Holiday Happenings along 30A & in the South Walton Area

The holidays are a great time to visit the beaches of South Walton and Scenic Highway 30A. The area is a glow in holiday decor and twinkling lights and there are festive events around every corner. Here's a round-up of some of the holiday happenings in each beach community that we're looking forward to this holiday season: 

30A Holiday Events

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. Address: 2217 W. County Hwy. 30A, Suite E, Santa Rosa Beach; Phone: (850) 267-0400

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. Address: 23 North Somerset, Rosemary Beach; Phone: (850) 641-0043

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. Address: 33 Heron's Watch Way, Santa Rosa Beach; Phone: (850) 534-3045

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. Address: 114 Logan Ln., Santa Rosa Beach; Phone: (850) 267-0100

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. 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. Address: 911 N. County Hwy. 393, Santa Rosa Beach; Phone: (850) 267-1298

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.; 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. Address: 114 Logan Ln., Grayton Beach; Phone: (850) 622-2420

Miramar Beach Holiday Events

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. Address: 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., Miramar Beach; Phone: (850) 267-8888

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. Address: 585 Grand Blvd., Ste. 205, Miramar Beach; Phone: (850) 837-3099

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. Address: Hotel Effie Sandestin, 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach; Phone: (850) 351-3030

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. Address: 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W., Miramar Beach; Phone Number: (850) 267-8888

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. Address: 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach; Phone: (833) 873-3343

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.; Address: Hotel Effie Sandestin, 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd., Miramar Beach; Phone: (850) 351-3030

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. Address: 8330 Mike Hayes Blvd., Miramar Beach; Phone: (850) 650-2519

Santa Rosa Beach Holiday Events

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. Address: 845 Serenoa Rd., Santa Rosa Beach; Phone: (850) 814-0414

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. Address: 181 Eden Gardens Rd., Santa Rosa Beach ; Phone: (850) 267-8320

DeFuniak Springs Holiday Events

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. Address: 1226 Circle Dr., DeFuniak Springs; Phone: (850) 892-8500

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. Address: Various locations in DeFuniak Springs; Phone: (850) 830-7663

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. Address: Baldwin Avenue, DeFuniak Springs; Phone: (850) 892-8155

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. 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.). Address: 2217 W. County Hwy. 30A, Ste. E, Blue Mountain Beach; Phone: (850) 972-0850

Book Your Holiday Stay Today

Newman-Dailey offers a wide selection of South Walton vacation rental homes and condominiums, including three- and four-bedroom rentals at Sanctuary at Redfish. Looking for a different size rental or location? View our South Walton Rentals, including 30A rentals and Miramar Beach Rentals here or call one of our friendly vacation specialists at 850-837-1071 to help narrow your search. Remember to always book direct for our best rate guarantee. 

See you @ the beach for the holidays!

Published on Thursday, December 5, 2024