Christmas on 30A 2026: Holiday Events, Markets & New Year's Eve Guide
Your local guide to Christmas lights, tree lightings, holiday markets, Santa sightings, family activities, and New Year's Eve celebrations along 30A and South Walton.
Updated November 7, 2026
Christmas on 30A looks a little different. We trade snow-covered streets for white sand, winter coats for the occasional sweater, and somehow manage to squeeze Christmas trees and palm trees into the same landscape.
And I wouldn't have it any other way.
From the beautifully decorated streets of Rosemary Beach and Alys Beach to the charming holiday traditions in Seaside, Grayton Beach, and beyond, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate the season here.
Whether you're a local looking to fill your December calendar or visiting 30A for the holidays, I've put together a guide to the Christmas events, holiday markets, light displays, and New Year's Eve celebrations happening in 2026.
I'll continue adding events as they're announced, so bookmark this page and check back throughout the season.
Christmas Tree Lightings, Parades & Holiday Traditions
Alys in Winter Wonderland | Alys Beach
Friday, November 27, 2026 | 4–6:30 PM
Alys Beach kicks off the Christmas season with its annual Winter Wonderland celebration at the Alys Beach Amphitheatre.
Expect holiday music, cookie decorating, letters to Santa, face painting, festive photos, and a visit from Santa himself.
The holiday concert begins at 4 PM, followed by the Christmas tree lighting at 6:30 PM.
Admission is free, although cookie decorating and Santa photos are $3 each.
Local tip: Activity lines close promptly at 5:45 PM. Arrive early if you have little ones hoping to participate.
Rosemary Beach Tree Lighting & Merchant Open House
Friday, November 27, 2026 | 6 PM
Few places do Christmas quite as beautifully as Rosemary Beach.
South Barrett Square comes alive with the annual Christmas tree lighting, while the town's boutiques welcome shoppers for an evening of holiday festivities.
The European-inspired architecture, twinkling lights, and walkable town center make this one of my favorite places to spend a December evening.
And yes, it's happening the same night as Alys Beach's celebration. Fortunately, they're neighbors, although you'll need to be strategic if you want to catch both tree lightings.
Seaside Holiday Parade & Turn on the Town
Saturday, November 28, 2026 | 3–8 PM
One of 30A's most beloved holiday traditions returns Thanksgiving weekend.
The festivities begin with a Christmas parade along Scenic Highway 30A, followed by a special performance from Emerald Coast Theatre Company, the annual tree lighting in the Seaside Amphitheater, and Santa's arrival.
After the lighting, Santa will be available for photos at the Christmas Village until 8 PM.
It's nostalgic, festive, and one of those events that reminds me why I love our little coastal communities.
Local tip: Plan for road closures and limited parking. Seaside gets particularly busy during this event, so arrive early and enjoy the afternoon.
Christmas Lights & Evening Experiences
Christmas Reflections | DeFuniak Springs
November 27–December 31, 2026 | Nightly, 5:30–9 PM
If you're willing to venture a little north of 30A, Christmas Reflections is absolutely worth the drive.
More than 10 million lights illuminate the historic grounds surrounding Lake DeFuniak, creating one of the most impressive Christmas light displays in Northwest Florida.
You can drive around the lake or stroll through the displays, with special events and activities scheduled throughout the season.
Admission: $5 per person, free for children ages 5 and under. Walk-in admission is free, with donations accepted.
Additional experiences include $5 hayrides on weekends and throughout Christmas week, plus carriage rides by reservation.
The city has also announced Santa appearances on November 27–28, December 4, December 13, and nightly December 19–24.
Local tip: Make an evening of it. Historic downtown DeFuniak Springs has beautiful architecture, locally owned shops, and restaurants worth exploring before the lights come on.
Eden Gardens Christmas Luminaries | Point Washington
Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 5–8 PM
One of the most beautiful and understated Christmas traditions in South Walton.
Eden Gardens State Park transforms into a glowing holiday scene, with luminary-lined pathways leading visitors through the historic grounds.
The Wesley House is decorated for Christmas, and the evening includes live music, cookies, and warm beverages.
The event also connects with the Point Washington Medical Clinic's holiday open house.
There's something especially lovely about seeing this historic property illuminated beneath the enormous live oaks.
It's a refreshing change of pace from the more crowded town-center celebrations.
Holiday Markets & Christmas Shopping
Seaside Holiday Market
Saturday–Sunday, December 5–6, 2026
- Saturday: 9 AM–4 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–4 PM
Seaside's annual holiday market brings local artists, makers, and specialty vendors together for a weekend of Christmas shopping in Central Square.
Expect handmade gifts, unique finds, and plenty of opportunities to support small businesses.
Pair it with lunch, a little boutique shopping, and a walk around Seaside's beautifully decorated streets.
Merry Main Street & Mistletoe Market | DeFuniak Springs
November 28, December 5, 12 & 19, 2026 | 3–9 PM
Historic downtown DeFuniak Springs is hosting its Merry Main Street festivities throughout the holiday season.
The Mistletoe Market takes place on Baldwin Avenue between South 7th and South 8th Streets, featuring local artisans, handmade gifts, seasonal treats, and small businesses.
The celebration also includes additional holiday activities, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a holiday golf cart parade.
Admission to Merry Main Street events is free.
Local tip: Combine an afternoon at the market with Christmas Reflections around Lake DeFuniak after sunset. It's an easy way to make an entire evening of it.
Seaside Farmers Market | Seaside
Saturdays throughout December | 9 AM–1 PM
Not strictly a Christmas market, but absolutely worth including.
The Seaside Farmers Market is a favorite for locally made foods, baked goods, specialty products, and gifts.
December's Saturday markets offer a lovely opportunity to shop local while enjoying the holiday atmosphere in Seaside.
Santa Sightings & Family-Friendly Christmas Events
Photos with Santa in Seaside
December 12–23, 2026 | Daily, 4–6 PM
Santa will be making regular appearances in Seaside this December, with complimentary photo opportunities at the Lyceum Christmas Tree.
This is an especially convenient option for families visiting during the week before Christmas.
And because Seaside is so beautifully decorated for the holidays, it's worth making an evening of it.
Holiday Movie Night: How the Grinch Stole Christmas | Seaside
Friday, November 27, 2026 | 7 PM
Bring a blanket or lawn chair and settle in beneath the Christmas lights for an outdoor showing of the live-action How the Grinch Stole Christmas in Central Square.
An easy, festive evening for families spending Thanksgiving weekend on 30A.
Christmas Tour of Homes | DeFuniak Springs
Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 10 AM–5 PM
Christmas Reflections Event Information
Historic DeFuniak Springs hosts its annual Christmas Tour of Homes, sponsored by St. Agatha's Episcopal Church.
For anyone who appreciates historic architecture and beautifully decorated homes, this is a lovely way to spend a December afternoon.
Check with the organizer for ticketing and tour information.
Festival of Trees | DeFuniak Springs
November 27–December 13, 2026
The Festival of Trees returns to the historic Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood.
Trees will be on display nightly from 5–8 PM, with extended Saturday hours on December 5 and 12.
It's another great stop if you're planning a visit to Christmas Reflections.
DeFuniak Springs Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 12, 2026 | 1 PM
The 23rd annual Christmas Parade, sponsored by the DeFuniak Springs Woman's Club, brings a traditional small-town holiday celebration to historic DeFuniak Springs.
A fun addition to a Saturday exploring the area's shops and holiday festivities.
Holiday Concerts & Entertainment
Sounds of Seaside | Seaside Amphitheater
Select Wednesdays in December | 4–6 PM
Seaside's outdoor concert series continues during the holiday season, with free live music in Central Square.
The currently published December lineup includes:
- December 2: Roman Street
- December 9: Max McCann
- December 23: Max McCann
- December 30: Flow Tribe
Bring a blanket, grab something to eat from one of Seaside's restaurants, and enjoy an afternoon of live music.
First Friday Concert & Art Bazaar | Watersound Town Center
Friday, December 4, 2026 | 4–8 PM
Watersound Town Center hosts its December First Friday celebration at the Pavilion, featuring the Michelle Malone Trio and an art bazaar.
A nice opportunity to enjoy live music and browse local vendors without the bustle of some of the larger holiday events.
The Week Between Christmas & New Year's
December 26–31 is a particularly lively time on 30A.
Many families return year after year to spend this week at the beach, and our restaurants, shops, and town centers are typically bustling.
Christmas decorations remain up, holiday events continue, and the entire stretch of 30A feels festive.
A few ideas for the week:
- Visit Christmas Reflections in DeFuniak Springs before the display ends December 31.
- Enjoy the shops and holiday lights in Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, and Seaside.
- Catch the December 30 Sounds of Seaside concert.
- Spend a day exploring Grayton Beach, WaterColor, or one of the quieter communities along 30A.
- Make dinner reservations early, especially for larger groups.
And don't overlook the beach itself. Some of our most beautiful days arrive during the winter months, when the crowds are smaller and the Gulf can be exceptionally clear.
New Year's Eve 2026 on 30A & Nearby
Ready to welcome 2027?
Whether you're celebrating with young children, looking for fireworks, or planning a night out, there are several options along 30A and the surrounding Emerald Coast.
Noon Year's Eve Party | Alys Beach
Thursday, December 31, 2026 | 10 AM–Noon
For little ones who aren't quite ready to make it to midnight, Alys Beach has the perfect solution.
The annual Noon Year's Eve celebration at the Alys Beach Amphitheatre includes live music, bubble machines, an inflatable snow globe, crafts, face painting, and plenty of festive fun.
The event is free and open to the public, with beverages and cotton candy available for purchase.
All the excitement of New Year's Eve, with everyone home well before bedtime. A win for parents everywhere.
Seaside New Year's Eve Celebration
Thursday, December 31, 2026 | 4–9 PM
Seaside is ringing in 2027 with a family-friendly evening in Central Square.
Festivities include activities, arts and crafts, face painting, live music, and a spectacular fireworks display over the Gulf.
Schedule highlights:
- 4 PM: Festivities begin
- 5:30 PM: Live music begins
- 9 PM: Fireworks
It's a wonderful option for families who want a proper New Year's Eve celebration without waiting until midnight.
Local tip: Arrive early for parking and dinner. Seaside is a popular destination on New Year's Eve, and the town center gets busy well before fireworks.
Baytowne Wharf New Year's Eve Countdown | Sandestin
Thursday, December 31, 2026 | 6 PM–1 AM
The Village of Baytowne Wharf is hosting its annual New Year's Eve Countdown, with entertainment, family activities, live music, and two fireworks displays.
Schedule highlights:
- 6–8 PM: Family-friendly activities
- 8 PM: First fireworks show
- Midnight: Second fireworks show
After 10 PM, the event transitions to an adults-focused celebration, with guests 20 and under required to be accompanied by a legal guardian.
A great option if you're staying toward the western end of 30A or Miramar Beach.
Panama City Beach New Year's Eve Beach Ball Drop
Thursday, December 31, 2026 | Schedule Pending
Visit Panama City Beach Events
Panama City Beach's annual Beach Ball Drop at Pier Park is one of the area's largest New Year's Eve traditions.
Previous celebrations have included family activities, an early beach ball drop for children, live entertainment, fireworks, and a midnight countdown.
The complete 2026 event schedule has not yet been independently confirmed, so check the official tourism calendar for this year's announcement before making plans.
New Year's Eve Dining on 30A
If your ideal New Year's Eve involves a beautiful dinner, a good bottle of wine, and absolutely no interest in standing in a crowd waiting for fireworks, 30A has plenty of excellent restaurants to consider.
Some of my favorites for a special occasion include Pescado in Rosemary Beach, Cuvée 30A in Inlet Beach, Havana Beach at The Pearl, Edward's in Rosemary Beach, and Roux 30A.
Several local restaurants traditionally offer special New Year's Eve menus or celebrations, although their specific 2026 offerings and pricing may not be published until later in the season.
I'd recommend checking directly with your preferred restaurant and making reservations as early as possible.
More Holiday Events to Watch For
Several popular 30A traditions have not yet had their 2026 dates or complete schedules confirmed in the sources available for this update.
Keep an eye on the organizers' calendars for announcements about:
- WaterColor's Old Florida Holiday celebrations
- Grayton Beach's Christmas parade
- S'mores and Santa in Rosemary Beach
- Winter Wonder at Watersound Town Center
- The Big Chill's holiday markets and family events
- Grand Boulevard's seasonal entertainment
- Additional Christmas movie nights and Santa brunches
These were popular offerings in previous seasons, but they shouldn't be treated as confirmed for 2026 until their organizers publish the details.
Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas on 30A
When do Christmas events start on 30A in 2026?
Major holiday celebrations begin Thanksgiving weekend, with Alys in Winter Wonderland and Rosemary Beach's tree lighting on Friday, November 27, followed by Seaside's Holiday Parade and Turn on the Town on Saturday, November 28.
Where can I see Christmas lights near 30A?
Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, and Seaside are beautifully decorated throughout the season. For a larger light display, Christmas Reflections in DeFuniak Springs features more than 10 million lights and runs nightly from November 27 through December 31, 2026.
Where can kids see Santa on 30A?
Santa will appear at several holiday events, including Alys in Winter Wonderland and Seaside's holiday parade. Seaside is also offering complimentary Santa photos daily from December 12–23, 2026, from 4–6 PM.
Are there Christmas markets on 30A?
Yes. Seaside's Holiday Market takes place December 5–6, 2026. The Mistletoe Market in historic DeFuniak Springs runs on November 28 and December 5, 12, and 19. Regular farmers markets and local boutiques also offer seasonal shopping opportunities.
Where can I watch New Year's Eve fireworks on 30A?
Seaside has confirmed a 9 PM fireworks show on December 31, 2026. Nearby Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin is planning fireworks at 8 PM and midnight.
Is December a good time to visit 30A?
Absolutely. While the Gulf is usually too chilly for most swimmers, December offers beautiful beaches, mild winter days, festive town centers, holiday shopping, and plenty of seasonal activities. It's a wonderful time to experience a different side of 30A.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from 30A!
I've lived along this stretch of the Emerald Coast for more than 35 years, and the holidays here are still some of my favorite weeks of the year.
There's something about seeing our beach towns decorated for Christmas, gathering with friends and family, and enjoying the quieter beauty of the coast that never gets old.
Whether you're visiting for the holidays, returning to your second home, or fortunate enough to live here year-round, I hope this guide helps you make the most of the season.
And if spending Christmas on 30A has you wondering what it would be like to call this place home, I'd love to show you around.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Candice KausHagen | 30A Lifestyle Agent
Explore Homes & Neighborhoods on 30A
Last updated November 7, 2026. Event schedules, locations, pricing, and activities may change. Always confirm details with event organizers before attending.
