Seaside is a charming coastal community about 25 miles east of Destin known for its picturesque town square, iconic Coleman Pavilion, and pastel-colored cottages. As a Destin local, I don’t venture this way during spring break or summer because of the crowds and traffic, but we love to enjoy this 30A landmark during the off-season! Seaside offers a variety of holiday-themed events, festive decor, Christmas performances, and more family-friendly experiences. Here are a few of my favorite things to do in Seaside during the holiday season. It’s definitely worth a little day trip if you’re visiting Destin this December.
1. Holiday Parade
Kick off the holiday season with a festive parade! Typically held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, the parade starts in Seagrove Plaza and makes its way down 30A spreading Christmas cheer as it heads toward Central Square. Gather along the route to watch as Santa, festive floats, and jolly performers light up the afternoon. Then stick around for the Turn on the Town ceremony where Santa himself lights up Seaside, illuminating the square and town with dazzling holiday lights.
2. Pop-Up Christmas Bar at Daytrader
Looking for a festive Christmas cocktail? The Miracle pop-up bar at The Daytrader offers festive drinks in their signature holiday glassware (like unicorn mugs, Christmas carol barrel, and dinosaurs wearing Santa hats). Plus the restaurant is all decked out in Christmas decor.
3. Holiday Market & Farmers Markets
The Seaside Farmers Market takes place year-round on Saturdays from 9am to 1pm. Local farmers and artisans set up around Central Square, so you can browse for gifts, produce, baked goods and more! Seaside also hosted a 2-day Holiday Market this year where you could shop from local businesses and creators who sold everything from pottery to pictures.
4. Festive Decor & Photo Ops
This beach town transforms into a winter wonderland (well, minus the snow) with beautiful wreaths, garlands, colorful nutcrackers, and more. When the sun sets, the twinkling lights on the cottages and trees create a peaceful and magical atmosphere that’s perfect for evening strolls.
5. Quiet Beaches & Public Access From Coleman Pavilion
While you might not be swimming in December, the beautiful white sand beaches are perfect for relaxing walks, bundling up for a bonfire, or just enjoying the serene views of the Gulf of Mexico. The iconic Coleman Pavilion, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Seaside, also allows public beach access without needing to reserve a chair and umbrella rental (unlike in the summer).
6. Dining Without Crazy Long Waits
Whether you want shrimp and grits, barbecue, a sweet treat, or a cozy cup of coffee, Seaside offers a variety of great restaurants. Winter is the best time of year to enjoy these delicious eateries since there aren’t as many tourists in town. Here are some of my favorites:
- Great Southern Cafe (I love the Grits à Ya Ya pictured below)
- Black Bear Bread Co. (breakfast, pastries, coffee, sandwiches and more)
- Amavida Coffee + Donuts
- Bud & Alleys waterfront restaurant and rooftop bar with Gulf views
- The Daytrader Tiki Bar and Restaurant
- Air Stream Row serving grilled cheese sandwiches, gyros, barbecue, and more.
7. Photos with Santa
There are multiple opportunities to get photos with Santa. Bring your little ones for a festive, picture-perfect experience where Santa himself will be waiting to hear their holiday wishes. The 2024 dates are December 13 – 19 from 4pm to 6pm. The photos are complimentary, so bring the whole family and create lasting memories in their winter wonderland!
8. Finish Your Holiday Shopping
Seaside is home to boutique shops and one-of-a-kind stores. Whether you’re looking for a unique Christmas gift, beach-inspired holiday decor, or hand-crafted souvenirs, Central Square offers a refreshing alternative to malls and Amazon.
- Sundog Books offers something for everyone, even non-readers, with a great selection of gift items, 30A souvenirs, and, of course, great reads. There’s also a record store upstairs.
- The Art of Simple has a variety of home decor, cute kitchen accessories, beauty products, locally made candles and more.
- Duckies is a whimsical store full of toys, beach gear, fun gifts, kids’ clothing, and more.
- Bump + Baby boasts clothes, accessories, and gifts for babies and moms-to-be. It carries the best baby lines including The Beaufort Bonnet Company, Kyte Baby, Jelly Cat, Freshly Picked, Mudpie, and Magnetic Me. This store is also home to the official SEASIDE® logo tees & hats up to 4T.
9. Holiday Performances & Entertainment
There are a lot of shows throughout the holiday season in Seaside. The Nutcracker is performed on the Amphitheater Stage by Ballet Pensacola in November. This timeless tradition is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Bundle up and bring your lawn chairs and blankets to sit on the grass and enjoy this complimentary event.
The REP Theatre puts on a complimentary performance called “Every Christmas Story Ever Told.” This show takes place in front of the Seaside Post Office and blends your favorite holiday classics into one show featuring The Grinch, Rudolph, It’s A Wonderful Life, A Christmas Carol, and more! There are multiple performances throughout the month of December (primarily Friday – Sunday at 11am).
10. NYE Celebration
Ring in the new year with live music, a fireworks show, and more! Kids will love the crafts and face painting. Plus Central Square offers plenty of space for children to run around while parents enjoy the festive atmosphere (and maybe a to-go drink from The C-Bar). The fun begins at 4pm and culminates with a fireworks show from the Gulf at 9pm.
From charming holiday markets to Christmas cocktails and festive events, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the holidays in Seaside, Florida. Whether you’re a lifelong local or first-time visitor, Seaside offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable Christmas experience. My toddlers were entertained for hours, so we are definitely making it a tradition in our family!
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