Christmas Along the Coast in South Walton

It's the most wonderful time of the year. There is no shortage of festive holiday celebrations, illuminated beach neighborhoods, and holiday cheer. Our powder white sand beaches ensure that every South Walton Christmas is white one. Whether you're staying along Scenic Highway 30A or in and around Sandestin and Miramar Beach, rest assured there are festive happenings nearby. Here's some of our favorite things to do at Christmas in Santa Rosa Beach:  

Visit the Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin: All month, guests can  get in the holiday spirit by slipping on skates and enjoying the ice skating rink. On Sat. Dec. 14 starting at 6 p.m, Sandestin will host its annual Paper Lantern Parade, featuring lighted golf carts and participants on foot with paper lanterns parading through the Village. Every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday night from 6 to 7 pm, the 12 Nights of Christmas features festive lights set to your favorite holiday music.  

Enjoy a live holiday performance at the Seaside Rep: A holiday tradition, the Seaside Repertory Theatre presents "Every Christmas Story Ever Told." Three actors weave together every Christmas story in the space of 50 minutes. Nothing is spared in this rollicking tour de farce! The story of the stingy and sour Ebenezer Scrooge is there too. This must-see performance will have the entire family laughing. Visit www.seasiderep.org for show times and prices.  

Take a Holiday Cruise: On Dec. 14, the Solaris will host "Cruisin' with Santa" Holiday lunch cruise. This festive and memorable two-hour cruise includes a 2-course lunch and photos with Santa. A portion of the proceeds will be donated and unwrapped toys will be collected for the Sandestin Foundation for Kids. Tickets range from $10 - $40. Make reservations online at www.SunQuestCruises.com  or by calling 850.650.2519. 

Stroll Eden State Gardens: On Dec. 14 from 5-8 p.m., Friends of Eden will host Christmas Candlelight at Eden State Gardens. Guests will follow the flickering luminary walk to the beautifully decorated historic Westley House followed by refreshments in the Pavilion. If you miss the evening event, the Westley House is also open for guided tours all days of the week except Tuesday and Wednesday. Great for history buffs, the historic home also houses the second largest known collection of Louis XVI  furnishings.

Vote For Your Favorite Tree. Now through Dec. 25, the Festival of Trees within Grand Park in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin allows local charities to compete for up to $5000 in cash prizes. With more than a dozen uniquely decorated Christmas trees from area non-profit organizations, it's easy to feel the holiday spirit while supporting great causes along the Emerald Coast.  The public is invited to purchase a ticket and vote for their favorite to benefit charity. 

If you've already made reservations, we look forward to seeing you soon! If not, time is running out! Check out our available South Walton Rentals and beach condos online or call 1-800-225-7652 to ensure you don't miss out on the festive Florida holiday celebration. 
 

Published by Tracy Louthain
Wednesday, December 4, 2013