1. Eastern Green 2. Western Green 3. South Barrett Park 4. North Barrett Park 5. West Long Green Park 6. East Long Green Park 7. St. Augustine Park
II. Neighborhood Parks –• 1. Abaco Park 2. Phase X Park 3. New Providence Park 4. Fountain Park
5. Hedgelong Park 6. Wiggle Park
7. Atticus Park
8. Triangle Park 9. East Kingston Park 10. West Kingston Park 11. Bridgetown Park
12. Kingsbridge Park 13. Butterfly Park
III. Playgrounds –• 1. Playground Park 2. Cabana Playground 3. St. Augustine Park Splashpad
IV. Pools –• 1. Coquina Pool
Barbados Pool
Cabana Pool
Sky Pool
V. Civic Buildings –•
RBPOA Offices
Town Hall
Rosemary Beach, FL Post Office
VI. Amenities Managed by Cottage Rental Company –•
PUBLISHED BY THE ROSEMARY BEACH PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION
TIM SHADBURN PRESIDENT
DOLF ROELL VICE PRESIDENT
LETTYE BURGTORF SECRETARY
TIM MARTIN TREASURER
BOB ELEY
DAN DROSS
STACY PARKS BOARD MEMBERS
LEE NETTLES TOWN MANAGER
BRET AZZARELLI TOWN ARCHITECT
ROSEMARY BEACH POA PO BOX 611010 ROSEMARY BEACH, FL 32461
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS MAGGIE JACKSON JENNY DIAMOND
ROSEMARY THYMES IS PRODUCED BY BALLINGER PUBLISHING
MALCOLM BALLINGER OWNER
KELLY ODEN EXECUTIVE EDITOR
MORGAN COLE EDITOR
IAN LETT ART DIRECTOR
RYAN DUGGER
COORDINATOR
From the POA Welcome to Rosemary Beach!
By Lee Nettles
As the holiday season settles over the Gulf, Rosemary Beach glows with a warmth that feels both timeless and new. The rhythmic sound of waves blends with laughter in the square, while twinkling lights shimmer through the town. It’s a place where families gather and neighbors greet one another with cheerful smiles.
From its beginning, Rosemary Beach was designed for connection where architecture, nature and community come together beautifully. Each pathway and boardwalk leads not only to the beach but to a sense of belonging. Rosemary Beach isn’t just a place to visit — it’s a place that feels like home.
Bustling with life and laughter, the heart of the community begins in the Town Center. Families gather over dinner, friends mingle on the greens and time slows just enough for meaningful moments to unfold.
Each November, the season kicks off with the beloved Tree Lighting Ceremony in South Barrett Square. The glow of the lights, the sound of carolers and the excitement surrounding Santa’s arrival creates a celebration for the entire community to enjoy. The festivities continue through
winter with the weekly Farmers Market, where fresh produce, handmade goods and holiday treats fill the square.
Rosemary Beach has a commitment to care and behind the scenes, the Rosemary Beach Property Owners Association (RBPOA) works year-round to preserve the beauty, safety and spirit of the community.
Our Security Team watches over the town 24/7, while Beach Services ensures every visit to the beach is seamless. Maintenance, landscaping and administrative staff care for every detail, keeping Rosemary Beach as beautiful as it is welcoming.
The spirit and magic of Rosemary Beach lingers long after you leave. This holiday season, we invite you to rediscover that feeling. Whether you’re here for a few days or a lifetime, you’ll find that the holiday spirit isn’t something you bring, it’s something waiting for you here, wrapped in coastal charm.
On behalf of the Rosemary Beach Property Owners Association, welcome to our little piece of paradise.
Because here, the holidays truly are more fun by the beach.
and Jordan Paramore, Rosemary Beach Property Owners Association Staff. Photo courtesy of Visit South Walton.
*ROSEMARY
Rosemary Beach Holdings, LLC.
ROSEMARY BEACH FOUNDATION
Over 4,000 students from 18 Walton County schools are participating in the 15th Annual Music in Pictures. Created in collaboration with professional musicians and Florida State University faculty, Music in Pictures encourages a lifelong appreciation of symphonic music, promotes self-expression and enhances learning.
This year-long arts in education initiative and juried art exhibition began with an in-service workshop for art teachers led by Dr. Ben Sung.
15 th ANNUAL MUSIC IN PICTURES
Under the direction of Dr. Jihye Chang, Florida State University established a Rosemary Beach Foundation fellowship program to provide outreach in Walton County schools.
In the fall 2025, students (Kindergarten – 12th Grade) discovered the power of music through interactive classroom presentations and performances by FSU fellows. During this time, students are engaged in active listening and inspired by the classical music.
Walton County Art Teachers
Dr. Ben Sung Professor of Violin at Florida State University –Violin Coordinator, Artist Faculty at Brevard Music Center
Dr. Chang—Senior Lecturer at Boston University with FSU Fellows
“Participating in this program was a joy. It was meaningful to be able to connect and engage with the students and watch the music come alive for them,” said Natalie Taunton, BM ‘26 Cello Performance FSU. “It is an important reminder of how impactful music is on the human spirit, whether you are a performer or listener. Even more than that, music and art are intertwined in such special, creative ways, and I look forward to seeing how the students interpret those connections when they create their artwork for the Spring exhibition.”
“I am passionate about sharing the beauty of music with others,” said Daniel Kim, DM ‘28 Clarinet, FSU Graduate Assistant. “I am truly grateful to the Rosemary Beach Foundation for providing me with this meaningful opportunity to work with the students of Walton County.”
ABOUT ROSEMARY BEACH FOUNDATION:
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Rosemary Beach Foundation operates on program revenues, sponsorships, grants and contributions from individuals and businesses.
Please visit rosemarybeachfoundation.org for more information.
Freeport Elementary Student with Natalie Taunton (Cello)
Mossy Head Students with Noel Medford (Viola) and Ilayda Ilbas (Violin)
Freeport High School Students with Hannah Faircloth (Clarinet) and Natalie Taunton (Cello)
West DeFuniak Elementary Students with FSU Daniel Kim (Clarinet) and Jarobi Watts (Double Bass)
Meet the Team
Deborah Hutching
In this Rosemary Beach Staff Profile, we learn about Deborah Hutching, the landscape coordinator for the Rosemary Beach Property Owner’s Association (POA). In this role, Deborah is a liaison for ensuring that all the community’s common spaces are properly maintained. In her free time, Deborah enjoys completing home improvement projects and canoeing.
By Maggie Jackson
Could you tell me about your role at Rosemary Beach?
My role in Rosemary Beach is the Landscape Coordinator for the POA. As a liaison to the landscaping, irrigation, mulching and tree contractors, I apply years of experience and hard-earned knowledge to ensure that all of Rosemary Beach common areas are properly maintained. I am responsible for synchronizing efforts and aligning strategies among different groups to work towards a common goal. My focus is on landscaping projects and ensuring they are completed efficiently, on time, within budget and to the highest quality standards.
How long have you worked at Rosemary Beach? How has the community changed over the years?
I have worked with the Rosemary Beach team for two years now. The past two years of working with new landscaping-related contractors has rendered positive changes in maintenance routines that have resulted in cleaner common areas, greater detail given to pots/planters, better response times for addressing issues and innovative programs to ensure the measures taken now will aid in the healthy life of our trees, turf, shrubs and ornamentals.
My favorite part about working in Rosemary Beach is making the homeowners happy. It is what I am here to do. I want this property to be exactly what they envision it to be.”
What is your favorite part of working at Rosemary Beach?
My favorite part about working in Rosemary Beach is making the homeowners happy. It is what I am here to do. I want this property to be exactly what they envision it to be. When I can accomplish this, whether it be a little or a lot of happiness at a time, I am in my element. An example would be a park that had been neglected that has taken two years to bring it back up to standards. Owners notice the difference with the efforts made. I love a challenge and making a difference for the better. I especially love the teamwork it takes to accomplish this goal.
What do you like to do in your free time?
My free time is usually spent on home projects when possible. Occasionally, I like to take my canoe out on the creek.
Faherty Brings Coastal Soul and Sustainable Style to Rosemary Beach
By Maggie Jackson
Nestled in the heart of Rosemary Beach’s shopping district, Faherty’s radiates the relaxed charm and effortless warmth that have become synonymous with the family-owned American lifestyle brand. Since opening its doors in Rosemary Beach in 2020, the store has quickly become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors, offering not just clothing, but a full expression of coastal living grounded in sustainability, craftsmanship and community.
A Family Dream Built on Coastal Roots
Founded in 2013 by twin brothers Mike and Alex Faherty, along with co-founder Kerry Docherty, Faherty was born from a shared passion for the beach, surf culture and timeless design. Raised along the shores of coastal New Jersey, the brothers grew up surrounded by the ocean’s rhythm—a rhythm that continues to shape every aspect of their brand.
From the beginning, Faherty’s mission has been simple yet ambitious: to create clothing that feels as good as it looks.
“The brand was built on the dream of creating clothing that feels as good as it looks—effortless, comfortable, and made to last—born from [Mike and Alex’s] roots as surfers growing up in coastal New Jersey,” said Jarrod Budzik, manager of the Faherty location in Rosemary Beach. “[Faherty’s founders] have often said, ‘Clothes that tell stories, built for comfort, longevity and joy.’”
Starting with the goal of creating the perfect sustainably made board shorts, the brand soon expanded into a full lifestyle collection that now includes apparel for men and women, accessories and home goods—all crafted from sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, recycled fibers and hemp.
At its heart, the Faherty brand stands for sustainability, community and quality.
A Certified Commitment to Doing Good
Faherty’s commitment to the planet and the communities they serve is as deeply woven into its identity as the threads of its garments. As a Certified B Corporation, the company meets rigorous standards for social and environmental impact, transparency and accountability. Faherty earned this recognition from the nonprofit organization, B Lab, in 2024.
This recognition was a long-time goal of the company’s co-founder, Kerry Docherty. To receive this certification, a company needs to
achieve a minimum score of 80 points in the B Impact Assessment, which consists of 250 questions. Faherty scored 85.7 points.
From fabric innovation using recycled and regenerative materials to ethical production partnerships, every decision at Faherty reflects an intention to protect the environment and uplift communities.
“The [Rosemary Beach] store emphasizes community and connection, blending Faherty’s sustainability mission with a local coastal spirit,” Budzik said. “It participates in community markets, environmental partnerships such as the Surfrider Foundation and cultural initiatives honoring Indigenous lands and artists. The brand also supports programs like Girls For A Change and 1% for the Planet.”
In addition, programs like Second Wave— Faherty’s online resale initiative— that extends the life of well-loved pieces, while collaborations with Indigenous artists and acknowledgment of Native lands demonstrate the brand’s holistic approach to responsibility and respect.
Bringing the Beach Indoors: The Rosemary Beach Experience
When Faherty expanded its retail presence in 2020, it had 14 stores concentrated in major cities such as Boston, San Francisco, Chicago and New York City. The launch of the Rosemary Beach store, located at 16 S. Barrett Square, marked a key moment in its growth—an effort to bring the brand’s coastal spirit to destinations, mainly in coastal and resort communities, that resonate with its heritage. Now operating more than 80 stores (with more opening in the future) across the U.S., Budzik said that the store’s arrival on scenic 30A was a natural fit.
“While there are several beautiful boutiques along 30A, Faherty distinguishes itself through a blend of exceptional product quality, personalized service and inviting design,” Budzik said. “The Rosemary Beach location quickly became a
favorite for both locals and travelers, reflecting the brand’s signature blend of hospitality, warmth and service. Customers often describe their visits as ‘fun and enjoyable,’ noting how the team goes above and beyond to ensure everyone feels welcome and comfortable.”
Walking into Faherty Rosemary Beach feels less like stepping into a retail shop and more like being welcomed into a beautifully curated beach house. The space is filled with natural textures—reclaimed wood, vintage surfboards and ocean-inspired photography that echo the brand’s origins.
Guests are also greeted by a friendly, knowledgeable team whose enthusiasm for both the products and the lifestyle the brand represents is instantly contagious.
“What truly sets our Rosemary Beach store apart is the incredible team behind it,” Budzik said. “Every person here brings warmth, enthusiasm and genuine care to the guest experience — and that creates something special. You can feel the positive energy the moment you walk through the door. We’ve built a space that reflects the laid-back, coastal lifestyle Faherty is known for while making every visitor feel at home. It’s a joy to lead such a passionate team and to see how that spirit resonates with our community every day.”
Like Faherty’s other stores and online retail presence, the shop offers a complete range of men’s and women’s clothing and accessories. Some of the brand’s well-known pieces that are in-stock at the Rosemary Beach store include the Legends Sweater Shirts, Sunwashed Tees, linen shirts, stretch terry pants, beach dresses, soft sweaters and lightweight hoodies—all made from sustainable fabrics for lasting comfort and style.
Budzik said that the company is continuing its expansion into coastal and resort locations. An additional Florida location has been opened in Miramar Beach (on Grand Boulevard) with plans to expand in south Florida and Naples soon.
“In short, what truly makes Faherty Rosemary Beach special is its ability to weave together coastal style, sustainability and genuine hospitality into a single seamless experience that guests remember long after the leave. With its combination of sustainable craftsmanship, thoughtful design and welcoming energy, Faherty continues to embody the spirit of coastal living across every location, especially at its Rosemary Beach store,” Budzik said.
Christmas on the Coast
By Aaron Gilmore
The holiday season brings plenty of festive fun to the Emerald Coast, from tree lightings and holiday parades to ice skating and more. Whether you’re catching Santa at one of the area’s holiday events, browsing decorated trees at Grand Boulevard or gliding across the ice at Baytowne Wharf, there’s plenty of holiday fun for everyone. Check out these upcoming events happening in and around 30A this season—and for a complete listing of Rosemary Beach’s holiday happenings, see the events calendar on page 30.
Grand Boulevard Festival of Trees
December 2 from 4 to 6:30 PM
The Festival of Trees returns to the Grand Boulevard at Sandestin for 2025. Free and open to the public—come be amazed by all the trees on display, each decorated by local non-profit organizations. In addition, a bell can be purchased during the event to cast a vote for the People’s Choice Award. If you come across an organization that you would like to know more about, you can scan the QR code found on the tree they’ve decorated to learn more about them or even make an individual donation.
Holiday Magic at Grand Boulevard
December 18 through 23 from 4 to 7 pm
Wrap up the holiday fun with six days of family-friendly entertainment. Catch Santa before his global excursion by the renowned Grand Boulevard Christmas Tree. Come out early and stroll along the Boulevard, then put your feet up as you catch a ride on the horsedrawn carriage and wagon in front of Krewe Sunglasses. End the evenings listening to Emerald Coast Theatre Company’s live children’s holiday show.
Dance to the Holidays
December 9 from 7 to 9 pm
The country’s holiday hit Dance to the Holidays! comes to the Mattie Kelly Arts Center. Come see the performance of a lifetime; directed and choreographed by Jaymz Tuaeleva and featuring celebrity professionals from Dancing with the Stars performing with finalists from So You Think You Can Dance, American Idol, The Voice and America’s Got Talent
Miracle at The Day Trader
November 17 through December 31
The only Miracle Pop-Up location in Northwest Florida returns for a third holiday season. Miracle at The Day Trader brings lavish festive decor with a tropical twist on the holiday accentuated by Christmasthemed cocktails and 30A’s gorgeous seaside. As with the previous occurrences, 10 percent of all proceeds from select glassware sales will be donated to the Seva Foundation; a non-profit organization for worldwide prevention of blindness and restoration of sight. Check out their Instagram @dayttradertiki for updates and announcements.
Turn on the Town & Seaside: Holiday Parade
(Seagrove to Seaside)
November 30 from 3 to 8 pm
This hallmark event is where Seaside’s holiday story truly shines. From the lively parade that winds along 30A to the lighting of the town’s spectacular Christmas tree, Turn on the Town features a full day of festive cheer and community spirit. Gather in the amphitheater for caroling, live performances, children’s theatre and the grand lighting of the tree with Santa himself officially ushering in the holiday season. Afterward, follow Santa to the Christmas Village for photos until the event ends.
Baytowne On Ice - Ice Skating
October 31 through February 8
Lace up your skates and get ready to glide into the winter season at The Village of Baytowne Wharf’s Baytowne on Ice! The seasonal ice rink returns, bringing all the magic and chill of winter to the heart of Sandestin. It’s the perfect way to create holiday memories and enjoy one of your favorite cold-weather traditions—right here on the coast! Skaters must be at least 3 years old and fit into appropriately sized skates. Children under the age of 6 must be accompanied by a parent or adult family member.
Baytowne Wharf Lantern Parade
December 6 at 5 pm
The sky over The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin will ignite with the soft, warm glow of the Lantern Parade. Free and open to the public, the event is a sight to behold. If you want to participate you can bring your own lantern or pop in to the free lantern-making workshop on Saturday, 1 to 3 pm at the Village. Spectators can enjoy The Village by foot or golf cart.
Baytowne Wharf Grinchmas
December 12 from 5 to 9 pm
Strap on your tree branches—rather, your reindeer antlers and head over to The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin. Meet the Grinch himself and even snag a photo opportunity until 7 pm; afterwards, kick back and enjoy the film.
Baytowne Wharf Tuba Christmas
December 13 from 5 to 7 pm
Join the folks in Sandestin for a memorable holiday event at The Village of Baytowne Wharf, the heart and soul of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. Enjoy the multitude of boutiques, eateries and galleries; then become enthralled by the sounds of the Tuba Christmas playing your favorite holiday classics. Along with visiting Santa, it will be a night of fun for the whole family.
Sip the Season
By Tyler Parker,
Director of Beverage, Gallion’s, Cork & Barrel & Shunk Gulley
Photos courtesy of Tyler Parker
On Florida’s celebrated 30A, the holidays carry a special rhythm with cooler breezes off the gulf, gatherings that move harmoniously from beachside patios to candlelit dining rooms and a special appreciation for good company as much as good taste. These wines were chosen with this lifestyle in mind. Each bottle is meant to complement the coastal experience, from sunset toasts to festive dinners featuring local seafood and seasonal fare. These wines embody elegance, craftsmanship and a sense of place. Perfect companions to life on the Emerald Coast.
Billecart-Salmon Le Rosé
Champagne, France
There is no better way to begin a holiday celebration than with a chilled glass of Billecart-Salmon Le Rosé as the sun dips below the horizon. This iconic Champagne, with its pale coral hue and fine, dancing bubbles, is both sophisticated and joyful. Delicate aromas of wild strawberry, citrus and rose petal open onto a palate that is crisp yet creamy, finishing with the signature mineral lift that defines the style. Whether served as an aperitif at a bayside gathering or paired with freshly shucked oysters from the Gulf, this wine sets a luxurious, festive tone.
Hyde de Villaine Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay Carneros, California
For those who love chardonnay with finesse, HDV offers a wine that feels tailor-made for a coastal holiday table. Sourced from one of Napa’s most esteemed vineyards and crafted with Burgundian precision, it delivers aromas of white peach, lemon curd, and wet stone. On the palate, this wine is both lush and vibrant, with subtle notes of oak, hazel and brioche adding depth. This is a chardonnay that shines alongside local dishes like grouper, sautéed crab claws or a creamy bisque.
Famille Perrin Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Les Sinards Blanc
Rhône Valley, France
For a white wine with a touch of rarity, les sinards blanc offers something truly special for coastal celebrations. Its blend of grenache blanc, clairette and roussanne delivers enticing aromas of pear, honesuckle and almond cream, leading to a palate that is both full-bodied and refreshingly mineral. Its generous texture makes it an outstanding match for holiday courses such as roast turkey or grouper with beurre blanc.
Goldeneye Pinot Noir
Anderson Valley, California
As the temperature dips in the evenings, Goldeneye pinot noir is a natural choice for gathering on the porch or around the holiday table. Bursting with black raspberry, pomegranate and hits of spice, this pinot delivers depth while remaining graceful and foodfriendly. Its silky tannins and bright acidity make it an ideal companion for roasted duck, turkey or wild mushroom, dishes which are seasonal favorites along the 30A dining scene. This is a selection that feels right at home with the coastal aesthetic; polished, understated and inviting.
Dal Forno Romano Valpolicella
Superiore DOC
Veneto, Italy
For the collector or host looking to impress, Dal Forno’s Valpolicella Superiore brings old world gravitas to a coastal holiday celebration. Its deep, dark profile of black cherry, cocoa and tobacco is concentrated yet balanced with an exceptional, almost endless finish accompanied by the texture of velvet. This wine begs for lingering, unhurried dinners. Imagine braised short ribs, venison or aged cheeses after sunset. A bottle to savor and share with close friends, it perfectly suits the more intimate side of the holiday season on 30A.
30A Songwriters Festival Beloved Festival Celebrates 17 Years
By Jenny Diamond
Held each January over Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend, Walton County’s 30A Songwriters Festival takes place in various venues all along Highway 30A, with the headliners’ stage set up at Grand Boulevard along Highway 98.
Headlining shows are scheduled on Saturday and Sunday with shows at smaller venues, including restaurants, bars, performance halls and amphitheaters all throughout the weekend. This year’s festival will also feature a special headlining kick-off event at the Seaside Amphitheater on Friday, January 16.
Past Festival headliners include Melissa Etheridge, Emmylou Harris, Steve Earle, The Indigo Girls, Jackson Browne, Brandi Carlile, Yola, The Zombies, Jason Isbell, Ani DiFranco, Ann Wilson of Heart, Lyle Lovett, Tanya Tucker and Jenny Lewis. Some headliners graced 30A with some of the last performances of their careers, like the late Brian
Wilson of the Beach Boys; New Orleans legend the late Dr. John; and the late John Prine, one of Americana’s greatest songwriters. There have also been plenty of highly accomplished folks who were not declared headliners but are no less celebrated: Patti Griffin, Rita Wilson, Amy Grant, John Paul White of The Civil Wars, John Oates of Hall and Oates, Sean Mullins, Robyn Hitchcock, Deana Carter, Sarah Jarosz and more.
Since its inception in 2010, the 30A Songwriters Festival has become a beloved staple in Walton County, featuring thousands of songwriters over the years from small, local acts to international superstars.
The Festival is produced by Russell Carter Artist Management and the Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) of Walton County. The festival serves as a major annual fundraiser for CAA with 100 percent of the net proceeds directly benefitting the CAA.
Through advocacy efforts, support for the creative sector and production of arts and educational programing, the CAA provides opportunities for residents and visitors to experience diverse forms of art and learning, connecting them to a broader view, critical exploration and answers only the Arts have the power to provide.
With roughly 175 artists performing at more than 25 venues each year, the 30A Songwriters Festival may indeed be a huge festival, but it doesn’t feel like it: attendees have the rare opportunity to see stellar artists in small, intimate settings and to hear their stories and their music in collaborative and often impromptu group performances.
At some of the festival venues, performers take a “round robin” approach to the gigs, sharing stages and joining one another to harmonize, and it is not uncommon for headlining artists to drop into sessions at smaller venues. Additionally, some artists recreate previous collaborations, like famed Nashville songwriters Gretchen Peters, Suzy Boggus and Matraca Berg, who took the 30A stage under the group name Wine, Women and Song.
The 2026 30A Songwriters Festival will be held from January 16 through 19. There are options for three-day and single-day passes, as well as various VIP experiences. As the Festival approaches and the schedule is released, attendees can download the official festival app (30A Songwriters Festival – CAA) to help keep track of performance venues, times and other updates.
Those who are interested in volunteering at the Festival have various options to do so, including set up, food and beverage service, door service, customer service and more. Volunteers who put forth 10 hours of service will receive a free festival pass; those interested should visit culturalartsalliance.com to learn more about volunteer opportunities.
Tickets can be purchased at 30asongwritersfestival.com. Many of the smaller venues are standing-room only and parking can be sparse, so attendees should arrive early when possible.
The Grand Boulevard space features an open field that invites attendees to bring their own chairs as well as blankets as the festival weekend almost always features low temperatures, sometimes even dipping below freezing. No outside food or drinks are allowed into the Grand Boulevard venue, but there are multiple vendors selling beer, wine, non-alcoholic options and a variety of food options.
2026 Headliners
Headliners for the 2026 festival include Mavis Staples, Toad the Wet Sprocket, I’m With Her, 10,000 Maniacs, Margo Price, Nikki Lane, and Paul McDonald and the Mourning Doves.
10,000 Maniacs
Initially formed in 1981, and with a lineup of nearly 20 different musicians over the band’s 44 year history, 10,000 Maniacs are an alternative/indie rock group best known for their hits in the early 1990s. Then fronted by songwriter and lead singer Natalie Merchant, the band had such hits as These Are the Days and a cover of Patti Smith and Bruce Springsteen’s Because the Night , both chronicled by their triple platinum live album MTV Unplugged , filmed for the iconic TV series. 10,000 Maniacs continued to make music throughout the 90s and 2000s, and in 2026, they will release Dawn Chorus , their first new album in 12 years. The band’s current lineup consists of original members Dennis Drew (keyboards), Steve Gustavson (base), and John Lombardo (guitar and vocals); singer Mary Ramsey, who has performed with the band on and off since the early 90s; Jerry Augustyniak, who joined as the band’s drummer in 1983; and Ben Medina, who joined as the lead guitarist in 2024.
Mavis Staples
One of 30A’s most celebrated performers, Mavis Staples returns to the festival as a headliner for the second time after first appearing in 2022. Staples began her career as one member of the Staple Singers with her father, brother and sisters, performing in churches before putting out their first record in 1958. With famous hits including I’ll Take You There and Let’s Do It Again, the Staple Singers performed primarily gospel and blues, and their songs often addressed issues related to race and civil rights, which Staples continued in her solo career. She has released 14 solo albums, the latest being 2025’s Sad and Beautiful World, and her career accolades include numerous Grammys, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, inductions into both the Blues Hall of Fame and the
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (with the Staple Singers), 2016 Kennedy Center Honors and an honorary doctorate from the Berklee College of Music.
Toad the Wet Sprocket
Taking their name from a Monty Python sketch, Toad the Wet Sprocket is an alternative rock band formed in California in 1986. The band’s commercial success came with the release of their 1991 album Fear, which included popular tracks All I Want and Walk on the Ocean. After officially breaking up in 1998, the band performed together on and off throughout the 2000s and reunited for new albums in 2013 and 2021.
I’m With Her
Consisting of Sara Watkins (Nickle Creek), Aoife O’Donovan (Crooked Still) and Sarah Jarosz, I’m With Her is made up of celebrated musicians with various groups and solo careers who have known each other since adolescence and collaborated since 2014. The band is known for their traditional Americana sound and three-part harmonies, with Watkins on the fiddle, O’Donovan on the keyboard, and Jarosz on the banjo and mandolin; all three members also play guitar and contribute vocals. I’m With Her released their first album See You Around in 2018, and in 2020, their single Call My Name won the Grammy for the Best American Roots Song. Their second album Wild and Clear and Blue was released in 2025.
Paul McDonald and the Mourning Doves
Alabama native Paul McDonald fronted the band Hightide Blues beginning in 2004 and wowed judges on American Idol in 2011, ultimately finishing in eighth place. His band redubbed themselves the Grand Magnolias, and McDonald released an album with then-wife Nikki Reed in 2014. After nearly a decade of sparse performing and recording, McDonald, with band the Mourning Doves, released So Long to the Dark Side in 2025, described as “a gospel-tinged reckoning wrapped in cosmic Americana.”
Nikki Lane
Nashville artist Nikki Lane blends a mix of country, rock, and indie style in her music, which is smoky and evocative with a bit of twang. Her debut album Walk of Shame was released in 2011, followed by All or Nothin’ in 2014, which was produced by Dan Auerback of The Black Keys. Her latest album, 2022’s Denim and Diamonds, was produced and mixed by Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age. Her most recent single Woodruff City Limit was released in June.
Margo Price
Called “country’s wildest truth teller” by Rolling Stone, Margo Price blends modern ideals with classic country sound. Case in point: her latest album Hard Headed
Woman, just released in August of 2025, features its first single Don’t Let the Bastards Get You Down . Price has released six albums in just nine years and was nominated as the Best New Artist at the 2019 Grammy Awards. Though headliners at 30A have traditionally played the mainstage on Saturday and Sunday, Price was added as a late headliner for a Friday festival kick-off performance at the Seaside Amphitheater.
The Artists Behind the Art
Biennial Rosemary Beach Sculpture Exhibition
by Earl Dismuke
Dingbat
The Fourth Biennial Rosemary Beach Sculpture Exhibition held its closing reception on October 16, celebrating a year-long showcase that transformed the town into an open-air gallery. From October 19, 2024 through October 19, 2025, three sculptures were installed throughout Rosemary Beach, inviting residents and visitors alike to discover art woven into their everyday surroundings.
At the closing reception, the RBSE committee announced first and second place winners, along with one sculpture selected for purchase and permanent installation in the town’s growing collection. We sat down with each of these artists to talk about their work, what drives their creative vision and why both Rosemary Beach and this exhibition have become so meaningful to them.
Earl Dismuke | Oxford, MS | First Place
Dingbat, Welded Steel: 138” x 96” x 48”
“Dingbat is the second piece in a series of works based on the fantasy of my childhood imagination. Dingbat is an ode to storytelling and the outlandish stories I heard as a child. The word dingbat itself is defined as a noun meaning a stupid or an eccentric person. However, I always viewed it as a term of endearment. As a child, when I was trying to be funny or entertaining, telling my own outlandish stories, my mother would call me ‘dingbat.’ In the South storytelling is still a part of the culture.”
Dingbat grew from childhood stories and a nickname your mother used for you. How did those early memories shape the sculpture?
Dingbat was born from a place of playfulness and love. Growing up, my mother used ‘Dingbat’ as a nickname—part teasing, part endearment—for the way I’d get lost in my own world, chasing ideas that didn’t always make sense to others but felt perfectly natural to me. That name stuck with me, not just as a memory, but as a symbol of creative freedom and the joy of being a little offbeat.
When I started shaping the sculpture, I leaned into that spirit. Dingbat isn’t just a form—it’s a feeling. It carries the energy of childhood imagination. It’s a tribute to the way my mother saw me, and to the way I’ve learned to see the world: with curiosity, humor and a touch of rebellion.
You work in both found-object storytelling pieces and larger fabricated steel forms. Where does Dingbat fall within your artistic journey?
The original Dingbat was just over two feet tall, made from discarded steel and found metal objects—scraps with stories, pieces that had lived other lives before becoming part of mine. It was raw, intuitive, and full of personality, like something you’d stumble upon in a backyard and instantly feel connected to.
When the opportunity came to scale it up, I wanted to preserve that same energy. The large version stands at 11 1/2 feet tall, but it still feels like the little guy—just stretched out and standing proud. We fabricated it to echo the original textures and quirks, so even though it’s polished and engineered, it still holds the soul of the found-object
piece. It’s a reminder that even something discarded can be reimagined into something monumental.
Storytelling seems central to your work. What role does Southern culture play in the way you create and interpret art?
Storytelling is the heartbeat of Southern culture. Growing up in Mississippi, stories weren’t just entertainment; they were how we made sense of the world. They were layered with humor, hardship, pride and poetry. That rhythm of storytelling—the way it bends time, blends truth with myth and honors the ordinary—is deeply woven into how I create and interpret art.
When I sculpt, I’m not just shaping metal, I’m shaping memory. Southern culture taught me that every object has a past, every gesture a meaning and every silence a story waiting to be told. I lean into that. My pieces often carry fragments of place, echoes of family and symbols that invite viewers to bring their own narratives. It’s not about nostalgia. It’s about honoring the complexity of where I come from and offering space for others to see themselves in the work.
In the South, we don’t rush stories. We let them simmer. That’s how I approach art: slow, intentional and rooted in something bigger than myself.
Rosemary Beach awarded Dingbat first place. What does this recognition mean to you as an artist from Oxford, Mississippi?
It’s incredibly meaningful. As an artist from Oxford, Miss., I carry a deep sense of place in everything I create—our stories, our textures, our contradictions. To have Dingbat recognized at Rosemary Beach, especially with first place, is both humbling and affirming. That sculpture started as a small, found-object piece rooted in personal memory, and to see it resonate with others on a larger scale reminds me that art can travel far while still holding onto its roots.
I’m grateful—not just for the award, but for the opportunity to share a piece of my home, my upbringing and my imagination with a wider audience. It’s a reminder that even the most personal work can speak to something universal.
Your work has been shown internationally and you’ve co-founded the Yokna Sculpture Trail. How does exhibiting in a place like Rosemary Beach connect to your larger vision as an artist?
Exhibiting at Rosemary Beach feels like a natural extension of what I’ve always hoped my work could do—create connection through place, story and scale. Co-founding the Yokna Sculpture Trail in Oxford was about building something lasting for the community, something that invites people to engage with art in their everyday lives. That same spirit carries into Rosemary Beach. It’s a place where art isn’t confined to a gallery, it lives outdoors, among families, architecture and coastal light.
Having my work shown internationally has been an honor, but there’s something deeply meaningful about showing in Southern spaces that understand the rhythm and symbolism I’m working with. Rosemary Beach allows me to share that vision with a broader audience while still staying rooted in the South’s storytelling tradition. It’s not just about visibility, it’s about resonance. When a sculpture like Dingbat stands tall in a place like that, it’s a reminder that art can be playful, personal and communal all at once.
Raine Bedsole | New Orleans, LA | Second Place
An Oar for Odysseus, Solid Cast Bronze: 87” x 6” x 3”
“My childhood was spent in Coastal Alabama on a farm. The river would routinely overflow its banks and surge across the fields. My brother kept a canoe on our porch so that he could go see his friends when the neighborhood flooded. It was all very exciting as a child and I have treasured memories getting around by boats. The familiar ebb and flow of water marks the cycles of my life. When I have dreams of flying, I am always in a boat. On a different level, the mythology of the boat resonates within me. The boat is frequently the vessel for transporting the soul. Egyptian barques ferrying the dead to their afterlife, funery longboats carrying Norse warriors out to sea for the last time and soul ships of the Irian Jaya are just a few of the iconic vessels that inspire me.”
You’ve said water and boats were a central part of your childhood in Coastal Alabama. How do those early memories flow into An Oar for Odysseus?
The act of rowing a canoe through flooded streets of my childhood (or the rivers and lakes), is the same physical motion used by ancient man. That one action spans millennia.
Mythology clearly plays a role in your art. What drew you to the story of Odysseus and the idea of the oar as a symbol?
Experiencing Hurricane Katrina and being forced out of my home, my island, felt like Odysseus leaving his beloved island Ithaca and setting sail for unknown adventures. He was tested and learned many things while still yearning for his home. To finally return with renewed appreciation and knowledge of distant places.
Your sculptures often weave together nature, spirituality, and myth. How do you balance the personal and the universal in your work?
My personal practice begins with an exploration into natural materials. An activity that harkens back to that childhood play in nature. It leads to an experience and interaction that brings meaning to what I do. I consider each work a universal self-portrait.
Rosemary Beach awarded your piece second place. What does this recognition mean to you and your artistic journey?
I love seeing what Rosemary Beach is doing to attract art and artists. I am honored to be recognized by the judges and to be shown with the sculptors represented here. There is another group at the new Kaiya village on 30A also doing great things to culturally enhance our naturally beautiful area. I think this is a special time to be living here and be part of the changes.
How do you hope viewers in Rosemary Beach will connect with An Oar for Odysseus in the context of this coastal town?
I hope that passersby will take a quiet moment to experience what I have made and feel the power of ancient mariners and myth. And perhaps connect history with the future, here near the expanse of the open water.
An Oar for Odysseus by Raine Bedsole
Gregory Johnson | Cumming, GA
Permanent Collection
Nucleus, Stainless Steel: 110” x 60” x 24”
“My new contemporary works, which were started five years ago, are built upon the concepts of traditional works. Specifically, the modern works depict or suggest things that we see and are familiar with, but cannot necessarily touch or quantify. My lyrical, caressing rings form beautiful contemporary sculptures that suggest the pathways of life, the forces of nature or emotions of our humanity. I chose the circle as a thematic symbol because of its cleanliness of shape, presence in our everyday life and the fact that it has no corners—just one beautiful line with no beginning, middle or end. An incredible spiritual shape that invites interpretation. I use the entire circle, whole and complete, contrast it with segments of the circle, and yet other times will use other geometric shapes to make circles—quite a mix of contradictions.”
You’ve said your career has come full circle, from sculpting in childhood to international recognition. How do you see that journey today?
I started as a realistic figurative painter and sculptor, but shifted to modern sculpture about 15 years ago in response to changing tastes and architectural styles. My modern works still draw on traditional composition and attention to detail. The journey continues, allowing me creative freedom. Looking ahead, I hope to continue expanding my reach and creating pieces that inspire and connect with new audiences.
Circles are everywhere in your work. What keeps this shape so powerful for you as an artist?.
The circle appeals to me for its pure, clean shape—one continuous line with no beginning or end. It’s a universal, spiritual form found in everyday life that invites endless interpretation.
Nucleus feels both elegant and emotional. What sparked this piece, and what do you hope people take from it?
This work features simple, elegant geometric shapes—lyrical curves inspired by nature—that suggest familiar yet intangible forms. The central focus represents energy radiating outward, much like a nucleus. I find curves more energetic and uplifting than straight lines.
Rosemary Beach has chosen Nucleus for its permanent collection. What does that mean to you personally and professionally?
I’m very grateful—having my work placed in prominent locations and new collections is exactly what I strive for.
How do you see your sculpture fitting into the character and spirit of Rosemary Beach?
I see the work as uplifting, suggesting growth and revitalization. Like the energy we feel after resting on the beach, it inspires us to tackle life with renewed vigor.
Gregory Johnson
Nucleus by
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Calendar of Events
FAITH
Chapel at the Beach
Sundays from 8:30 to 10 AM | Town Hall
Chapel at the Beach is holding worship services in Town Hall at 8:30 AM every Sunday. Nursery and Children’s Church offered during the service. For more information, please visit their website at chapelatthebeach.org.
MERCHANT EVENTS
THANKSGIVING WEEK EVENTS | NOVEMBER 24-29
MONDAY
Holiday “Trucker Hat” Bar
November 24 from 10 AM to 12 PM | North Barrett Square
Join us for some crafty fun on the green! Create your very own custom trucker hat to commemorate the start of the holiday season! This event is for children and teens only. We are limited to 150 hats.
TUESDAY
Festive Face Painting
November 25 from 10 AM to 2 PM | North Barrett Square
Festive Face Painting is the perfect way to celebrate good times! Bring the kiddos and watch as they are transformed into creative creatures!
Pittman Magic Holiday Spectacular
November 25 from 2 to 3 PM | St. Augustine Green
Join us for an afternoon of action-packed crowd-pleasing holiday fun with Pittman Magic, Juggling and Comedy... Rosemary Beach’s #1 magical variety show! Witness a husband-and-wife duo perform Las Vegas-style grand stage illusions, juggling, balancing, escapes, and family-friendly magic right before your eyes! Chairs and blankets are welcome.
WEDNESDAY
Moonlight & Movies- ELF
November 26 from 6 to 8 PM | Western Green
Bring the family for a wholesome, fun night under the stars. Enjoy a holiday favorite, “Elf”. Chairs and blankets are welcome!
THURSDAY
30A
10K & 1 Mile Fun Run
November 27 at 7:30 AM | North Barrett Square Tour scenic Highway 30A and give yourself an excuse to go for that second slice of pumpkin pie. To register or learn more about this event visit www.30A10K.com.
FRIDAY
Tree Lighting Ceremony
November 28 at 6 PM | South Barrett Square
Don’t miss the excitement as we “turn on the town!” Enjoy musical performances by the Charles Dickens Carolers; see Santa’s big arrival and the lighting of the tree. Then enjoy a carriage ride throughout the festive town.
Merchant Holiday Open House
November 28 (after the tree lighting)
Visit the Town Center Merchants after the tree lighting for a very special evening of holiday shopping and refreshments!
SATURDAY
Breakfast with Santa
November 29 from 8 to 10 AM | Town Hall
Bring the kids to Santa’s Workshop for a magical morning filled with delight! Included are a boxed breakfast, a professional color photo with Santa and a special goodie bag from Gigi’s! Tickets are $20 and are available at the door. 100% of the admission proceeds will go to the SWFD Angel Tree Program.
Breakfast with Santa
December 6, 13 & 20 from 12 to 3 PM
South Barrett Square
Join us in South Barrett Square for S’mores with Santa! Bring the entire family and enjoy complimentary professional Santa photos and delicious s’mores!
Note: If raining photos will be moved into the lobby of Cottage Rental Company and s’mores making will be cancelled.
FOUNDATION EVENTS
Let’s Give Thanks Yoga
November 28
Day after Thanksgiving tradition in Rosemary Beach. Instructor-led yoga in partnership with Rosemary Beach Fitness. $10 per person. Proceeds benefit NW Florida Guardian ad Litem & Hope for the Holidays to provide gifts and necessities for children in foster care in Walton County, Florida. Please bring a yoga mat or towel. 14+ years of age are welcome to participate.
7th Annual Holiday Tour of Homes
December 6
Self-guided tour of Rosemary Beach homes dressed up for the holidays. In partnership with Rosemary Beach Realty and Rosemary Beach Cottage Rental Company, the most festive event of the season benefits Alaqua Animal Refuge and Caring & Sharing of South. For more information and tickets please visit the web address rbhometour.com.
by CHRISTIA
Abe- 4 years old todaygot to spend his birthday at the beach. He and his sister Annie (2 and ½) got to pick one souvenir to remember their trip. Abe picked a blue angel plane and Annie chose a purple mermaid because purple is her favorite color. Abe also chose donuts for his birthday breakfast and chocolate cake and ice cream for his birthday celebration.
Hampton (6) spent a very relaxing week with his family on vacation. He got to go to the beach every day, build sandcastles and they even did a dolphin cruise where they saw a lot of dolphins and even a pirate ship.
Kennedy (4) just started ballet and she is loving every second. Her teacher said they get pretty costumes for their recital and she is hoping they’re pink. She loves plies the best. She also loves ice cream.
Some of the Seaside Neighborhood School JV and Varsity volleyball team got together after the season to watch the Pink Out game at UWF in Pensacola. They got to meet some of the players
as well as bid on some silent auction things benefitting breast cancer research. Team captain Kumara Flanagain got the team to sign posters for the girls and tossed some mini volleyballs to the group during warmups. The girls were excited to watch real volleyball and played balloon volleyball with the UWF Argonaut mascot.
Tillie (5) went to New York to visit her aunt and uncle that live there. They took them on a sightseeing day and went to the Empire State Building, FAO Schwartz, and saw a broadway show-Beetlejuice. It was so fun and she can’t wait to go back.
Holden (6) went to a Lou City Soccer playoff game. He met the parents of one of the players in the hotel lobby and was able to meet two starting players-Aiden McFadden and Phillip Goodrum. The team ended up losing but it was still so cool. And he tried kitsy kats (Kit Kat) and loved them. He also watched his sister play in soccer and lacrosse games all fall. He is excited to be in the news again.
Ethan (6) is a sight reading all star! He is learning all of his sight words for his kindergarten class. He also loves golf and baseball. Rowland played football this fall. He had a touchdown stopping tackle to help send his Seahawks team to the playoffs! Way to go Seahawks and Rowland!
Hank learned how to ride his big brother’s old electric motorcycle. Watch out world, Hank’s on the loose. He is also working on expanding his vocabulary.
Mia (7) and Leo (5) have recently relocated from Dallas, Texas to their mom’s home state of Washington. Leo was able to finish out his soccer season in Texas and is very excited to spend time with his Gigi & Pops in Washington. Mia is most excited for new friends and Gigi & Pops. They also got to go to a Mariners playoff game.
Baby Owen (15) got his learner’s permit on his birthday. He studied hard in the months before his fifteenth birthday and took the test so he was able to just walk into the DMV and get his permit.
Clay (4) was a not scary lion for Halloween. He was very insistent that everyone knew he was a NOT SCARY lion because he didn’t want to scare anyone. Instead of a roar or saying Trick or Treat, he made a tiny meow. He didn’t like seeing anyone in spooky costumes but liked the yellow brick road in Seaside.
And now onto the lost teeth…
Teddy was enjoying his second favorite food at church dinner-meatballs when he lost a tooth. After eating many many meatballs, he discovered a tooth that had been loose was now gone and lodged inside a meatball. He laughed and told everyone about the meatball that took his tooth.
Scarlett (5) lost her tooth at school. She was at recess and it just started bleeding after she pulled it out. The tooth fairy came and brought her a $2 bill in her treasure chest.
Henry (6) lost two teeth in one day. One had been wiggly for a while so it wasn’t a surprise when it fell out. The tooth next to it just fell out a little while later. He said the tooth fairy only paid for one tooth though so it might be a per visit thing.
Sofie (5) pulled her very first tooth out. It was a tiny bit wiggly and she just yanked it out.
Samuel (7) lost his front tooth. He likes to stick his tongue out through the gap. He hopes the adult tooth never grows back. He said the tooth fairy did come but he can’t remember what she brought him. Maybe like $100?
Carson (5 and ½) said that his tooth is super loose but he hasn’t lost it yet. He can see the grown up tooth growing up behind it and he thinks any day. He said he will come and let me know when he does finally lose the tooth.
News the way kids like to tell it... all good, mostly true and, of course, totally earth shattering.
PALIZZI
Rowland on the field
Seaside Neighborhood School JV and Varsity volleyball team with members of UWF’s Women’s Team
