show starts at 9:00 a.m.

If you love all things sewing and quilting you won’t want to miss the Flying Needles Quilt Retreat & Show at the Emerald Coast Conference Center from 9-5 March 1^st – 3^rd. Take in the beautifully crafted quilts, learn a thing or two with classes from national and local instructors, or peruse the show and rub elbows with vendors.

www.flyingneedlesquiltguild.org, 850.729.7772

It’s that time of year again, folks, that’s right it’s COBIA TIME! The HarborWalk Marina 16^th Annual Destin Cobia Tournament starts this Friday, March 2^nd with a kick-off party at the Emerald Grande Ballroom at 7:00 p.m. This month-long event attracts hundreds of anglers from Northwest Florida. The tournament provides anglers with a great fishing experience and excellent payout.

www.destincobiatournament.com, 850.837.2343

The 4th Annual WSRE Wine, Women, and Shoes Dinner & Live Auction, the fastest-growing charity event series created by women for women in the U.S. is coming to the Emerald Coast from March 2^nd-4^th.The annual event will include a wine tasting, gourmet dinner, and live auction to benefit WSRE’s ongoing efforts to provide educational programming for over 77,000 viewers nationwide.

www.winewomenandshoes.com, 850.585.7294

The 30A Wine Fest at Alys Beach is a two-day event (March 3^rd-4^th) featuring seminars, a wine symposium, tastings, and food pairings from local restaurants, live music and dancing - all in the elegant surroundings of Alys Beach.

www.30awinefestival.com, 850.622.3200

Friday, March 2

Head out to Destin’s Hard Rock Café this Friday as they host the final event in their Hard Rock Rising series. Bands performing include FADED SAINTS, SKINCRAWL, 13th Shade, FOR SHAME, Hotel Oscar, Heritage, The Ayers, SKYVIEW and Vantage Point. Local winners will then be pitted against eighty-six other Hard Rock Cafe local winners from across the globe. Prizes are awesome!

www.hardrock.com/destin

Saturday, March 3

For those with a love of the music of the 60’s and 70’s, Hotel California – a tribute to The Eagles – will fill the bill. Hotel California will be performing at 7:30 p.m. at the Mattie Keller Arts Center in Niceville. www.emeraldcoastconcerts.com, 850.362.9356

Brides-to- be will love the 2^nd Annual Navarre Area Bridal Show, which will take place from 12-3 p.m. at Hampton Inn and Suites in Navarre. Many recognized and popular wedding vendors will be available. Don’t forget to enter for a chance to win a free getaway! This event is free and open to the public, so grab your girls and check it out!

www.NavarreChamber.com, 850.939.4848

The Green Earth Living Craft Show will be featuring Yarn Weaving with Phyllis Hunt – Learn this simple weaving technique to make coasters, bowls, baskets and more using extra yarn. Neat!

850.833.9595

Sunday March 4

"Republicans are a party with bad ideas and Democrats are a party with no ideas." Enjoy the comedic insights, of Lewis Black, one of the most prolific and popular performers working today, at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center in Niceville.

www.mattiekellyartscenter.org

The 10^th Annual Seaside Half Marathon and 5k Run starts at 7:00 a.m. Entries for runners are unfortunately sold out, however, feel free to come down and cheer the runners on, or come out for the Friday Night Party.

www.seasidehalfmarathon.com

Wishing everyone a warm and beachy weekend!

-The Life’s A Beach crew

Get fed at The Shed! Grand Re-Opening Tomorrow, March 1st!

2012-02-29T11:03:00.000-06:00

Head to The Shed tomorrow for their Grand Re-Opening!

Image from www.facebook.com/
theshedbbqdestin

Mmmmmmm! Destin’s The Shed Barbeque and Blues Joint will be hosting is grand re-opening tomorrow, March 1^st. This is one event you do NOT want to miss. Award winning BBQ, brews, live entertainment, what more could you ask for? Bonus! The joint is newly renovated and located at HarborWalk Village on the beautiful Destin Harbor. Is your mind officially blown or what?

Image from www.facebook.com/
theshedbbqdestin

ShedSpred is the 4^th Best BBQ Sauce in the WORLD!

When BBQSuperStars.com recently ranked the Top 100 BBQ Sauces in the world, The Shed’s ShedSpred placed 4^th and their rubs placed 12^th. These guys know their barbeque! Are you salivating yet?

Mattanja Bradley of Bradley Circus will be performing live joint March 1^st and March 2^nd, and the Beachcomber Musician of the Year, Forrest Williams, will be hitting the stage at 10 p.m. on March 2^nd. Who else will be rocking the Shed this month? Check out the March music line up below to find out more.

The Shed Destin March Music Line up

03/01 7pm Mattanja Bradley of Bradley Circus
10pm Hotel Oscar

03/02 7pm Mattanja Bradley of Bradley Circus
10pm Forrest Williams Band

03/03 6pm Bob Margolin
10pm Yamadeo

03/07 7pm Space Capone

03/08 7pm Roots of Rebellion

03/09 7pm Lee Yankee and the Hellz Yeah

03/10 6pm Delta Saints
10pm The 17th Floor

03/11 10pm Velcro Pygmies and the Bad Ass Brass Band

03/12 10pm Velcro Pygmies and the Bad Ass Brass Band

03/13 6pm Wes Loper
10pm Trotline

03/14 6pm David Chastain
10pm Fly By Radio

03/15 6pm Mario Mena
10pm Trotline

03/16 6pm Forrest Williams Band
10pm Park Band

3/17 6pm Mario Mena
10pm Wrong Way-Tribute to Sublime

3/22 7pm Jimmy Buffett Tribute

3/23 6pm Fort Bayou Slim
10pm ArtOfficial

3/24 6pm SugarCane Jane
10pm Dave Matthews Tribute Band

3/29 7pm Jimmy Buffett Tribute

3/30 TBA

3/31 6pm Curtis Grimes
10pm Higher Ground-Tribute to Red Hot Chili Peppers

www.facebook.com/theshedbbqdestin

www.theshedbbq.com

What Are You Doing This Weekend? February 24-26

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Kick off the Weekend! February 24-26, 2012

What’s happening on the Emerald Coast this weekend?

It’s a big weekend for sportsman, and fans of performance art alike. If you haven’t made your weekend plans yet Life’s A Beach wants to help. We’ve highlighted a few of the area happenings for the upcoming weekend below for your convenience.

All Weekend (February 24-26)

The Florida Sportsman Expo will take place at the Okaloosa County Fairgrounds in Fort Walton Beach. A fun event for anglers, boaters and hunters, featuring continuous seminar stages, casting ponds, kids’ events, a hands-on rigging table, free fly and net-casting lessons, the newest line-up of boats in all sizes, and exhibits by Florida’s Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission.

www.FloridaSportsman.com/Expo, http://www.nwffair.com/

Friday, February 24

The Emerald Coast Chorus will present The Magic of Harmony at the Emerald Coast Convention Center from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Come out and listen to the over 40 all-male voices that make up this a cappella chorus, dedicated to musical excellence and the preservation of the uniquely American style of music known as "Barbershop."

The Broadway version of Monty Python's Spamalot is coming to the Mattie Kelly Arts Center for one night only, on February 24 at 7:30 p.m.

www.mattiekellyartscenter.org, 850.729.6000

Saturday, February 25

Don your best camo and head to Legendary Marina in Destin for the Ducks Unlimited Sportsman’s Day Out. This event is chock-full of activities for the outdoor enthusiast, including a barbeque, seminars for hunters and anglers, tons of raffle prizes and more!

850.218.8680

Sunday February 26

Need an excuse to wear that poodle skirt? Hold on to your bobby socks, it’s the 2^nd Annual Snowbird Appreciation “Sock Hop” from 6-11 p.m. at the Emerald Coast Convention Center on Okaloosa Island. Wear your favorite sock hop attire for live music, costume and dance contests, door prizes, and a cash bar.

www.emeraldcoastfl.com, 850.609.3800

Hope everyone has only the beachiest of weekends this week!

-The Life’s A Beach crew

2012 Gulf Coast Challenge Ride 2 Recovery presented by UnitedHealthCare

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Ride 2 Recovery is coming to the Gulf Coast. This bicycle fitness challenge produced by the Fitness Challenge Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, is designed to help improve the health and wellness of wounded warriors by providing a life changing experience that can impact their lives forever.

Come out and participate in the ride of a lifetime, while helping our nation’s wounded warriors. Beginning in New Orleans, LA the Gulf Coast Challenge will take you along the historic Gulf of Mexico all the way to Panama City, FL before taking a left hand turn to the Apalachicola National Forest and on to the State Capitol of Tallahassee. The last day will feature a tour of the Capitol City with state officials scheduled to take part in the ride. Whether you ride for one day, or multiple days, the Gulf Coast Challenge will be worth the ride.

There is a $50 registration fee which includes a one-day ride, t-shirt, giveaways, course refreshments, ride support, and lunch. You will need to arrange your own transportation back to the start.

If you’re interested in participating in the Gulf Coast Challenge, contact Jaime Magarity via email at jaime_magarity@uhc.com or by phone at 954.378.0606. You may also visit the Ride 2 Recovery website at www.ride2recovery.com/gulf-coast-challenge.

Ride Schedule
Date	Length	Starting Point	Ending Destination
March 4, 2012	75 miles	New Orleans, LA	Gulfport, MS
March 5, 2012	64 miles	Gulfport, MS	Mobile, AL
March 6, 2012	66 miles	Mobile, AL	Orange Beach, AL
March 7, 2012	66 miles	Orange Beach, AL	Fort Walton Beach, FL
March 8, 2012	58 miles	Fort Walton Beach, FL	Panama City, FL
March 9, 2012	100 miles	Panama City, FL	Tallahassee, FL
March 10, 2012	TBD	Tallahassee, FL	Tallahassee, FL

A little bit about Ride 2 Recovery:

Ride 2 Recovery supports Spinning® Recovery Labs and outdoor cycling programs at Military and VA locations around the U.S. helping injured veterans overcome the obstacles they face.

Cycling is an important part of the recovery and rehabilitation program for two reasons:

1.) Cycling is an activity that almost all patients with metal and physical disabilities can participate.

2.) Participation in the Ride 2 Recovery Program helps speed up the recovery and rehabilitation process.

What Are You Doing This Weekend? February 17-19

2012-02-16T13:53:00.000-06:00

What’s happening on the Emerald Coast this weekend?

We've got a big weekend ahead of us. It’s President’s Day weekend, so I know there are a few people out there who will enjoy a longer break than usual. Fat Tuesday is just around the corner as well, so there are several Mardi Gras celebrations happening throughout the area over the next few days. This should also be a highly entertaining and cultured weekend, with an art show, and several musical performances, including the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra among others. In addition, if you’re an avid runner, you will have your choice this week of what events you’d like to participate in, and for what cause.

It’s a great weekend to be on the Emerald Coast, and if you haven’t made your weekend plans yet, Life’s A Beach wants to help. We’ve highlighted a few of the area happenings for the upcoming weekend below for your convenience.

Multi-Day Events

(February 17 & 18) Spend an evening enjoying the sounds of Grammy Award-winning The Parker Quartet. This astounding string quartet performs this special evening in the intimate setting of Rosemary Beach Town Hall. Event begins at 7:30 p.m. both days.

www.sinfoniagulfcoast.org

(February 18-19) Barefoot runners, this is your race! The Destin 50 Beach Ultra Marathon, 5 a.m. – 7 p.m. boasts an entire weekend of events for runners. This race will take place on the white sand beaches of Destin, Florida and next to the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. That's right, the entire 50 mile/50K/relay races are in the sand! Truly a race like no other. Marathon benefits go to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

www.destin50.com.

Friday, February 17^th

The Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra presents Stars of Tomorrow at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center in Niceville. Relish in the extraordinary talent that is highlighting the 2011 Concerto Competition winners. This family friendly concert features the orchestra in a salute to the Old West, with a presentation of Aaron Copland's Billy the Kid suite, and guest artist performances by the talented winners of the 25th annual Concerto Competition for young musicians.

www.mattiekellyartscenter.org

Saturday, February 18^th

Navarre’s 26^th Annual Mardi Gras Parade begins at 1:00 p.m. on Grand Boulevard in Navarre Beach.

www.NavarreChamber.com, 850.939.3267

The Friends of the Museum will be sponsoring the annual White Tent Yard Sale Fundraiser from 7 a.m.-12 p.m. outside the Camp Walton Schoolhouse Museum. Several tents and tables of gently used items, baked goods, and coffee will be for sale. All proceeds will benefit the Heritage Park and Cultural Center.

850.833.9595

The Doo-Wah Riders concert at the Fort Walton Beach Civic Auditorium offers a return to familiar Americana. They have entertained for more than 30 years with their sounds of high energy country with a Cajun twist. Concert starts at 7:30 P.M. The audience is invited to a reception at the Magnolia Grill following the concert where they can meet all the band members.

www.emeraldcoastconerts.com, 850.362.9356

Enjoy great food, beverages and more at the Sandestin Gumbo Festival which will take place at the Village of Baytowne Wharf from noon until 4 p.m. Bring your discerning palate, and cast your vote as area restaurants and businesses vie for the prestigious title of “Area’s Best Gumbo.”

850.244.8110

Enjoy a parade, costume contest, movie and more at the 1^st Annual Hammock Bay Mardi Gras Dog Parade and Festival at Hammock Bay in Freeport. The theme this year is Beach Bound Hounds! Parade will start at Canine Commons Bark Park in Hammock Bay at 4 p.m. and end in the town square at Hammock Bay where the street party begins. Stay for a movie in the park featuring Disney’s animated comedy Princess and the Frog set in the festive city of New Orleans.

www.hammockbayfreeport.com

Head out to the Destin Commons from 3-5 p.m. for the Destin Commons Mardi Gras Masquerade featuring entertainment, a seafood boil, arts & crafts, street dancing and more.

www.destincommons.com

Take part in the Son of A Beach 5K Run/Walk to benefit the Special Operations Warrior Foundation this Saturday. Event begins at 8 a.m. at the Back Porch Restaurant in Destin. Registration includes a logo'd SoB cooler, water, light snacks and entertainment.

http://www.destin50.com/5k.html

Get active for a great cause at the Run for the Kids a 5K run or walk event to benefit AMI Kids Emerald Coast. Event starts at 8:00 a.m. at the Fort Walton Beach Landing. After party/awards ceremony will follow at Fokkers in Downtown Fort Walton Beach.

Bring your artistic side to the Annual Art Show and Sale from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Seascape Resort Conference Center. Several artists represented. Original watercolors, prints, cards, gift items, and art instruction supplies will be for sale. Come meet the artists and purchase local artwork. This event is FREE and open to the public.

850.837.9181

Sunday February 19^th

This year’s Modern Bridal Expo at the Village of Baytowne Wharf gives brides the opportunity to mix and mingle with leading wedding vendors at Sandestin’s Baytowne Conference Center. The expo will feature a high-energy fashion show, door prizes, and the chance to win a FREE honeymoon! As a bonus brides may tour Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort’s wedding venues.

www.sandestin.com

The Village of Baytowne Wharf's Mardi Gras Dog Parade is one of the premier canine events on the Emerald Coast with members of the four-pawed community coming far and wide to participate. This year’s theme is Cruisin’ Canines: Fetch a Wave. Event starts at 2 p.m. Proceeds will benefit Alaqua Animal Refuge.

www.baytownewharf.com

Join the Northwest Florida Symphony Guild for their annual Food and Wine Tasting, to be held at the Emerald Coast Convention Center from 1-4 p.m.

www.nwfsymphony.org

Celebrate the coasts most talented regional and local musicians at the 4^th Annual Beachcomber Music Awards at HarborWalk Village. Enjoy live music throughout the village from several of the nominees. Concerts are FREE and open to the public.

www.emeraldgrande.com

What Are You Doing This Weekend? February 10-12

2012-02-09T09:14:00.000-06:00

Kick off the Weekend! February 10-12, 2012

What’s happening on the Emerald Coast this weekend?

What on earth will you do this weekend? If you have no idea, Life’s A Beach wants to help. We’ve highlighted a few of the area happenings for the upcoming weekend below for your convenience.

Multi-Day Events

Greater Tuna the hilarious play about Texas' third smallest town, where the Lion's Club is too liberal and Patsy Cline never dies, will be performed February 10^th and 11th at the Destin Community Center on Stahlman Avenue. The eclectic band of citizens that make up this town are portrayed by only two performers, making this satire on life in rural America even more delightful as they depict all of the inhabitants of Tuna -- men, women, children and animals. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. both days.

Advance tickets may be purchased at www.MarinaCivicCenter.com or by calling 850.763.4696.

Friday, February 10

Tops in Blue, the Air Force’s premier entertainment showcase will bring you a variety of musical styles at a free concert at the Emerald Coast Convention Center 6-11:30 p.m.

www.topsinblue.com

Saturday, February 11

Head out to Okaloosa Island to enjoy the carnival atmosphere with live music, costumes, and more at the Mardi Gras on the Island celebration! Parade starts at 11 a.m., come prepared to catch some beads.

www.fwbchamber.org, 850.244.8191

Learn to make fun and functional boxes from leftover scraps of fabric and ribbon at this week’s Green Earth Living Craft Series – Ribbon Box Making. All class materials are included, but advanced registration and payment (by cash or check) are required. Please call the museum at 850-833-9595 or email hpcc@fwb.org to sign up. Money raised will go towards programming needs at Heritage Park and Cultural Center.

Enjoy a Valentine Dinner on the Destin Harbor. The HarborView Room at the Emerald Grande will be will be hosting a romantic candlelit dinner. Enjoy a chef-prepared 3 course dinner with a sunset backdrop unlike any other and a vintage piano bar scene with entertainment by Sean Dietrich. Dinner starts at 6:00 p.m. Reservations are not required but are highly recommended. BONUS: Those with reservations will receive a complimentary photograph of themselves courtesy of HD Action Photography.

www.emeraldgrande.com, 850.329.0601

Enjoy some tasty treats at the 9th annual CHOCOLAT' FARE, sponsored by Destin United Methodist Women. Event is from 9:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. Lots of yummy homemade chocolates will be available for purchase with proceeds going to the Church Benevolence Fund. This is used to help those in need in our area. Beautiful handcrafted jewelry will also be for sale. Fellas, this just may be a great place to pick up some Valentine’s Day goodies for that special someone. Don't miss this fun event!

Join SunQuest Cruises for Dine… Dance… Cruise… Romance! Hop aboard for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day celebration. Experience a romantic cruise of candle light, moonlight, love songs and fun. Delicious food will be served and there will be a full service bar on board.

www.sunquestcruises.com, 850.650.2519

Sunday, February 5

Head to HarborWalk Village this Sunday for a romantic afternoon as The Flytones perform for the Valentine’s Special edition of their Winter Concert Series. The concert is free and open to the public and will begin at 2:00 p.m.

www.emeraldgrande.com

Wishing everyone a wonderful and beachy weekend!

-The Life’s A Beach crew

Mardi Gras Kick Off Parade At HarborWalk Village

2012-02-06T17:26:00.000-06:00

Hanging out before the parade.
On the left Sarah Hockett, Charles Born, Whitney Born.
On the right, Mardi Gra King Mark Bellinger.

I know there were a ton of people at last Saturday’s Mardi Gras Kick Off Parade at HarborWalk Village. It was an absolutely gorgeous day to be out enjoying the festivities. For those of you that were in attendance you know what a blast this event was.

Gearing up for the parade. We're ready to roll!
From right to left:
Whitney Born with her dad, Charles, Life's A Beach Distribution Manager,
Sarah Hockett, Copy Production Editor,
Melissa Wride-Auer, Art Director,
Rick Seevers, Publisher/Owner

Everyone was in a festive spirit and dressed to the nines in their Mardi Gras best. A river of purple, gold, and green flowed through the streets of HarborWalk Village as it rained beads, candy, and moon pies over the crowds of smiling people. The Life’s A Beach gang was glad to glitz up the van, glam up themselves and be a part of this fun-filled celebration.

Rubbing elbows with the Mardi Gras King and Queen
Okaloosa County Tourist Development Council's
Mark Bellinger, and Destin Mayor "Sam" (Sarah) Seevers

A post- parade picture of our decorating handy work

Click here to see video of this event!

What Are You Doing This Weekend? February 3-5, 2012

2012-02-02T14:27:00.000-06:00

What’s happening on the Emerald Coast this weekend?

Life’s A Beach wants to help you kick off your weekend with this easy guide. We’ve highlighted a few of the area happenings for the upcoming weekend below for your convenience.

All Weekend (February 3-5)

Last chance for ice skating at the Village of Baytowne Wharf!

www.baytownewharf.com

Friday, February 3

The Florida premiere of "Ansel Adams: America" will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Emerald Coast Convention Center. Also on the program are Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue,” and a Howard Levy debut performance of "Concerto for Harmonica & Orchestra."

http://www.sinfoniagulfcoast.org/

Saturday, February 4

The Eco-Nomic Living Expo will take place at the Emerald Coast Convention Center from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Learn to make Smart Choices by participating in this FREE event. The Eco-Nomic Living Expo is a fun learning experience with numerous events and opportunities. Bring the kids! Youth activities all day at the Expo. Seminars and workshops on health, wealth and the environment, with national and local speakers. Don’t miss the prizes and giveaways!

www.economiclivingexpo.com/

The 22nd Annual Chili Competition at the Santa Rosa Mall will be held from 12:30-2:00 p.m. Participants will be selling competition chili to general public for 50 cents. All Proceeds benefit the agencies of the United Way of Okaloosa and Walton Counties.

www.SantaRosaMall.com

The Mardi Gras Kick Off Parade at HarborWalk Village starts at 2:00 p.m. Enjoy dazzling floats, colorful costumes, street performers, and float riders tossing handful of beads! Stay and enjoy live music on the Main Stage after the parade. Don't forget to look for the Life's A Beach gang here. Give us a wave and we'll toss you some bona fide Mardi Gras trinkets!

www.emeraldgrande.com

Look for the Life's A Beach van at the Mardi Gras Kick Off Parade.
You may not immediately recognize it under its Mardi Gras disguise!

Mattie Kelly Arts Center Nationally Touring Shows presents "Simply Sinatra” starring Steve Lippia. Headlining Las Vegas and now Niceville, Steve Lippia and his 16 piece band bring Frank Sinatra’s essence back to the stage in a show that as timeless as a cocktail, a tuxedo or a diamond ring! Show starts at 7:30 p.m.

www.mattiekellyartscenter.org

Sunday February 5

Super bowl Sunday! Order your favorite pizza, grab some drinks, invite your buddies over and enjoy the game, or the commercials, whatever you like best.

If you’re not a sports fan, there’s not a lot going on this Sunday, the weather reports say it should be a pretty nice day though, so take a walk, hit the beach, or head outside. If the weatherman is wrong, stay in, take a nap, make a big bowl of popcorn, and watch a movie.

Wishing everyone a beachy weekend!

-The Life’s A Beach crew

Mardi Gras on the Emerald Coast! Join the Celebration(s)!

2012-01-31T14:54:00.000-06:00

Mardi Gras is in the Air

It’s that time of year again, folks. That’s right, it’s Mardi Gras time! Tis the season to don your beads and your feathered mask and hit the streets for good some old fashioned Louisiana-style fun! Throw on your best purple, green, and gold attire and head out to some of the area’s most spirited Mardi Gras celebrations. There’ll be no shortage of entertainment with festivities taking place all month long.

February 4^th

The Life's A Beach crew has been busy prepping the
van for the Mardi Gras Kick Off Parade.
It'll be even prettier come parade day.
Come out and give us a wave!
We'll be there with beads on, maybe we'll toss
some your way!

Mardi Gras Kick Off Parade at Harborwalk Village. Enjoy dazzling floats, colorful costumes, street performers, and of course BEADS!!! The Life’s A Beach gang will be there, decked out in our Mardi Gras best and tossing our goodies. The parade starts at 2:00 P.M. Stay and enjoy live music at the Main Stage after the parade.

www.emeraldgrande.com

February 11^th

Mardi Gras on the Island is a lively festival on that takes place on Okaloosa Island. This event was chosen by the Southeast Tourism Society as one of the Top 20 Events for February. Come enjoy the carnival atmosphere with live music, costumes, and more. Parade starts at 11 a.m., come prepared to catch some beads.

www.fwbchamber.com

February 18^th

26^th Annual Mardi Gras Parade theme for 2012 is “United States Military” This year’s parade is dedicated to Pvt. Matthew Colin, who lost his life serving the USA. The parade begins at 1:00 p.m. on Grand Boulevard in Navarre Beach.

www.NavarreChamber.com

1^st Annual Mardi Gras Dog Parade at Hammock Bay in Freeport will kick off at 4:00 P.M. The theme this year is Beach Bound Hounds! Hammock Bay Trail will be filled with dogs dressed in beachy Mardi Gras attire and Hammock Bay’s Town square will be jiving with Mardi Gras jazz rhythm and hound dog bluz. Bring your chairs and cooler and stay for a movie in the park featuring Disney’s animated comedy Princess and the Frog set in the festive city of New Orleans.

http://www.waltonoutdoors.com/mardi-gras-dog-parade-and-festival-at-hammock-bay-feb-18/

3^rd Annual Mardi Gras Masquerade and Parade Event at the Destin Commons will take place from 3-5 P.M. Enjoy delicious seafood with AJ's at our traditional seafood boil! Watch live street dancing presented by ENCORE! The event will also feature live entertainment, arts and crafts, a parade and more!

www.destincommons.com

February 19^th

Mardi Gras Dog Parade at the Village of Baytowne Wharf is one of the premier canine events on the Emerald Coast with members of the four-pawed community coming far and wide to participate. Mardi Gras music will fill the air as the streets fill with costumed dogs, and their owners. This year’s theme is Cruisin' Canines: Fetch a Wave! Parade will begin at 2:00 P.M.

www.baytownewharf.com

February 21^st (FAT TUESDAY!)

HarborWalk Village Mardi Gras Celebration will take place from 6-8 P.M. Enjoy free red beans and rice from Poppy’s Crazy Lobster, street performers, and live music! March through the Harbor with your four-legged friends at the Party Animal Parade at 6:30. Join this wild and vibrant Fat Tuesday celebration!

www.emeraldgrande.com

10^th Annual Fat Tuesday Baytowne Bash Parade starts at 5:00 P.M. Let your hair down and let the good times roll as unique and colorful floats roll down the streets and marchers dressed up in their finest Mardi Gras swag shower parade-goers with a barrage of beads, moon pies, and other trinkets.

www.baytownewharf.com

Life’s A Beach and the Emerald Coast – Why we love it!

2012-01-30T10:59:00.000-06:00

At Life’s A Beach, we live and breathe the Emerald Coast. Our staff is local, and we all have one thing in common… An overwhelming passion for the area we call our home. There’s much to love along our shimmering shores, and here I hope today to give brief indication of what makes this area so special.

Of course there’s the obvious… The beaches! We have some of the most beautiful beaches you will ever see, complete with sparkling emerald green waters and extraordinary sugar-white sand. The water here has an amazing crystalline quality that is truly awe-inspiring, and the unique sand that covers our shores is actually comprised of Appalachian quartz crystals. This fine sand is cool to the touch even on the warmest and sunniest of days.

Most any adventure you've ever dreamed of can become a reality on the Emerald Coast. Reel in excitement on a deep sea fishing excursion. This area is home to a wide variety of marine life, creating pure exhilaration with every cast out. Get out on the water in a pontoon boat, kayak, or wave runner. If you’d like someone else to do the driving, then hop aboard a sunset or dolphin cruise. Fly high above the water on a parasail chute, or dive in and explore the depths on a snorkel or scuba excursion. No matter how you envision enjoying the water, your Emerald Coast experience awaits.

What!? There’s more than just gorgeous beaches and awesome water sports!? Oh yes! It’s true! There’s a wealth of activities and attractions all throughout the Emerald Coast. The area boasts an impressive water park, museums, art, cultural events, concerts, nightlife, shopping, dining, parks, and so much more! Not to mention that the people you will meet here are among the friendliest, most kind-hearted, caring, and hard-working individuals you will ever have the pleasure of meeting.

These are just a few of the countless things that make this place a home to its residents, a destination for visitors, and a haven for many.

Life’s A Beach loves the Emerald Coast! To find out more about this Life’s A Beach and this magnificent region, keep reading our blog!

What Are You Doing This Weekend? January 27-29, 2012

2012-01-26T09:22:00.000-06:00

What’s happening on the Emerald Coast this weekend?

If you haven’t made your weekend plans yet Life’s A Beach wants to help. We’ve highlighted a few of the area happenings for the upcoming weekend below for your convenience.

MULTI-DAY EVENTS

A special showing of the comedy “Greater Tuna” isscheduled for a two-night performance at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 27 and 28 at the DestinCommunity Center. For tickets, visit www.marinaciviccenter.com orcall 850.763.4696.

The 50^th Annual Antique Show and Sale, the largest antique show with over 60 dealers will be held -January 27-29 at the Northwest Florida Fairgrounds in Fort Walton Beach.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 27^th

The Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation will host Tastingof Champions from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in The Magnolia Ballroom at Sandestin Golfand Beach Resort. www.dcwaf.com.

The Denim and Diamonds event to benefit the United Way will start at 6:00 P.M. at the Emerald Coast Convention Center. Come dressed in your favorite denim and enjoy a relaxing evening with friends, great food, casino games and an array of fabulous auction items. You won’t want to miss the dance competition! http://www.united-way.org/2012%20D&D.htm

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28^th

Starting bright and early at 7:30 A.M. join Biggest Loser Season 8 winner Danny Cahill for Destin's Bayou, Bay & Back 5K Run/Walk, 10K & Half Marathon sponsored by Shoreline Church. Race begins at Clement Taylor Park in Destin. www.DestinChamber.com

The TBS Comics Games Workshop – Coastal Assault 2012 will be hosted at the Emerald Coast Convention Center starting at 8:00 A.M. http://www.tbscomics.com/coastal-assault/

The Magnolia Grill is hosting at Pancake Breakfast to benefit the Choctawhatchee HS Chorus. Breakfast starts at 8:00 A.M. and includes pancakes, sausage, juice, coffee, or water. The Choctaw Madrigals will sing and serve breakfast.

The Crocheted Rug Making Class with Jean Lucas is the first in the Green Earth Living Craft Class Series. In this class, you will learn how to make a crocheted rug from recycled materials. Class is from 10 A.M. to 12 P.M. and advance registration is required. http://www.fwb.org/index.php/museums

"Ruth's Secrets Revealed" Cooking Classes from 12-2 P.M. This class will include the following: 1. Crab Au Gratin 2. Steak Sampling w/salad. Instruction on Prime Steak vs Grocery Meats 3. Baked Ziti and Cheese 4. Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce. www.RuthsChrisDestin.com

Gulf World Marine Park 2012 Winter Concert Series presents Margo Anderson with a Tribute to Patsy Cline. Show starts at 7:00 P.M. www.GulfWorldMarinePark.com

The Tony Award-winning musical comedy Damn Yankees will be performed at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center at Northwest Florida State College starting at 7:30 P.M. www.mattiekellyartscenter.org

Coast Guard Auxiliary Boating Safety Class will be held from 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. This program is designed to be an introductory course to meet the boating education needs of all recreational boaters. www.flotilla14.org

SUNDAY, JANUARY 29^th

Playground Big Band Winter Concert Series from 2-4 P.M. at HarborWalk Village. Concerts are FREE and open to the public. www.emeraldgrande.com

David Seering and Friends Entertain the Emerald Coast for Children in Crisis at 7:00 P.M. at the Village Baptist Church in Destin.

Who is Life's A Beach?

2012-01-25T14:11:00.000-06:00

Who is Life’s A Beach? A Brief Overview

Life’s A Beach Publications is a locally owned and operated company located in Destin, FL. Since opening our doors in 2004, we have been committed to serving the local community. Our goal is to provide the best information possible while enriching visitors’ experiences and enhancing advertisers’ businesses. We are dedicated to providing the most comprehensive information about the area and what makes an Emerald Coast vacation memorable. It is this dedication that not only ensures that visitors get the most out of their Emerald Coast experience, but also that our advertisers will see the successful results of choosing Life’s A Beach.

Our artistic design and rich content separates our publications from traditional magazines. The first thing you may notice about our book is the unique artistic cover art. As a large supporter of the arts, every visitor’s guide printed by Life’s A Beach features a piece created by a local artist. We are proud to bring a unique flair to our visitor guide with inspiring covers and in-depth feature articles that cover every aspect of the Emerald Coast. Our maps contain locations and landmark information with the visitor in mind, providing great exposure for your business.

We are proud to participate in area Chambers of Commerce, Art Associations, as well as many other community initiatives. In every visitor’s guide, Life’s A Beach prints a story featuring a community initiative from the area. Life’s A Beach is grateful to not only our readers, but also to our many advertisers and we devote every day to supporting these local businesses.

Whether you’re a visitor planning a trip to the Emerald Coast, or a local business trying to get your name out there, Life’s A Beach is here to help. Contact us today to see what Life’s A Beach can do for you!

Click here to visit our website!