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Holiday Happenings in Walton County for 2023

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Holiday Happenings in Walton County for 2023
 
There’s no better place to celebrate the holidays than Walton County. Whether you want to enjoy twinkling lights and holiday decorations or ring in the New Year with champagne and delicious food, there’s something for everyone in Walton County. 
 
 
HOLIDAY EVENTS
 
 
DeFuniak Springs Christmas Reflections
Orchestrated by the City of DeFuniak Springs, Christmas Reflections is an annual, month-long display in December of 10 million Christmas lights around historic Lake DeFuniak. Hosted nightly from 5:30 - 9 p.m.
 
Photos With Santa Claus and Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
During the month of December on Friday and Saturday nights from 5-8 p.m., enjoy complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides around the Town Center while taking in the Coastal White Christmas lights and the Festival of Trees display. To add to the festivities, 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.
  • Website: grandboulevard.com
  • Address: 585 Grand Blvd., Suite 205, Miramar Beach
  • Phone: (850) 837-3099
 
Emerald Coast Theatre Company: A Christmas Carol
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. Visit the website below for dates and times.
  • Website: grandboulevard.com
  • Address: 585 Grand Blvd., Suite 205, Miramar Beach
  • Phone: (850) 837-3099
 
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, this seasonal ice rink is the perfect opportunity to share some of your favorite holiday traditions. The ice rink is open through Feb. 4; hours vary daily. Skaters must be at least 3 years of age and fit into appropriately sized skates. Children under the age of 6 must be accompanied by a parent or adult family member.
 
Wednesday Night Concert Series in Baytowne - Holiday Edition
Come find the holiday spirit with us and tap your feet to some of your favorite sing-along classics. Every Wednesday this December enjoy our Holiday edition of the Wednesday Night Concert Series. Each concert will feature Visits with Santa
 
Baytowne on Ice Annual Ice-Skating Extravaganza
Baytowne on Ice is hosting its annual Ice-Skating Extravaganza featuring two performances by professional ice skaters on Friday, Dec. 8 at 6 and 7:30 p.m. Both shows are free and open to the public. Before and in between the shows, lace up those skates and skate around the ice with the pros! 
 
Week of Holiday Cheer at Hilton Sandestin
Get into the holiday spirit with our Week of Holiday Cheer at Hilton Sandestin. From Dec. 11-15, we'll be hosting a variety of festive activities and events for all ages to enjoy. From carolers and crafts to holiday cocktail classes, this is a week you won't want to miss. Time and events vary each day, please refer to our events page for more details on the daily activities. 
 
Showing of Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas
During this holiday season, put a little snark in your holiday spirit with The MEAN One on Friday, Dec. 15. Meet the maven of mischief himself for a photo opportunity from 5-7 p.m., then enjoy a movie showing of Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas starting at 7 p.m. Don't miss out on this Who-liday spectacular! 
 
Fra-Gee-Lay 2K Second Annual Tacky Sweater Christmas Race
Come out to the Fra-Gee-Lay 2K second annual Tacky Sweater Christmas Race for those that don't race on Sunday, Dec. 17 from 8-11 a.m. It's a 1.2-mile walk/jog/run down 30A in your favorite Christmas costume or tacky sweater. All ages are welcome. Cinnamon rolls and mimosas are given out at the turn-around point. There's an after party and costume awards at Red Fish Taco from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. All proceeds support the South Walton Artificial Reef Association.
 
Idyll Hounds Brewing Company Happenings
Ugly Christmas Sweater Party on Thursday, Dec. 22 at 6 p.m. with live music, a food truck and prizes for ugly sweaters. Holiday Movie Nights at the brewery are every Saturday starting at 6 p.m. Trivia Night is every Wednesday starting at 6 p.m. Stein-Filled Fridays offer select steins for sale with free fill ups of your favorite Idyll Hounds Beers. Industry Day Thursday offer discounts on pints and hot dogs for hospitality workers. New Year's Eve at the Brewery includes food truck, live music, beer releases and champagne toast! 
 
Winter Extravaganza
Join us as we welcome the winter season with games, food trucks, animal encounters, and even a visit from Santa Claus himself! If you have never visited the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center before, then this is the perfect opportunity. Don't forget to bring an extra coat for our coat drive this year! Mark your calendars for Saturday, Dec. 9, from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Tickets are available at the door for $10.
  • Website: eowilsoncenter.org
  • Address: 4956 State Hwy. 20 E., Freeport
  • Phone: (850) 835-1824
 
Mistletoe Market: Best Decorated Merchant Competition
Join Downtown DeFuniak Springs this holiday season for the Main Street DeFuniak Springs outdoor Mistletoe Market. Held weekly every Saturday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. This outdoor market features a variety of artisans lined up and down Baldwin Avenue. Free to attend, the market will showcase gift ideas, delicious treats and unique finds catered to the holiday season.
  • Website: mainstreetdfs.org
  • Address: 694 Baldwin Ave., DeFuniak Springs 
  • Phone: (850) 296-9051
 
Festive Food Truck Friday in DeFuniak Springs
Get ready to sleigh the holiday season with some delectable delights and festive fun! Our beloved Food Truck Fridays are back on Baldwin Ave., but this time with a merry twist.
  • Website: mainstreetdfs.org
  • Address: 694 Baldwin Ave., DeFuniak Springs 
  • Phone: (850) 296-9051
 
Santa Claus is Coming to Town in Rosemary Beach
The Merchants of Rosemary Beach Presents “Santa Claus is Coming to Town!" Join us every Saturday in December from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. and meet Santa in South Barrett Square!
 
Fifth Annual Rosemary Beach Holiday Tour of Homes
A self-guided tour of Rosemary Beach homes dressed up for the holidays! In partnership with Rosemary Beach Realty and Rosemary Beach Cottage Rental Company, this most festive event of the season benefits Habitat for Humanity of Walton County and Shelter House of Northwest Florida. This event is Saturday, Dec. 9 from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
 
Visits With Santa at Baytowne Wharf
Visit with St. Nick and share your holiday wishlist! Join us Wednesdays Dec. 6, 13, and 20 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. for a Holiday Concert and Visits with Santa. PLUS, visit with Santa from 5 p.m. -7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 9 during Tuba Christmas!
  • Website: baytownewharf.com
  • Address: 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Miramar Beach
  • Phone: (850) 267-8180
 
Tuba Christmas at Baytowne Wharf
Join us for a special, unique holiday event at The Village of Baytowne Wharf. Enjoy your favorite holiday classics with Tuba Christmas and Visits with Santa! It will be a night of fun for the whole family! For times and dates see the website below.
  • Website: baytownewharf.com
  • Address: 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Miramar Beach
  • Phone: (850) 267-8180
 
Polar Bear Plunge
Join the South Walton Fire District on New Year's Day for a Polar Bear Plunge. Funds collected at the event will benefit community education and fire prevention activities such as free CPR courses and fire prevention materials. Plunge will be happening on Monday, Jan. 1 with registration at Shunk Gulley and the plunge will take place at Ed Walline Beach Access. 
  • Website: co.walton.fl.us
  • Address: 4447 W. Scenic Hwy. 30A, Santa Rosa Beach
  • Phone: (850) 267-1298
 
Kith + Kin Monday Night Fireside Sessions
Presented by Southern Sound Music Alliance join Kith + Kin Coffee for the Monday Night Fireside Sessions every Monday at Kith + Kin until Jan. 22, excluding Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Bring your chairs and find a seat around one of the fire pits to listen to local musicians. Coffee and beer are available for purchase, and there will be a food truck on site.
 
TO-GO ORDERS
 
 
 
Cafe Thirty-A Three-Course Prix Fixe
Cafe Thirty-A will be offering a three-course Prix Fixe; $135 per person excluding tax. Join us at 5:30 on New Year's Eve at Cafe Thirty-A.
  • Website: cafethirtya.com
  • Address: 3899 East Scenic Hwy. 30A, Seagrove Beach
  • Phone: (850) 231-2166 
 
Edward’s Christmas Dinner Takeout
Edward’s Christmas dinner takeout offerings are back by popular demand. This year, the restaurant’s delicious traditional offerings include Honey Baked Ham, Cornbread & Sausage Dressing, Sweet Potato Casserole, four types of pie and more. The best part? You can enjoy them all without lifting a finger! Place your Christmas spread order by Wednesday, Dec. 20 at 3 p.m., and pick it up Sunday, Dec. 24 between 3-5 p.m. 
  • Website: edwards30a.com
  • Address: 66 Main St., Rosemary Beach
  • Phone: (850) 231-0550
 
Gather Kitchen + Bar Holiday To-Go Menu
Gather Kitchen + Bar will be offering a festive holiday takeaway family-style menu, available to-go or for delivery within the WaterColor community. Email WCISocialEvents@stjoe.com by Thursday, Dec. 22 to place your order. Pickup Sunday, Dec. 24 - 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m at Gather Kitchen + Bar inside the WaterColor Inn.
 
Swiftly Catered & Blue Mountain Bakery Christmas Pre-Order
Reheat Christmas dinner, baked goods, breakfast, dessert and more. Available until sold out!
Pre-order online and pick up on Saturday, Dec. 23 at Blue Mountain Bakery.
  • Address: 2217 W. County Hwy. 30A, Santa Rosa Beach
  • Phone: (850) 267-0400 
 
CHRISTMAS HAPPENINGS
 
Ovide Christmas Eve Dinner
Create cherished holiday memories this Christmas Eve by treating your family to a festive dinner at Ovide. Indulge in the warm ambience and savor a special holiday menu that captures the spirit of the season.
 
Sandcastles Restaurant Christmas Buffet
Join us for our Christmas buffet at Sandcastles Restaurant on, Monday, Dec. 25 from 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. We're offering a delicious feast fit for the whole family, with a variety of traditional holiday dishes and festive treats. Make your reservation by calling (850) 267-9691.
 
3-Course Prix Fixe Menu at Havana Beach Bar & Grill at The Pearl Hotel
This year Havana Beach Bar & Grill at The Pearl Hotel will be offering a 3-Course Prix Fixe Dinner Menu on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Reservations are strongly suggested. The price is $95 for adults ages 13 and older. The regular children’s menu will be available for those 12 years old and younger.
  • Website: thepearlrb.com
  • Address: 63 Main St., Rosemary Beach
  • Phone: (850) 588-2882 
 
Ambrosia Prime Seafood & Steaks Christmas Eve/ Day Prix Fixe
Join Ambrosia for a delectable Prix Fixe menu on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day! For a full menu, please visit the website below. 
  • Website: ambrosia30a.com
  • Address: 75 Origins Main St., Watersound 
  • Phone: (850) 909-0100 
 
NEW YEAR'S EVE HAPPENINGS
 
 
Down Island NYE Three-Course Features Menu
New Year's Eve dinner at Down Island from 5 - 10 p.m. Enjoy a three-course features menu or order from our regular dinner menu. Text (850) 428-1027 for reservations.
  • Website: downislandsrb.com
  • Address: 2780 U.S. Hwy. 98 W., Santa Rosa Beach
  • Phone: (850) 777-3385 

Edward's NYE Prix Fixe Dinner
Spend the last day of 2023 having an unforgettable prix fixe dinner at Edward’s in Rosemary Beach on Sunday, Dec. 31. Chef Josh Smith has created a five-course menu complete with delectable dishes like Lobster Ravioli, Grilled Beef Tenderloin, Pecan-Crusted Sea Bass, Ricotta Cheesecake and more that pair perfectly with Edward’s award-winning wine​ and champagne​ offerings. Live music from Janelle Frost begins at 6 p.m., as well. While the restaurant typically doesn't ​take reservations, they make a special exception ​on New Year’s Eve. Tables will go quickly, so call (850) 231-0550 or email info@edwards30a.com to secure yours. Seatings are set for 5:15 p.m., 7:15 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Dinner is priced at $150 per person. 

  • Website: edwards30a.com
  • Address: 66 Main St., Rosemary Beach
  • Phone: (850) 231-0550
 
Fish Out of Water NYE Dinner Celebration
It’s finally here, the end of 2023! Come celebrate with us as we cheers to the new year. Ring in 2024 with a multi-course dinner, champagne and a night full of memories. From 6 p.m. to midnight enjoy live music, chef features and a photo booth to capture the evening’s festivities.
  • Website: foow30a.com
  • Address: 34 Goldenrod Cir., WaterColor
  • Phone: (850) 534-5050
 
George's at Alys Beach NYE Dinner
Make the last day of 2023 a memorable one by reserving a dinner table at George’s at Alys Beach. Chef Camille Withall has created a stellar four-course menu with optional wine pairings for Sunday, Dec. 31. Notable dishes include Lamb Lollipops, Seared Halibut and Black Forest Trifle. New Year’s Eve is the only day of the year George’s accepts reservations, so act quickly to secure a table by emailing info@georgesatalysbeach.com. Seatings are available between 5:30-8:30 p.m. Dinner is priced at $150 per person with carefully selected wine pairings available for an additional $60. Kids​ meals are $45 per child 12 ​years and under.
 
Hotel Effie NYE Celebration
Join us at Ara Rooftop Pool and Lounge at Hotel Effie for the biggest New Year's Eve celebration starting at 7 p.m. Jam out to live music, sip on hand-crafted cocktails, and enjoy the stunning panoramic view of the Baytowne Wharf fireworks shows at Hotel Effie. After 9 p.m., guests must be 21 and over. General admission and VIP seating are available HERE.
  • Address: 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach
  • Phone: (855) 434-1908 
 
Baytowne Wharf's NYE Celebration
Enjoy a family friendly-evening from 6-8 p.m. with face painting, kids' activities and live music on the Baytowne live stage. Finish off the family-friendly festivities with a fireworks display at 8 p.m. and midnight.
 
 
Seagar's Prime Steaks & Seafood NYE Dinner
An evening of celebration – join us this New Year's Eve as we raise a glass to 25 years of Seagar's Prime Steaks & Seafood. With live entertainment by the Heather Hayes Band and a complimentary champagne toast, this is a night you don't want to miss. Seatings start at 5 p.m. on New Year's Eve. 
  • Website: seagars.com
  • Address: 4000 Sandestin Blvd. S., Miramar Beach
  • Phone: (850) 622-1500 
 
The Big Chill Beach Ball Drop on NYE
We will have a DJ on stage from 6-9:30 p.m. to get everyone excited to ring in the New Year with a beach ball drop on our stage at 8 p.m. 
  • Address: 7000 E. Co. Hwy. 30A, Rosemary Beach 
  • Phone: (850) 866-2016 
 
The Courtyard at Pescado NYE Celebration
Call (850) 213-4600 for reservations on New Year's Eve. Staggered seating is from 6-10 p.m. Enjoy a 4-course menu with amuse bouche. There's live music by the Barry Fish Band. Pricing is $269 per person plus 7% tax and a 23% service fee. Pricing includes complimentary entry to The Courtyard Bar and party.
  • Address: 74 Town Hall Road, Ste. 4B, Rosemary Beach
  • Phone: (850) 213-4600 
 
North Beach Social NYE Celebration
Come and join us in ringing in 2024 at North Beach Social. Enjoy music by DJ Spinzy from 6-9 p.m. with a fireworks show!
  • Address: 24200 Hwy. 331 S., Santa Rosa Beach
  • Phone: (850) 622-8110
 
Ovide NYE 4-Course Prix Fixe 
Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance and savor a culinary journey with a specially curated 4-course prix fixe menu priced at $250 per person and as a special touch, each guest will be treated to a complimentary glass of champagne to toast to the festivities. Indulge in a night of exquisite flavors and sophistication as you bid farewell to the year in the heart of Ovide's culinary excellence. 
  • Website: opentable.com
  • Address: 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach
  • Phone: (850) 351-3030
 
SunQuest Cruise NYE Experience 
Ring in the new year aboard a yacht! Exclusively for guests 21 and up, enjoy a 4.5-hour cruise away from the crowds. Your experience includes an adult-only cruise, four-course menu, live entertainment, midnight champagne toast and a booming fireworks display. 
  • Address: 8330 Mike Hayes Blvd., Miramar Beach
  • Phone: (850) 650-2519 
 
Havana Beach Bar & Grill at the Pearl Hotel NYE Prix Fixe
The Pearl Hotel will be offering a 3-course prix fixe created by our Executive Chef at Havana Beach Bar & Grill to ring in the new year with special music by dueling pianos. Join us on New Year's Eve from 5-10 p.m. The price is $225 for ages 13 and older. Reservations are strongly suggested and can be made by calling the number below. 
  • Website: thepearlrb.com
  • Address: 63 Main St., Rosemary Beach
  • Phone: (850) 588-2882 
 
HOLIDAY SPECIALS
 
 
Hotel Effie Sandestin All-Inclusive Package
Nestled between the beach and bay at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, Hotel Effie Sandestin will offer an all-inclusive room package for stays from Dec. 30-31. The package includes dinner for two during Ovide's Poppin' New Year's Eve Dinner, access to Ara for two during the New Year's Eve Party and a breakfast voucher ($100) for New Year's Day, Jan. 1. 
  • Address: 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach
  • Phone: (855) 434-1908 
 
South Walton Golf Cart Rentals Winter Special
We are running a winter special from now until the end of December. All weekly rentals are 40% off compared to peak-season pricing and up to $1,000 off MSRP on new carts for sale. All rentals come with free delivery and pick up. We also provide free delivery of sold carts.