Where to See Christmas Lights and Holiday Fun on the Emerald Coast
The Emerald Coast may be known for white-sand beaches and sunny days, but winter brings its own kind of magic. Twinkling lights, festive markets, and coastal charm make Destin, 30A, and even nearby DeFuniak Springs sparkle with holiday cheer. Here’s your guide to the best places to see Christmas lights and celebrate the season.
The Village of Baytowne Wharf – Sandestin
If you’re staying around Destin or Miramar Beach, The Village of Baytowne Wharf inside Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is a must-visit for holiday festivities. Every corner glows with lights and decorations, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Baytowne on Ice offers a chance to lace up your skates and glide beneath the twinkling lights, while the Sparkling Wine & Holiday Lights event transforms the village into a festive wonderland with live music, champagne tastings, and cheerful décor. The atmosphere feels like a cozy holiday town square right on the water.
Don’t miss: Fireworks over the lagoon and the charming Christmas tree display in the center of the village. baytownewharf.com/
30A’s Beach Towns – Seaside, Rosemary Beach, and Alys Beach
There’s nothing quite like seeing palm trees wrapped in Christmas lights. Along Scenic Highway 30A, each community brings its own personality to the holidays.
Seaside glows with lights around the amphitheatre and Central Square, making it perfect for an evening stroll and photos by the town’s large Christmas tree.
Rosemary Beach offers a traditional holiday vibe with its tree-lighting ceremony in Barrett Square, live oaks covered in white lights, and the scent of hot cocoa wafting from nearby cafés.
Alys Beach creates a modern, elegant look with its white architecture lit in warm tones and its signature light-wrapped palms.
Each spot makes for a magical evening walk—park once, wander through the town, and take in the glow.
Christmas Reflections at DeFuniak Springs
A short drive north of the beach brings you to one of the most spectacular light displays in the region: Christmas Reflections at Lake DeFuniak. This local tradition features over 10 million lights surrounding the perfectly round, spring-fed lake in Chipley Park. The shimmering reflections on the water make for breathtaking photos and a truly nostalgic holiday feel.
The display runs nightly from the day after Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, typically from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. You can drive through or stroll along the lakeside path to take in the lights. There’s a small entry fee for vehicles, and walkers are admitted free.
Pro-tip: Bundle up, bring a thermos of cocoa, and plan to grab dinner in downtown DeFuniak Springs before or after the show.
Seaside Holiday Market
Love artisanal goods, gift shopping, and festive ambience? The Seaside Holiday Market is a highlight:
- Held December 6-7, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Amphitheatre in Seaside.
- Features local artisans, handmade gifts, gourmet treats, and festive décor—all set in the charming Seaside town square by the Gulf.
It’s the perfect spot to pick up one-of-a-kind presents and enjoy a little holiday magic by the beach.
Make a full day of it: Arrive early at the market, then shop around town, enjoy lunch, and stay until dusk to catch the lights come on at Seaside. seasidefl.com/event/seaside-holiday-market-2025/
Destin’s Holiday on the Harbor Lighted Boat Parade
A uniquely coastal holiday experience: the Holiday on the Harbor Lighted Boat Parade in Destin brings the waterway to life with festive flair.
Decorated private and charter boats cruise the harbor from Boshamps past AJ’s, around HarborWalk Village, and toward the Destin Bridge and Norriego Point. After the parade, fireworks light up the sky over the harbor to close the night in spectacular fashion.
The event usually takes place in mid-December around 6 p.m. and is one of Destin’s most beloved holiday traditions.
Pro-tip: Get there early to secure a good vantage point; consider dinner at a waterfront restaurant with a view of the parade route and fireworks. https://www.destinfun.com/events/destin-boat-parade-2024
Sample Holiday Weekend Itinerary
Friday Evening: Start with dinner and lights at Baytowne Wharf, then catch a fireworks show or go ice skating.
Saturday: Explore the Seaside Holiday Market and stroll through Seaside or Rosemary Beach as the lights come on.
Sunday: Take a scenic drive inland to DeFuniak Springs and experience the glowing reflections around the lake, then head back toward Destin for the boat parade in the harbor at dusk.
Coastal Holiday Tips
- Visit light displays on weeknights to avoid crowds.
- Bring a blanket or jacket—temperatures cool quickly after sunset by the water.
- If you’re staying along 30A, plan your route so you can visit multiple displays in one evening.
- Don’t forget to tag your photos with #EmeraldCoastChristmas and #HolidayOn30A to share the cheer.
Celebrate the Season on the Emerald Coast
From skating under palm trees to strolling through charming coastal towns, the holidays on the Emerald Coast are unlike anywhere else. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or staying for the season, these destinations will fill your days—and your camera roll—with coastal Christmas magic.