Fort Walton Beach Chamber celebrates 80 years with Gulfarium celebration

The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce celebrated eight decades of community impact on Thursday, April 23, drawing more than 250 members to an 80th anniversary event at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.

• Founded in 1946, the chamber has grown to represent more than 1,000 businesses and 2,400 active members across Okaloosa County. The milestone served as both the backdrop and the inspiration for the evening’s celebration.

“For 80 years, the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce has done more than support local business; it’s helped build the friendships that make doing business here unlike anywhere else,” said Ted Corcoran, President and CEO of the Chamber. “We don’t just believe Okaloosa County is a great place to work. We believe it’s the greatest place in the world to live.”

Guests enjoyed heavy hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine and live DJ entertainment throughout the evening.

The event was made possible through the support of local sponsors, including Live Oak Fiber, Saltwater Restaurants, Emerald Coast Vibe, Smallcakes FWB/Shalimar, Mills Heating & Air, Emerald Coast Entertainment Services and photographer Adina Preston.

Since 1946, the chamber has served the business community of Fort Walton Beach and the surrounding Emerald Coast, providing advocacy, networking and resources to support local economic growth.

More information about the chamber, upcoming events and membership opportunities is available at fwbchamber.org.