Although Destin may not have snow and freezing temperatures, our coastal community celebrates the holiday season with a variety of events and decor that both visitors and locals look forward to every year. From twinkling lights and traditional parades to visits with Santa and classic carolers, here are some festive things to do in Destin this holiday season:

Santa’s Arrival and Tree Lighting
Destin Commons
Friday, November 21
Enjoy a magical holiday celebration from 6pm – 8pm with family-friendly activities such as face painting, complimentary photo booth pics, balloon sculpting, and parade featuring Fort Walton High School, Destin High School, Northwest Florida Jazz Band, and more local favorites. Plus Santa will be there to light the 50’ Christmas tree! For more festive fun, Jolly Jubilee takes place from November 21 – December 21 and features a variety of live performances including the Emerald Coast Theatre Company, Emerald Coast Chorus and more.

Hometown Holiday Parade
Grand Boulevard
Friday, November 21
This festive event begins at 5pm and features an old-fashioned holiday parade down the Boulevard, hot chocolate bar, live holiday music, the lighting of the Grand Boulevard Christmas Tree, and a visit from Santa! You can also enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, breathtaking lights and beautifully decorated trees as you get a head start on holiday shopping. Click here to learn about more holiday happenings at Grand Boulevard, such as the Festival of Trees and Coastal Christmas Celebration events from December 18 – 23.

Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights
The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Saturday, November 22
From 4pm to 6pm, stroll streets lined in twinkling lights and greenery, as you sip a variety of champagnes and taste featured menu items from various Village restaurants. The event also features carolers, 30+ champagnes, delicious appetizers and Baytowne Wharf’s choreographed light show, Nights of Lights. Purchase tickets here.

The Nutcracker Ballet
Seaside
Sunday, November 23
Kick off the holiday season with Ballet Pensacola’s performance of The Nutcracker on the Amphitheater Stage in Seaside. The performance begins at 5pm and seating in the grass is first-come, first-served. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to this complimentary event!

Seaside Holiday Parade & Turn on the Town
Saturday, November 29
The parade will begin in Seagrove Plaza at 3pm and make its way down 30A, spreading cheer as it heads toward Central Square. Gather along the route to watch as festive floats, jolly performers, and Santa light up the afternoon. Stick around for the “Turn on the Town” ceremony at 5pm, when the square and town will be illuminated with dazzling holiday lights. Santa will also be available for photos throughout December, so click here for the full schedule.

Santa’s Arrival & Grand Tree Lighting at HarborWalk Village
Friday, November 28: Grande Tree Lighting Ceremony
Kick off the holiday season at HarborWalk Village starting at 4pm as as they light up the Grande Christmas Tree! The event will feature carolers and a festive hot chocolate bar as the Destin Harbor glows with holiday cheer. The Celebration continues with the Black Friday Sip & Shop from 5pm to 8pm. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season in style!

Saturday, November 29: Santa’s Arrival
Santa will make his grand entrance with a parade beginning at 12:30pm. It will feature the Village Brass Band, a merry group of elves, stilt-walkers, festive performers, and more holiday surprises. Stop by from 1pm to 4pm for photos with Santa! Can’t make it? Santa will also be there every Saturday & Sunday from 1pm to 4pm November 29 through December 21.

Here Comes Santa Claus
The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Saturday, November 29
Cheer Santa on as he makes his way to the Event Plaza Lawn to light up the Village Christmas Tree! This free event in Sandestin takes place from 6pm to 9pm and features face-painting, kids crafts, and a beautiful fireworks display! The Village of Baytowne Wharf will also be hosting a variety of holiday activities in December including an ice skating rink, light shows, movie nights, visits with Santa and more. Click here for the full calendar.

30A Holiday Market
Peddler’s Pavilion 30A
Monday, December 1
Located at Peddler’s Pavilion (between Rosemary Beach and Alys Beach on 30A), this holiday market takes place from 10am to 5pm and features local artists, makers, and creatives. Support small businesses as you find the perfect gifts.

Santa Paws: Bark Street Market
HarborWalk Village
Sunday, December 7
Calling all pet parents! Bring out your pets for a photo with Santa from 1pm to 4pm. Then stroll the harbor and browse the Bark Street Market featuring local pet goodies including a DIY Treat Station. You’ll be sure to find the perfect gift for your furry friend! 

Destin Christmas Parade
U.S. 98
Saturday, December 13
This is one of the most popular events for families and locals! The theme for the City of Destin’s 41st annual Christmas Parade is “Seashells and Sleigh Bells.” Bystanders should stand on the north side of Harbor Boulevard (U.S. 98) to watch the parade, which begins at 10am. The parade route begins at the Destin Methodist Church parking lot, travels down Beach Drive, and then west down Harbor Boulevard (U.S. 98) to Stahlman Avenue.

Mistletoe Market
HarborWalk Village
December 13 & 14
With a variety of vendors, free gift-wrapping, festive drink samples, and seasonal decor, this is the perfect way to finish up your holiday shopping. The Mistletoe Market will run both days from Noon to 8pm and offer visits with Santa from 1pm to 4pm.

Destin Boat Parade
Destin Harbor
Sunday, December 14
One of my favorite holiday traditions is the Destin Boat Parade! Boats big and small are festively decorated with lights and holiday decor as they float down the Destin Harbor. Beginning at Harbor Docks, the parade will travel westward through the Harbor, floating past the various restaurants and docks that line the coast and ending at HarborWalk Village. The boats set sail at 6pm and culminates with a fireworks show over the Harbor.