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 in late November. 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 Jolly Jubilee held from late November through late December. 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 in late November. For $75 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. The Christmas Candlelight Open House takes place each year in early December. 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.
Santa Paws at Harborwalk Village
In early December, Harborwalk Village hosts Santa Paws: Bark Street Market, an event that’s fun for people and furry friends alike. Guests are invited to bring their pets for a FREE picture with Santa. Bark Street Market will feature local pet goodies such as treats, swag, and more to find the perfect gifts for all your furry friends!
Destin Christmas Parade
In mid-December, 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. Santa closes the parade on a fire truck for this family-friendly event that promises to be unforgettable.
Nights of Lights
Experience the magic of the season at the Nights of Lights in The Village of Baytowne Wharf. Every night in December, 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.
Ice Skating at 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 late October through early February, 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.
Winter on 30A is a fantastic time to visit. If you can't make it at Christmastime, there is always time for a New Year's getaway or a romantic Valentine's escape!
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.