School is back in session across Walton County, but for a growing number of families, the first week of classes looks different. Instead of yellow buses and traditional classrooms, students are starting their year in barns, gardens, charter campuses, or small, independent schools. Homeschooling, micro-schools, and charter programs are reshaping what “back to school” means in the community.
For decades, the pulse of Walton County has beat strongest near its sugar-white southern beaches. But a new crescendo is rising north of the bay: in Freeport and DeFuniak Springs, years of quiet are giving way to a booming rhythm of growth. These towns are evolving beyond scenic drive-throughs—they’re emerging as vibrant hubs of commerce and community.
Alice in Wonderland Jr.- This fall, Wonderland is coming to Emerald Coast Theatre Company. Our students will tell the classic story of Alice’s trip down the rabbit hole through singing, dancing, and artistic expression. We have multiple age groups producing this show from grades K-12. Join us at ECTC on Grand Blvd or our satellite locations in DeFuniak Springs and Freeport. No matter the age, this production offers much to teach about theatrical performance, and the large ensemble cast allows every student the opportunity to shine!
Whether it’s southern classics, fresh-caught seafood or favorites from around the world, Authentic Walton’s culinary scene satisfies any craving.
Here’s a bold idea: what if fear wasn’t the signal to scale back, but a cue to reassess and reinvest—with clarity?
Experienced strategists—those who understand the intersection of purpose and profitability—aren’t just line items in your budget. They are the ones who can spot blind spots, identify untapped revenue potential, and help articulate your value in a way that resonates in any economic cycle.
A new wave of creativity is coming to Freeport, anchored in both history and imagination. The Anchored in Freeport Art in Public Spaces Project is a collaborative initiative between the City of Freeport and the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA). Rooted in the city’s legacy as a historic port town, the project will feature a series of 4.5-foot concrete anchors, each uniquely transformed by local artists and displayed throughout the city.
