Spring in Seaside, Florida: A Season of Family Traditions and Shared Moments

SEASIDE® recently welcomed the spring season with a meaningful new tradition: a ceremonial flag raising in the heart of town. Presented with the assistance of the Walton County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard, the gathering offered a moment for residents, visitors, and staff to pause together and reflect on what makes SEASIDE® feel both timeless and deeply personal.
Micah Davis, President of SEASIDE® Community Development Corporation, spoke about SEASIDE®’s founding vision as a place intentionally designed for connection. Jeremy Barnes, Director of Operations, shared how thoughtful stewardship ensures that the town’s character and family-centered atmosphere continue to thrive. Kevin Boyle, General Manager, welcomed families to spring in SEASIDE® with a simple message: this is a place where memories are made side by side, across generations. The ceremony comes just as SEASIDE® has been named the #1 Best Family Beach Vacation in the U.S. for 2026, affirming what returning families have known for decades. SEASIDE® is not defined by a single attraction. It is defined by the feeling of being together.

A Place Where Families Feel at Ease
One of the most remarkable things about SEASIDE® is that, despite its relatively young 45 year history, it easily feels like the long-established town square it was designed to be. That sense of openness is no accident. It is the result of thoughtful stewardship and a long-standing commitment to creating a place that feels welcoming to everyone. SEASIDE® is privately cared for, yet publicly enjoyed. This spring, take the time to enjoy the birthplace of New Urbanism in the way it was meant to be enjoyed. SEASIDE®’s walkable streets, welcoming public spaces, and thoughtfully designed town center create an environment where families can slow down and reconnect. Grandparents walk hand in hand with grandchildren. Parents rediscover the joy of unhurried evenings. Children find independence within a setting that feels safe and familiar. During the spring season, a 7 PM curfew for unaccompanied minors under 18 helps preserve this shared experience. The intention is simple: encourage families to spend meaningful time together and ensure that SEASIDE® remains a welcoming place for all.

12 Family-Friendly Activities in Seaside You Won’t Want to Miss
Beginning March 10th, Seaside’s Arts and Entertainment program offers complimentary events designed to bring families together in the heart of town. Whether you arrive with a blanket, lawn chairs, or simply wander over after dinner, these gatherings create space for connection and shared memories.

1. Experience Children’s Theatre in the Amphitheater
Mondays at 6 PM | SEASIDE® Amphitheater
Gather on the lawn for an interactive performance designed to spark imagination and laughter. Families often arrive early with blankets or low chairs to settle in. It is a wonderful way to introduce younger children to live storytelling in a relaxed, open air setting.

2. Dance Along with Huck & Lily
Tuesdays & Thursdays at 5 PM | SEASIDE® Amphitheater
This high-energy concert series invites children to move, sing, and fully participate. Parents and grandparents can relax nearby while still feeling part of the fun. It is one of the most joyful ways to spend an early spring evening together.

3. Enjoy the Weekly Silent Disco and DJ Residency
Wednesdays 4:30 to 6:30 PM | SEASIDE® Amphitheater
Midweek afternoons turn festive as families gather after the beach. Children play freely on the lawn while music creates a welcoming backdrop. March brings Silent Disco while April welcomes an in-house DJ residency. It’s casual, fun, and perfectly timed before dinner.

4. Watch a Movie Under the Stars
Fridays & Sundays at 7:30 PM | SEASIDE® Amphitheater
Central Square Cinema transforms the Amphitheater into an outdoor movie experience. Bring blankets, pick up takeout from a local merchant, and enjoy a shared evening outdoors. It is simple, nostalgic, and consistently a family favorite. Check each week’s movie selection on the Event Calendar.

5. Play Together at the Seaside Athletic Club
Share a high-energy activity with the family by reserving tennis or pickleball courts, or explore group fitness options suited for a range of ages and abilities. It’s an opportunity for friendly competition, skill building, and shared accomplishment as a group. Learn more and reserve here.

6. Let the Kids Run Free on the Playground and Lawn
The centrally located Amphitheater offers a natural meeting place for families with younger children. Tupelo Goods chairs and plenty of green space invite spontaneous games of catch, cartwheels, or simply stretching out in the sunshine. Wander to the playground (located adjacent to the tennis courts) for swings, a slide, and simple fun.

7. Take a Self-Guided Art and Architecture Walk

Explore SEASIDE®’s thoughtfully designed streets, iconic homes, and public murals throughout town while exploring at your own pace. Discover colorful works by Sarah Page (outside SEASIDE® Kids + Baby and inside Cabana), Art by Doman (at ‘drome), Gaia (the Vincent Scully mural facing 30A), and Kelsey Montague in the Pop Up District. Find The Seaside Institute’s self-guided tour here.

8. Book a Beach Setup for a Relaxed Day by the Gulf
Reserve chairs and shade through Cabana Man and arrive to a ready-made beach experience. Planning ahead ensures comfort, though same-day arrangements are often available. It allows families to focus on enjoying the sun, fun, and sand without the requirement of staying in SEASIDE®.

9. Explore Town by Bike

Rent bicycles through the Seaside Transit Authority and experience the community as it was designed to be enjoyed. With flat streets and scenic paths, biking becomes both transportation and memory-making.

10. Gather for Sunset
Sunsets here are truly iconic, especially during the spring season, making it a perfect time for families to gather, either on the beach or in the Amphitheater. This simple time together is often the most meaningful part of the day. Don’t miss the opportunity to walk down from the Coleman Pavilion to experience it with the Gulf as the backdrop.

11. Explore SEASIDE® wedding venues
The same qualities that make SEASIDE® an exceptional family destination also make it an ideal setting for life’s most meaningful occasions. From rehearsal dinners to Gulf front weddings, SEASIDE® offers venues that elevate meaningful occasions thanks to its charming style and picturesque backdrops. Wander past potential venues, including SEASIDE® Pavilion, Lyceum Lawn, SEASIDE® Beach, The Court, or even Central Square, any of which are perfect for a dream wedding or bringing together generations to celebrate a new milestone. To learn more about weddings and celebrations, inquire here.

12. Capture Seaside Through Art
Bring sketchbooks, watercolors, or even just pencils, and let each family member draw or paint the town as they see it. Count the palm trees and chairs in Central Square. Observe the gentle buzz of activity or the lines of each building and take time to notice the details. This activity encourages observation, creativity, and a sentimental souvenir to take home.

As the flag now flies over Central Square, it signals more than the arrival of spring. It marks a renewed invitation to gather, reconnect, and create lasting memories. Try any of these suggested activities or create your own family bucket list.
For the first-time visitors as well as those with decades-long tradition, families find that spring in SEASIDE® offers something increasingly rare: time together, exactly as it was meant to be.

Spring Break is a time to escape your current reality and celebrate time together. In Seaside, you can do it in style. We’ve eyed plenty of beachy buys to make your stylish vacation complete. The Seaside Times rounded up a few of our favorite things from local boutiques.

The SEASIDE Style® | Sport

Whether it’s a tennis match or a morning spent at the Farmers Market, a bike ride or a sunset beach stroll, a pickleball game or a day spent shopping, The Seaside Style® SPORT embraces the essence of life in Seaside, and embodies Seeing People Out ‘Round Town. 

Duckies Shop of Fun

Duckies Shop of Fun delights kids and the young at heart with a whimsical store full of toys, beach gear, fun gifts, kids’ clothing, and more.

Cabana by The SEASIDE Style®

The first retail store in Seaside, reimagined. Shop flowy kaftans, colorful sparkles, unique prints, beautiful jewelry and breezy linens.

Wood + Wave

Formerly known as Focus, this adorable boutique features fabulous gifts, clothing, frames and custom jewelry.

Ono Surf Shop

With the hottest styles in swimwear, footwear, lifestyle clothing, surfboards, boogie boards, skim boards and accessories, Ono makes sure you’re up to date on the beach trends. 

Food Merch

Take your favorite restaurant home with you. 

Pickle’s Burger & Shake and Pickle’s Sandbar have plenty of ways to take your vacation memories of dining on the perfectly fried pickles home with you. Bring a white Pickle’s hat home with you. Or an embroidered rope hat that would look great on the golf course. 

The Shrimp Shack and Wild Bill’s also have souvenir merchandise, including T-shirts and ball caps.

Modica Market can assemble the perfect charcuterie board for your next gathering

Modica Market, Seaside’s quaint gourmet grocery, is one of the country’s most famous small markets in small towns. Sample their selections of fresh, homemade Southern specialties and gourmet to-go meals for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert. The market also has an extensive collection of wines, craft beers, local and imported condiments, and unique foodie finds — from cheeses to ice creams to coffees.

Opened March 17, 1989 by Charles Modica Sr. and his wife, Sarah, the grocery shop began with a simple deal-sealing handshake between Modica and Seaside founder Robert Davis, and has since flourished into one of the most recognizable businesses along Highway 30A. As the market celebrates three decades in business, the next generation of the family — Charles Modica Jr. and Carmel Modica — runs the store together.

Before he passed away in 2010, Charles Sr., who was considered one of the town’s founding fathers, was a recognizable face among community members, known for his bushy white beard and kind, inviting smile.

Over the years, Modica, one of the town’s first establishments, has become a hotspot for shopping, eating and socializing. The business has also become a hub for local children, who walk to the store after school to enjoy fresh baked cookies and leftover doughnuts from that morning. 

People love Modica so much, they stock up on merch, including tote bags, koozies, mugs and glasses, hats and T-shirts, and much more.

Melanie Scicluna, manager of the store, puts her skills to use by assembling elegant and appetizing charcuterie boards for customers. Beyond the traditional selection of specialty meats and cheeses, Modica can customize your snack board to suit your tastes. Melanie says the snack boards can accommodate everyone’s appetites and needs, including vegan options. “A lot of people are going for veggies with dips,” she says. 

If you need some suggestions, Melanie’s expertise in pairing meats and cheeses can get you set for your gettogether, with some of her go-to favorites for her customers. “You could start with a Cotswold English cheddar, which is just delicious,” she says. “Our marinated goat cheese is one of our specialties, and we’ve got Red Clay pimento cheese, one comes with jalapeno, and the other is sharp. Add some black-peppered dry salami. Also, we have a dry chorizo that is delicious. Another goodie is the Bellavitano, a sweet nutty cheese. You can get it in flavors like espresso, rosemary or merlot.” 

Recently for a campfire birthday party, Melanie made a S’mores-themed board. “We can make a chocolate board, with a mix of decadent treats,” Melanie says, “including macarons, cake bites and other sweet foods.”

Use your imagination and dream up your favorite charcuterie board for your next gathering. Nothing brings people together like sharing food and enjoying each other’s company.

Embrace the season with warm drinks and hot books

By Michelle Hayes

Fall in Seaside comes quietly. The light softens. The crowds drift away. There’s a moment, sometime around mid-September, when the mornings begin to feel like something else entirely. It’s not just the slightly cooler air or the way the wind lifts off the Gulf. It’s a shift in pace, a settling in.

At Sundog Books, fall has always been our favorite reading season. It’s a time for return — to rhythm, to reflection, to the comfort of a good story. And just steps away, our neighbors at Black Bear Bakery Co. are busy doing what they do best: serving drinks that warm your hands and soothe your spirit.

We thought, why not bring the two together? Below are some of our favorite fall pairings. One book, one drink. No rush. Just a reason to pause.

Espresso
“Tom Lake” by Ann Patchett (2023)
Set during the early days of the pandemic, “Tom Lake” follows a mother recounting a long-ago summer romance to her daughters while they shelter together on their Michigan cherry farm. The story unfolds as a meditation on love, memory, and how the lives we live can look different from the ones we once imagined. Like espresso, this novel is quiet and concentrated. It leaves a lasting impression in just a few sips.

Americano
“Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow” by Gabrielle Zevin (2022)
Sam and Sadie reconnect as college students and build a creative empire together through video game design. Their story spans decades and dives deep into friendship, ambition, and the art of collaboration. The Americano, simple but layered, mirrors the novel’s emotional depth and clarity. Each page builds on the last with a quiet, steady force.

Drip Coffee
“Happy Place” by Emily Henry (2023)
Harriet and Wyn broke up months ago, but haven’t told their friends. When they find themselves sharing a bedroom during their annual group vacation, old feelings begin to resurface. This is a novel about second chances, honest conversations, and the comfort of people who know you best. Like drip coffee in a well-loved mug, it is warm, reliable and easy to savor.

Matcha Latte
“The Emperor of Gladness” by Ocean Vuong (2025)
Vuong’s latest novel is gentle and thoughtful, a reflection on grief, memory and the quiet beauty of language. The story unfolds with intention, each line precise and poetic. The matcha latte, with its earthy layers and soft energy, makes a fitting companion to a book that encourages slowing down and taking notice.

Chai Latte
“All Fours” by Miranda July (2024)
A woman in her 40s leaves home and heads out on a road trip with no clear destination. What begins as a spontaneous escape turns into an offbeat, deeply personal reckoning with identity, longing and creative freedom. Chai, with its mix of spice and warmth, mirrors the tone of a novel that is both playful and piercing.

Bear Latte (espresso with mocha, hazelnut, and cinnamon)
“James” by Percival Everett (2024)
Everett retells The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn through the voice of Jim, offering a bold and unflinching look at race, freedom, and moral courage. The novel is layered, darkly funny and deeply moving. The Bear Latte brings a similar weight and richness, with a blend of flavors that ask you to slow down and take it all in.

Beekeeper (latte with honey and cinnamon)
“Atmosphere” by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2025)
Set within NASA’s space program during the 1980s, this novel follows a woman making her way in a field dominated by men. It is a story about ambition, reinvention and the quiet spaces that exist between us. The Beekeeper, soft and slightly sweet, offers a comforting balance to a novel that asks what it means to be seen.

Hummingbird (latte with brown sugar, cinnamon, and oat milk)
“The Sirens” by Emilia Hart (2025)
Spanning three timelines, The Sirens tells the story of women drawn to the sea, haunted by secrets, and connected across centuries. From convict ships in 1800s Ireland to a mysterious disappearance on the Australian coast in 2019, the novel weaves themes of sisterhood, power and transformation. Dreamy, strange and full of mythic resonance, it’s a story that hums beneath the surface. The Hummingbird, warm, sweet, and unexpected, is a perfect companion.

Tan Line (iced coconut milk latte with mocha and vanilla)
“Onyx Storm” by Rebecca Yarros (2025)
The follow-up to “Fourth Wing” delivers more dragons, romance and danger. As alliances shift and the stakes grow higher, this fantasy romance hits with equal parts adrenaline and heart. The Tan Line, cold and sweet with a little bite, matches the novel’s fierce and fast-paced energy.

Hot Chocolate
“The Mystery of Locked Rooms” by Lindsay Currie (2024)
When three clever kids find themselves stuck inside a mansion full of puzzles, they must use their wits and teamwork to uncover hidden clues. This middle-grade mystery is packed with charm and just enough suspense. A warm cup of hot chocolate, especially with marshmallows, makes the perfect reading companion.

We hope this season offers you space to wander and read, to notice the little things. A cooler breeze. A line you underline twice. A drink that makes you stop and sit down.

Come visit us at Sundog. We’ll help you find your book. And then, just a few steps away, Black Bear Bakery Co. will take care of the rest.

This Southern brand shines inside 

By Margaret Abrams 

While you’ve probably visited Cabana by The SEASIDE Style®, did you know it houses a secret store within a store? Every Southern girl’s favorite jewelry brand enewton has its largest selection of merchandise right inside Cabana, thanks to an ongoing partnership. 

Elizabeth Newton founded the brand in 2011 after she gave birth to triplet girls and a son. The family of six might be busy, but that didn’t stop her from becoming a wildly successful entrepreneur who’s known for her classic jewelry. Collectors of the simple gold jewelry will often stack the bracelets up their arms and mix and match pieces, and Cabana allows them to do just that. The boutique boasts an enormous collection, showcasing everything from enewton’s signature 14k-gold-filled cross bracelet to colorful beaded options. 

Whether you want gemstones, simple gold, or sterling silver, there’s something for everyone’s stack. And it won’t tarnish, whether in the shower or at the beach. The jewelry also makes the perfect gifting moment, especially since it can stand in for a modern day friendship bracelet. Brand devotees can also shop enewton on cabanaseaside.com for both custom SEASIDE® pieces along with the classics. 

Music lovers celebrated their favorite indie record store

By Ed Jack,

Manager, Central Square Records

We celebrated our 18th Record Store Day this past April, and it proved to be one of our best. The vast array of exclusive titles, (mostly on vinyl), and a very excited crowd, combined to make some great memories for all of us. The ‘Wicked’ soundtrack that was released for the big day had two of our customers waiting overnight to get their hands on it.
Other notable releases were Taylor Swift’s ‘Fortnight’ single (featuring Post Malone); Laufey ‘A Night at the Symphony: Hollywood Bowl’ Double LP; Gracie Abrams ‘Live From Radio City Music Hall’; and Gorillaz ‘Demon Days Live From the Apollo Theater’ Double LP, to name a few. Everyone seemed to get what they were seeking, resulting in a lot of smiles and sighs of relief after waiting hours in line. It’s always a great celebration of record store culture and all of our friends and customers who come out to help us make it such a special day.
Our Top 20 Spring Sellers on Vinyl

1. Taylor Swift ‘Fortnight’ (Record Store Day)
2. Post Malone ‘Tribute to Nirvana’ (RSD)
3. Charli XCX ‘Number 1 Angel’ (RSD)
4. Jeff Buckley ‘Grace’
5. Zach Bryan ‘Zach Bryan’
6. Ethel Cain ‘Preacher’s Daughter’
7. Doechii ‘Alligator Bites Never Heal’
8. Noah Kahan ‘Live at Fenway Park’
9. Tyler Childers ‘Purgatory’
10. MF DOOM ‘Mm..Food’ (20th Anniversary)
11. Fleetwood Mac ‘Rumours’
12. Eagles ‘Hotel California’
13. Lady Gaga ‘Mayhem’
14. Tyler the Creator ‘Call Me If You Get Lost’
15. Clairo ‘Charm’
16. Arctic Monkeys ‘AM’
17. Laufey ‘A Night at the Symphony: Hollywood Bowl’ (RSD)
18. Gracie Abrams ‘Live From Radio City Music Hall’ (RSD)
19. Gorillaz ‘Demon Days Live From the Apollo Theater’ (RSD)
20. Chapell Roan ‘Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess’ 

This summer, new shops aren’t just popping up in Seaside – they’re here to stay. And they’re guaranteed to impress everyone in your family. 

Brothers, Onward Reserve, and Kids + baby by The Seaside Style® are just a few of the latest additions to the Seaside shopping scene, offering options for everyone from young men searching for the perfect suit to moms hunting down the ideal baby bow. 

The recently opened Brothers is offering refined men’s clothing in the former Bump + baby location that’s perfect for gentlemen looking for chic suiting or the perfect outfit to wear to dinner. Brothers was founded by two best friends who are now bringing a tailored, rugged aesthetic to Central Square. The curated collection has apparel and accessories from brands including Johnnie-O, The Refined Country Life, Martin Dingman, and more. Brothers also offers custom tailoring services and a selection of elevated clothing for little gents, ensuring style runs in the family.

Onward Reserve is another chic shop for men looking for swimwear, polos, button-downs, sports coats, pants, leather goods, gifts, and more. The Ruskin Place shop is the ultimate destination for vacation clothing, sure to guarantee a dapper getaway. Expect classic Southern style with modern sophistication. 

Kids + baby by The Seaside Style® offers all the brands you love for newborns to tweens, including kids and baby SEASIDE® apparel. Whether you’re looking for Funboy floats they’re sure to love in the pool, gingham sets perfect for family photos, or sweet hair bows featuring the town’s famous Bud the dachshund, this store has it all.

Situated on the Southside of 30A are three new shopping experiences!  Poeta brings artistry to its fully custom bags, designed and created on the spot. Shop colorful totes, weekender bags, and cosmetic pouches, with each piece being one-of-a-kind and made just for you—no two bags are the same. The experience doesn’t stop there: guests can personalize their bags even further with on-site embroidery, making every piece as meaningful as it is beautiful. For the perfect gift or keepsake, La La Links specializes in personalized, permanent jewelry that’s as meaningful as it’s beautiful. In addition to their signature welded bracelets and necklaces, they now offer a necklace charm bar, where you can build a piece that’s uniquely yours, layered with initials, icons, and meaningful mementos. Whether you’re shopping for a special moment or simply treating yourself, La La Links offers a sparkle you’ll want to keep forever. For accessories that add a little flair to every outfit, Headley Hats is a must-visit. This stylish new spot offers handcrafted hats with customizable bands and trims—perfect for those looking to top off their Seaside look with something unique and timeless.

From page to playlist, Sundog staffers share their book and music picks to enhance your reading experience

By Michelle Hayes

Here in Seaside, summer reading often comes with a soundtrack. You’ll hear it drifting from speakers while stretched out on the beach. At Sundog Books, we’re constantly surrounded by stories and songs, so it only made sense to bring them together in a special way for this summer’s reading feature.

We asked our staff to share book and music pairings they love. The results are as varied and surprising as the titles on our shelves. Some are playful, some are poignant, and all are uniquely Sundog. Whether you’re in the mood for nostalgia, heartbreak or something a little strange and dreamy, there’s a book and a song here waiting to sync with your summer.

Staff Picks: Books + Songs

“Not in Love” by Ali Hazelwood + “I’m Not in Love” by 10cc
A brand-new release with a title that begged for this pairing. It’s cheeky, literal and right on the nose, just like Hazelwood’s witty romances.

“Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer + “Mother Nature’s Son” by The Beatles
This poetic blend of science and storytelling finds its perfect match in this gentle Beatles tune. Both reflect reverence for the natural world.

“Uptown Girl” by Christie Brinkley + “Uptown Girl” by Billy Joel
A new memoir with the same name as the iconic track that helped define Brinkley’s image. Obvious? Maybe. Perfect? Absolutely.

“Shopgirls” by Jessica Anya Blau + “Material Girl” by Madonna
A fresh release about women navigating fashion, identity and ambition. The song captures the energy and contradictions of their world.

“The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig + “The Night We Met” by Lord Huron
Haunting and introspective, both the novel and the song explore the ache of longing and the weight of decisions not made.

“Atmosphere” by Taylor Jenkins Reid + “Satellite of Love” by Lou Reed
TJR’s upcoming novel releasing on June 3 explores celebrity, isolation and reinvention. This much anticipated dreamy glam rock classic captures its retro-futuristic vibe.

“Fever Beach” by Carl Hiaasen + “Fever” by Peggy Lee
A sultry crime novel meets a sultry jazz standard. Play this while reading for maximum noir-in-the-sun energy.

“The Overstory” by Richard Powers + “A Forest” by The Cure
Both are haunting meditations on nature, mystery and the unseen threads that connect us, making for a moody, immersive experience. This book held deep meaning for Bob White, the late co-founder of Sundog Books, who considered it one of his all-time favorites.

“Sharks Don’t Sink” by Jasmine Graham + “The Thrill” by Wiz Khalifa and Empire of the Sun
Energetic and vivid, this combination takes a new release and matches it with a song that radiates motion and power.

“The Women” by Kristin Hannah + “The Rising” by Bruce Springsteen
Hannah’s story of Vietnam-era women in the military echoes the themes of resilience and courage found in this Springsteen anthem.

“Climbing in Heels” by Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas + “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” by Shania Twain
Big energy, fierce attitude and zero apologies. This pairing radiates confidence.

“James” by Percival Everett + “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley
Everett’s retelling of Huckleberry Finn through the voice of Jim demands something classic and soul-deep. Marley fits.

“Bride” by Ali Hazelwood + “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston
A book about connection and chemistry pairs perfectly with a song that bursts with joy and longing.

“All Fours” by Miranda July + “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield
Exploring identity and reinvention, this match is both quirky and empowering.

“The Great Divide” by Cristina Henríquez + “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel
This story of immigration, struggle and compassion resonates deeply with this classic ballad.

This summer, let Sundog provide your playlist and your page-turner. Whether you’re starting a new novel or spinning an old favorite from Central Square Records, we hope you find a pairing here that hits the right note.

The annual music fest brought big names and new talent

By Ed Jack,

Manager, 

Central Square Records

The 16th Annual 30A Songwriters Festival returned to town in mid-January, boasting headliners Melissa Etheridge, Amos Lee, the Jayhawks and the Devon Allman Project, as well an array of new talent at  the venues all along 30A. We had a blast showcasing performances all weekend here at Central Square! Some of our returning friends and artists included Chris Stills, Steve Poltz, David Ryan Harris, and Bob Schneider. We also hosted a few artists new to our stage, such as Lilly Hiatt, Lera Lynn, and Lilly Winwood, who put on stellar performances for our packed house each day. It’s always a great weekend of music and we always come away with a few new favorite artists! 

Record Store Day

Central Square Records will celebrate Record Store Day 2025 on Saturday, April 12, at 8 a.m. We’ll be at the ready with exclusive vinyl releases, unique to this day, from a vast array of artists, from the likes of Charli xcx, David Bowie, the Cure, Fleetwood Mac, Laufey, the Grateful Dead, and many more. 

Spring is a magical time for readers here at Sundog Books — a season to lose ourselves in the pages of a good book on the beach. As the weather warms up, book clubs across the country gather outside to share their love for literature and dive into stories that bring people together. But with so many options, how do you choose the perfect book club pick?

National book clubs like Oprah’s Book Club, Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine, Jenna Bush Hager’s Read with Jenna, and Good Morning America’s Cover to Cover have set the standard by selecting books that resonate widely. But there are other fantastic clubs, like Belletrist, The Silent Book Club, and Well-Read Black Girl, which also offer powerful recommendations and online or in-person communities. 

At Sundog, we believe that three key factors make a book stand out as a top-notch book club selection.

Themes with heart

The best book club picks are those with themes that resonate deeply with readers. Whether it’s a story of love, identity, or resilience, the most memorable books connect with readers on a personal level, opening the door for meaningful conversations

Characters that stay with you

We love recommending stories with characters who feel real — those with rich backstories, relatable flaws and genuine growth. These characters linger in your thoughts long after you’ve finished reading, making for engaging book club discussions

A plot that provokes thought

A great book club pick is one with a plot that challenges the reader. Whether it’s a surprising twist or a narrative that encourages you to see the world differently, these are the stories that spark the best discussions and keep readers coming back for more.

One of the most common questions we get from customers is about book club recommendations — especially when it’s their turn to pick. Everyone wants to bring the best possible book to their group, one that will spark conversation and be remembered long after the meeting ends. At Sundog Books, our staff is here to help.

We’ve curated a selection we believe are perfect for book clubs, drawing from our knowledge of what makes a great discussion starter and what our customers have loved in the past. Here are our top staff picks for your next book club selection:

Staff Recommendations: Top Picks for Your Book Club

“All the Colors of the Dark” by Chris Whitaker
Kathy recommends this book because it’s a gripping, atmospheric novel filled with suspense and emotional depth. The story delves into themes of loss, redemption, and the complexities of human nature, making it an excellent choice for book club discussions.

“This Other Eden” by Paul Harding
Tamara suggests this novel for its beautiful, lyrical writing and rich historical context. Based on real events, it explores themes of identity, community, and the impact of isolation, offering plenty of material for deep and meaningful conversations.

“Small Great Things” by Jodi Picoult
Maiya believes this is a powerful book for sparking important conversations, especially around issues of race, privilege and the legal system. The novel’s multi-perspective narrative allows readers to explore complex and challenging topics, making it a compelling choice for any book club.

“The Island of Missing Trees” by Elif Shafak
Lily loves this book for its unique storytelling and the way it weaves together themes of love, loss, and cultural identity. Set against the backdrop of Cyprus, the novel uses the lens of nature and history to explore personal and political divides, making it both a poignant and thought-provoking read.

“The Firekeeper’s Daughter” by Angeline Boulley
Isabella recommends this book for its gripping plot and rich cultural background. Originally a Reese’s Book Club pick, it’s a compelling young adult novel that explores themes of identity, community and resilience, perfect for sparking discussions in any book club.

“I Was A Teenage Slasher” by Stephen Graham Jones
Cassidy suggests this one for fans of the horror genre. It’s an intense, chilling read that’s not for the faint of heart, but for those who enjoy horror, it’s a thrilling and well-crafted novel that provides plenty of material for lively book club discussions.

These selections from our staff reflect a wide range of tastes and themes, ensuring there’s something here for every kind of book club. We’re always happy to help you find the perfect book for your next meeting!