When Christmas rolls around, there’s no better place to enjoy a holiday away than Florida’s scenic 30A. The following are just a few of the many Christmas events you’re going to want to be sure to add to your itinerary when travel plans bring you here this year!
To make the most of your Holiday getaway to the Emerald Coast, be sure to request access to our complimentary 30A Vacation Guide! It's full of the best restaurants, shopping, and even more things to do in the area!
Make the Most of Christmas Events in Destin
Santa’s Arrival and Destin Commons Jolly Jubilee
Give a jolly jumpstart to your Christmas festivities with Santa’s Arrival to Destin happening on November 22. Celebrate his visit with the annual tree lighting, facepainting, holiday photo booth pictures and Santa’s sleigh! The whole event culminates with an amazing fireworks display that lights up the night sky. Don’t miss it!
Following Santa’s arrival to Destin is the Destin Commons Jolly Jubilee held from November 29 to December 22. The holiday spirit will be in full effect during this event that features live musical performances, carolers, and a 50-ft Christmas tree! Take holiday photos near the tree or the decorative reindeer topiaries.
Enjoy the Sparkling Wine & Holiday Lights Festival
A fan-favorite annual event in Baytowne Wharf is the Sparkling Wine & Holiday Lights Festival. For $45 a person, guests can enjoy impeccably decorated streets and an evening filled with delicious appetizers, sparkling wine, and plenty of holiday spirit to top it all off in style. Your ticket provides a path to savoring the many flavors of food and wine available outside of participating restaurants and shops. This exciting and decidedly delicious event ends with the seasonal tree lighting which is accompanied by music. It’s a must-experience event you won’t want to miss!
Eden Gardens Christmas Candlelight Open House & Luminaries
Celebrate the holiday season with a magical evening at Eden Gardens State Park in Point Washington on December 7 from 5-8PM. During this one-night event, stroll along pathways illuminated by thousands of luminaries and enjoy the breathtaking sight of the historic Wesley House adorned with Christmas lights.
Visitors can tour the Wesley House, experiencing its festive transformation while learning about its rich history. The evening will feature live holiday music, cookies, and warm beverages provided by the Friends of Eden. This enchanting event is a serene and beautiful way to celebrate the holidays on the Emerald Coast.
Celebrate for a Good Cause at Santa Paws at Harborwalk Village
On December 8th between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm, Harborwalk Village will be hosting a Santa Paws event that’s fun for people and furry friends alike. Guests are invited to bring their pets over for a picture with Santa. Proceeds go directly to the Panhandle Animal Welfare Society. The Panhandle Animal Welfare Society will also have animals looking for forever homes on-site for those that are looking to adopt a new pet!
Destin Christmas Parade
On December 14th, those heading to the 30A and Destin area for the holiday will be right on time to enjoy the annual Destin Christmas Parade. Join the festivities and watch as the Christmas parade makes it way down Beach Drive toward Stahlman Avenue. You’ll be in awe as the floats pass by, reflecting the theme of the year. There’s no cost to attend and guests can catch plenty of candy along the route as well as enjoy time relishing floats and decorated golf carts and cars. Santa closes the parade on a fire truck for this family-friendly event that promises to be unforgettable.
Christmas at the Wesley House
Step into a Victorian Christmas wonderland at the Wesley House in Eden Gardens State Park. From November to early January, the house is adorned with stunning holiday decorations crafted by talented local volunteers. Each room showcases unique and creative themes, bringing the festive spirit of the season to life.
Guided tours of the Wesley House are available hourly between November 14th, 2024 and January 6th, 2025, Thursday through Monday, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. During the tour, you’ll not only admire the incredible decorations but also learn about the house’s history and its significance to the community. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the charm of a Victorian Christmas.
12 Nights of Lights
Experience the magic of the season at the 12 Nights of Lights in The Village of Baytowne Wharf. Every Friday and Saturday between December 6th and 21st, dazzling light shows synchronized to holiday music will illuminate the Village tree and Event Plaza Lawn at 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, and 8:00 PM. This free event also features festive decor, holiday shopping, and seasonal treats, making it a perfect outing for families, couples, and friends to create cherished holiday memories.
Participate in Baytowne on Ice
Just because the 30A weather is nice in December doesn’t mean visitors can’t make the most of wintery holiday fun. Baytowne on Ice runs from October 31st through February 9th and provides locals and visitors with access to a seasonal ice rink that’s sure to be a thrill! Skaters aged three and up can enjoy this seasonal ice rink while taking in the festive atmosphere of Miramar Beach. Grab your skates and indulge in some nostalgic holiday fun under the sun.
Book Your 30A Stay Today
Make more of the holiday fun when you book incredible vacation rental accommodations through Your Friend at the Beach. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting property options and to start planning your trip! Your Friend at the Beach vacation rentals are home to the perfect spots to enjoy your holiday getaway to the beach. We make it easy for you to choose a location that's closest to the events you want to attend. Plus, you'll get to enjoy a collection of amenities, including private pools, gyms, and outdoor dining areas. All of our properties sit on the pristine shores of 30A, so the distance from your front door to the sand is only a few steps.
Start planning your 30A getaway today by booking one of our condos. We look forward to welcoming you to the Your Friend at the Beach family!