Christmas on the Emerald Coast

If you're looking for an amazing getaway and a way to experience a different kind of Christmas, head to the Emerald Coast! We've created a bucket list of the top 10 things to do while you're here to celebrate the season:

Destin Commons Christmas Tree Lighting and Fireworks

Enjoy free face painting, free photos with Rudolph & Frosty, as well as a holiday photo booth while you listen to festive tunes. On November 26th at 7pm, sit back and marvel at the holiday parade as Santa arrives on Main Street to light 50 feet of the most spectacular Christmas tree on the Emerald Coast, followed by a firework finale!

Baytowne Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights at Sandestin

Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights will take place on November 19th on the beautifully decorated streets of Baytowne Wharf and feature more than 30 champagnes and delicious appetizers at featured Village restaurants. The event will end with the first tree lighting of the season and Baytowne Wharf's choreographed light show, 12 Nights of Lights.

Movie on the Lawn: The Polar Express

Bring blankets, chairs, and your picnic supplies to enjoy this classic holiday film, Polar Express, in 3D under the stars on November 25th at 6pm at the Events plaza at Baytowne Wharf. Free popcorn provided!

Santa’s Arrival and Fireworks at Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin

Get in the winter spirit with us during our Here Comes Santa event on November 26th. Cheer Santa on as he makes his way through Baytowne and watch as he lights our Village tree! Enjoy face-painting, kids crafts, and a beautiful fireworks display!

Baytowne Wharf Wednesday Night Concert Series Holiday Edition

Get in the winter spirit with and listen to some of your favorite holiday classics at Baytowne Wharf. Every Wednesday this December, enjoy a Holiday edition of the Wednesday Night Concert Series. Each concert will feature a festive choreographed light show and visits with Santa.This series is FREE and open to the public!

Ice Skating Extravaganza at Baytowne Wharf

Baytowne on Ice is hosting its annual Ice Skating Extravaganza! The event will feature two performances by professional ice skaters on Friday, December 2nd at 6:00pm & 7:30pm. Both shows are free. For those visitors who want to try ice skating, their seasonal ice rink,Baytowne on Ice, is the perfect opportunity.

Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl at Harborwalk Village

Drink and be merry with a game of drink specials bingo, live music, and an Ugly Sweater Contest! The Pub Crawl begins at 6pm at Harborwalk Village.

Breakfast with Santa at Emerald Grande in Destin

Enjoy a joyous Breakfast with Santa on December 11th, 17th, 18th, or 19th from 8:00am to 12:00pm in the Grande Ballroom of Emerald Grande. Featuring a festive buffet of the Grinch's Fruit Kabob Station, Cindy Lou Who's breakfast items, Whoville Bakery, and Max's Donut Station! Enjoy a Create your own Christmas Chow Station, Letters to Santa, and Visits with Santa.

Destin Harbor Lighted Christmas Boat Parade and Fireworks

The 2022 Destin Boat Parade will take place on Sunday, December 11th starting at 6pm. Boat owners decorate their vessels with elaborate Christmas lights and decorations to participate in the parade. After the boat parade, there is a fireworks display for all to enjoy.

Baytowne on Ice

Dust off those skates and get in the winter spirit at The Village of Baytowne Wharf's Baytowne on Ice. For those visitors who miss the cold and ice, the seasonal ice rink is the perfect opportunity to share some of your favorite holiday traditions.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your visit to the Destin area so you can experience the Emerald Coast during the winter holidays. Stay in one of our Miramar Beach vacation rentals for a memorable experience. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or need accommodations for a holiday family celebration, you'll find we have what you're looking for.