We’re glad you’re here! Located in northwest Florida, this rural county shares its border with Alabama and is known for its genuine southern hospitality. We don’t meet a stranger, ya’ll.
About Holmes TDC
The Holmes County Tourist Development Council was created by a resolution of the County pursuant to Florida Statute 125.0104(4) (Resolution No. 04-10) on August 25, 2004 for the purpose of enabling the County to “promote and advertise tourism, enhance, clean up or restore inland lakes and rivers and repair and maintain fishing piers, support special events within the local communities of the County, and provide for additional historical or heritage opportunities as a means of attracting additional tourists”. The Tourist Development Council activity is reported within the General Fund of the County.
The TDC manages advertising and promotions for tourism to the county and promotes events, businesses, and attractions to bring visitors to our community. We provide support to tourism stakeholders, grants and sponsorships to qualified events, and resources for residents and locals. Our funding comes from a percentage of tourist development tax collected on transient rentals in Holmes County and must abide by the guidelines set forth in Florida Statute 125.014.
The Holmes County Tourist Development Council is led by a 9-member advisory board with representatives from across the county. For a list of board members and schedule of public meeting dates, contact us.
Event grant applications, visitor guides, brochures, maps, and other information on the county can be found at the Holmes County Chamber of Commerce, located in the log cabin at 106 E. Byrd Avenue, Bonifay, FL.
The History of Holmes County
The origin of its name is a matter of debate by historians. One claim is settlers in the early 1800s named the county after Native American Chief Holmes who was killed by Andrew Jackson’s Army. Another claim is that it was named for Thomas J. Holmes, who came from North Carolina to settle in the area in 1830.
Holmes County was the second county established after the Florida Territory achieved statehood in 1845. In addition to the county seat of Bonifay, Holmes County’s towns include Esto, Ponce de Leon, Westville, Poplar Springs, Noma and Prosperity, as well as other small, unincorporated communities.
Nature is the main draw for visitors and people who live here in Holmes County. Outdoor fun includes visiting the natural springs, boating, fishing, kayaking, hunting and wildlife watching. There are amenities in every corner of our county, including campsites, RV parks, and golf courses. We have plenty of fun around here with events that take place throughout the year including The Northwest Florida Championship Rodeo and our Down Home Street Festival.
Spring Turkey Hunting Season in Holmes County is a popular time for avid hunters. According to the National Wild Turkey Federation, Holmes County has one of the best populations of turkeys in the state.
With plenty of options to eat, explore and relax, “There’s No Place like Holmes.”