Holiday Festivities on the Emerald and Forgotten Coasts

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things to do, Forgotten Coast, Travel Trends, Emerald Coast

Holiday Festivities on the Emerald and Forgotten Coasts

Published on Oct 21, 2026

Swap blustery days of snow and sleet for sunny beach fun and local holiday cheer! Whether you’re looking to kick off the snowbird season or hoping to escape the chill for the holidays, the Emerald Coast and the Forgotten Coast offer the ultimate opportunity for family fun and relaxation!

Annual Turkey Trots, spectacular lighting ceremonies, holiday movies, carols, and Santa sightings—there are plenty of festive celebrations to enjoy alongside the Gulf views and pristine beaches. So pack your bags and embrace the warmth of the season without the cold weather!

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Destin Events

November 14, 1-4 p.m. | HarborWalk Village

This anticipated fall event transforms HarborWalk Village into a soulful oasis filled with good food, craft drinks, and live blues music—all enjoyed against the waterfront view! Get your tickets now for the most delicious afternoon of the year.

November 20, 6-8 p.m. | Destin Commons

Experience the magic of the season as Santa parades down Main Street and lights up the Destin Commons’ Christmas tree during this annual event. With a stunning fireworks display, it’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit!

November 21, 4-6 p.m. | Baytowne Wharf

Sip on sparkling wine as you enjoy the twinkling lights and decked-out holiday displays of Baytowne Wharf. The event features delicious appetizers, more than 30 champagnes, and a choreographed light show at the end of the night! Scoop up your tickets while they’re still available.

November 27, 4:30-5:30 p.m. | HarborWalk Village

Enjoy the spectacle as the Grande Tree Lighting Ceremony brings warmth and light to the holiday season!

November 27, starting at 6 p.m. | Baytowne Wharf - Events Plaza Lawn.

Gather the family for a night under the stars watching the holiday classic, The Polar Express.

November 28, 6–9 p.m. | Baytowne Wharf - The Village

Cheer on Santa Claus as he ambles down Baytown Lane to light up the Village Christmas Tree! Event festivities include face painting, kids' crafts, and a spectacular fireworks display for a magical holiday experience.

November 28, 1-4 p.m. | Harborwalk Village

Each year, Santa’s grand entrance at Harborwalk Village kicks off the festive season! Bring the family for an afternoon of holiday fun and lifelong memories—and be sure to grab a picture with Santa, available each weekend until Christmas!

Wednesday nights from December 2-16, 6–8 p.m. | Baytowne Wharf

Every Wednesday night, enjoy local choirs, sing-along classics, and a special appearance from Santa!

December 3, 6-8 p.m. | Destin Community Center

Enjoy the coastal air while savoring the holiday spirit at this family-friendly event! Catch sight of Santa and cheer as the City of Destin lights its Christmas tree for the season.

December 6, 5-7 p.m. | HarborWalk Village

Gather around the main stage and celebrate the beginning of Chanukah with a special Menorah lighting ceremony, traditional treats, music, and more!

December 11 & 18, 5–7 p.m. | Baytowne Wharf - The Village

Sprinkle in a little family fun and mischief for the holidays with this community event, where guests can meet the Grinch and then catch a showing of the 2018 movie on the big screen!

December 12, starting at 10 a.m. | Destin

Revel in the festivity as decked-out floats and merry marching bands roll down Highway 98 for the annual Destin Christmas Parade—this year’s theme is “Merry Christmas, America.”

December 12, 5–7 p.m. | Baytowne Wharf - The Village

Enjoy your favorite holiday tunes performed by tubas at this family-friendly event. The quirky spirit is sure to leave a smile on your face, and we know Santa will be in attendance!

December 13, 12-8 p.m.

Make your holiday shopping an unforgettable experience at the annual Mistletoe Market, filled with unique gifts, handcrafted goods, and seasonal treats. Afterward, be sure to catch the spectacular Destin Boat Parade and fireworks over the harbor!

December 31, 11 a.m.– 2 p.m. | Destin Harbor

Three celebrations and a legendary New Year await at Destin Harbor! A family-friendly celebration kicks off the day’s festivities with a noon firecracker show. Later in the evening, the Harbor ball drop welcomes the start of 2027 with 2 bands and firework shows at 8 p.m. and midnight!

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Miramar Beach Events

November 20, 5-7 p.m. | Grand Boulevard

Kick off the season with this classic holiday parade, filled with colorful floats, performances from local high school bands, sports and dance teams, and a special appearance from Santa Claus! After the parade, enjoy the enchanting Christmas tree lighting ceremony, complete with faux snow.

Every Tuesday from December 1- 22, 6–7 p.m. | Grand Boulevard

Celebrate the seasonal spirit with a rotating lineup of local holiday musical performers every Tuesday at Grand Boulevard.

December 4, 4- 7:30 p.m. | Grand Boulevard

Relish the seasonal spirit as you browse through a collection of beautifully adorned Christmas trees—and don’t forget to cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award!

December 4, 4–8 p.m. | Grand Boulevard

Add a little bubbly to your holiday browsing with exclusive in-store champagne tastings and style sessions. An incredible live music performance caps off the festive evening!

December 5, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. | Grand Boulevard

A holiday twist on Grand Boulevard’s beloved Farmer’s Market, meander through a curated artisan market filled with unique gifts, jewelry, art, crafts, live music, and more!

30A Events

November 5-8 | Seaside

Raise a toast to the 34th year of the Seeing Red Wine Festival! Mingle with wine lovers as you enjoy curated menus, delicious wine tastings, and help crown the champion of the Battle of the Somms. Grab your tickets now before the event sells out!

November 14, 1-4 p.m. | Rosemary Beach

A delight for the tastebuds, enjoy exquisite wines from a fabulous lineup of vintners and wine labels alongside professionally paired culinary creations as you wander the beautiful cobblestone lanes of Rosemary Beach. Tickets are available now!

November 26 7:30 a.m. | Rosemary Beach

Lace up your running shoes and take part in this active Thanksgiving tradition, which has raised over $1 million for charity partners. Runners can choose from the scenic 10k, 5k, or 1-mile fun run along 30A. After, join in the celebration at Barrett Square. Registration is open, but spots go quickly!

November 27, starting at 7 p.m. | Seaside Amphitheater

What Winter season would be complete without a viewing of The Grinch, starring Jim Carrey? Join the fun and bundle up beneath the starry sky at the Seaside Amphitheater to watch this holiday classic.

November 27, 4–6:30 p.m. | Alys Beach Amphitheatre

Get into the holiday spirit with this family-friendly event! Showcase your artistry at the cookie decorating station ($3) or get your face painted. Little ones can write a letter to Santa before taking a photo with the man himself, a keepsake you’ll cherish forever ($3). The whole night culminates in a magical holiday concert and a stunning tree-lighting ceremony.

November 28, starting at 8 a.m. | Grayton Beach State Park

Register early for this annual scenic experience! Both routes take participants through the gorgeous trails at Grayton Beach State Park, and all registered runners who cross the finish line will receive an award!

November 28, 3–8 p.m. | Seaside Amphitheater

Drawing families across the Emerald Coast, this annual event turns iconic Seaside into a Winter wonderland! The day starts with Santa’s jolly parade down Scenic 30A to the Seaside Amphitheater. There, the countdown begins for the whole town to light up in holiday cheer! Enjoy classic carols, face painting, food stalls, and holiday browsing in the local shops.

November 28, 3-9 p.m. | Cerulean Park

This family-favorite event returns for its 19th year in WaterColor! Explore a magical holiday market, complete with a visit from Santa, to kick off the festive season.

December 5 and 6, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. | Seaside

Browse the wares of local artisans, unique makers, and other festive creators while you enjoy the holiday atmosphere at Seaside’s Holiday Market.

December 12-24, 4–6 p.m. | Seaside

Enjoy a picture-perfect visit with Santa at Seaside’s enchanting Christmas Village—and be sure to tell him what’s on your list!

December 19, 8-10 a.m. | Marina Park

Enjoy a holiday dash through WaterColor’s trails with the second annual Reindeer Fun Run 5k! The race is noncompetitive and supports the Children’s Volunteer Health Network. Register now and get ready to sprint (or walk) into the holiday cheer!

December 31, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Alys Beach Amphitheatre

This family-friendly New Year’s celebration is perfect for little ones and early risers. Ring in 2027 with live music, bubble machines, crafts, face painting, and more!

December 31, 4–9 p.m. | Seaside Central Square

Celebrate the New Year with live music, family-friendly activities, and an awe-inspiring fireworks show over the Gulf in beautiful Seaside.

December 31, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. | The Big Chill

Catch the college football bowl games on the Jumbotron and ring in 2027 with a spirited beach ball drop during halftime!

Panama City Beach Events

November 12, 4 p.m. | Pier Park to Boardwalk Beach Hotel

Line the streets and cheer on the Warrior Beach Retreat Parade, a semi-annual event honoring combat-wounded warriors and their loved ones.

November 12-14, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Aaron Bessant Park

Take a break from the beach and stroll through thousands of classic and muscle cars, hot rods, and other automobiles on display while enjoying live music and more. Tickets are on sale now.

November 12-16 | Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort

Start your holiday shopping early at the Holly Fair, a 4-day shopping experience with top merchants, artisans, and plenty of festive flair!

November 27-28 | Aaron Bessant Park

Embrace the start of the season with carol-themed concerts, gooey s’mores, a magical Christmas tree lighting, and, of course, an appearance from Santa!

December 5, 7 a.m. | Pier Park

This community event invites runners to race through paradise with a marathon, half marathon, 5k, and kids' fun run! The 26.2-mile race brings thousands to the area each year and is a qualifying timed event for major races. If you’re hoping to join, register today!

December 12, 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Panama City Marina

Sail into the holidays with this cherished community tradition! Each year, viewers watch as boats decked in dazzling Christmas lights and decorations parade through St. Andrews Bay. The event also includes holiday-themed vendors, music, and a visit from Santa.

December 31, starting at 4 p.m. | Pier Park Drive and Aaron Bessant Park

One of the most popular New Year’s Even countdowns on the Emerald Coast, this event has something for everyone—a kid fun zone in Aaron Bessant Park opens at 4 p.m. with an 8 p.m. beach ball drop, so little ones can celebrate the new year before bed! Over at Pier Park Drive, the festivities continue until midnight, with a second beach ball drop and fireworks to end the night—and start the year in spectacular fashion!

Couple walking through Rosemary Beach surrounded by decorated trees

Forgotten Coast Events

November 21, 8 a.m.–1 p.m. | Port St. Joe

Enjoy holiday décor, baked treats, and take a selfie with Santa while browsing for handmade gifts at this festive community event.

November 26, starting at 8 a.m. | Under the Palms Park

All ages can participate in this Thanksgiving Day race—so gather the family and kick off the holidays with a run, jog, or walk! Hosted by Special Events for Mexico Beach, registration funds help support the community's July 4th festivities.

December 7 | Parker Park

Kick off the holiday season in Mexico Beach at this festive community event, starting with fabulous live music and the arrival of the traditional Golf Cart Parade, followed by a tree-lighting ceremony and a special Santa Claus appearance!

December 12, 6pm | Port St. Joe

Join in the holly jolly fun at this annual Port St. Joe parade. After the final festive float rolls past, be sure to visit Santa at the Cape San Blas Lighthouse!

December 31, TBD | Port St. Joe - Bay Waterfront

A colorful firework display over the glistening waters of St. Joesph’s Bay starts the new year off in spectacular fashion!

Enjoy a magical Winter season with 360 Blue

Ready to experience the charm of a Winter on the coast and Christmas by the beach? Our vast collection of rentals has the perfect match for you and your loved ones—whether it’s a heated pool, Gulf views, or a fabulous location near the heart of your chosen community.

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