2026 Halloween, Thanksgiving & Christmas Events in Destin, FL

Planning a fall or holiday getaway to Destin, Florida? The 2026 season brings plenty of opportunities to enjoy festive celebrations, explore local traditions, and spend time with family and friends along the Emerald Coast. From Halloween festivities and holiday markets to Thanksgiving cruises and Christmas tree lightings, there is something to enjoy throughout the season.

Whether you're traveling with children, planning a couples' getaway, or bringing everyone together for the holidays, these events are a great way to make the most of your time in Destin.

Date: October 24, 2026
Location: HarborWalk Village

Celebrate Halloween along the Destin Harbor at HarborWalk Village. This popular seasonal destination typically hosts family-friendly festivities, including costume contests, trick-or-treating, live entertainment, and activities for children.

After enjoying the Halloween fun, take some time to explore the waterfront shops and restaurants or watch the boats along the harbor. With its lively atmosphere and scenic setting, HarborWalk Village is a fun stop for families looking to celebrate Halloween during their Destin vacation.

For event details and updates, visit the HarborWalk Village Events Calendar.

Date: October 30, 2026
Location: Destin Commons

Celebrate Halloween with a whimsical evening at Destin Commons during The Curious Garden: A Halloween Bash Inspired by Wonderland. Scheduled for October 30 from 6 to 9 p.m., this themed celebration offers a festive way for families to enjoy the Halloween season while visiting Destin.

After enjoying the event, explore the open-air shopping center's stores and restaurants for an evening of shopping, dining, and seasonal fun.

For event details and updates, visit the Destin Commons Events Calendar.

Date: October 31, 2026
Location: Grand Boulevard at Sandestin

Make Halloween extra special with a visit to Halloween on the BOOlevard at Grand Boulevard. This annual community celebration brings trick-or-treating to the outdoor shopping and dining district, giving families a festive way to spend Halloween afternoon.

Scheduled for 4 to 6 p.m., the event invites children and their four-legged companions to dress up in costume and collect treats from participating shops and restaurants. It's a fun opportunity for families to enjoy the Halloween spirit while exploring the area's boutiques and dining spots.

Learn more at the Grand Boulevard Halloween on the BOOlevard event page.

Dates: November 13–14, 2026
Location: Destin Community Center

Get a head start on holiday shopping at the City of Destin's annual Holiday Craft Show. Featuring local artists and vendors, this event is a great place to find one-of-a-kind gifts and seasonal decorations while supporting the local community.

Browse handmade crafts, jewelry, wreaths, books, and other unique finds. With a variety of items to explore, you may discover the perfect gift for someone special or something new to add to your own holiday decorations.

The craft show is also a wonderful way to experience Destin beyond its beaches and enjoy the community traditions that make the area special.

Visit the City of Destin's event calendar for the latest event information.

Date: November 20, 2026
Location: Destin Commons

Welcome the Christmas season at Destin Commons during its annual Santa's Arrival and Holiday Tree Lighting celebration. This festive community event marks the start of the holiday season with the lighting of the center's towering Christmas tree and a special appearance by Santa Claus.

Enjoy holiday music, seasonal decorations, and the opportunity to take in the festive atmosphere throughout the open-air shopping center. It's a fun outing for families and a great way to kick off the Christmas season while visiting Destin.

Find more information on the Destin Commons holiday page.

Date: November 21, 2026
Location: The Village of Baytowne Wharf

For a festive evening geared toward adults, head to The Village of Baytowne Wharf for Sparkling Wine & Holiday Lights. This annual celebration combines seasonal scenery with sparkling wine, appetizers, and entertainment in a charming waterfront village setting.

Guests can sip and stroll while taking in the holiday lights and enjoying the atmosphere of the Nights of Lights display. It's a lovely option for couples or friends looking to add something special to their holiday getaway.

Explore event details at the Baytowne Wharf Sparkling Wine & Holiday Lights event page.

Date: November 26, 2026
Location: Baytowne Marina

Spend Thanksgiving on the water with a holiday cruise aboard the SOLARIS Yacht. Departing from Baytowne Marina, this dining experience offers a different way to celebrate the holiday while enjoying views of the surrounding waterways.

The approximately two-and-a-half-hour cruise features a holiday buffet with traditional Thanksgiving favorites, including herb-roasted turkey, bourbon-maple-glazed ham, Southern sides, and desserts. It's an option for travelers who want to enjoy a festive meal without preparing the entire holiday dinner themselves.

Reservations can be made through SunQuest Cruises. For menus, cruise times, and booking information, visit the Thanksgiving Day Dinner Cruise page or call 850-650-2519.

Date: November 28, 2026
Location: HarborWalk Village

Santa makes a memorable entrance to the Destin Harbor during this popular holiday celebration. Families can gather along the waterfront to welcome Santa, enjoy seasonal entertainment, and take in the festive decorations throughout HarborWalk Village.

With shops, restaurants, and harbor views nearby, it's an easy way to spend part of Thanksgiving weekend enjoying the local holiday atmosphere.

Visit the HarborWalk Village Events Calendar for the latest details.

Dates: November 28–December 24, 2026
Location: Destin Commons

Keep the Christmas spirit going with Jolly Jubilee at Destin Commons. This seasonal celebration transforms the shopping center into a festive holiday destination, complete with a towering Christmas tree, reindeer displays, holiday music, and opportunities to visit Santa on select dates.

Whether you're shopping for gifts, enjoying a meal, or taking family photos among the holiday decorations, Destin Commons offers plenty of ways to enjoy the season. It's an easy addition to your holiday itinerary, especially if you're looking to combine Christmas activities with shopping and dining.

Visit the Destin Commons holiday page for seasonal attractions and updates.

December 3, 2026 | 6–8 p.m.
Destin Community Center

More information can be found here: City of Destin's 40th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting

Date: December 4, 2026
Location: Grand Park at Grand Boulevard

The Festival of Trees at Grand Boulevard is a beloved holiday tradition held annually at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin in Miramar Beach, Florida. The event features uniquely decorated Christmas trees created by local nonprofit organizations, which compete for cash prizes.

Visitors can stroll through the Town Center to admire the festive displays, vote for their favorite trees, and enjoy the holiday atmosphere. The festival also serves as a community fundraiser, helping local organizations raise money and awareness for their causes throughout the holiday season. The celebration typically kicks off with an official tree-lighting event in late November or early December, featuring live entertainment, refreshments, and a special visit from Santa Claus.

Date: December 12, 2026
Location: Highway 98, Destin

Celebrate the season with the City of Destin's annual Christmas Parade. This community tradition brings holiday spirit to the streets with festive floats, marching groups, and seasonal decorations.

Find a spot along the parade route and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season with family and friends. It's a great opportunity to experience the local community and add a classic Christmas tradition to your Destin vacation.

Check the Destin Chamber event calendar for the latest parade information.

Date: December 13, 2026
Location: Destin Harbor

Experience a coastal Christmas tradition at the Destin Harbor Lighted Boat Parade. During this festive event, boats decorated with colorful Christmas lights cruise through the harbor, creating a dazzling display against the waterfront.

Find a viewing spot along the harbor and enjoy the illuminated boats as they pass by. The event offers a distinctly coastal way to celebrate the season and is a memorable option for couples, families, and anyone visiting Destin in December.

For event details, check the Destin Harbor event listings.

Date: December 13, 2026
Location: Captain Royal Melvin Heritage Park

Spend part of your day exploring the Holly Jolly Holiday Market on the Harbor. This seasonal market offers a festive setting to browse local vendors, discover unique gifts, and support small businesses while enjoying Destin's waterfront atmosphere.

It's a great addition to a December itinerary, especially for visitors who enjoy holiday shopping and local community events.

Find updates on the City of Destin's Community and Family Events Calendar.

Make this holiday season one to remember with a coastal getaway to Destin. Between festive community events, waterfront celebrations, and peaceful days along the Gulf, the Emerald Coast offers plenty of ways to enjoy the holidays with family and friends.

Compass Resorts offers a variety of vacation rentals to bring everyone together, from beachfront stays at Silver Beach Towers, Silver Shells Beach Resort & Spa, and The Palms of Destin to spacious vacation homes in nearby Miramar Beach, including Griffin's Getaway, Dream Maker, and Pearl by the Sea.

Whether you're planning a Thanksgiving gathering, a Christmas vacation by the beach, or a New Year's getaway, Destin offers a memorable setting for celebrating the season. Explore our vacation rentals and find a place to make new holiday memories on the Gulf Coast.