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SoWal Staff

Serving the Community!
Apr 14, 2006
4,075
524
South Walon, FL
SoWal.com
Beginning Thanksgiving Day weekend with the showing of the beloved “Nutcracker” ballet and ending with a New Year’s Eve spectacular celebration, Seaside celebrates the most wonderful time of the year by preserving traditions and making memories.

Many families make Seaside their home away from home, where they can enjoy a beachside Thanksgiving or Christmas that can include a beach-themed tree trimming and a Gulf Coast-inspired holiday feast.

Seaside merchants also get into the spirit, with gorgeous decorations that sparkle and twinkle.

Holiday Events

The holiday season begins Sunday, Nov. 23, with a performance of “The Nutcracker,” based on the critically acclaimed Russian ballet set to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score. From the ballet that launched a national holiday tradition, dancers will perform under the stars at the Seaside Amphitheater. “The Nutcracker” performance is the result of the vision of Seaside co-founder Daryl Davis, who introduced performance arts in Seaside. The show will be held at 5 p.m. and is free to the public.

Friday, Nov. 28, grab your blankets and head down to the amphitheater for a holiday edition of Central Square Cinema on the lawn in Central Square. The featured movie is “The Grinch (animated),” a classic for all to enjoy.

The festive events continue Saturday, Nov. 29, with Turn on the Town. Hosted by the Merchants of Seaside, the day includes a parade and the annual tree lighting ceremony. The event features live music and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Santa, master of ceremonies for the evening, will invite all of the kids to join him in front of the stage for a sing-along before magically brightening up the town. Then, the countdown begins in unison to light the 24-foot Christmas tree, as all of downtown Seaside is illuminated with bright, holiday lights. Following the lighting ceremony, bring your camera for photos with jolly ole Saint Nick.

Additional events in December include a concert under the stars, more photo ops with Santa, and the New Year’s Eve celebration.

See all South Walton Events at www.SoWal.com/events


Celebrate the Holidays in Seaside, Florida Where Tradition Meets Magic

In Seaside, Florida the holidays sparkle a little differently. The iconic town becomes more than a destination; it becomes a memory in the making. Designed for connection and timeless charm, each winter Seaside transforms into a coastal Christmas scene come to life, a role it has been perfecting for more than four decades. Locals and visitors enjoy the nostalgia, the thoughtful details that add to the storybook setting, and the joy of practicing beloved traditions.

With over 114,000 twinkling lights and 24 Christmas trees throughout town, Seaside invites you to step into a season that glows both literally and emotionally. Here, the holidays are not just dates on a calendar; they are woven into the town’s history, shaped by community, and celebrated in ways that encourage you to slow down, savor the moment, and see the season through fresh eyes. From the awe of towering trees draped in light to the warmth of wandering a festive market, to the everyday romance of walking hand in hand in Central Square, the feelings and the scenes are intentional, with every detail designed to delight.

As we celebrate our 44th holiday season, we honor the legacy of our town’s vision to create a place where joy lives year round, especially at Christmastime. Whether you are returning with generations of family or discovering Seaside for the first time, this season is about rekindling wonder, sharing moments, and making magic.

Pop in for a stroll or join in one of our cherished seasonal events; we invite you to make Seaside your home for the holidays.

Seaside Farmers Market

Tuesday, November 25, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Seaside Amphitheater
The Seaside Amphitheater comes alive with the sights, scents, and flavors of the Seaside Farmers Market rounded out with local live music. Under the palms, local growers, bakers, and makers gather to share their freshest harvests and handcrafted goods. Beyond the produce, herbs, meats, artisan breads, treats and jams, find flowers, handmade soaps, and unique gifts that reflect the charm and creativity of our community. It’s more than a market, it’s a tradition.
Additional Dates:
  • Saturdays | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Seaside Amphitheater

Central Square Cinema: The Grinch (animated)

Friday, November 28, 2025 | 7:00 PM | Seaside Amphitheater
Kick off the season under the stars with a beloved holiday classic. Bring blankets, snuggle up, and experience The Grinch on the lawn — a tradition that brings generations together and reminds us all to believe in the magic of the season.

Turn on the Town & SEASIDE® Holiday Parade

Saturday, November 29, 2025
This hallmark event is where Seaside’s holiday story truly shines. From the lively parade that winds along 30A to the lighting of the town’s spectacular Christmas tree, Turn on the Town is a full day of festive cheer and community spirit. Gather in the amphitheater for caroling, live performances, children’s theatre, and the grand lighting of the tree, with Santa himself officially ushering in the holiday season. Afterward, follow Santa to the Christmas Village for photos until 8:00 PM.
Schedule:
  • 3:00 PM – Holiday Parade (Seagrove to Seaside)
  • 5:00 PM – Santa’s Arrival & Tree Lighting
  • 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM – Photos with Santa in the Christmas Village

Children’s Theatre Holiday Show

Sunday, November 30, 2025 | 11:00 AM | Seaside Post Office
Additional Dates:

  • Friday, December 5 – Sunday, December 7, 2025 11:00 AM
  • Saturday, December 12 – Sunday, December 14, 2025 11:00 AM
  • Sunday, December 19- Tuesday, December 23, 2025 11:00 AM
Enjoy a festive show for all ages brought to life by talented local performers. With a mix of comedy, holiday cheer and a picture-perfect Seaside scene, this children’s theater performance is a wonderful way to savor the season.

Miracle Bar at The Daytrader Tiki Bar

Select Nights Throughout the Season
Escape to a tropical twist on tradition. Miracle Bar brings kitschy holiday joy to the Gulf Coast with themed cocktails, dazzling décor, and the warmest tiki vibes around. Whether it’s a festive nightcap or a full-on celebration with friends, this is your spot for spirited fun.

SEASIDE® Holiday Market

Saturday & Sunday, December 6–7, 2025 | Central Square
Find gifts that tell a story. Browse local artisans, makers, and curated vendors offering handmade treasures, home décor, and seasonal treats in a charming open-air market. Savor hot cocoa, hum along to carolers, and discover that perfect something.
Market Hours:
  • Saturday, December 6: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Sunday, December 7: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Sinfonia Holiday Pops

Saturday, December 6, 2025 | Amphitheater
The magic of the season returns as Sinfonia Gulf Coast brings back its beloved Holiday Pops Concert to the amphitheater. This annual tradition transforms the stage into a winter wonderland of sound, blending timeless holiday classics, uplifting seasonal favorites, and a touch of sparkle that only live symphonic music can deliver. Enjoy an enchanting evening under the stars as Maestro leads the orchestra in a joyful celebration, featuring familiar carols and heartwarming numbers for the whole family. Gather friends, bring a blanket, and share in the music that makes the holidays shine.

SEASIDE® Christmas Village

Multiple Dates | Seaside Pop-Up District
Step into a whimsical world of vintage charm and new discoveries. The Christmas Village brings together festive photo ops and holiday sparkle all tucked into the Pop-Up District.
Photos with Santa
  • Saturday, Nov 29: 5:00 – 8:00 PM
  • Saturday, Dec 6 – Sunday, Dec 7: 4:00 – 6:00 PM
  • Saturday, Dec 13 – Sunday, Dec 21: 4:00 – 6:00 PM

New Year’s Eve Countdown & Fireworks

Wednesday, December 31, 2025 | 4:00 – 9:00 PM | Amphitheater
Enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly evening with live yacht rock from Monsters of Yacht, followed by a dazzling fireworks show over the water. Bring chairs or blankets, dress up or keep it casual, and gather under the palms for a memorable close to the year.

Plan Your Visit

Parking is complimentary throughout the season, making it even easier to explore the charm and cheer of Seaside. From nostalgic moments to postcard-perfect scenes, Seaside is your home for holiday celebrations.
Explore the full holiday calendar at seasidefl.com
 
Last edited by a moderator:

SoWal Staff

Serving the Community!
Apr 14, 2006
4,075
524
South Walon, FL
SoWal.com
This October, everyone can be your favorite character, even your dogs.

By Wendy O. Dixon


Like many small American towns, Seaside celebrates the fall season with nostalgia and a bygone spirit. October brings ideal weather, as well as some spooky good events.

Events

And they’re off. The crowd cheers. Down the stretch they come — a long stretch for these athletes.

This time each year, Seaside goes to the dogs, as man’s best friends and their beloved humans sprint to the Halloweener Derby. Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the Halloweener Derby returns for all dog lovers. The event, held Saturday, Oct. 25, starting at 10 a.m., includes a dachshund race and dog costume contest. Make plans to be in Seaside for the hilarious races as the short-statured pups run like the wind toward their cheering owners, or get distracted and circle the lawn looking to sniff a new friend.

But winning by a nose — still a long length for a wiener — is not the point for this race. While dachshund racing can be a serious sporting event, the Halloweener Derby race is quite informal. There are no age divisions, and entrants are not bred for racing. Dachshunds aged three months and older can race in the derby. Race officials don’t ask for a dog’s papers, but it is limited to dogs that are obviously dachshunds.

It will be a fun day of dog races, pageantry, fancy costumes, trophy presentations, photo ops, and entertainment — all in celebration of canine companions.

The derby helps support various charities and dog-friendly non-profits around town.

Then comes Halloween, Friday, Oct. 31, at 4 p.m. This year’s theme is “Wizard of Oz.” Follow the yellow-brick road, stopping to collect goodies from the Seaside merchants during the town’s Trick-or-Treat event. The Seaside Post Office will be reimagined in the town’s version of the Land of Oz. Get in on the fun by dressing as one of the famous characters, but all ghosts and goblins are welcome in any size or shape. And later, enjoy a showing of the movie “Wizard of Oz” in the Seaside Amphitheater.
 

SoWal Staff

Serving the Community!
Apr 14, 2006
4,075
524
South Walon, FL
SoWal.com
Celebrate the Season at the 2025 SEASIDE® Holiday Market!

The most magical time of the year is just around the corner, and there’s no better place to celebrate than in Seaside, Florida! We’re thrilled to announce that vendor applications for the 2025 SEASIDE® Holiday Market are now open. Join us December 6-7 to showcase your artisan creations and holiday gifts in a setting brimming with festive charm.

Vendors will have the opportunity to display their products in a 10×10 tent with a 6’ table and linen included, creating a warm, inviting space for holiday shoppers. There is a $250 participation fee, and applications are due October 17, 2025. Successful applicants will be notified by October 31, 2025.

SEASIDE® Merchants are encouraged to participate at no cost, making this the perfect chance to share your holiday offerings with the community and visitors alike.

From twinkling lights to festive music, the SEASIDE® Holiday Market is more than a shopping experience, it’s a beloved seasonal tradition where families, friends, and neighbors gather to celebrate the joy of the season. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this magical event!

Apply today and make your holiday season sparkle in Seaside!

APPLY HERE
 
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