Centennial Celebration in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

Everyone agrees that birthdays and anniversaries are special, but there are certain milestones that deserve a little more attention.

Milestones like the one that Santa Rosa Beach, Fla. is celebrating. Because after all, it’s a big deal when you reach 100.

While the Walton County Board of Commissioners deemed the all of September as Santa Rosa Beach Centennial Celebration Month, a fun-filled weekend highlighting this milestone is planned for September 11-12.

“It’s going to be a big event,” comments Johndra Culp, Centennial Celebration spokesperson. “We’re celebrating the community.”

“People will have the opportunity to learn about area’s history, where we came from and where we are now.”

Happening at Gulf Place, Culp says there isn’t a better place for the celebration, especially when you can see the Gulf.

The free weekend line-up includes live entertainment, vendors and artisans, food and more.

The event begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, and the first live entertainment starts at 11 a.m. with a performance by Grit & Grace, the county’s folk life production group. While entertainment is throughout the day, you definitely want to stick around to 6 p.m., when Greg Barnhill and The Nashville A-Team takes over with a jam session of sorts.

Sunday’s activities start at noon with the singing of God Bless America by Redd, followed by more live entertainment until 6 p.m.

“This is a great time to visit the area,” points out Culp. “The area has a lot coming up. We’re very excited about it.”

“Our beaches are beautiful and we are open for visitors.”

Quick Facts

What: Santa Rosa Beach’s 100th Birthday

When: September 11-12

Where: Gulf Place

Time: Saturday, the festival begins at 10 a.m. and on Sunday, noon

Cost: Free

photo credit: Santa Rosa Beach, personal collection