The holidays are almost here, and we are eagerly anticipating some of the time-honored Destin traditions that take place on the Emerald Coast leading up to Christmas. The weather may be somewhat cooler, but with average temperatures in the mid-sixties in December, the weather in Destin still beats the weather pretty much anywhere else, and outdoor activities can still be a lot of fun!
Here are a few things going on in December along the Destin Harbor that are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit.
See Santa
Yes, Santa does come to the beach! (Doesn’t everyone?) If you’re lucky, you may even spot him paddleboarding on the Destin Harbor when he’s taking a break from taking Christmas wishes and posing for photos with the boys and girls who visit him at HarborWalk Village. Santa has to stay in shape for the big day!
Join the Fun at the Destin Christmas Parade
Mark your calendars for the 28th Annual Destin Christmas Parade, scheduled for Saturday, Dec 14, 2013. This year’s theme is “A Fantasy Christmas” and floats will start travelling along Harbor Blvd, from Main St to Stahlman Ave, at 10am. Local businesses, schools, and organizations really go all out with their float decorations, as well as with the candy and freebies they throw out to the crowd. We will be participating on our boat-themed float along with several other local businesses, and, believe me, there is going to be some good stuff being tossed from our float! Make sure to arrive early to get a parking spot and a good view of the parade! The Destin Christmas Parade is filled with people, and is always a great time, for kids as well as adults!
Watch the Boats Light Up The Night at the Destin Boat Parade
Don’t miss the 27th Annual Holiday on the Harbor Destin Boat Parade on Sunday, December 15, 2013, hosted by the Destin History and Fishing Museum. There will be live music and children’s arts and crafts all afternoon along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, and the Lighted Boat Parade will begin at 6 P.M. Grab some hot chocolate at HarborWalk Village and watch the boats start lining up in the Harbor between 5 and 5:30 PM. The parade can be seen from the Boardwalk and from restaurants west of Grand Harbor Condominiums on the Destin Harbor or, if weather permits, you can rent a boat for the evening (Contact us for details!). As a special treat, a fireworks show will light up the sky at the end of the boat parade. This event is a must-see!
Ring in the New Year on the Harbor
Plan to ring in the New Year on the Destin Harbor and celebrate along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk. HarborWalk Village has a full schedule of events, including live music performances, all leading up to the ball drop and a fabulous fireworks show over the Harbor at midnight. It’s the place to be for New Year’s Eve!
Follow the Adventures of the Elf on the Shelf!
Not going to be on the Emerald Coast over the holidays, but want to follow along with the holiday fun?
We’re sure you’ve heard of The Elf on the Shelf. He’s bringing joy to children across the world (and helping them behave!). This year, we have adopted our very own elf, Skipper! Skipper proves to be a very adventurous elf, and we will be sharing his daily adventures all along the Emerald Coast with our Facebook fans. Join us on our Facebook page to watch as Skipper visits various local businesses all through the month of December, and see what it’s like to spend Christmas on the coast!
