South Walton, Florida, offers an incredible mix of performing and visual arts venues, set against a stunning coastal backdrop. Whether you're into live theater, hands-on art workshops, or music festivals, there’s something for everyone.
Key Highlights:
- Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC): Known for professional plays, musicals, and educational programs for all ages. Located in Grand Boulevard, Miramar Beach.
- Bayou Arts Center: A peaceful venue for painting, pottery, and fiber arts workshops, nestled along Hogtown Bayou in Santa Rosa Beach.
- Signature Events: Don’t miss the 30A Songwriters Festival (Jan 15–19, 2026) or the ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival in May.
Quick Overview:
- ECTC: Focuses on theater productions and youth/educational programs.
- Bayou Arts Center: Offers art workshops and serves as the home base for the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County.
Keep reading to learn about each venue's offerings, upcoming events, and tips for planning your visit.
Emerald Coast Theatre Company
Location and Overview
The Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) is nestled on the second floor at 560 Grand Boulevard, Suite 200, Miramar Beach, FL 32550, right in the heart of the bustling Grand Boulevard town center. Visitors will find an elevator on the south side of the building, conveniently facing Highway 98, ensuring easy access for everyone.
ECTC was founded in October 2012 by Nathanael and Anna Fisher. Initially a traveling theater company, it found its permanent home at Grand Boulevard in 2016. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, ECTC has seen remarkable growth, expanding from just 10 students in 2013 to serving over 470 participants annually by 2024. The theater is a proud member of both the Theater Communications Group and the Southeastern Theatre Conference, underscoring its dedication to professional excellence.
With its central location, ECTC offers a dynamic mix of professional productions and enriching educational opportunities, making it a cornerstone of the local arts scene.
Programs and Performances
ECTC’s professional main stage season runs from late September to mid-May, showcasing around seven professional productions and two Theatre for Young Audiences performances each year. For instance, starting January 15, 2026, the theater will stage Murder on the Orient Express, with multiple showings through early February. The 2025-2026 season is supported by the St. Joe Community Foundation and the South Walton Tourist Development Council.
The educational programs are just as vibrant. ECTC offers a variety of tracks tailored to different age groups:
- Mini Players: Ages 5–1st grade
- Little Players: 2nd–3rd grade
- Big Players: 4th–5th grade
- Teen Company: For middle and high schoolers
- Senior Drama Club: For participants aged 55 and up
In fall 2025, under the guidance of Director of Education Heath Carroll, students from grades K–12 brought Alice in Wonderland Jr. to life. Alongside this production, ECTC introduced unique classes like "Sew Magical!" (focused on sewing and costume design) and "Aesthetic Adventures" (exploring art and design) for ages 9–18. Reflecting on the season, Heath Carroll shared:
"We have the favorites, plus new classes, and a show everyone loves – Alice in Wonderland! So, follow the rabbit hole straight down to registration!"
ECTC also operates satellite locations in DeFuniak Springs and Freeport, offering after-school, weekend, summer, and home-school programs. Additionally, special events and exhibits weave the theater’s offerings into the broader community fabric.
Visitor Information
The box office operates Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and opens an hour before performances. Tickets can be purchased online at emeraldcoasttheatre.org, by phone at 850-684-0323, or in person. Discounts are available for seniors, military members, and children. For general questions, email info@emeraldcoasttheatre.org, or for ticket-related inquiries, contact boxoffice@emeraldcoasttheatre.org.
Educational programs require a $30 non-refundable registration fee, with payment plans and scholarships available to ensure accessibility for all. Frequent theatergoers can opt for VIP Memberships (ranging from $600 to $800), which include season tickets and reserved seating. Since the theater is located on the second floor, visitors needing assistance with accessibility or elevator use should contact the box office directly.
These offerings highlight ECTC’s role as a vibrant hub for performing arts and education in South Walton.
Bayou Arts Center
Location and Purpose
Tucked away at 105 Hogtown Bayou Lane, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459, just off North County Road 393, the Bayou Arts Center is a tranquil space where art and nature come together. As SoWal Staff describes it:
"Nestled among the long leaf pines on historic Hogtown Bayou off North County Road 393, the Bayou Arts Center is a hidden gem and a peaceful destination for art, culture, heritage and nature."
The center serves as the home base for the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA), a non-profit organization established in 1993. For over three decades, the CAA has supported the arts through leadership, advocacy, funding, and education. The center itself houses administrative offices, studio spaces, a pottery shed, and a chapel featuring murals by local artist Chick Huettel. It also serves as a venue for community meetings and intimate private events like reunions.
Workshops and Exhibits
At the Bayou Arts Center, you’ll find a variety of visual arts classes for adults, including oil and acrylic painting, pottery, fiber arts, and watercolor. For younger artists, summer art programs provide creative opportunities. The center also hosts rotating art exhibitions, including the Foster Gallery Outreach Exhibition, giving local and regional artists a platform to display their talent.
The CAA goes beyond workshops and exhibits, organizing signature events throughout the year. Highlights include the 30A Songwriters Festival in January, the Valentine Tour of Homes in February, the ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival in May, and the Flutterby Children's Art Festival in November. May is particularly vibrant with Art Month South Walton, a community-wide celebration of creativity. Through its "Art for All" program, the CAA supports students, teachers, and artists with grants and has commissioned 63 public art sculptures, including 53 displayed in the Underwater Museum of Art.
Visitor Tips
If it’s your first visit, use GPS to find Hogtown Bayou Lane off Highway 393. Spring and Fall are ideal times to visit for comfortable weather, or plan a trip in May to experience the excitement of Art Month. Check the Cultural Arts Alliance website (culturalartsalliance.com) to view the workshop schedule and register for classes in advance. Don’t miss the chance to admire Chick Huettel’s murals in the chapel during your visit.
The center is committed to inclusivity, with an Accessibility Committee ensuring all programs meet ADA standards. Membership with the CAA starts at $100 annually (about $8.33 per month). While you’re in the area, explore nearby attractions like coastal dune lakes, Eden Gardens State Park, or local craft breweries. For updates, follow the Cultural Arts Alliance on social media.
Upcoming Events and Seasonal Highlights
Major Events
South Walton is a hub for incredible festivals and performances throughout the year. One standout is the 30A Songwriters Festival, held annually over Martin Luther King Jr. weekend (January 15–19, 2026). This event has become the region's top music festival. As SoWal Staff explains:
"The 30A Songwriters Festival is a unique cultural event showcasing Walton County as a destination not only for its beautiful beaches but also for its creative excellence."
Proceeds from the festival benefit the Cultural Arts Alliance. Tickets come in various packages depending on the venue, so it’s best to buy early to secure your preferred seats.
May is all about Art Month Walton, a county-wide celebration featuring over 50 arts events. The centerpiece of the month is the ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival, which marked its 37th year in 2025 at the Grand Boulevard Town Center. This festival brings together more than 120 artists from across the nation, live music, and "ImagiNation", a creative space for kids to explore their artistic side. While admission is a suggested $5 donation per person, other May highlights include Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach (May 15–16, 2026) and the Dine + Dive fundraiser, with tickets priced at $100 in advance or $125 at the door.
In addition to these signature events, South Walton offers seasonal performances and special shows that keep the arts alive all year long.
Seasonal Offerings
Seasonal programming at local venues adds even more depth to South Walton’s arts scene. Venues like the Emerald Coast Theatre Company and the Bayou Arts Center are at the heart of these offerings.
The Emerald Coast Theatre Company's 2026 schedule includes shows like Forever Plaid (February 12 – March 1) and Mystic Pizza (April through May). Families will love the Professional Theater for Young Audiences series, which features performances such as Elephant & Piggie's 'We Are in a Play!' on March 28–29, 2026.
Summer heats up with the 30A Songwriters Festival Summer Series, offering free outdoor concerts at the Pavilion at Watersound Town Center from June through August. Meanwhile, the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation hosts its "Concerts in the Village" series on Thursday evenings starting in April, bringing top-notch musicians and bands to a family-friendly stage.
As the year winds down, November shines with the Flutterby Arts Festival, which celebrated its 33rd year in 2025. This family-friendly event features interactive art activities, live performances, and a butterfly parade honoring the Monarch migration.
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Ticketing, Accessibility, and Travel Tips
How to Buy Tickets
Getting tickets in South Walton is straightforward. For Emerald Coast Theatre Company performances, you have several options: purchase online at emeraldcoasttheatre.org, call the box office at 850-684-0323, or visit in person at 560 Grand Boulevard (upstairs). The box office is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and walk-up tickets are available starting one hour before showtime. However, walk-up availability depends on remaining seats, so booking online is the best way to secure your spot. Keep in mind, a processing fee applies to all tickets, and payment options include cash, checks (payable to Emerald Coast Theatre Company), and all major credit cards.
For festival tickets, the process varies. The 30A Songwriters Festival offers passes like weekend, single-day, and VIP options, all available through their website. This pass gives you access to over 30 venues. On the other hand, events like the Westonwood Ranch Pro Rodeo sell tickets only at the gate: $20 for adults, $15 for children aged 12 and under, and free entry for kids 2 and under.
Discounts are available for certain groups. Teachers and first responders can get $25 tickets for select shows by signing up for the ECTC newsletter. Seniors, military members, and children also qualify for discounted rates. As the theater notes:
"This is our way of saying thank you for all that you do."
For frequent theatergoers, VIP memberships are available at $600 or $800, depending on the tier, along with additional discounted ticket packages.
Getting Around South Walton
Once your tickets are sorted, getting to and around South Walton is a breeze. Emerald Coast Theatre Company is located on the second floor of Grand Boulevard at Sandestin in Miramar Beach. To find it, head south through the breezeway between Chubbies and Southern Tide stores, then turn right. If you're new to the area, the theater’s website features a helpful "How to Find ECTC" video. Parking at Grand Boulevard is plentiful, and there are plenty of nearby dining options.
South Walton’s neighborhoods are ideal for walking and biking, making it easy to pair a cultural outing with some beach time. For multi-venue events like the 30A Songwriters Festival, many locations along Scenic Highway 30A are easily accessible on foot or by bike. To stay organized, download the festival’s official app for schedules and venue details.
Accessibility Features
Emerald Coast Theatre Company ensures accessibility for all guests. The theater offers wheelchair-accessible seating and elevator access to its second-floor location. If you need wheelchair seating, let the box office know when purchasing tickets so they can arrange accommodations. For any additional accessibility needs, email boxoffice@emeraldcoasttheatre.org at least two weeks before the event.
While children under three aren’t permitted at professional productions, they are welcome at Theatre for Young Audience shows. If you have complimentary tickets, be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes early, as unclaimed seats may be released to others.
Comparison of South Walton's Performing Arts Centers
South Walton Performing Arts Centers Comparison Guide
Continuing our exploration of South Walton's thriving arts scene, let's take a closer look at two standout venues and what makes each one special. The Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) shines with its focus on live stage performances, including musicals, plays, and cabaret shows in a professional theater environment. On the other hand, the Bayou Arts Center caters to visual arts and hands-on creativity, offering workshops in pottery, painting, and fiber arts instead of traditional sit-and-watch performances.
Location-wise, ECTC is situated upstairs in the lively Grand Boulevard shopping center, creating a dynamic backdrop for theatergoers. Meanwhile, the Bayou Arts Center is nestled among serene longleaf pines along Hogtown Bayou, providing an ideal retreat for creative exploration.
For families, ECTC stands out with its robust Theatre for Young Audiences series, offering engaging programming for kids and parents alike. If you're a solo creative or part of a couple, the Bayou Arts Center offers interactive workshops that encourage participation. Artists and craft lovers will especially appreciate the Bayou Arts Center's specialized seminars and studio spaces, while theater enthusiasts will enjoy ECTC's seasonal lineup of professional productions.
Here's a quick comparison to help you decide which venue best matches your interests:
Comparison Table
| Venue | Location | Capacity/Facilities | Primary Focus | Contact Info | Signature Events |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emerald Coast Theatre Co. | 560 Grand Blvd, Miramar Beach | Theater seating (upstairs) | Theater performances | boxoffice@emeraldcoasttheatre.org | Seasonal productions |
| Bayou Arts Center | 105 Hogtown Bayou Ln, Santa Rosa Beach | Workshop spaces, pottery shed, chapel | Visual arts workshops & exhibits | info@culturalartsalliance.com | ArtsQuest, art exhibitions |
Both venues are committed to accessibility. ECTC is located upstairs but within the modern and accessible Grand Boulevard complex. The Bayou Arts Center, managed by the Cultural Arts Alliance, ensures inclusivity through its Accessibility Committee, making sure programs are welcoming to all visitors.
Conclusion
Whether you love the thrill of live performances or prefer the quiet joy of hands-on creativity, South Walton’s performing arts venues offer something for everyone. At the Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC), you’ll find Broadway-style musicals and classic plays staged at the Grand Boulevard town center. It’s the perfect spot to pair an evening of professional-grade entertainment with dinner or a bit of shopping. On the other hand, the Bayou Arts Center provides a serene escape among longleaf pines, where you can dive into pottery, watercolor, or fiber arts through interactive workshops.
These venues share a common goal: connecting the community through art and creativity.
"ECTC inspires, educates and empowers the community and artists of all ages to achieve the highest level of cultural excellence through collaboration, productions and educational programs." - Emerald Coast Theatre Company
ECTC’s Theatre for Young Audiences series introduces children to the magic of live theater, sparking creativity and wonder. Meanwhile, the Bayou Arts Center, managed by the Cultural Arts Alliance, welcomes artists of all levels into its workshops. For over 33 years, the Cultural Arts Alliance has been a driving force for the arts in Walton County.
FAQs
What educational programs does the Emerald Coast Theatre Company offer for kids and teens?
The Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) offers an exciting lineup of educational programs for kids and teens, all aimed at sparking creativity and honing stage skills. These programs are thoughtfully organized by age group, starting with Mini Players (ages 5 through 1st grade), Little Players (2nd and 3rd grade), and Big Players (4th and 5th grade), extending all the way to middle and high school students.
For those interested in performance, options like Acting for Musical Theatre (4th–12th grade) and Teen Technical Theatre (6th–12th grade) provide hands-on experiences. Seasonal productions, such as Alice in Wonderland Jr. (K–12), also give students a chance to shine on stage. Younger children can dive into First Steps Ballet/Tap (ages 5–7), while homeschool families have access to unique workshops like Sewing & Costuming Design and Acting & Improv, tailored to specific age groups. Each program is designed to be engaging, age-appropriate, and to ignite a passion for the performing arts.
How can I join an art workshop at the Bayou Arts Center?
To join an art workshop at the Bayou Arts Center, start by visiting the Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) events calendar. There, you’ll find the latest schedule featuring workshops like painting, pottery, and fiber arts. Once you spot a class that sparks your interest, follow the online registration steps outlined on the website. After registering, you’ll get a confirmation email with all the essential details.
If you have any questions or need help, feel free to contact the center by calling (850) 622-5970 or emailing the CAA during their office hours: Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. When the day of your workshop arrives, plan to get to the center in Santa Rosa Beach a few minutes early and bring any materials mentioned in your registration information. Don’t forget to follow the CAA on social media to stay in the loop about new classes or schedule changes.
What are the must-see events at South Walton's performing arts venues?
South Walton's performing arts scene shines through a series of standout events that draw crowds from all over the Gulf Coast. One of the most celebrated is the 30A Songwriters Festival, held every January during Martin Luther King Jr. weekend. This event brings together more than 175 talented songwriters who perform at various venues along Scenic Highway 30A, creating a weekend filled with incredible music.
In the spring, the Northwest Florida Theatre Festival takes center stage. Organized by the Emerald Coast Theatre Company, this festival offers an engaging mix of plays, interactive workshops, and community performances, all of which highlight the creative energy of the region.
May ushers in Art Month Walton County, a month-long celebration of the arts. This event features live theater, concerts, and art exhibitions at local theaters and outdoor venues. From captivating performances to lively art walks, it’s a time when the area’s artistic spirit truly comes alive. Together, these events make South Walton a must-visit destination for performing arts lovers.
