Get pumped for festive fun in Santa Rosa Beach! Our guide has everything you need for the holidays. Whether Santa Rosa Beach is your backyard or a new destination, our guide reveals the top holiday activities.
One of the highlights during this season is the enchanting Nights of Lights at Baytowne Wharf, where the vibrant décor creates a truly magical atmosphere. Families can also enjoy the unique experience of Baytowne on Ice, featuring a lovely outdoor rink perfect for skating under the stars. And the Grand Boulevard Holiday ECTC Musical Revue is something you definitely don't want to miss, showcasing captivating performances that celebrate the spirit of the season. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Santa Rosa Beach
- Nights of Lights at Baytowne Wharf (Destin)
- Baytowne on Ice (Destin)
- Photos with Santa & Horse Drawn Carriages (Miramar Beach)
- Grand Boulevard Holiday ECTC Musical Revue, Photos with Santa & Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides (Miramar Beach)
- Jolly Jubilee (Destin)
- Holiday Lights in Concert (Destin)
- Emerald Coast Theatre Company: All is Calm: the Christmas Truce of 1914 (Miramar Beach)
- Free Beach Bonfire (Destin)
- Mistletoe Market (DeFuniak Springs)
- Polar Express Movie Night (Destin)
See these and even more events listed below!
Santa Rosa Beach Holiday Light Displays
Nights of Lights at Baytowne Wharf
What to Expect:
Dazzling light shows with three shows each night.
Description:
At Baytowne Wharf, enjoy a spectacular light show every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, featuring three dazzling shows each night, part of the special holiday edition of the Wednesday Night Concert Series.
Where: Destin | More Info: Nights of Lights at Baytowne Wharf
Holiday Lights in Concert
What to Expect:
Sip champagne and enjoy holiday lights and appetizers in a beautifully decorated village setting.
Description:
The Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights event at Baytowne Wharf features over 30 champagnes and delicious appetizers from local restaurants, accompanied by carolers and the first tree lighting of the season, culminating in Baytowne Wharf's choreographed light show, 12 Nights of Lights.
Where: Destin | More Info: Holiday Lights in Concert
Santa Rosa Beach Holiday Markets and Shopping
Mistletoe Market
What to Expect:
Weekly holiday market with local artisans and seasonal items.
Description:
The Mistletoe Market is an outdoor holiday market in Downtown DeFuniak Springs, featuring a variety of artisans lined down Baldwin Avenue. The market showcases gift ideas, delicious treats, and unique finds perfect for the holiday season.
Where: DeFuniak Springs | More Info: Mistletoe Market
Rosemary Beach Farmers Market
What to Expect:
Fresh, locally sourced products in a charming community setting.
Description:
The Rosemary Beach Farmers Market in Florida offers a variety of local produce, artisanal breads, cheeses, and specialty products every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the heart of Rosemary Beach.
Where: Rosemary Beach | More Info: Rosemary Beach Farmers Market
Gulf Place Farmers Market & Concert Series
What to Expect:
Live music performances by local bands.
Description:
The Gulf Place Farmers Market & Concert Series is an open-air market in Gulf Place, featuring local farmers, makers, and bakers, along with live music performances. Shoppers can browse through a delightful assortment of farm-fresh produce, vibrant flowers, artisanal baked goods, and refreshing juices. The event also includes a charming selection of home decor, handcrafted soaps, exquisite jewelry, and delightful gifts.
Where: Gulf Place | More Info: Gulf Place Farmers Market & Concert Series
Alaqua Animal Refuge Holiday Bazaar
What to Expect:
Unique gifts and artisan crafts available for holiday shopping.
Description:
Alaqua Animal Refuge's Holiday Bazaar offers a variety of unique gifts, artisan crafts, and delectable treats. Visit the Winter Wonderland section to find something special for everyone on your list. This event is a perfect place to embrace the joy of the holidays and treasure this season.
Where: Freeport | More Info: Alaqua Animal Refuge Holiday Bazaar
Peddlers Pavilion Farmers Market
What to Expect:
One-stop shop for local shopping and dining.
Description:
Peddlers Pavilion Farmers Market is an open-aired market in Seacrest Beach, Florida, offering a variety of local produce, artisanal goods, and delicious foods. Shoppers can browse antibiotic-free beef, homegrown vegetables and fruits, award-winning crab cakes, seafood, honey, and more. The market highlights local shopping, fabulous eateries, and live music.
Where: Santa Rosa Beach | More Info: Peddlers Pavilion Farmers Market
Seaside Farmers Market
What to Expect:
Community-driven market promoting sustainable farming practices.
Description:
The Seaside Farmers Market is a weekly event in the Seaside Amphitheater, offering fresh produce, baked goods, dairy products, and local specialties. It aims to educate the community about seasonality and sustainable farming practices, empowering people to make informed decisions about their health and the planet.
Where: Seaside | More Info: Seaside Farmers Market
Santa Rosa Beach Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Grand Boulevard Holiday ECTC Musical Revue, Photos with Santa & Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
What to Expect:
Holiday entertainment with musical performances and horse-drawn carriage rides.
Description:
Grand Boulevard offers a holiday celebration with an ECTC Musical Revue, Photos with Santa, and complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides around the Town Center. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and holiday lights while visiting exclusive shops and fine dining establishments.
Where: Miramar Beach | More Info: Grand Boulevard Holiday ECTC Musical Revue, Photos with Santa & Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
Polar Express Movie Night
What to Expect:
Outdoor screening of a classic holiday movie.
Description:
Watch a holiday favorite under the stars at the Polar Express movie night, held at the Events Plaza Lawn in Baytowne Wharf. Join us for a special showing of this beloved film.
Where: Destin | More Info: Polar Express Movie Night
Emerald Coast Theatre Company: All is Calm: the Christmas Truce of 1914
What to Expect:
Historical reenactment of WWI soldiers' Christmas truce.
Description:
All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 tells the true story of the first Christmas Eve of World War I, when soldiers across the Western Front laid down their weapons to celebrate Christmas together. This beautifully staged play with music brings these stories to life with traditional carols and patriotic songs, sung a cappella by a cast of 12, celebrating the unique way that the holiday season can bring us all together.
Where: Miramar Beach | More Info: Emerald Coast Theatre Company: All is Calm: the Christmas Truce of 1914
Tuba Christmas at Baytowne Wharf
What to Expect:
Holiday concert with tuba performances and Santa visits.
Description:
Tuba Christmas at Baytowne Wharf features a unique holiday event where attendees can enjoy their favorite holiday classics performed by tuba players, accompanied by visits from Santa Claus.
Where: Destin | More Info: Tuba Christmas at Baytowne Wharf
The Red Bar Jazz Band
What to Expect:
Live jazz music in a cozy beachside setting.
Description:
The Red Bar Jazz Band is a fixture at The Red Bar, featuring live music performances every Tuesday through Saturday from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm. The band's eclectic blend of jazz and local flavors creates a lively atmosphere perfect for a night out in Grayton Beach.
Where: Grayton Beach | More Info: The Red Bar Jazz Band
Baytowne Wharf Holiday Family Movie Night
What to Expect:
Free outdoor screening of a holiday classic.
Description:
Baytowne Wharf hosts a special showing of "The Polar Express" under the stars on the Events Plaza Lawn, offering a free and family-friendly holiday experience.
Where: Destin | More Info: Baytowne Wharf Holiday Family Movie Night
Sand Ole' Opry w/ Mike Whitty & Friends @ The Bay
What to Expect:
Live music and family-friendly atmosphere.
Description:
Join Mike Whitty and Friends every Sunday from 4-8 p.m. at The Bay for an evening of live music and Southern charm.
Where: Destin | More Info: Sand Ole' Opry w/ Mike Whitty & Friends @ The Bay
Baytowne Wednesday Night Concert Series Holiday Edition + Santa
What to Expect:
Holiday concerts with Santa visits.
Description:
The Baytowne Wednesday Night Concert Series Holiday Edition + Santa features live music performances by local and regional artists, including the Fort Walton Beach High School Choir, Alissa Steffens Vocal Studios, and Matt McCarty Band. Each concert takes place at the Village of Baytowne Wharf and is free and open to the public.
Where: Destin | More Info: Baytowne Wednesday Night Concert Series Holiday Edition + Santa
Wild Christmas
What to Expect:
Dazzling light and animal encounters.
Description:
Wild Adventures Christmas Wild & Bright features over 2 million dazzling lights, a mesmerizing Carol Animals Lake Show, and immersive encounters with exotic animals.
Where: Destin | More Info: Wild Christmas
SINGO
What to Expect:
Interactive singing competition with prizes.
Description:
SINGO at Buffalo Wings & Rings in Fort Walton Beach is a fun, interactive game night where participants sing popular songs and compete for prizes.
Where: Fort Walton Beach | More Info: SINGO
Santa Rosa Beach Holiday Giving Opportunities
Café Thirty-A Charity Christmas Ball
What to Expect:
Exclusive silent auction and raffle package benefiting local families.
Description:
Café Thirty-A's Charity Christmas Ball is a sophisticated evening benefiting Caring and Sharing of South Walton, featuring a variety of hors d'oeuvres, a dinner buffet, and a dessert spread. The event includes a silent auction, raffle package, and commemorative photo booth, all set amidst festive holiday décor.
Where: Santa Rosa Beach | More Info: Café Thirty-A Charity Christmas Ball
Santa Rosa Beach Other Holiday Activities
Baytowne on Ice
What to Expect:
Seasonal ice rink for holiday skating.
Description:
Baytowne on Ice is a seasonal ice rink at The Village of Baytowne Wharf, offering a chance to enjoy winter activities and share holiday traditions. Skaters must be at least 3 years old and fit into appropriately sized skates. Children under 6 must be accompanied by a parent or adult family member.
Where: Destin | More Info: Baytowne on Ice
Jolly Jubilee
What to Expect:
Interactive art installations and family-friendly activities.
Description:
Destin Commons offers a vibrant and interactive experience with immersive art installations, a Luckey Climber playground, and a variety of restaurants and shops. The center hosts various events, including the Halloween Haunt and the Mac & Cheese Festival, which cater to all ages and interests.
Where: Destin | More Info: Jolly Jubilee
Photos with Santa & Horse Drawn Carriages
What to Expect:
Complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides amidst festive holiday lights.
Description:
Visit Grand Boulevard for complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides around the Town Center, surrounded by the Coastal White Christmas lights.
Where: Miramar Beach | More Info: Photos with Santa & Horse Drawn Carriages
Free Beach Bonfire
What to Expect:
Free beach bonfire with s'mores and drink specials.
Description:
Join us every Friday at Royal Palm Grille for a free beach bonfire at sunset. Enjoy s'mores, drink specials, and a full menu including sushi and sandwiches. Chairs are provided, but feel free to bring your own. No outside food or drink, please.
Where: Destin | More Info: Free Beach Bonfire
Locals on the Harbor
What to Expect:
Free beer and community support.
Description:
Join us at Locals on the Harbor for a free beer event every First Friday from 5-7 PM, with donations benefiting Road Dogg Rescue.
Where: Destin | More Info: Locals on the Harbor
Run Destin Night
What to Expect:
Weekly community-run event at City Food Hall.
Description:
Run Destin Night is a weekly event where participants gather at City Food Hall in Destin Commons for a fun run, fostering community and exercise.
Where: Destin | More Info: Run Destin Night
Music Bingo
What to Expect:
Interactive music recognition game with house prizes.
Description:
Singo Music Bingo is a lively game where participants mark song titles on their cards as short clips play, with the first to get five in a row shouting "Singo" winning the round.
Where: Destin | More Info: Music Bingo
Grand Boulevard Farmers Market
What to Expect:
Fresh, locally sourced produce and gourmet foods.
Description:
Grand Boulevard Farmers Market is a weekly event held every Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM at Grand Park in Grand Boulevard Towne Center. It offers a variety of fresh produce, local seafood, artisan bread, homemade pasta, and gourmet foods. The market also features organic juices, teas, and roasted coffee beans, as well as pet treats and handmade soaps.
Where: Miramar Beach | More Info: Grand Boulevard Farmers Market
Rosemary Beach Holiday Tour of Homes
What to Expect:
Self-guided walking tour of holiday-decorated homes.
Description:
Join the Rosemary Beach Holiday Tour of Homes on Saturday, December 7th, 2024, for a self-guided walking tour through stunning homes decorated for the holidays. This event is hosted by the Rosemary Beach Foundation in partnership with Rosemary Beach Realty and Rosemary Beach Cottage Rental Company.
Where: Rosemary Beach | More Info: Rosemary Beach Holiday Tour of Homes
DeFuniak Christmas Tour of Homes
What to Expect:
Tour historic homes and buildings in DeFuniak Springs.
Description:
Explore historic DeFuniak Springs during the Christmas Tour of Homes, featuring selected homes and attractions in the large historic district.
Where: DeFuniak Springs | More Info: DeFuniak Christmas Tour of Homes
Merry & Bright : A Sandestin Gourmet Holiday Fest
What to Expect:
Gourmet holiday food tastings and festive activities.
Description:
Join Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort for a gourmet holiday celebration featuring holiday food tastings, a coffee bar, non-alcoholic beverages, kids' craft corner, and photos with Santa.
Where: Miramar Beach | More Info: Merry & Bright : A Sandestin Gourmet Holiday Fest
Grayt Santa Pub Crawl
What to Expect:
Holiday-themed bar crawl with live music and costume contests.
Description:
The Grayt Santa Pub Crawl is a festive holiday event in Grayton Beach, featuring a bar crawl with good food and drink, live bands, and DJs at each stop. Participants can enjoy free shuttle rides and costume contests with big prizes for the most naughty Santa, most nice Santa, and most collaborative group costume.
Where: Grayton Beach | More Info: Grayt Santa Pub Crawl
Wreaths Across America Ceremony
What to Expect:
Honoring veterans through wreath-laying ceremonies.
Description:
The Wreaths Across America Ceremony honors fallen veterans by laying remembrance wreaths on their graves, fostering a sense of community and respect for those who have served.
Where: Destin | More Info: Wreaths Across America Ceremony
Cajun Christmas / Photos with Santa
What to Expect:
Holiday celebration in a zoo setting
Description:
Meet Santa and his reptilian helper at ZooWorld's annual Cajun Christmas celebration. Enjoy photos with Santa and his furry zoo friends, and experience a unique holiday event in a zoo setting.
Where: Panama City Beach | More Info: Cajun Christmas / Photos with Santa
Breakfast With Santa
What to Expect:
Full breakfast buffet and holiday crafts with Santa visits.
Description:
Join us for a special breakfast event at Henderson Beach Resort, featuring a full breakfast buffet, holiday crafts, and visits with Santa Claus. Reservations are required, and complimentary parking is available.
Where: Destin | More Info: Breakfast With Santa
Festive Cocktails Class
What to Expect:
Interactive cocktail-making experience with expert mixologists.
Description:
Join our hands-on cocktail class led by expert mixologists, where you'll learn about cocktail history, methods of preparation, and taste the creations you build together. Lite bites included.
Where: Rosemary Beach | More Info: Festive Cocktails Class
Bingo Night
What to Expect:
Community-driven bingo night with local participation.
Description:
Join the American Legion Post 296 for a night of bingo fun, where locals gather to play and socialize in a community-driven event.
Where: Destin | More Info: Bingo Night
Visit With Santa
What to Expect:
Free holiday photos with Santa.
Description:
Visit Santa at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s for a special holiday photo opportunity. Santa will be available starting November 5th, and reservations can be made up to seven days in advance. Each location may have specific requirements for walk-ins and pets, so it's best to contact the store directly for more information.
Where: Destin | More Info: Visit With Santa
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Fort Walton Beach (23 miles)
- Wright (25 miles)
- Crestview (32 miles)
- Lynn Haven (36 miles)
- Panama City (38 miles)
- Navarre (38 miles)