There’s always something happening at the beach! Whether you live here full-time or visit as often as possible, these festive Emerald Coast activities are just as much fun as enjoying the sand and surf. From visits with Santa to beach ball drops on New Year’s Eve, here are a few of our favorites for making the most of your coastal Christmas. This list has been updated for the 2024 season.
Multiple Opportunities through early 2025
Baytowne On Ice | Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin
Dust off those skates and get in the winter spirit at The Village of Baytowne Wharf’s Baytowne on Ice. Skaters must be at least three years of age and fit into appropriately sized skates. A parent or adult family member must accompany children younger than six. Ice skating is available through February 8, with varying hours. Visit this event listing for more details.
Christmas Reflections | Chipley Park, DeFuniak Springs
Enjoy a holiday family tradition with more than 10 million lights on full display at Chipley Park. Open daily through December 31 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Click here for more information.
Photos With Santa | Seaside, Florida
Capture the magic of the season with photos with Santa in the enchanting Christmas Village (Pop-Up District) for a festive, picture-perfect experience. The dates are December 13-19 from 4 to 6 p.m. Click here for more.
Pictures With A Penguin | Gulfarium, Okaloosa Island
On select dates through December 31, you can get a picture with adorable African penguins at The Gulfarium. Slots for these photos are limited, so book yours today. General admission is required; the cost for photos is an extra $20. Click here for more details.
Breakfast With Santa | Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village, Destin
Don’t be a Grinch! Join in a joyous breakfast with Santa at 9 or 11 a.m. on December 15, 21 and 22 in the Grande Ballroom. A festive buffet of the Grinch’s fruit kabob station, Cindy Lou Who’s breakfast items, Whoville Bakery and Max’s Donut Station will be offered. Reservations are required, and more details are available here.
Coastal White Christmas | Grand Boulevard, Miramar Beach
Enjoy complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides around the Town Center while taking in coastal white Christmas lights and the Festival of Trees display. To add to the festivities, get a professional photo with Santa while listening to the seasonal sounds of a musical revue from Emerald Coast Theatre Co. This takes place on Friday and Saturday nights from 5 to 8 p.m. through December 28. Click here for more.
30A Farmers Market Holiday Market | Rosemary Beach
Check out multiple market opportunities throughout December from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each time. More information is available here.
Nights of Lights | The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin
This December, enjoy a festive light show in The Events Plaza every day. This sparkling event will also be featured during their special Wednesday Night Concert Series holiday edition. Watch three dazzling shows on the Village tree at 6 p.m., 7 p.m., and 8 p.m. More details are available here.
Winter Fun For Everyone | Emerald Coast Science Center, Fort Walton Beach
Join in holiday fun from December 23-January 5 to celebrate the season. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily, and all activities are included with general admission. The schedule of events includes Light Up The Season, Arctic Adventures and more. Click here for more information.
30A Songwriters Festival | Santa Rosa Beach, 30A
30A Songwriters Festival is right around the corner. It features more than 200 performances from January 16-20 at more than 25 venues along 30A. Visit the link to learn more.
December 1
Holiday Market at DeFrance On Beal | Fort Walton Beach
Meet with local vendors, artists and crafters as they display their one-of-a-kind creations, repurposed items, jewelry, clothing, shabby chic furniture, art, yummy food and much more. Expect to see a lot of holiday decor and gift ideas at this market.
Hamburgers and hot dogs will be served, too, so come hungry. Get more information here.
Brunch With Santa | AJ’s On The Bayou, Okaloosa Island
Bring the kids for a magical Brunch with Santa from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Join us for a delightful Christmas brunch prepared by Santa’s elves, where Santa will be on hand to hear your child’s wishes. Your little ones can write their Christmas wishlists and enjoy festive music from Cheryl Jones. The brunch price for kids 12 and younger is $8.95 and includes pancakes, bacon, eggs and fruit. Adults can order from a special brunch menu.
December 3
Christmas Paint And Sip | American Legion, Destin
Join in on an evening of craft and fun while sipping what fancies you. Enjoy painting an 11×14 canvas of a festive Christmas cow, but also two 4×6 wooden ornaments (one tree and one angel) for $35. Registration closes on Dec. 2. Visit this site for more.
Festival Of Trees In Grand Park | Grand Boulevard, Miramar Beach
The Festival of Trees kicks off with 12 local charities decorating their assigned trees and competing to win cash prizes. Stroll the boulevard to take in the festive sights and vote for your favorite tree. The trees remain on display in Grand Park through Christmas for the public to enjoy. See more by visiting this link.
December 6
Movie On The Lawn: The Polar Express | Village of Baytowne Wharf
Watch a holiday favorite, and join us for a special showing of the Polar Express at 6 p.m. in the Events Plaza. Don’t forget your lawn chairs and blankets. Check this site for more information.
Holiday Movies At The Lawn: Elf | Destin Commons
Join in a magical evening under the twinkling stars at Destin Commons, featuring the classic holiday movie “Elf.” Bring your little ones, a cozy blanket or your favorite lawn chair and let the holiday magic take over as we watch this heartwarming tale of festive fun. While the kids are entertained, enjoy a selection of festive treats like hot cocoa, popcorn, and hot dogs, available for purchase. Click here for more event details.
2024 Winter Wonderland | Northwest Florida Fairgrounds, Fort Walton Beach
Mark your calendars for Winter Wonderland festivities from 5 to 9 p.m. December 6-7. Donations this year will be given to Emerald Coast Toys for Tots and Panhandle Animal Welfare Society. Click here for more.
Holiday Pops Christmas On Broadway | Mattie Kelly Arts Center, Niceville
This music spectacular features Broadway actor and singer Grace Morgan, Northwest Florida Symphony Chorale, Unified Gospel Choir and Voices Of Northwest Florida. The event begins at 7 p.m., and tickets are $45. For more details, click here.
December 7
Seaside Holiday Market
Stay tuned for more details about the return of Seaside, Florida’s holiday market on December 7-8. Get more details here.
Gingerbread House Decorating | Food For Thought Outreach, Santa Rosa Beach
Celebrate the holiday season with us! Children seven and older are invited to a delightful morning of decorating gingerbread houses with Chef Kara. They’ll also enjoy an array of festive drinks, delicious snacks, and creative crafts. Don’t miss out on this joyful experience. Each ticket provides materials for one child. Get more details here.
Holiday Bazaar | Alaqua Animal Refuge, Freeport
Step into a festive wonderland at the annual Holiday Bazaar, where the spirit of the season comes alive from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wander through rows of unique vendors offering one-of-a-kind gifts, artisan crafts and delectable treats. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children three and older. Click here for more info.
Breakfast With Santa and The Cast Of Frozen | Aegean Restaurant, Shalimar
Enjoy a breakfast buffet, pictures with Santa and arts and crafts for the kids. Cost is $20 for adults and $10 for children 12 and younger. Breakfast will be served, with crafts and photos also available. Click here for additional information.
Winter Sandyland 2024 | The Islander Resort, Destin
This Christmas-themed sand sculpture walkthrough exhibit features sand sculptors from throughout the area. The event also serves as a toy drive, with gift cards and cash donations given to a local organization. For more information, click here.
Sixth Annual Rosemary Beach Holiday Tour Of Homes | Rosemary Beach
Enjoy a self-guided walking tour of Rosemary Beach homes dressed up for the holidays. Get more details here.
Holiday Sip & Shop | Yoga By You Studio, Niceville
Celebrate the holiday season with the Holiday Sip & Shop market. Shop with local vendors and artisans, enjoy festive treats and jam to holiday music. The market is free to attend and open to everyone. Must be 21 and over for alcoholic beverages. Click here for additional information.
Scoops With Santa | Pink Coyote Dessert Co., Fort Walton Beach
Visit Santa and snap photos while building your own bouquets with Beachy Blooms, crafting dog tags and charm jewelry with Salty Hut, face painting and sipping hot cocoa. Donations benefit unpaid Okaloosa County school lunches. Visit this link for more.
Christmas ZOObilee | Gulf Breeze Zoo, Gulf Breeze
Visit the Gulf Breeze Zoo for the sixth annual Christmas ZOObilee, which includes winter-themed bounce stations; live music and entertainment; photos with Santa; and, the Candy Cane Market full of gifts, sights, smells and tastes of the season, including unique gifts from local artists and delicious holiday treats. This event takes place December 7-8 as well as December 14-15. See more here.
30A Ballet’s Annual Nutcracker | South Walton High School, Santa Rosa Beach
Enjoy a seasonal performance of The Nutcracker on December 7 and 8. Visit this link for additional details.
Cafe Thirty-A Christmas Charity Ball | Seagrove Beach
From 6- 10 p.m., the restaurant will be closed for this private event and transformed with festive holiday décor. Attendees will be greeted with complimentary valet and a glass of champagne to toast the evening. Inside, Café Thirty-A’s culinary team will be serving a plethora of hors d’oeuvres, including hand-rolled sushi, a dinner buffet featuring some of the restaurant’s signature dishes and a dessert spread. There will also be a cash bar, a DJ and a commemorative Epic Photo Co. photo booth. Guests are encouraged to dress in evening attire, black tie optional. The evening will boast a large silent auction featuring items from various local businesses, as well as a generous raffle package, with all proceeds benefiting Caring and Sharing of South Walton. For more details, click here.
Niceville-Vaparaiso Community Christmas Parade | Niceville
The 2024 Niceville-Valparaiso Community Christmas Parade will be held on Saturday, December 7, at 10 a.m. The theme this year is “The Magic of Christmas.” Follow this page for more details.
December 8
Winter Wonder Watersound | Inlet Beach
Celebrate the holiday season at Winter Wonder Watersound! Enjoy a meet and greet with Santa & Mrs. Claus, an improv show from The Rep Theatre, carolers, cookie decorating, letters to Santa and more! End the day with a viewing of a holiday favorite: “Elf.” This event is free and open to the public. View more details here.
Santa Paws: Bark Street Market | HarborWalk Village, Destin
Santa Paws is coming to town and is calling on all fur babies and pet parents. Bring out your pets for a free photo with Santa, and this year, enjoy the convenience of digital photo links—perfect for sharing and viewing on any device. Then, have yourself a merry little Pup Crawl as you stroll the village, checking out our Bark Street Market featuring local pet goodies such as treats, swag and more. Click here for more.
Santa Paws | AJ’s Grayton Beach
Bring your fur babies out for a delightful Sunday brunch in our outdoor courtyard and capture the magic with a photo taken with Santa. Enjoy live music, drink specials and adopt and foster information from Road Dogg Rescue. See more by clicking here.
December 11
Bethlehem Christmas Village | Capt. Anderson’s Marina, Panama City Beach
Visit the 12th annual Bethlehem Christmas Village, December 11-14, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., for a walk through ancient Bethlehem. Follow the path Mary and Joseph took as they strolled through town, looking for a place to sleep. Celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Son of God. Each night, a different charity will benefit from the “tax collector” booth in the form of a toy and food drive. For more information, click here.
December 13
Krampus Market – Holiday Maker Faire | Santa Rosa Mall, Mary Esther
The Krampus Market Holiday Maker Faire aims to promote small businesses and local artisans during the Festival of Fears Holiday Haunts event. This event will feature a holiday-themed haunted house, a bar & BYO hot cocoa station, two specialty gift shops, and more. Click here for more.
Scottish Christmas High Tea | Panama City Beach
Experience the charm of a traditional Scottish Christmas High Tea, a delightful afternoon gathering where guests enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches, scones, empire biscuits, and other sweet treats. Limited gluten-free options will be available. Accompanied by Celtic music and entertainment, this is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with friends and family. To find out more, click here.
December 14
Jolly Jubilee Holiday Festival | Destin Commons
Experience the joy of the holidays while surrounded by reindeer topiary, live musical performances, Christmas caroling, and, of course, the beloved 50-foot Christmas tree. Live music will take place throughout December. View the full line-up here.
Breakfast With Santa | The Island Resort, Okaloosa Island
Get into the holiday spirit with a delightful morning featuring a delicious breakfast buffet, special story time with Santa, and plenty of opportunities to take memorable photos with the big guy himself. Plus, kids can unleash their creativity at our cookie decorating station. Tickets are $30 for those 12 and older, $14 for children ages four to 11 and free for kids three and younger. Click here for more information.
Mistletoe Market | HarborWalk Village, Destin
Join in on two joyous days on the harbor! Enjoy the sights and sounds of the season while you browse the enchanting holiday market, finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list! Enjoy shopping at vendor tents, gift wrapping, festive drink samples and the Destin Boat Parade all in one weekend. Fireworks will conclude both day’s events on December 14-15. To see additional details, click here.
Movie Night with Billy Claus and The LuLuBelles | Lulu’s, Destin
Get ready for some holiday fun with the annual Billy Claus and The LuLuBelles appearance. The Billy Claus celebration is better than ever this year. Billy will “arrive in style” looking for that magic gumbo that keeps him warm and awake to make all his rounds. The LuLuBelles will tag along to show you the new and cozy “Billy Claus and the Spirit of Christmas Island” story-time reading corner. The event includes a kids’ craft corner. Click here for more information.
The Grinch In Concert | Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, Okaloosa Island
Bring the entire family to remember precisely why Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas has become an enduring classic celebration of the holiday spirit. Sinfonia Gulf Coast will perform James Horner’s beloved film score from Ron Howard’s award-winning film live as movie magic unfolds on the screen. Click here for more details.
Jolly Elf 30A Half Marathon And 5K | 30Avenue, Inlet Beach
Registration for the Jolly Elf 30A Half Marathon + 5K is now open. Officially, the Jolly Elf is a “virtual” race, offering both a traditional virtual race, which can be run literally anywhere in the world, and then a “common course” virtual race, where runners must run a specific half-marathon or specific 5K course, which, hence the name of the race, will be on a designated stretch of 30A. Register and acquire more details here.
December 15
38th Annual Holiday On The Harbor Boat Parade | Destin
Set sail into the holiday spirit at Destin’s 38th Annual Holiday on the Harbor Boat Parade. This cherished tradition, brought to you by The Destin History & Fishing Museum, lights up the Emerald Coast, bringing together locals and visitors for an evening of festive fun and community cheer. Witness the harbor come alive as beautifully decorated boats illuminate the night with dazzling lights and creative holiday displays. The event concludes with a fireworks finale. Explore more details here.
December 17
Christmas Ports & Tapas After-Dinner Holiday Event | Cuvee 30A, Inlet Beach
Indulge in a festive holiday gathering of friends and foodies featuring Warre’s, Graham’s and Smith Woodhouse Ports paired with gourmet tapas and seasonal sweets. Cuvee 30A presents an exclusive after-dinner Christmas event hosted by certified sommelier Liia Konovalova and Cuvee 30A owner Chef Tim Creehan. Plus, the first 10 guests to book an optional dinner upgrade will receive a limited special gift: a glass of prized 1970 Warre’s Vintage Port. For more details, visit this page.
December 18
Caroling at The Boardwalk | The Boardwalk, Okaloosa Island
Join the community for caroling at the Boardwalk, spreading holiday cheer with live performances. Visit this site for more details.
December 19
Murder Under The Mistletoe | Jackacuda’s Seafood & Sushi, Destin
Join Act4Mystery for dinner and a show! You’ll enjoy a delicious 3-course meal, and plenty of laughs at this hilarious performance. Make reservations online at www.act4mystery.com or call 850.862.2885 for additional information. Cost is $58 and includes dinner, show, tax and tip. Click here for additional details.
December 20
Dive-In Christmas Movie | The Island Resort, Okaloosa Island
Watch a holiday movie poolside at the Cabana Pool with a festive twist. Visit their website for more details.
December 22
Destin Commons Market Holiday Edition
Enjoy a festive open-air experience at the Destin Commons Farmers Market Holiday Edition. Destin’s small business scene brings you an array of unique art, handcrafted delights and more. Visit this site for more details.
December 27
Holiday Beach Cleanup | John Beasley Park, Fort Walton Beach
Join this volunteer event to help keep the beaches clean after the holiday season. Click here for more details.
December 31
Noon Year’s Eve | HarborWalk Village, Destin
Check out HarborWalk Village from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a morning packed with fun activities, creative crafts, a DJ dance party on the lawn and a unique daytime smoke-show firework display at noon to welcome 2025. View more details here.
Noon Year’s Eve | Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill, Destin
Noon Year’s Eve is a free, family-friendly event, complete with face painting, entertainment, a live DJ, food, alligators, and a prize-filled balloon drop at noon. For more details, visit this link.
New Year’s Eve | HarborWalk Village, Destin
Dance away 2024 with live entertainment happening on the main stage, beginning at 7 p.m. with Stranger Boy, followed by The New Royals at 9:30 p.m. Turn your eyes to the skies for a dazzling firework display over the harbor and shout along as we countdown the ball drop, welcoming a new year. This event is free and open to all. Click here for more information.
New Year’s Eve at Margaritaville | Destin
Ring in the new year at the world-famous Margaritaville. More details are available here.
New Year’s Eve Party | Soundside Waterfront Bar, Fort Walton Beach
Check out one of Fort Walton Beach’s newest waterfront hotspots with a New Year’s Eve celebration. Enjoy special cocktails and take in the fireworks. Click here for more information.
Baytowne Countdown | Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin
Enjoy an evening to remember with two breathtaking fireworks displays at 8 p.m. and midnight. Enjoy a family-friendly evening with face painting, kids’ activities, and live music on the Baytowne LIVE stage from 6 to 8 p.m. Later, dance the night away with live music from 7 p.m. until 1 a.m., featured on the Events Plaza Stage. This event is 21 and older after 10 p.m. Click here for more details.
Annual New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop | Pier Park, Panama City Beach
Join in the New Year’s Eve fun at the 2024 New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop in Pier Park. The family-friendly celebration starts with kids’ activities at 4 p.m., with the remainder starting at 5:35 p.m. featuring live music, shopping, food vendors and games and activities for the children. Get more details here.
New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise | Baytowne Marina, Miramar Beach
Enjoy a New Year’s Eve dinner cruise aboard Sunquest Cruises, exclusively for guests 21+. This 4.5-hour cruise aboard a 125′ yacht includes a four-course plated dinner, live entertainment, party favors and a midnight champagne toast as the fireworks display rings in the new year. Click here for more.
New Year’s Eve Dinner | Primrose, Destin
Elevate your New Year’s Eve with a spectacular dining experience that captures the essence of celebration, promising an unforgettable night of indulgence and glamour. Complimentary parking is available. Cost is $129 for adults and $39 for kids, and reservations are required. Click here for additional details.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks On The Beach | The Boardwalk, Okaloosa Island
Celebrate the beginning of a new year with fireworks on the beach and all your favorite foods from Rockin Tacos, The Crab Trap, Floyd’s and more. Get more details here.
Neon Nights New Year’s Eve Bash | Hotel Effie, Miramar Beach
Ring in 2025 with a burst of neon at Hotel Effie’s Neon Nights NYE Bash! Join in the fun at Ara Rooftop Pool & Lounge for an electrifying evening under the stars. With live DJ entertainment from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m., and a vibrant live performance, this is the place to be to count down to the new year. Click here for more.
Last updated: November 12, 2024
