The holidays on 30A are something truly special. With mild winter weather and plenty of festive events, Christmas and New Year’s along 30A offer the perfect mix of relaxation and celebration! Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy the season.
Christmas on 30A
1. Tree Lighting Ceremonies
Holiday cheer officially kicks off with tree lighting events throughout the 30A communities. Seaside Square, Rosemary Beach Town Center, and WaterColor’s Marina Park are known for hosting festive evenings complete with activities, live music, and seasonal treats. These events are a wonderful way to gather with loved ones and enjoy an evening underneath the twinkling lights.
- Seaside Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting: One of the most iconic holiday events on 30A, this celebration features a festive parade down 30A through Seaside, photos in the Christmas village, and the official lighting of the Christmas tree in the Amphitheater.
- Rosemary Beach Christmas Tree Lighting: Held in North Barrett Square, this charming evening includes carolers, live music, sweet treats, and a visit from Santa as the community gathers to light the town’s signature tree.
- WaterColor Holiday Tree Lighting at Marina Park: A family-friendly celebration with live music, seasonal refreshments, and a beautiful waterfront backdrop perfect for holiday photos.
2. Holiday Markets
Throughout the season, holiday markets pop up across 30A, especially in areas like Rosemary Beach and WaterColor. Local artists offer handcrafted gifts, coastal decor, and other unique finds you won’t see anywhere else! It’s the perfect opportunity to stroll through beautifully decorated town squares.
- Rosemary Beach Holiday Farmers Market: Taking place on select dates in December, this market features gourmet foods, handmade gifts, and coastal holiday decor.
- WaterColor Old Florida Holiday & Winter Market: A seasonal favorite with live music, carriage rides, and a wide variety of local vendors selling gifts and festive goodies.
- Seaside Holiday Market: Located in Central Square, this market is perfect for picking up last-minute gifts, stocking stuffers, and handcrafted items.
3. Santa Sightings
Yes, Santa loves the beach! Keep an eye out for Santa sightings across 30A, where kids (and kids at heart) can snap photos, share their holiday wishes, and more.
- Santa at Seaside’s Christmas Village
- S’mores with Santa in Rosemary Beach
- Santa Events at The Big Chill 30A
New Year’s on 30A
1. Fireworks
Ring in the New Year with one of 30A’s most anticipated celebrations, fireworks! Seaside is especially popular for its festive atmosphere, where families and friends gather early to enjoy the evening before the sky lights up at midnight. Local restaurants and rooftop venues also offer elevated viewing and dining packages.
- Seaside New Year’s Eve Fireworks: Seaside is especially popular for its lively atmosphere, where families and friends gather early to enjoy dinner, live music, and celebration before fireworks light up the sky at midnight.
2. Polar Plunge
For the brave and adventurous, the Polar Plunge is a lively New Year’s Day tradition! Join locals and visitors for a refreshing dip in the Gulf, and a warm up with a cup of hot chocolate afterward. It’s a fun and exciting way to start off the year.
3. First Beach Day of the Year
There’s nothing quite like welcoming the New Year with a peaceful morning on the beach. Grab coffee from a local cafe, watch the sunrise over the Gulf, and enjoy the quiet beauty of 30A- it’s the perfect reset after the holidays.
From Christmas mornings by the beach to ringing in the New Year with the Gulf as your backdrop, let Southern Holiday Homes help you create a holiday experience that feels effortless, elegant, and unforgettable.