jan 16-20, 2025
NURTURE OUR NATURE
A Shared Responsibility
With over 40% of our land preserved for nature, Walton County is well known for our pristine landscapes. The recently launched Keep Walton County Beautiful initiative empowers residents and visitors alike to make a positive impact through beautification, litter prevention, waste reduction and recycling. Together, we’ll continue to improve this unique environment for generations to come. Get involved at KeepWaltonCountyBeautiful.org.
Hello Music Friends and Welcome TO
THE 16TH ANNUAL 30A SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL
We look forward to officially opening doors to the 16th annual 30A Songwriters Festival at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, January 17, and many doors there are. This year’s venue lineup includes 25+ listening rooms (and a few rock rooms) along Scenic Hwy. 30A stretching from Rosemary Beach on the east end nearly 20 miles west to Blue Mountain Beach and all communities in between. This year, we also feature five venues along Hwy. 98 from the South Walton Commerce Park to Sandestin, two venues on Hwy. 331 at the foot of the Choctawhatchee Bay bridge, and a fun new venue on S. County Road 393.
If building thirty venues spanning the width of a large county along the Gulf of Mexico sounds like a lot of work, you would be correct. However, there is a reason for this rather complicated and expansive plan. The Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) of Walton Country’s mission is to advance the Arts in our community and foster creativity and culture in as many forms as possible for as many people as possible.
When we launched the Festival in 2010 as a fundraiser for the CAA, it was a rare event for any touring act to perform in Walton County. With the 30A Songwriters Festival breaking new ground and leading the way, booking more than 150 acts annually, musicians and their fans now know and love South Walton as a home and destination for Arts & Culture. In the 15 years since our inaugural event, we have introduced our local, regional, and national audience to literally thousands of up-and-coming, established, and world-renowned performers.
Folks tell us they come for the music, and they keep coming back having fallen in love with the beauty of our natural environment and the experience provided by our Festival partners and unique vacation communities. This is what we do at the Cultural Arts Alliance. We produce events that inspire, provide connection, and enhance the lives of ALL participants. And that is what the Arts do for the World.
Thank you for supporting live music and helping us “Keep Walton County Creative!”
CHEERS TO 16 YEARS!
Russell Carter and Jennifer Steele FESTIVAL PRODUCERS
Jennifer Steele and Russell Carter with Elvis Costello & The Imposters Photo credit: Rick Diamond
With resort-style amenities, fine dining, curated shops, and picturesque pocket parks, Alys Beach offers legacy homeownership opportunities in a town designed for connection and serenity.
EXPERIENCE LIFE DEFINED.
WATERCOLOR - FESTIVAL
HEADQUARTERS & BOX OFFICE
238 Watercolor Blvd. West
850.622.5970
Wednesday, January 15 | 4:00 p.m. - 8 :00 p.m.
Thursday, January 16 | 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Friday, January 17 | 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, January 18 | 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, January 19 | 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
GRAND BOULEVARD
BOX OFFICE & WILL CALL
585 Grand Blvd. - Box Office Kiosk is located between Tommy Bahama and Cantina Laredo (across from Williams Sonoma) 850.622.5970
Saturday, January 18 | 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Sunday, January 19 | 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
FESTIVAL MERCH STORE LOCATED AT HEADQUARTERS (WED-FRI) AND MAIN STAGE VENUE (SAT & SUN)
The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County makes an ongoing effort to ensure all its programs are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Through the efforts of our accessibility committee using ADA self-evaluation, checklists, and guidelines, the CAA is focused on making its programs open and accessible to anyone who would like to participate.
Please call 850.622.5970 for more information or to request accommodation.
TheFirst
2025 ARTIST LINEUP
THE COMFORT YOU DESERVE
FREE WIFI
Oh the places you’ll go with free Wi-Fi and remote printing from everywhere. Plus, enjoy free public computers with high-speed internet access.
ROOMY ROOMS
Rooms should always feel, well, roomy, and we made no exception here with space to work, play, or get that much-needed rest and relaxation.
FITNESS CENTER
Recharge at our 24-hour Fitness Center featuring cardio equipment with LCD touchscreens and free ear buds or make a splash in our outdoor pool.
THE MARKET
Savor freshly prepared meals any time, day or night, or enjoy perfectly packaged bowls, boards, and salads from our 24/7 Market.
HYATT PLACE SANDESTIN AT GRAND BOULEVARD
325 Grand Boulevard Miramar Beach, FL 32550 P 850 650 7611 hyattplacesandestingrandblvd.com
ON THE MAIN STAGE
MELISSA ETHERIDGE
Melissa Etheridge stormed onto the American rock scene in 1988 with the release of her critically acclaimed self-titled debut album, which led to an appearance on the 1989 Grammy Awards show. For several years, her popularity grew around such memorable originals as “Bring Me Some Water,” “No Souvenirs” and “Ain’t It Heavy,” for which she won a Grammy® in 1992. Etheridge hit her commercial and artistic stride with her fourth album, Yes I Am (1993). The collection featured the massive hits, “I’m the Only One” and “Come to My Window,” a searing song of longing that brought Etheridge her second Grammy® Award for Best Female Rock Performance. In 1995, Etheridge issued her highest charting album, Your Little Secret, which was distinguished by the hit single, “I Want to Come Over.” Her astounding success that year led to Etheridge receiving the Songwriter of the Year honor at the ASCAP Pop Awards in 1996. Etheridge has toured with her band extensively this year including co-headlining bills with Indigo Girls and Jewel.
AMOS LEE
With a laid-backed style, dusty, evocative voice and acoustic Americana sound, Philadelphia-native Amos Lee straddles a range of genres in his quest to connect honestly and emotionally with his audience. Along with his acclaimed albums such as Mission Bell and Mountains of Sorrow, Rivers of Song, and his gold-selling debut album, Amos Lee, the artist is well known for his association with a long list of collaborators and touring partners, from Paul Simon to Zac Brown Band. “My favorite time in music is probably 1970-75. Still Bill by Bill Withers, Harvest by Neil Young, John Prine’s first album, James Taylor’s One Man Dog—I hope I can bring the same sort of spirit I hear on those records,” he says. From old-timey to reverential, soul to Appalachian, funk and jazz, Lee’s sharp ear and soulful approach to songwriting has resulted in a rich catalog beloved by his growing audience. “Sweet Pea,” “Windows Are Rolled Down,” and “Colors” are a few jumping off points for an artist who is well worth the deep dive. On his eleventh studio album, Transmissions, singer-songwriter Lee continues to expand his sonic range while sharpening his closely observed lyrics that squarely address death, aging, and love.
THE JAYHAWKS
The incredible harmonies and distinctive arrangements of The Jayhawks set them apart from the rest of the Minneapolis music scene that emerged in the 1980s. Over the course of almost 4 decades, 11 albums, and countless memorable live shows, this beloved band soared to heights few ever achieve while winning the hearts and minds of numerous critics, fans and peers in the process.The Jayhawks became a driving force and inspiration behind the growing Americana movement in the early 1990s. They released their major label debut, Hollywood Town Hall (1992) on the Def American label. This was followed by Tomorrow the Green Grass (1995), which produced the radio hit single “Blue.” Gary Louris became the principal songwriter in The Jayhawks creating the band’s enduring sound on their well-received albums Sound of Lies (1997), Smile (2000) and Rainy Day Music (2003). Louris continues to write and tour with the longtime core group of Marc Perlman, Karen Grotberg, and Tim O’Reagan. Paging Mr. Proust (2016), was produced in Portland with Peter Buck and Tucker Martine. Back Roads And Abandoned Motels (2018), features Jayhawks versions of songs Gary Louris had previously written with other artists. XOXO (2020) features songwriting and lead vocal contributions from all 4 core members.
THE DEVON ALLMAN PROJECT
Devon Allman has blues-rock in his DNA. That distinctive sound has been shaping his music since he first started playing guitar, all the way to his recent albums with the Allman Betts Band. But for his first solo album in eight years, Allman freed himself of any genre expectations, picked up a bass guitar, and wrote a series of so ngs informed by R&B, funk, and alt-rock. “Previously on my records, I was carving out something that I felt needed to fit into contemporary blues or straight-ahead rock & roll,” Allman says. “That wasn’t on my mind this time. Instead, the goal was to write music that moves me.” The result is Miami Moon, an undeniably feel-good album . Recorded at Criteria Recording Studios in Miami, the legendary outpost where Allman’s father, Gregg, and the Allman Brothers Band cut LPs like 1972’s Eat a Peach, the album has shades of Curtis Mayfield, Sade, and even The Cure. Devon will be joined on stage by several guest artists throughout his set that will include both his original songs and a number of brilliant Allman Brothers classic recordings played in tribute to one of the greatest southern bands of all time.
Ocean Reef is proud to be an Official Lodging Partner of the 2025 30A Songwriters Festival. Explore our extensive collection of beachfront homes, Gulf-view escapes, and cozy condos—perfect for creating your own harmony along the Emerald Coast.
• Seacrest Beach : 9961 Scenic Highway 30A
• Grayton Beach: 15 Pine Street
• Miramar Beach: 10221 Emerald Coast Parkway
ON THE MAIN STAGE
SECRET SISTERS
Since their 2010 self-titled debut, The Secret Sisters have brought their spellbinding harmonies to songs that untangle the thorniest aspects of life and love and womanhood. In the making of their new album, Mind, Man, Medicine, Alabama-bred siblings Laura Rogers and Lydia Slagle found their songwriting transformed by a newfound sense of self-reliance and equanimity, threading their lyrics with hard-won insight into the complexities of motherhood, commitment, compassion, and self-preservation in an endlessly chaotic world. Centered on a kaleidoscopic sound that boldly blurs the edges of country-folk, the duo’s fifth full-length ultimately confronts many of modern life’s harshest challenges while leading the listener toward a more openhearted state of mind.
MAGGIE ROSE
Hailed for her “multi-genre talents” by Billboard and deemed a “star” by Rolling Stone, acclaimed singer-songwriter Maggie Rose has released her ambitious new album No One Gets Out Alive. Hearkening back to early ‘70s Laurel Canyon, the music deals in both dark and uplifting themesdisillusionment in relationships, ageism, female empowerment and living in the moment, among them, with Maggie’s big, soulful voice taking center stage. Maggie successfully straddles the worlds of pop, rock, soul, Americana and folk, unencumbered by genre specifics. Recorded with a dream team including members of Jason Isbell’s 400 Unit, Alabama Shakes and Gregg Allman’s band, the record was produced by GRAMMY-Award winner Ben Tanner, mixed by Bobby Holland and arranged by conductor Don Hart (Phish, Lyle Lovett). A respected fixture of the Nashville community, Maggie has played the iconic Grand Ole Opry over 100 times and marquee festivals including Austin City Limits, Bonnaroo, and Newport Folk Fest. A true road warrior, she has shared the stage with the likes of Kelly Clarkson, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Heart, Joan Jett, Eric Church, Gov’t Mule, The Mavericks, Fitz & The Tantrums, St. Paul & The Broken Bones and The Revivalists among others.
WHERE SONGWRITERS BELONG
Scan for ASCAP’s 30A stage schedule
2025 SPONSORS
MANY THANKS TO OUR WONDERFUL PARTNERS!
2025 LODGING PARTNERS
GOOD LIFE WON’T WAIT
2025 VENUE GUIDE
SANDESTIN/MIRAMAR BEACH
1. HILTON SANDESTIN BEACH GOLF RESORT & SPA 4000 SANDESTIN BLVD. SOUTH SANDESTIN IN MIRAMAR BEACH
2. HOTEL EFFIE - THE LOBBY BAR 1 GRAND SANDESTIN BLVD. SANDESTIN IN MIRAMAR BEACH
3. HYATT PLACE SANDESTIN AT GRAND BOULEVARD - THE PLACERY 325 GRAND BLVD. MIRAMAR BEACH
4. GRAND BOULEVARD, NORTH PARK 585 GRAND BLVD. MIRAMAR BEACH
STAGE SPONSORED BY CENTENNIAL BANK & SILVER SANDS PREMIUM OUTLETS
VIP EXPERIENCE SPONSORED BY DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE
SANTA ROSA BEACH
5. DRIVE THE COAST 342 S. COUNTY HWY. 393 SANTA ROSA BEACH
STAGE SPONSORED BY WILLIAM BURNS MERRILL LYNCH WEALTH MANAGEMENT
BLUE MOUNTAIN BEACH
6. RED FISH TACO 2052 W. COUNTY HWY. 30A IN REDFISH VILLAGE BLUE MOUNTAIN BEACH
STAGE SPONSORED BY NATIONAL MUSIC PUBLISHERS’ ASSOCIATION “LATE CHECK-OUT PARTY” VENUE
ALL VENUES HAVE PAID BAR OPTIONS, AND MOST VENUES HAVE FOOD AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE.
BAY SIDE VENUES
7. NORTH BEACH SOCIAL 24200 US HWY. 331 SOUTH SANTA ROSA BEACH “LATE CHECK-OUT PARTY” VENUE
8. THE BAY 24215 US HWY. 331 SOUTH SANTA ROSA BEACH “LATE CHECK-OUT PARTY” VENUE
GRAYTON BEACH
9. RAW & JUICY AT HIBISCUS COFFEE & GUEST HOUSE 85 DEFUNIAK STREET GRAYTON BEACH
10. AJ’S GRAYTON BEACH (2 STAGES) 63 DEFUNIAK STREET GRAYTON BEACH
WATERCOLOR
11. BEACH HAPPY CAFE 4 WATERCOLOR BLVD. SOUTH WATERCOLOR
12. FISH OUT OF WATER (FISH) 34 GOLDENROD CIRCLE WATERCOLOR STAGE SPONSORED BY DRIFTWOOD WINE & SPIRITS
13. WATERCOLOR LAKEHOUSE 238 WATERCOLOR BLVD. WATERCOLOR STAGE SPONSORED BY ASCAP
VENUES ARE LISTED FROM WEST TO EAST IN WALTON COUNTY. The Venue Map is located on pages 22 & 23. music
2025 VENUE GUIDE
SEASIDE®
14. BUD & ALLEY’S
2236 E. COUNTY HWY. 30A SEASIDE
STAGE SPONSORED BY FISHER’S FLOWERS
15. PICKLE’S 2236 E. COUNTY HWY. 30A SEASIDE
16. SEASIDE® LYCEUM 42 SMOLIAN CIRCLE SEASIDE
STAGE SPONSORED BY SEASIDE®
17. THE REP THEATRE 216 QUINCY CIRCLE SEASIDE
STAGE SPONSORED BY SEASIDE®
18. CENTRAL SQUARE RECORDS 89 CENTRAL SQUARE SEASIDE
SEAGROVE
19. CORCORAN REVERIE 4042 E. COUNTY HWY. 30A SEAGROVE
20. OLD FLORIDA FISH HOUSE MAIN STAGE (2 STAGES) 5235 E. COUNTY HWY. 30A SEAGROVE
WATERSOUND BEACH AREA
21. THE BIG CHILL (FORMERLY THE HUB) 6910 E. COUNTY HWY. 30A WATERSOUND “LATE CHECK-OUT PARTY” VENUE
22. CAMP CREEK INN 684 FAZIO DRIVE OFF S. WATERSOUND PKWY
WATERSOUND NORTH AREA OFF HWY. 98
23. GRAYTON BEER TAPROOM 217 SERENOA ROAD SOUTH WALTON COMMERCE PARK FRIDAY NIGHT SPECIAL EVENT ONLY
ALYS BEACH
24. RAW & JUICY
147 W. LA GARZA LANE ALYS BEACH
25. FONVILLE PRESS
23 SOMERSET STREET ALYS BEACH STAGE SPONSORED BY CAPITAL CITY BANK
26. CALIZA 23 NONESUCH WAY ALYS BEACH STAGE SPONSORED BY NORTHWEST FLORIDA BEACHES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
SEACREST
27. LACO 10343 E. COUNTY HWY. 30A SEACREST
ROSEMARY BEACH
28. ROSEMARY BEACH TOWN HALL 62 - 98 S. BARRETT SQUARE ROSEMARY BEACH STAGE SPONSORED BY ROSEMARY BEACH REALTY, SMITH & SOUTHERN COLLECTIVE
29. HAVANA BEACH BAR & GRILL AT THE PEARL 63 MAIN STREET ROSEMARY BEACH
30A SONGWRITERS SUPPER CLUB VENUE
FESTIVAL MERCH STORE LOCATED AT HEADQUARTERS (WED - FRI) AND MAIN STAGE VENUE (SAT & SUN)
Relax and Refresh at Residence Inn Sandestin at Grand Boulevard
The Residence Inn Sandestin at Grand Boulevard is South Walton’s premier pet-friendly extended stay hotel. Every room is a suite, featuring fully-equipped kitchens and free Wi-Fi. Be sure to try the free daily hot breakfast which rotates a wide selection of healthy choices.
300 Grand Boulevard, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 850.650.7811 | residenceinnsandestin.com residence inn by marriott sandestin at grand boulevard
PROUD SPONSORS OF 30A SONGWRITERS FEST
THE SORTING TABLE
The Sorting Table searches for exemplary wine growers from across the globe, who farm their vineyards using sustainable, organic or biodynamic practices.
ARTIST SERIES LIMITED EDITION POSTER
Created by Matthew Pfahlert of Silent P
WHAT’S YOUR ART STORY?
At the CAA we believe that everyone is inherently creative. We asked 30A Songwriters Festival Co-Producer, Russell Carter, to share his introduction to the Arts.
I was born in Greenwich Conn forty minutes outside of Manhattan on Long Island Sound. At a very young age, I gravitated to listening to music and was fortunate to have NYC radio stations to listen to on my tiny transitor radio with a single mono earplug (flowers had buds, radios had plugs). Kids today are attached to their smart phones. I was attached to my portable radio. I couldn’t text anyone, or post on social media, play games or watch movies. But that was a good thing. My focus was singular - I wanted to hear new music with no distractions. I absorbed the Beach Boys, the Four Seasons, Chuck Berry, early motown and southern soul and my share of lame pop hits (Bobby Rydell, Dion, etc). To me, all had value. I didn’t have the vocabulary but I learned viscerally what made songs exciting to me - certain intros, harmonies, double tracked vocals, big choruses, electric guitar solos, sudden endings, songs that faded. I had a portable record player and my older sisters’ 45s and I wore them out. I remember putting the needle down on the Chiffons He’s So Fine intro and playing it over and over and over absorbing the impact of the vocals and drum beat. It was incredible music.
My routine was disrupted by two incidents in 1964. The Beatles flew from England to the newly renamed Kennedy Airport to appear three times on the Ed Sullivan show in February (which was the cultural watershed that ushered in the British Invasion). I was mesmerized watching the perfomances. I took my turntable, a 45 of She Loves You and Life Magazine into my 5th grade class when it was my turn to present a “Current Event” and sold everyone on Meet the Beatles, the first US album release.
The second shocking occurance was my parents announced we were moving to Atlanta that summer. My reaction was, you are kidding me, right? My shellshocked brother and sisters piled into our station wagon and we drove South. My mother, sensing we were very distraught, made a move that changed my life and set me on my course to learn guitar, form a band in the 7th grade (RC & the Colas) become music editor of my high school and college newspapers and ultimately practice entertainment law, form an artist management company and promote music festivals. She bought us tickets to see the Beatles live at Atlanta stadium. I was profoundly thrilled at what I saw and heard and walked away determined to do THAT - whatever that meant. I wanted in somehow, somewhere. My course was set. Yeah! Yeah! Yeah!
Russell Carter 30A Songwriters Festival Co-Producer
MIXTAPE DELIVERY: STREAM THE 2025 LINEUP PLAYLIST
The 16th Annual 30A Songwriters Festival brings some of the finest songwriters and biggest hitmakers of the last 50 years together for a one-of-a-kind musical experience.
Discovery is what this festival is all about. We’ve put together a special sampler playlist featuring some of the most celebrated hooks, lines, and singers from our 2025 lineup plus a few lesser known gems that will surely resonate.
Many of these songs have topped the charts and ruled the airwaves—all of them continue to endure and delight listeners, new and old, across the globe. Crank up the volume and stream your way toward the weekend with the 30A Songwriters Class of 2025!
30A SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL.
WHAT’S
YOUR ART STORY?
At the CAA we believe that everyone is inherently creative. We asked 30A Songwriters Festival Performer, Abe Partridge, to share his introduction to the Arts.
I never had an art class or a songwriting class in my whole life.
I left home when I was 18 to get a theological education. I attended 4 bible colleges in 4 years. I got married the day after I graduated. I worked minimum-wage labor jobs and preached on Sundays for 5 years. Then I took a pastorate of an independent fundamental Baptist church in the mountains of East Kentucky. A couple years into that, I began to lose my religion. It was not something I could verbalize. When you’re an independent fundamental Baptist preacher, you don’t keep too much company outside your independent fundamental Baptist community. For me to talk through what I was experiencing at that time would have been “career” suicide.
So devoid of any method of true self-expression, I turned to art. I found painting and songwriting at the darkest time of my life. I began to pour into canvas and song what I wanted to scream from the pulpit, but could not. It became the way I dealt with myself. Art helped me rediscover a part of myself I had tried to extinguish while bound by fundamentalism. Art freed me.
I left the church and joined the military as an attempt to provide a living for my family. Several years later, I was deployed to participate in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. War changed me. When I returned home, I had a new set of priorities. I had been doing my art privately. It had been a sacred thing to me, only for myself. But after returning from the desert, I began to do art publicly.
It changed my life.
Art has been my method of survival.
Abe Partridge
30A Songwriters Festival Performer
THANK YOU FROM THE CULTURAL ARTS ALLIANCE OF WALTON COUNTY
Thank you to the 30A Songwriters Festival partners, ticket buyers, volunteers and musicians for their support of the CAA’s mission to advance the Arts in Walton County.
The 30A Songwriters Festival is the major fundraiser for the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) that champions the arts through leadership, advocacy, funding, programs and education. The Festival’s success is critical to the success of the CAA, and your support helps us provide an abundance of programs, services and support to the community! join the caa today to lock-in your discounted 30a songwriters festival tickets for 2026!
BOARD MEMBERS
Alexis Miller, Chair
Allison Wickey, Vice-Chair
Kevin Dooney, Secretary
Tom Watson, Treasurer
Chloe Berkowitz
Kevin Boyle
Angela Fiorita-Day
Karah Fridley-Young
Jerry Heffel
Mike Kerrigan
Diana Lane
Jessica Porter
JoAnn Ribaudo
Jennifer Smith
Stephen Stabler
Shawn Tomasello
Kara Wootson
Scan To Join The CAA
CAA Staff at 2024 Winter Social, photo by Spring Run Media
You can have it all.
Vacasa is a proud sponsor of the Songwriter Festival. Our professional, full-service vacation home management makes the vacation rental experience easy and rewarding from end to end. Whether you’re looking for a beautiful place to make vacation memories, or a solution to simplify renting out your home, our local team in 30A is here for you.
Discover what Vacasa can do for you Call: 850-680-0620 Vacasa.com/30a
A NEW SEGMENT OF EMPOWERED WITH MEG RYAN HIGHLIGHTS THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF ART.
The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) is excited to announce their upcoming feature on ‘Empowered with Meg Ryan,’ a nationally televised program that highlights inspiring stories of community transformation. The segment, filmed on November 19, will be distributed to stations nationwide will be distributed to stations nationwide, showcasing the CAA’s impactful initiatives and their dedication to fostering a vibrant arts scene in Walton County. It will discuss the imperative relationship between the organization and the community, and will discuss events and initiatives that are fostering growth and engagement.
“We are thrilled to be featured in an upcoming episode of Empowered with Meg Ryan, which highlights the importance of the CAA’s cross-sector partnerships and their impact on the community we serve,” said Jennifer Steele, President & CEO. “Our organization’s mission is to foster creativity through the inclusive and collaborative advancement of the arts, making them accessible, meaningful, and inspiring for everyone. This opportunity allows us to share our story with a national audience, showcase the creativity and passion that drive us, and invite new friends and supporters to join our mission.”
The CAA’s mission is to cultivate a supportive environment where the arts can thrive. They achieve this by providing essential funding, educational programs, and advocacy for local artists and arts organizations. Through their tireless efforts, the CAA has become a cornerstone of the Walton County community, enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike.
Empowered with Meg Ryan’s segment on the CAA promises to be a heartwarming and inspiring look at the transformative power of art. Viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the CAA’s vital role in nurturing creativity, self-expression, and cultural appreciation in Walton County.
About Empowered with Meg Ryan
Empowered is an award-winning educational program hosted by actress Meg Ryan. The program tackles critical social issues using powerful storytelling to inform and inspire viewers. Each segment unveils the soul of a cause, delving into the stories of the people who are making a difference.
Do your part to support safety and beautification initiatives in Walton County. 30A/Scenic Walton license plate registration fees will go to Scenic Walton to help keep Walton Safe & Beautiful.
SUPPORTING WALTON COUNTY’S CREATIVE COMMUNITY
The CAA provides funding and grants, organizes art workshops and classes, and provides exposure to the Arts to local schoolchildren. Through the success of its events, the CAA funds arts education initiatives through its Art for All program, providing grants and scholarships that impact thousands of Pre-K to 12th grade students annually.
ART FOR ALL FUNDING
Funding is available for artists, arts organizations, teachers, and students through the CAA’s Art For All Program. Applying is easy, and awards are distributed throughout the year. CAA has granted half a million dollars back out into the community over 30 years!
WORKSHOPS
The CAA offers over 250 affordable art classes each year for artists of all ages and skill levels. From after-school and summer programs for kids to Oil, Acrylic, Pottery, Fiber and Watercolor classes for adults, the CAA has a class for everyone.
CREATIVE KIDS CAMP
CAA instructors teach the campers how to work with a variety of mediums and use different techniques so each student goes home with adiverse portfolio of work. Daily and full week registration options are available.
PUBLIC SPACES ART IN
NEW DESIGNS REVEALED FOR 2025 UMA INSTALLATION
The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) and South Walton Artificial Reef Association (SWARA) are proud to reveal the six sculpture designs chosen by jury for permanent exhibition in the seventh installation of the Underwater Museum of Art (UMA).
The 2025 installation will include the following sculptures: Las Meninas by Antonio Azzato (Madrid, Spain), Seahorse by Jessica Bradsher (Greenville, NC), Concretion by William Braithwaite (United Kingdom), The Neptunian Oak by Nathan Hoffman (Highlandville, MO), Happy Hour by Sarah Wilkinson (United Kingdom), and Hometown by Mandy Yourk (Panama City, FL).
Named in 2018 by TIME Magazine as one of 100 “World’s Greatest Places,” and recipient of the 2023 CODAAward for Collaboration of the Year, the UMA is the cornerstone of the CAA’s Art In Public Spaces Program and augments SWARA’s mission of creating marine habitat and expanding fishery populations while providing enhanced creative, cultural, economic and educational opportunities for the benefit, education and enjoyment of residents, students and visitors in South Walton.
UMA sculptures are deployed with SWARA’s existing USACOA and FDEP permitted artificial reef projects that includes nine nearshore reefs located within one nautical mile of the shore in approximately 58 feet of water. The 2025 installation will join the 47 sculptures previously deployed on a one-acre permit patch of seabed off Grayton Beach State Park, further expanding the nation’s first permanent underwater museum.
Deployment of the 2025 UMA sculptures is slated for Summer. Visit UMAFL.org for more information on timeline and events surrounding the installation. Project and sculpture sponsorships are available. Please contact Gabby Callaway at gabby@culturalartsalliance.com for details.
Project and sculpture sponsorships are available. Please contact Gabby Callaway at gabby@culturalartsalliance.com.
Sea Horse by Jessica Bradsher Concretion by William Braithwaite
The Neptunian Oak by Nathan Hoffman Sponsored by Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
Happy Hour by Sarah Wilkinson Sponsored by Beachy Blooms Hometown by Mandy Yourick Sponsored by The Ellis Family
Las Meninas by Antonio Azzato Sponsored by Florida Cancer Specialist Foundation
TWO UNDERWATER MUSEUM OF ART REPLICA SCULPTURES INSTALLED AT U.S. HIGHWAY 98 PEDESTRIAN UNDERPASS
In addition to the 10 original murals created by local artists on the walls of Walton County’s first pedestrian underpass at U.S. Highway 98 in Inlet Beach, two UMA replica sculptures were installed on the north and south entrances in October 2024.
The Underwater Museum of Art (UMA) replica sculptures, include Common Chord from Vince Tatum sponsored by St. Joe Community Foundation and The Grayt Pineapple from Rachel Herring McCord sponsored by Rosemary Beach Realty. and The Grayt Pineapple from Rachel Herring McCord. Produced in partnership with the South Walton Artificial Reef Association, the UMA was the first Art in Public Spaces project for the CAA.
The 136-foot-long underpass frames the east end of Walton County at the high-traffic corner of Hwy. 98 and County Hwy. 30A, both designated scenic corridors.
Common Chord by Vince Tatum Sponsored by St. Joe Community Foundation
The Grayt Pineapple by Rachel Herring McCord Sponsored by Rosemary Beach Realty
Common Chord as seen in UMA
The Grayt Pineapple after 2018 UMA deployment
ART IN PUBLIC SPACES - PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
As the gateway to 30A and one of the oldest communities on its eastern end, Rosemary Beach is built on a foundation of thoughtful design and connection. Similarly, we are proud to support initiatives that transform functional spaces into extraordinary expressions of art and culture.
Our sponsorship of a sculpture at the new U.S. 98 Pedestrian Underpass reflects this commitment. This collaborative effort by the Florida Department of Transportation, Scenic Walton, and the Cultural Arts Alliance turned a vital safety feature into a vibrant showcase of local artistry. From murals to sculptures, the underpass highlights the incredible talent of our community’s muralists and sculptors.
As frequent visitors to the beloved businesses and restaurants on the north side of U.S. 98, our team understands the importance of safe and accessible connections. Supporting this project aligns with our dedication to enhancing the experience of locals and visitors alike.
Much like Rosemary Beach elevates the concept of planned communities into cultural and architectural masterpieces, we strive to champion creativity and innovation in our region. As proud sponsors of Cultural Arts Alliance initiatives like the 30A Songwriters Festival, we are honored to continue celebrating the arts through this impactful project.
SPLASH
a boutique hotel located in the heart of Rosemary Beach for reservations call (844)-865-5783 or visit www.therosemarybeachinn.com
@therosemarybeachinn
Rosemary Beach Realty, Amanda Hampel and The Grayt Pineapple Artist, Rachel Herring McCord
ART IN PUBLIC SPACES - PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Public art plays a significant role in enhancing community spaces, fostering cultural identity, and providing enjoyment for both residents and visitors. The partnership between the St. Joe Community Foundation, the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, and Scenic Walton highlights the importance of collaboration in promoting the arts.
The sculptures located at the underpass not only serve as a sense of arrival, but also signify the artistic spirit of South Walton. The St. Joe Community Foundation is delighted to support initiatives like these to celebrate creativity and contribute to the community’s artistic identity.
Common Chord Artist, Vince Tatum and St. Joe Community Foundation Executive Director, April Wilkes
Family
Corporate
BEYOND BARS:
A Songwriting Prison Art Program at Walton Correctional Institution
In August 2024, I spent two weeks witnessing the evolution of 14 songs from conception to performance. I was not in the presence of some prolific genius churning out the hits in a short amount of time. No, I was in the chapel of Walton Correctional Institution in north Florida. I was experiencing the wonder and inspiration of 14 inmates taking a class designed to expose them to art expression so they might find healing and a way to express themselves. The healing took hold alright . . . deep inside my own heart. The judgments and fear that comes with sitting with someone who has committed an unspeakable act can be hard to manage in such confined spaces with many rules and a lot of side-eyes. I’ll admit to being on edge working closely with the inmates, but then the songs started to form.
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Caitlin Cannon, Phoebe Hunt, Dave and Anna Borné, Jessica Sharman, and Wyatt Espalin perform at the Beyond Bars Concert. Photos provided by Walton Correctional Institute.
Pictured: Wyatt Espalin
The backstories filled with horror, abuse, abandonment, regret and repentance began to shed light on a humanity that was often hidden behind those bars. My fear and judgement quickly subsided, though. The songs crafted by these gentlemen as they prepared to perform them took me on an amazing journey of forgiveness and acceptance of self. The power of the songs shared a glimpse of their pain, shame and hope. At the final concert with prison staff and other inmates cheering and encouraging each performance, the inmates confidently took the stage understanding the power in what they’d created. It’s been months now and I’m still singing those songs.
- WYATT ESPALIN
Learn more about the Prison Art Program at CulturalArtsAlliance.com/prison-art-program
Pictured: Jessica Sharman with WCI residents
Pictured: Dave and Anna Borné and Jessica Sharman
APRIL 10 - JUNE 12
THURSDAY CONCERTS
MKAF MEMBERS
Member Benefits
Receive one season pass to Concerts in the Village. Enjoy early admission access to Concerts in the Village.
Receive discounts on Festival of the Arts merchandise.
Receive membership rates on select MKAF events.
BECOME A MEMBER - JOIN TODAY!
Annual MKAF Memberships from just $75* per person.
*Art Nouveau (40 and under)
Memberships are valid for one year from date you join!
WHAT’S YOUR ART STORY?
At the CAA we believe that everyone is inherently creative. We asked CAA Board Member, Stephen Stabler, to share his introduction to the Arts.
Like most others, my introduction to art started at a young age from the school days when creativity knew no boundaries. Looking back at those early days, I believe art is an important part of one’s development in that it sets a foundation for free-thinking ideas to become a reality whether it be through visual creations or musical expression. While I have spent many days at various festivals across the region, it wasn’t until a later point in my life I began to take a deeper interest in the arts primarily through exposure to different southern folk artists and their creations. While I don’t have the talent from a creationary standpoint for some of the works I have come to admire, I now have a much deeper appreciation of those who can translate ideas into the various artistic forms.
We are very fortunate to be in an area that is rich in the Arts. One doesn’t have to look far to see a visual creation, whether it be in the form of mixed media, two-dimensional, clay, photography,
metal, jewelry, fiber, glass, and the list goes on. Additionally, on any given day, there are other artistic creations being played out on various instruments with accompanying vocals and various venues across the area. It doesn’t take long to see that the Arts are a central part of this area and one of the contributing factors to its success on a local, regional, and national level.
While new to the board of the Cultural Arts Alliance, I am hoping to expand my “Art Story” both through my support of their different events along with the various artists that are showcased throughout the year. The CAA plays an important role in Walton County by not only promoting the Arts across all spectrums and age groups, but also providing an outlet for new artists to develop and existing artists to expand their reach. I would encourage others to become involved whether by attending an event, supporting an artist, or being an advocate for the arts—it will only broaden your horizon and help ensure we continue as a thriving community.
Stephen Stabler
Walton County President, Capital City Bank & CAA Board Member
laco30a.com
WHAT’S YOUR ART STORY?
At the CAA we believe that everyone is inherently creative. We asked CAA Board Member, Diana Lane, to share her introduction to the Arts.
My art story begins with my mom and dad, who taught me to see, hear, feel, and appreciate the scents of beauty that they found mostly in the landscape around us. Growing up on the Indian River in Central Florida, driving routes were decided by whether the Royal Poincianas were blooming on the south end or orange blossoms to the west. And so, this leads a journey that dabbles in creating – mostly during childhood, though I will still grab a paintbrush from time-to-time – and meanders through the joy and connection found in experiencing the creativity of others: live music and theater, museums and galleries, architecture and public art installations, literature and cuisine, and all those things of creative beauty.
Fostering the arts, providing platforms for the artist and the audience, generating energy around those cultural experiences that enrich our lives with the texture and vibrance of creative exchange, developing the language of artistic expression in children and encouraging it in adults – this collective mission of the Cultural Arts Alliance is so compelling, and one that I’m both honored and excited to be involved with. I am grateful to live in a place where the landscape continues to inspire without bounds, and where the works of artists of all mediums are valued and accessible. And now more than ever, we are all needed to rally behind the arts, supporting the roles that arts and artists play in coloring, enlivening the culture we enjoy here along our coast.
Diana Lane
Director of Public Relations, Alys Beach & CAA Board Member
William L. Burns, IV
Assistant Vice President
Senior Financial Advisor Senior Portfolio Advisor 850.269.7015 wburns2@ml.com
Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 34990 Emerald Coast Parkway Destin, FL 32541 https://advisor.ml.com/sites/fl/destin-fl/wburns2
November 10, 2024 | Watersound® Town Center
The Flutterby Festival, produced by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, celebrates the migration of the Monarch Butterfly through our area with art activities, live music performances, student art exhibits, professional artist market, a butterfly parade and more! This year’s free familyfun event was hosted by The Watersound® Town Center with support from the St. Joe Community Foundation, Visit South Walton, Watersound Fountains, Capital City Bank, Attycat’s Arcade,
Legacy Dental Studio and Odd Pelican Beer Company.
Event proceeds benefit the CAA’s Art for All program which provides support to Walton County schools, teachers, students, artists and arts organizations to further arts education in the community.
December 5, 2024 | Watersound Village Market Cafe
The Winter Social presented by William Burns Merrill Lynch Wealth Management at Watersound Village Market Cafe was an artful holiday celebration for CAA members, artists and arts enthusiasts. Party goers enjoyed live music from the Will Thompson Band as we recognized the Volunteers of the Year, Arts Educator of the Year and the Arts Partner of the Year.
Photos by Lynn Crow Photography
FESTIVAL PERSONNEL
Our team is a mix of over 500 volunteers and staff who work to make sure you have the best possible Festival weekend filled with music and fun!
JENNIFER STEELE, Producer | RUSSELL CARTER, Producer
ALLIE ANDERSON, CAA Director of Events
BROOKLYN BAIN, Festival Bar Operations Coordinator
ROBIN BEANS, Artist Check-In Coordinator
MAKAYLA BOLING, Venue Coordinator
KEVIN BOYLE, Main Stage and Seaside® Lyceum Emcee
GABBY CALLAWAY, CAA Director of Advancement
ANGIE CARLSON, Publicist
ADRIAN CARTER, Artist Relations & Administration
COOPER CARTER, Video Production
EVAN CARTER, Director of Photography
LISA CARTER, Venue Coordinator
LYNN CROW, Staff Photographer
CATIE FEENEY, Emergency Management
ELISE GILBERT, CAA Program & Volunteer Manager
LEE GREENE, CAA Director of Administration & Box Office Manager
LINDA GUDNASON, Production Coordinator
KAELA HARGIS, Housing Coordinator
BETH & SWAMPY HAWKINS, Green Room Coordinators
ROBIN JEFFREY, Volunteer Manager
MIKE JONES, Main Stage Bar Manager
BETH LEON, Main Stage Hospitality Coordinator
MARY GRACE LIBBY, Artist Relations & Administration
VERN P. LOVE, Merchandise Sales Manager
CATHY LYONS, Production Director
COURTNEY MALONE, CAA Director of Programs & Creative Placemaking / Festival Creative
PARKER MALONE, CAA Events & Operations Coordinator
ZOE MATHEWS, Main Stage VIP Coordinator
ALEXIS MILLER, VIP Transportation Coordinator
AMY PARKER, HQ/Production Hospitality Coordinator
AMANDA PARTIN, Transportation Assistant
JENNIFER PETERSEN, Assistant to the Producers
JESSICA ROBERTS, Main Stage Production Manager
JOHN ROSENBERG, Production and Crew Manager
KATIE RUDD, Main Stage Volunteer Coordinator
PAM SINGH, CAA Program Manager for Visual Art
BRAD STEELE , CAA Maintenance Manager & Ground Transportation Coordinator
JOY STEELE, Housing Director
MICHELLE TOUCHSTONE, CAA Director of Finance & Operations
SUZANNE WATSON, Merchandise Creative Coordinator
MELISSA WHEELER, CAA Vice President Marketing & Strategy
JAMEY WHITEHEAD, Main Stage Production Assistant
KATIE WITHERSPOON, CAA Development & Program Manager
PRODUCTION & STAGING: Custom Audio & Lighting, HMX Productions, RCS Productions, Shofar Productions, Mike Whitty
2025 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
These events are presented as part of the Coastal Culture Calendar of Events made possible by the Grand Boulevard Arts & Entertainment Program. For a full listing of events and additional details, please scan the QR code or visit GRANDBOULEVARD.COM/EVENTS
