The local desk · Okaloosa County

Everything happening on the Emerald Coast, in one place.

We read the county, the cities and the outlets that cover them, then brief it in our own words with a link to everyone who reported it. Updated every hour.

Latest story

Niceville boys soccer starts 5-0 after regional heartbreak

The Niceville Eagles have won their first five matches this season, including an 8-1 victory over Mosley and a 1-0 shutout of Fort Walton Beach, bouncing back from last year's regional quarterfinal shootout loss to South Lake. Senior Kaileb Wedderburn and returner Jackson Fischer each lead the team with five goals, while goalkeeper Lucas Alba has recorded two clean sheets through four games.

1 source

Destin-Area Restaurants Open Doors on Thanksgiving

More than a dozen restaurants across Okaloosa County will operate on Thanksgiving Day, offering traditional holiday buffets and plated dinners alongside regular menus. Prices range from free at Harbor Docks to over $100 at some resorts, with most establishments requiring advance reservations.

1 source

Direct from the source

Mary Esther Plans Veterans Day Parade and Celebration

Mary Esther will hold its 27th Annual Veterans Day Parade and Celebration on November 11, running from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event features food trucks, children's activities, live entertainment, and a parade beginning at 1 p.m.

1 source

Panama City Beach Restaurant Gives $30,000 to Marine Institute

Sharky's donated $30,000 to the Florida Panhandle Marine Institute on Tuesday through its Bay Helping Bay program, supporting the rehabilitation facility's effort to build a new operations center. The restaurant has now raised $36,800 for the institute through donations and profit-sharing events.

1 source

Coming up

All events
Today, 4:00 PMPerformance or show

Duchess Live at 3rd Planet Brewing - Veterans Day

Come on out and celebrate our veterans with us on this rare mid-week show!! We 1000% support our military and veterans and we can't wait to rock out at one of our favorite breweri

1400 E John Sims Parkway, Niceville

Thursday, November 12, 4:15 PMFestival

An American Girl and Me High Tea - All About Cecile & Marie

An American Girl and Me High Tea - All About Cecile & Marie will be held on November 12th, 2026 from 4:15 pm - 5:15 pm for children ages 7 -12 years . At An American Girl and Me High Tea, children are invited to come and learn about a different American Girl each month along with the time in history that she lived.

Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative

Niceville Library (Children's Program Room), 206 N Partin Dr, Niceville

Saturday, November 14, 7:00 AMFestival

Take A Kid Fishing Day

KIDS 12 and under fish free First 100 kids get a free rod to take home Equipment will be available for kids to use

Okaloosa Island Pier, 1030 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach