By Lori Leath Smith
For many years, our piece of Paradise has ignited the holiday spirit in each of us and allowed the season to come to life for the young and young at heart. With a unique blend of theatrical storytelling, musical notes, hot Christmas flavored-coffee and cocoa, and beautiful and whimsical Christmas lights, we are welcomed into a world of yuletide nostalgia and local flavor and personalities where reindeer fly, sugarplums dance in our heads and Christmas comes alive in our own beach area, coastal style.
I invite you to explore the vast, unique holiday traditions, some many years in the making and new ones to delight our senses and usher in the “reason for the season” – the celebrated birth of Jesus, our Savior. Join FWB Life and the Life Media family in some of these holiday celebrations where you can create some new family traditions of your own while rekindling your favorites.
Visit Santa at The Village of Baytowne Wharf at his sleigh Dec. 6, 13 and 20 during the holiday concerts from 6-8 p.m. and during the Tuba Christmas event from 5-7 p.m. Dec. 9. www.baytownewharf.com.
Visit Santa at Bass Pro Shop at Destin Commons now through Dec. 24 (book at basspro.com) and at HarborWalk Village weekends until Dec. 17 from 1-4 p.m.
Baytowne on Ice | Now–Feb. 4 | Village of Baytowne Wharf
Dust off those skates and get ready for the holidays at The Village of Baytowne Wharf’s Baytowne on Ice. The ice rink is open Now – Sunday, Feb. 4. Hours vary daily. Visit BaytowneWharf.com.
Festival of Trees | Now–Dec. 25 | Grand Boulevard
The Festival of Trees at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin runs Nov. 21 through Christmas Day 2023. Participating non-profit organizations compete to win cash prizes totaling $7,000. Cast your vote for the People’s Choice award. Festival of Trees is an annual event in the park at Grand Boulevard shopping center showcasing uniquely decorated Christmas trees from 12 local non-profit organizations.
Christmas Reflection Displays | Now-Dec. 31 | Defuniak Springs
The City of Defuniak Springs lights up Chipley Park lights with its annual Christmas Reflection Displays, a light display like no other in our area with more than 10 million lights reflecting on the lake and throughout the park. You can view the lights by walking, driving or even taking a horse-drawn carriage ride. A variety of Victorian, animal and toy soldier cutouts, Santa’s workshop, and the grandfather clock ticking away are among the thousands of decorations that adorn these historic grounds. Admission is $5 per person and children 5 and under are free. (850) 978-2999.
Merry Main Street | Now-Dec. 23 | Defuniak Springs
Free to attend, Merry Main Street boasts live music and theatrical performances, an outdoor market, food trucks, rides on the Choctaw Express Train, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, kids character appearances by The Character Clubhouse and more. Baldwin Ave. in downtown DeFuniak Springs. 5 p.m. Fridays and 3 p.m. Saturdays until Christmas. MainStreetDFS.org. (850) 296-9051.
Jolly Jubilee | Now-Dec. 24 | Destin Commons
Embrace the festive spirit at Destin Commons with the annual Jolly Jubilee! This holiday celebration, featuring musical performances on the new lawn area at Center Plaza, comes alive every Friday, Saturday and Sunday now through Dec. 24. Wander through the festive decor, hear the sweet sounds of Christmas carolers and enjoy live performances, all while standing beneath the glow of a majestic, 50-foot tree. Or take pictures with family and friends in a life-size Santa’s Sleigh.
Wesley House Holiday Guided Tours | Now–Jan. 9 | Eden State Gardens | Santa Rosa Beach
The Wesley House at Eden State Gardens will be open for holiday guided tours Thursday–Monday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on an hourly basis. This year’s theme is “A Victorian Christmas and all are invited to attend.
Photos with Santa & Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides | Dec. 1-30 | 5-8 p.m. | Grand Boulevard
Complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides around the Town Center every Friday and Saturday night, 5-8 p.m. Take in the Coastal White Christmas lights and the Festival of Trees display. Get a professional photo with Santa while listening to the seasonal sounds of “Rock Around the Christmas Tree” Musical Revue from Emerald Coast Theatre Co. grandboulevard.com.
Nights of Lights | Dec. 1-31 | 6, 7 & 8 p.m. | Events Plaza Lawn
Enjoy a free, festive light show every night of December in The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin and featured during the special holiday edition of the Wednesday Night Concert Series. The tree lights in the events plaza will dance and blink to music at 6, 7 and 8 p.m. Visit BaytowneWharf.com.
7th Annual Troon Goon Christmas Lightshow | Dec. 2 – Jan. 5 | 6-9:30 p.m. | Bluewater Bay area
A free, residential graphic light show that combines classic Christmas songs with modern versions for a fun and energetic twist of entertainment. The hi-tech light animations dance to the music and feature the house, mega tree, arches and other standalone features for an unlimited amount of pixel combinations. The 30-minute show starts every hour and half-hour. It’s a different show every year and you can vote online for your favorite song versions while you watch. View from your vehicle while listening on your car stereo at 101.3 FM. The lightshow will run nightly from Visit http://www.troongoonchristmas.com or Facebook for the latest news.
“Geek Lights on the Corner” | 6-9:30 p.m.–Sun.-Thurs. | 10:30 p.m. Fri., Sat. & holiday eves
Located at the corner of Bluewater Blvd. and Antiqua Way in Bluewater Bay, the shows loop every 30 minutes starting at 6 p.m., with the last show starting at 9:30 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., and 10:30 p.m. Fri., Sat. and holiday eves. Now in its 16th year, the free show consists of Christmas lights and other themed display elements, all under computer control and synchronized to music and usually is lighted and available to the public through the first week of January. All donations this year will support Healing Paws for Warriors. The show is the technical and creative wizardry of Jeff Werner, the “Northwest Florida Geek” and Wendy Werner, his “spouse peripheral.” FaceBook.com/GeekLightsOnTheCorner. geeklights@gmail.com
Holiday Concert Series + Visits with Santa | Dec. 6, 13 & 20 | 6-8 p.m.
Tap your feet to some of your favorite sing-a-long classics every Wednesday in December at the Holiday edition of The Village of Baytowne Wharf’s Wednesday Night Concert Series. Each concert features visits with Santa.
December 6 | Fort Walton Beach High School Choir
December 13 | Alissa Steffens Vocal Studios
December 20 | Matt McCarty Band
A Christmas Carol | Dec. 8 – Dec. 22
From the first “Bah humbug” to the final “Wassail,” this timeless classic is sure to rekindle your holiday spirit. Join all your favorite Dickens characters—Tiny Tim and the Cratchit family, the Fezziwigs, the Ghosts of Christmas past, present and yet-to-come, and of course, everyone’s favorite curmudgeon, Ebenezer Scrooge.
560 Grand Boulevard, 2nd Floor, Miramar Beach. Purchase tickets: emeraldcoasttheatre.org.
Holiday Pops | Fri., Dec. 8 | 7:30 p.m. | Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center
Features Brian Stokes Mitchell, dubbed “the last leading man” by The New York Times, Sinfonia’s main event of the season featuring this A-list star will perform holiday classics, Broadway tunes and classic favorites with the Sinfonia Gulf Coast orchestra. Stokes is a two-time Tony Award winner with a versatile career spanning Broadway, television, film and concerts. Receiving critical acclaim and awards for his performances in Kiss Me, Kate, Man of La Mancha, and Ragtime, Stokes has collaborated with renowned conductors like John Williams and Gustavo Dudamel performing at Carnegie Hall and the White House. Some of you might remember him as Trevor in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Tickets range from $30-$75 for adults. Seats at tables of 10 are from $55 per person.
The Nutcracker! | Dec. 9–5 p.m. | Dec. 10–2 p.m. | Destin Community Center
Studio6twenty5 presents The Nutcracker featuring the dancers of studio6twenty5’s children’s program and introducing local Shaye Smith and guest dancer Fredrick Davis as the Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier. Prepare to be transported into Clara’s magical world of sugarplum fairies, toy soldiers and enchanting adventures. Saturday doors open at 4 p.m. Sunday doors open at 1 p.m. Tickets $16 on sale now at studio6twenty5.com.
Yule of Yesteryear | Sat., Dec. 9 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida
Enjoy carols, food vendors, craft vendors, Walton guard reenactors, school choir groups, bake sale, raffle ticket prizes, letters to Santa and more! 115 Westview Ave., Perrine Park, Valparaiso.
Alaqua Holiday Bazaar | Dec. 10 | 11 a.m.– 4 p.m.
Find something special for everyone on your list including handcrafted gifts from the finest local artists and craftsmen. Enjoy festive music and delicious brunch-style treats. Contact Lauren Gall at lauren@lgallandco.com to participate. Proceeds go directly towards the care and protection of animals in need. Visit https://www.facebook.com/AlaquaAnimalRefuge.
35th Annual Destin Boat Parade | Dec. 10 | 6 p.m. | Destin Harbor
The Destin Harbor will be dancing with lights and cheer during the 35th Annual Destin Boat Parade, Sun. Dec. 10 from 6 – 6:30 p.m. followed by a Fireworks Finale! Watch from many places along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk such as AJ’s, Boathouse, Brotula’s and The Edge Restaurant & Skybar (where this year’s judging will take place.)
Live Nativity | Thurs., Dec. 14 — Wed., Dec. 20 | 6–8:30 p.m. each night |corner of 2nd St., and Church Ave.
First Baptist Church of Fort Walton Beach will present the FREE, 35th Live Nativity celebration next to the First Baptist Church sanctuary. Parking is available in the church parking lot. When you walk through, you can have your picture taken with Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus, as well as the three wise men. Your photo will be waiting for you as you depart. In the Shepherd’s Field, the visitors can pet and feed the miniature donkeys, sheep and Naomi the Camel!
A Jingle Jangle Christmas Musical Revue | Sat., Dec. 16–2.30 p.m. | Tues., Dec. 19–7.30 p.m. | Thurs., Dec. 21 –7.30 p.m.
Enjoy classic holiday songs from some of your favorite Christmas musicals like “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Snow” and, of course, “White Christmas.” The cast will invite you to join in some beloved Christmas carols as well. 560 Grand Boulevard, Grand Boulevard Town Center, 2nd Floor, Miramar Beach. Purchase tickets: emeraldcoasttheatre.org.
A Victorian Christmas Tea | Sat., Dec. 16 | 1-3 p.m. | The Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida
Members $20; Non-members $25. 115 Westview Ave., Valparaiso.
LuLu’s Annual Billy Claus and The LuLuBelles | Sat., Dec. 16 | 3 to 5 p.m.
Free photos with Billy Claus and the LuLuBelles as well as crafts and treats. Billy Claus is Santa’s warm weather-loving brother who lives in the Caribbean, but comes this way every year to help Santa during the holiday season. The LuLuBelles are Billy’s version of Santa’s elves. The children’s book written by LuLu’s owner, Lucy Buffett, “Billy Claus and the Spirit of Christmas Island” is available in the gift shop or on-line. From 5 to 7 p.m., enjoy the movie, Dr. Suess’ The Grinch. Come back on Dec. 20 for the Christmas movie, The Polar Express at 6 p.m. with free crafts and treats. 850-710-5858.
Christmas Miracle Fiesta| Sun., Dec. 17 | 1-6 p.m. | NWF Fairgrounds
United for a Good Cause Inc., composed of a diverse and multicultural group of individuals, will host the 19th Annual Emerald Coast Christmas Miracle Fiesta at the NWF Fairgrounds from 1–6 p.m. The Christmas Miracle Fiesta is an EVERYTHING IS FREE to all that attend party, in keeping with our organization’s mission and objectives, it aims to provide local area youth an opportunity to serve their community and at the same time benefit civilian and military families in our area. Thanks to Toys for Tots, local businesses and individual donors, new toys are donated for all the children that attend. In addition, there will be food basket donations, free food and performances by local area entertainers. For more details and to register, visit unitedforagoodcause.org.
Cookies and Crafts with the Grump | Dec. 16-17 | 12-4 p.m. | The Island Resort
Everyone’s favorite green and grouchy holiday character, The Grump, along with his holiday-loving friend, Miss Cindy, will be at The Island Resort, Dec. 16 and 17, 12 to 4 p.m. Guests can visit The Grump, known for his “stink, stank, stunk” charm, and snap memorable photos, enjoy a cup of apple cider or hot chocolate and listen to live music. Following the music, engage in a fun and creative craft session, face painting and a Whoville hair station. Free and open to the public.
LJ Schooners’ 7th Annual Santa Paddle Parade | Sat., Dec. 16, | Noon | Bluewater Bay Marina
All paddlers welcome; if you can paddle it, bring it! Paddle on a stand-up paddle board, canoe, kayak, paddle boat or surf skis. Group photo is at noon with paddle starting at 12:10 p.m. Santa Clauses leave BlueWater Bay Marina and paddle east to Rocky Bayou Bridge, north to North Shore of Rocky Bayou and back to the marina. Registration $10 or 15 canned goods. Must paddle in Santa suit and provide your own suit. Proceeds benefit Sharing and Caring of Niceville. To register, call Bluewater Bay Marina Ship Store at (850) 897-2821 or visit bluewaterbaymarina.com.
Annual Christmas Boat Parade | Sat., Dec. 16 | 5:30 p.m. | Bluewater Bay Marina
Skippers meeting at 4 p.m.; parade staging at 5 p.m. The parade course exits Bluewater Bay Marina north to Nelson’s Cove, around Rocky Bayou, south to the Rocky One marker and then returns to Bluewater Bay Marina. Boats must pre-register. After the Boat Parade, LJ Schooners Dockside Restaurant will host a Christmas party with DJ Christ Saylor, 6-10 p.m.; ugly sweater contest at 9 p.m. Call 850-897-2821 or visit bluewaterbaymarina.com to register.
2023 Niceville Valparaiso Rotary Club Christmas Boat Parade | Sun., Dec. 17 | 5:30 p.m. | Emerald Coast Marine
The boat parade will feature a traditional display of fun onboard holiday-themed lights and decorations. Festivities include complimentary hot cocoa, a visit from Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus and the elves, provided by the Rotary. The parade route travels southwest from Emerald Coast Marine to Tom’s Bayou, past Lincoln Park, then east toward Lions Park, returning back to Emerald Coast Marine. All proceeds raised benefit Sharing and Caring Niceville. For more information, visit nicevillevalparaisorotary.org.
Noon Year’s Eve | Dec. 31 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. | LuLu’s Restaurant
Noon Year’s Eve is just for kids at LuLu’s Destin. It’s the 8th annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration Tues., Dec. 31, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with non-stop, free kid-friendly fun. There will be arts and crafts, inflatables, face painting, live music and more. Kids can have their fun by counting down to Noon with kid-safe “fireworks” and a huge Beach Ball Drop. Visit LulusFunFoodMusic.com/destin or call (850) 710-5858.
Baytowne Countdown | Sun., Dec. 31 | The Village of Baytowne Wharf
Two breathtaking fireworks displays at 8 p.m. and midnight. Enjoy a family-friendly evening from 6-8 p.m. with face painting, kids’ activities and LIVE music on the Baytowne LIVE stage. Dance the night away with LIVE music from DJ Q$, 7 p.m. until 1 a.m. at the Events Plaza Stage! End the night with spectacular fireworks. *21 & over after 10 p.m. 20 & under must be accompanied by a legal guardian after 10 p.m.
