WCT Holiday Roundup 2024
Walton County is the perfect place to celebrate the winter holidays with many enticing events and festive fare to choose from. Whether you want to celebrate among twinkling lights and hanging holly or ring in the New Year with champagne and something good to eat, there’s something for everyone in Walton County.
Holiday Happenings
5 Oaks Mercantile: Christmas Pop-up Sales
Celebrate the season with 5 Oaks Mercantile's daily pop-up sales from Dec. 3-24. Each day, a different item or display will be featured with 25% off. Be sure to check their Facebook and Instagram pages each morning for the announcement of the daily sale.
Website: 5oaksmercantile.com
Address: 1133 U.S. Hwy. 90 W., DeFuniak Springs
Phone: (850) 520-4778
Baytowne Wharf: Wednesday Night Concert Series - Holiday Edition
Get into the holiday spirit with festive live music and a chance to share your wish list with Santa! Enjoy holiday sing-along classics and visits from Santa on Wednesdays, Dec. 11 and 18 from 6-8 p.m. at The Village at Baytowne Wharf.
Website: sandestin.com/things-to-do/events/wednesday-night-concert-series-holiday-edition
Address: 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., Miramar Beach
Phone: (850) 267-8888
Birdie A: Christmas Fun for the Whole Family
Celebrate the season with a day of Christmas fun at Birdie A on Saturday, Dec. 21 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy pictures with Santa, Christmas cookie decorating, a hot cocoa bar, face painting, Christmas games and a special guest appearance. It’s the perfect event for the whole family to enjoy!
Website: birdieagolf.com
Address: 1245 Old Jolly Bay Rd., Unit A102, Freeport
Phone: (850) 880-2255
Blue Mountain Bakery: 3rd Annual Fra-Gee-Lay 2K
Join Blue Mountain Bakery for their festive 3rd Annual Tacky Sweater Fun Run/Walk on Sunday, Dec. 8! This 1.2-mile route challenges participants to climb the tallest mountain on the U.S. Gulf Coast (64 ft.) while sporting their most festive holiday sweaters or costumes. The event features food and drink specials, prizes and live Christmas music. Proceeds benefit the Open Door Food Pantry. Race starts at 9:30 a.m., with awards at 11 a.m. The bakery will be open 8 a.m.-noon.
Website: bluemountainbakery.com/frageelay2k
Address: 2217 W. County Hwy. 30A, Suite E, Santa Rosa Beach
Phone: (850) 267-0400
City of DeFuniak Springs: Christmas Reflections 2024
Come see more than 10 million lights reflect off a perfectly round spring-fed lake glowing in holiday splendor! Enjoy a holiday family tradition with annual Christmas Reflection displays at Chipley Park, featuring Victorian, animal and toy soldier cutouts, Santa’s workshop and a ticking grandfather clock, among thousands of decorations. The event runs nightly until Tuesday, Dec. 31, seven days a week from 5:30-9 p.m.
Website: defuniaksprings.net
Address: 1226 Circle Dr., DeFuniak Springs
Phone: (850) 892-8500
City of Freeport Annual Christmas Events
Celebrate the holidays with the City of Freeport’s annual Christmas events on Saturday, Dec. 7. The day will begin with the Christmas Parade at 5 p.m., "The Many Faces of Christmas," starting at Freeport Elementary School and traveling down Business 331 to Highway 20 West and ending at Blueberry Road near City Hall. Immediately following the parade, the Christmas Tree Lighting will take place at City Hall with entertainment, arts and crafts, refreshments, food trucks and the lighting of the City Christmas Tree. The Festival of Trees will be open each day until Saturday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at City Hall, where visitors can view beautifully decorated trees and vote for their favorite.
Website: freeportflorida.gov/news_detail_T22_R64.php
Address: 112 State Hwy 20 W., Freeport
Phone: (850) 830-3289
The Courtyard at Pescado: Cupcake Decorating Class
Join Pastry Chef Daniel Sanchez for a festive cupcake decorating class at The Courtyard at Pescado on Sunday, Dec. 8 from noon-1 p.m. Perfect for children 12 and under, this event will inspire creativity and holiday cheer. Tickets are $39 per person, exclusive of tax and service fees.
Website: rooftop30a.com/happenings/2024/12/8
Address: 74 Townhall Rd., Rosemary Beach
Phone: (850) 213-4600
DeFuniak Springs: Christmas Tour of Homes
Step into the holiday season Saturday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., with this charming self-driving tour showcasing beautifully decorated homes in the historic district of DeFuniak Springs. Sponsored by St. Agatha’s Episcopal Church, this annual event offers a glimpse into the area's festive spirit and architectural heritage. For more information, contact Melinda C. Henderson at (850) 830-7663.
Website: defuniaksprings.net/1467/The-Christmas-Tour-of-Homes
Address: Various locations in DeFuniak Springs
Phone: (850) 830-7663
Fonville Press: Santa Claus Visits
Bring your little ones to Fonville Press for a special Santa meet and greet on Sunday, Dec. 15, from 10 a.m.-noon. Children can take pictures with Santa, share their holiday wish lists and enjoy festive treats.
Website: fonvillepress.com
Address: 23 North Somerset, Rosemary Beach
Phone: (850) 641-0043
Grand Boulevard at Sandestin: Coastal White Christmas Celebration
Celebrate the season at Grand Boulevard with a variety of festive events. From Dec. 6-28, enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, a "Rock Around the Christmas Tree" music revue and photos with Santa every Friday and Saturday from 5-8 p.m. Don’t miss the Festival of Trees benefiting 18 local charities on Tuesday, Dec. 3 from 4-6:30 p.m., and enjoy the Holiday Open House & Walk-About on Saturday, Dec. 7 from noon–5 p.m. The Emerald Coast Theatre Company presents “All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914” from Dec. 8-22.
Website: grandboulevard.com/events
Address: 585 Grand Blvd., Ste. 205, Miramar Beach
Phone: (850) 837-3099
Idyll Hounds Brewing Company: Ugly Sweater Party
Come dressed to impress for our Annual Ugly Sweater Party! Join us on Monday, Dec. 23 from 6-8 p.m. for prizes, music, games, local beer, wine, non-alcoholic options and food.
Website: idyllhoundsbrewingcompany.com
Address: 845 Serenoa Rd., Santa Rosa Beach
Phone: (850) 814-0414
Jes & Gray Living: Coastal Christmas Sip & Shop
Get into the holiday spirit at Jes & Gray Living's Coastal Christmas Sip & Shop on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 2-6 p.m. Enjoy festive shopping in a cozy coastal wonderland, complete with seasonal cocktails, light bites and curated Christmas décor. Local artists Casey Culbertson and Sarah Soule Webb will showcase original watercolor paintings and photo-surrealistic artwork – perfect for holiday gifting.
Website: jesandgray.com
Address: 11111 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Miramar Beach
Phone: (850) 460-2474
Miracle at The Daytrader: Holiday Pop-Up Bars
Celebrate the season with Miracle and Sippin’ Santa, returning to Northwest Florida’s only location at The Daytrader Tiki Bar & Restaurant in Seaside. Now until Monday, Dec. 30, enjoy festive cocktails, over-the-top decor and holiday cheer. Sip on Christmas-themed drinks like the Christmapolitan, Snowball Old-Fashioned and the new Stocking Stuffer. The Daytrader is open daily from 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Website: daytradertiki.com
Address: 2236 E. County Hwy. 30A, Seaside
Phone: (850) 622-2420
Miracle at The Daytrader: Ugly Sweater Contest
Celebrate the season at Miracle at The Daytrader with their second annual Ugly Sweater Contest on Friday, Dec. 6 from 5-8:30 p.m. Dress in your best holiday attire for a chance to win prizes like Daytrader merchandise, specialty mugs, gift cards and more. Categories include Most Tacky, Best DIY, Most Outrageous and Best Couples Coordination. Winners will be announced at 8:30 p.m.
Website: daytradertiki.com
Address: 2236 E. County Hwy. 30A, Seaside
Phone: (850) 622-2420
Old Florida Fish House: Holiday Brunch & New Year's Eve Celebration
Join Old Florida Fish House for festive fun this holiday season! Enjoy a large brunch buffet with Santa on Saturdays, Dec. 14 and 21, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. featuring sausage, bacon, ham and a pancake bar. On Sunday, Dec. 15 at 6:30 p.m., experience an Elton John tribute performance by Ben Fry and his band.
Website: oldfloridafishhouse.com
Address: 33 Heron's Watch Way, Santa Rosa Beach
Phone: (850) 534-3045
Ovide: Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Enjoy a heartwarming Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Ovide, the signature restaurant at Hotel Effie, on Saturday, Dec. 14, 9 a.m.-noon. Indulge in Ovide’s acclaimed breakfast and brunch selections while creating memories with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Each child will receive a special gift and photos with the festive duo that will make lasting memories.
Website: hoteleffie.com/events
Address: Hotel Effie Sandestin, 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach
Phone: (850) 351-3030
The Courtyard at Pescado: Charity Wine Dinner
Join Courtyard at Pescado on Thursday, Dec. 5 for a charity wine dinner celebrating Caymus Vineyard’s 50th Anniversary. Enjoy a four-course dinner crafted by Chef Brendan Wakeham, with each course paired with wines from the renowned Caymus Vineyards. Twenty percent of dinner proceeds and all funds from the silent auction will benefit The Children's Volunteer Health Network, supporting children in Walton and Okaloosa counties. The event runs from 6-9 p.m. and tickets are available on the website below.
Address: 74 Townhall Rd., Rosemary Beach
Website: rooftop30a.com
Phone: (850) 213-4600
Roux 30A: Story Pairing Dinner
Join Emerald Coast Storytellers for a unique dining experience at Roux 30A on Thursday, Dec. 12 at 6 p.m. as they combine two timeless traditions – sharing stories and enjoying a delicious meal. The "Memory Lane" themed dinner will feature four courses, each paired with stories that celebrate life's milestones, cherished memories and the people who’ve left a lasting impact. Chef Nikhil Abuvala will be the featured storyteller for the evening. Tickets are $100 per person and beverages and gratuity are not included.
Website: emeraldcoaststorytellers.com
Address: 114 Logan Ln., Santa Rosa Beach
Phone: (850) 267-0100
Shades Bar and Grill: Santa Paws Pet Photos
Celebrate the holidays with your furry friends at Shades Bar and Grill! Santa Paws will be visiting on Sunday, Dec. 22 from 4-7 p.m. Have your pet's photo taken with Santa and enjoy a festive evening.
Website: shades30a.com
Address: 10952 E. County Hwy. 30A, Inlet Beach
Phone: (850) 231-9410
Shades Bar and Grill: Ugly Christmas Sweater Party
Throw on your tackiest holiday attire and join Shades Bar and Grill for their Ugly Christmas Sweater Party on Friday, Dec. 20 from 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Enjoy music by DJ Vladi and capture memories at the Forever Moments photo booth.
Website: shades30a.com
Address: 10952 E. County Hwy. 30A, Inlet Beach
Phone: (850) 231-9410
South Walton Fire District 11th Annual Polar Bear Plunge
Rinse off the old and welcome the new at the South Walton Fire District's 11th Annual Polar Bear Plunge on New Year’s Day, Jan. 1. The event kicks off at 11 a.m. with towel pick-up at Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar, followed by a costume contest at noon and the plunge at 1 p.m. at Ed Walline Beach Access. The cost to take the plunge is $20 per person, with children 12 and under participating for free. Event participants will receive a commemorative beach towel with their registration fee. Funds raised will benefit SWFD Community Education Programs.
Website: swfd.org
Address: 911 N. County Hwy. 393, Santa Rosa Beach
Phone: (850) 267-1298
Walton County Bicentennial Celebration
Join us on Saturday, Dec. 28 in DeFuniak Springs for the Walton County Bicentennial Celebration, a day filled with excitement! The event kicks off at 1 p.m. with a vibrant parade, followed by live music, local vendors, fun for the kids and much more. The celebration concludes at 5:30 p.m. with a spectacular fireworks display. Stay tuned for additional details on this historic event.
Website: walton200.com/events
Address: Baldwin Avenue, DeFuniak Springs
Phone: (850) 892-8155
Watersound Town Center: Winter Wonder Watersound
Celebrate the holiday season at Winter Wonder Watersound on Sunday, Dec. 8, 1-7 p.m. at The Pavilion at Watersound Town Center. Enjoy a meet and greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus, an improv show from The Rep Theatre, carolers, cookie decorating, letters to Santa and more. End the day with a viewing of the holiday favorite, Elf. This event is free and open to the public.
Website: watersoundtowncenter.com
Address: 85 Origins Main St., Inlet Beach
Phone: (888) 836-8353
Wesley House: The Christmas Candlelight Open House at Eden Gardens
This event will be held on Saturday, Dec. 7, 5-8 p.m., weather permitting. Guests will enjoy a ride through luminary lined pathways at Eden Gardens after sunset and be able to tour the historic Wesley House at no charge. Live music, cookies and hot beverages will be provided by the Friends of Eden in the Pavilion. The festive decorations will remain in place until Monday, Jan. 6. Eden Gardens State Park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset each day, with fees of $4 per vehicle.
Website: floridastateparks.org/learn/historic-wesley-house
Address: 181 Eden Gardens Rd., Santa Rosa Beach
Phone: (850) 267-8320
Christmas Holiday Meals
Edward's: Christmas Eve To-Go Meals
Make your holiday stress-free with Edward's to-go meals. Chef Josh's menu features a 5-lb. Rib Roast with Au Jus and Horseradish, Edward's Mac and Cheese and Apple Pie. Orders must be placed by 3 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 20, with pick-up available on Christmas Eve between 3-5 p.m. Call (850) 231-0550 or visit the restaurant to place your order.
Website: edwards30a.com/christmas
Address: 66 Main St., Rosemary Beach
Phone: (850) 231-0550
Swiftly Catered/Blue Mountain Bakery: Christmas Dinner To-Go
Enjoy a hassle-free holiday with fully cooked, reheat-ready Christmas dinners, breakfasts and desserts, all packaged with simple reheating instructions. Gluten-free options are available. Pre-order by Saturday, Dec. 14 at 5 p.m. for pick-up on Monday, Dec. 23 (9 a.m.-2 p.m.) or delivery from Miramar Beach to Inlet Beach (10 a.m.-5 p.m.).
Website: 30AHolidayMeals.com
Address: 2217 W. County Hwy. 30A, Ste. E, Blue Mountain Beach
Phone: (850) 972-0850
Vin’tij Food & Wine
Celebrate the holidays at Vin’tij Food & Wine at Grand Boulevard in Sandestin. Open on Christmas Eve, Tuesday, Dec. 24, 5-9 p.m., the restaurant will feature a festive holiday menu in addition to its regular dinner offerings. Reservations are suggested.
Website: vintij.com
Address: 500 Grand Blvd., #100K, Miramar Beach
Phone: (850) 650-9820
New Year’s Celebrations
Baytowne Countdown at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Ring in 2025 at the Baytowne Countdown in the Village at Baytowne Wharf. This family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration begins Tuesday, Dec. 31 at 6 p.m., featuring face-painting, kid’s activities, live music and a dazzling fireworks display at 8 p.m. Adults can enjoy live entertainment from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. on the Events Plaza Stage, culminating in a spectacular midnight fireworks show to welcome the new year.
Website: sandestin.com/things-to-do/events/baytowne-nye-countdown
Address: 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., Miramar Beach
Phone Number: (850) 267-8888
The Courtyard at Pescado: ‘80s Disco Party
Ring in the new year Tuesday, Dec. 31 with an ‘80s Disco Party at The Courtyard at Pescado! Dance the night away from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., enjoying a fun-filled evening with DJ South Beach and a charcuterie station (8-10 p.m.). Tickets are $119 per person, exclusive of tax and service fee.
Website: rooftop30a.com
Address: 74 Townhall Rd., Rosemary Beach
Phone: (850) 213-4600
The Courtyard at Pescado: Rooftop Sunset Soiree
It is almost impossible to watch the sunset and dream of what is to come! Embrace the last moments of 2024 at Pescado Grill and Rooftop Bar on Tuesday, Dec. 31 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are $99 per person (exclusive of tax and service fee) and include two select beverages and passed appetizers. All other beverages will be charged on consumption at menu price. CLICK HERE for tickets.
Website: rooftop30a.com/the-courtyard
Address: 74 Townhall Rd., Rosemary Beach
Phone:(850) 213-4600
Edward's: New Year's Eve Prix-Fixe Dinner
End 2024 with a luxurious four-course prix-fixe dinner at Edward’s in Rosemary Beach on Tuesday, Dec. 31. Enjoy delectable dishes like Mushroom-Truffle Ravioli, Pan-Seared Snapper, Duck Breast and Hazelnut Chocolate Torte. Live music from Janelle Frost begins at 6 p.m. Seatings are available at 5:15 p.m., 7:15 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., with dinner priced at $150 per person. Reservations are required for this special event.
Website: edwards30a.com/new-years-eve
Address: 66 Main St., Rosemary Beach
Phone: (850) 231-0550
Hotel Effie Sandestin, Autograph Collection: Neon Lights NYE Bash at Ara Rooftop Pool & Lounge
Ring in 2025 at the Neon Lights NYE Bash at Ara Rooftop Pool & Lounge on Tuesday, Dec. 31 from 7 p.m.-1 a.m. Enjoy neon-inspired cocktails, elevated food and drinks, live DJ beats and panoramic views of midnight fireworks. VIP cabanas and private seating are available for groups.
Website: hoteleffie.com
Address: 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach
Phone: (833) 873-3343
La Crema Tapas and Chocolate: New Year's Eve Celebration
Ring in the new year with chocolate fondue and champagne at La Crema in Rosemary Beach on Tuesday, Dec. 31. Enjoy a romantic evening with bottles of Laurent-Perrier champagne available for $99. Located in picturesque Rosemary Beach, it’s the perfect place to create unforgettable memories. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. daily.
Website: lacrematapas.com
Address: 38 Main St., Rosemary Beach
Phone: (850) 534-3004
Ovide: New Year's Eve Dinner
Ring in 2025 at Ovide with an exquisite culinary journey this New Year’s Eve, Tuesday, Dec. 31. Choose from two specially curated multi-course menus. The early dinner, available from 5-6:30 p.m., features a three-course menu priced at $75 per person. The later dinner, from 7-10 p.m., includes a four-course menu with welcome champagne and canapés, priced at $120 per person.
Website: hoteleffie.com/dining/ovide
Address: Hotel Effie Sandestin, 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach
Phone: (850) 351-3030
Old Florida Fish House: New Year’s Eve Celebration
Ring in the New Year on Tuesday, Dec. 31 from 10 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. with live music by Alex Napier, a champagne toast and a midnight balloon drop.
Website: oldfloridafishhouse.com
Address: 33 Heron's Watch Way, Santa Rosa Beach
Phone: (850) 534-3045
Roux 30A: New Year's Eve
Ring in 2025 with an unforgettable 5-course dinner at Roux 30A on Tuesday, Dec. 31 at 6 p.m. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted to showcase the best ingredients and creativity, followed by a champagne toast to celebrate the new year. Tickets are fully refundable until seven days before the event.
Website: roux30a.com/events
Address: 114 Logan Ln., Grayton Beach
Phone: (850) 622-2420
SunQuest Cruises: New Year’s Eve Fireworks Dinner Cruise
Ring in 2025 with a luxurious experience aboard the 125′ SOLARIS Yacht in Sandestin. This exclusive event features a four-course dinner, live entertainment, party favors and a spectacular fireworks display. Dance under the moonlight as you cruise for 4.5 hours from 8 p.m.-12:30 a.m., with check-in starting at 7 p.m. This event is for guests 21+ and takes place at the Baytowne Marina, with special parking available for New Year’s Eve, Tuesday, Dec. 31.
Website: sunquestcruises.com/new-years-eve-destin-fireworks-dinner-cruise
Address: 8330 Mike Hayes Blvd., Miramar Beach
Phone: (850) 650-2519
Sweetbay Coffee at Hotel Effie Sandestin: Fried Chicken & Fries
After ringing in 2025 with a stunning fireworks show at Ara Rooftop Pool & Lounge, satisfy your midnight cravings at Sweetbay Coffee. Enjoy crispy fried chicken and fries, available on New Year’s Eve, Tuesday, Dec. 31 from 11:45 p.m.-1 a.m.
Website: hoteleffie.com/sweetbay-coffee
Address: 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach
Phone: (850) 351-3031
TLB at Hotel Effie Sandestin: Live Music & NYE Drink Specials
Ring in the new year at TLB, Hotel Effie’s vibrant lobby bar. Enjoy live music and New Year’s Eve drink specials on Tuesday, Dec. 31 from 9 p.m.-1 a.m. in an inviting and elegant space featuring crafted cocktails, signature small plates and a bespoke wine selection.
Website: hoteleffie.com/lobby-bar-menu
Address: 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach
Phone: (850) 351-3032
Vin’tij Food & Wine
Celebrate the holidays at Vin’tij Food & Wine at Grand Boulevard in Sandestin. Open on New Year’s Eve, Tuesday, Dec. 31 from 5-9 p.m., the restaurant will feature a festive holiday menu in addition to its regular dinner offerings. Reservations are suggested.
Website: vintij.com
Address: 500 Grand Blvd., #100K, Miramar Beach
Phone: (850) 650-