The Fort Walton Beach Woman’s Club is introducing a new holiday tradition with their first Holiday Tree Trek, a community-wide event running Dec. 1-16 that transforms local businesses into a festive scavenger hunt.
- The contest challenges participants to visit participating locations and document their journey with selfies of uniquely decorated Christmas trees. Each business will showcase a custom-decorated tree reflecting their merchandise and atmosphere.
Participants can choose between two designated routes, with the option to complete both to double their chances of winning. Participants will submit their pictures to Get The Coast and a winner will be randomly selected. The grand prize, provided by Jim Fish of Compass Florida Realty and Mack Bowman of ERA American Realty, is $500 cash.
Additional prizes include a two-night stay at Holiday Inn on the Island, a mini-tree adorned with $100 worth of scratch-off lottery tickets, and a gift bag from Islanders Coastal Outfitter at the Boardwalk.
The initiative has drawn participation from 46 local establishments, ranging from the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park to the Fort Walton Beach Police Department. Participating businesses will display “Holiday Tree Trek STOP HERE” signs to guide contestants.
- Businesses will also compete for recognition, with awards including the Mayor’s Choice Award, Downtown FWB Organization Award, People’s Choice Award, and Woman’s Club President’s Award. Trees will be judged on originality, creativity, and how well they reflect each business.
Winners will be selected through random drawings on Dec. 17 at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. Participants need not be present to win.
Trek cards are available at all participating locations during regular business hours throughout the event period. Click here for the list of businesses