Happenings in the areaLocal Events and Community News November 29, 2023

December Events 2023

1st Special Operations Wing Winter Wonderland

Friday, December 1st,  from 4PM-6:30PM @ Hurlburt Field

Open to guests with base access, join the 1st SOW at Hurlburt Field for their annual winter wonderland celebration. Guests are invited to enjoy hot cocoa, train rides and craft making at Santa’s Workshop. Rounding out the event will be a tree lighting ceremony and remarks from 1st SOW commander Col. Allison Black.

 

 

29th Annual Christmas in the Park

December 2, 2023 from 8 am – 4 pm in Navarre Park (8513 Navarre Pkwy)

Christmas in the Park, marks the start of the holiday season in Navarre with a Merry Market featuring over 50 local vendors.  These booths, showcasing original artwork, jewelry, home décor items, and more, offer unique holiday gift options. Following the parade, Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with “The Grinch” will be available for photos in Navarre Park. Free baked goods and hot beverages are provided at Mrs. Claus’ Bakery. Additionally, a 20-foot Christmas tree will be erected in the park.   Santa’s Workshop is open from noon to 4 pm for children to create homemade crafts.

Navarre Christmas Parade

December 2, 2023 Starts at 1PM from the Navarre Library, down Presidio Street towards the Park

The Annual Navarre Community Christmas Parade Presented by Navarre Walmart rolls at 1 pm from the Navarre Library down Presidio Street.

 

Pensacola Beach Lighted Boat Parade

Saturday, Dec. 2 at 6:30 p.m., Pensacola Beach

The 2023 Lighted Boat Parade sets sail from Sabine Marina in Little Sabine Bay at 6:30 pm, following a loop around the Santa Rosa Sound/Boardwalk area before returning to Sabine Marina. Prior to the boat launch, there’s a kid’s party from 4 to 6 pm at Shaggy’s Pensacola Beach. After the parade, Santa greets children at the Quietwater Shell, followed by a brief firework display from the Santa Rosa Sound. Spectators can enjoy the parade from Little Sabine, the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, or any businesses along the route.

 

 

2023 Surfing Santa Parade

Sunday, Dec. 3, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM at Pensacola Beach

Make your way to Pensacola Beach on Sunday, Dec. 3, to see Santa Claus close out the annual Surfing Santa Beach Parade!!!

Starting at 2 p.m. from Avenida 10, the parade will make its way down Via De Luna toward Casino Beach and end at the Gulfside Pavilion.

 

 

Fort Walton Beach Christmas Parade

Monday, Dec. 4th at 6:30PM

The 2023 Fort Walton Beach Christmas Parade will take place on Monday, Dec. 4, at 6:30 p.m. along Eglin Parkway from First Street to Hughes Street. This year’s theme is “That’s What Christmas Means To Me!” The public is invited to gather along Eglin Parkway to watch the parade and cheer on their favorite characters

 

 

Destin Christmas Parade

Saturday, Dec 9 Starting at 10 AM

The 39th annual “A Christmas Vacation” Destin Christmas Parade will roll out at 10 a.m. down Harbor Boulevard (U.S. 98) to Stahlman Avenue. The floats will begin at Beach Drive and travel west. Spectators are asked to stand on the north side of Harbor Boulevard to watch the parade.

 

Holiday on the Harbor, Destin Boat Parade @ Harborwalk Village

Sunday, Dec. 10th, 6:00 PM

Location: Harborwalk Village

The Harbor will be dancing with lights and cheer during the 37th Annual Destin Boat Parade followed by a FIREWORKS FINALE AND Fire Spinning!

 

 

Rockin’ Holiday Concert Series @ HarborWalk Village

Saturday, December 9th | 5 pm – 8 pm

Location: Main Stage at HarborWalk Village, Destin

The Main Stage will be Rockin’ with your holiday favorites followed by FIREWORKS at 8PM! every Saturday through December 16! & a firespinning finale by Autumn Lyfe!

 

 

Navarre Beach Christmas Market

Saturday Dec 16- 10am-5PM @Andy D’s ( 8649 Gulf Blvd) on Navarre Beach

‘Tis the season for joy, and the Navarre Beach Christmas Market is the perfect place to embrace the holiday spirit! With over 20 craft vendors, discover a diverse array of gifts, from handcrafted jewelry to cozy winter wear. Immerse yourself in holiday-themed art, indulge in delicious dishes from Andy D’s Restaurant, and enjoy the possibility of a Santa sighting for the little ones. Live entertainment sets the festive mood, and a free bounce house adds extra excitement for kids. This free family-friendly event offers a magical day of shopping and celebration, ensuring you find unique, handcrafted gifts and decorations to make your holidays truly memorable.

 

 

 

 

Sunday, December 31/23 | 7 pm to 12 am

Location: HarborWalk Village

Ring in the New Year with all the enchantment of a Harbor Celebration! Dance away 2023 with LIVE entertainment happening on the main stage, beginning at 7:00PM with Strange Boy, followed by The New Royals at 9:30PM. Turn your eyes to the skies for a dazzling firework display over the Harbor and shout along as we countdown the Ball Drop, welcoming a New Year!