Looking for a festive holiday experience along Florida’s scenic 30A? From November 28 to December 31, 2025, 30A transforms into a magical holiday destination with dazzling light displays, family-friendly events, and charming town centers. Here's what you need to know:
- Seaside: Kick off with the "Turn on the Town" parade and the nightly 12 Nights of Lights show. Santa photos are available through December 21.
- WaterColor: Twinkling lights and the Old Florida Holiday & Winter Market on November 29.
- Rosemary Beach: Tree lighting and the Festival of Trees with decorated displays.
- Grand Boulevard: Coastal White Christmas from December 18–23, featuring faux snow, carriage rides, and live performances.
- DeFuniak Springs: Over 10 million lights reflecting off Lake DeFuniak, running nightly through December 31.
- Eden Gardens: A one-night luminary event on December 6 with over 2,000 candlelit paths.
Plan your visit with insider tips: arrive early for parking, dress for cool evenings, and check local updates for weather and event details. Whether you’re strolling through Seaside’s festive streets or enjoying the serene luminaries at Eden Gardens, 30A offers a warm, coastal holiday experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
30A Holiday Light Displays 2025: Complete Event Guide with Dates, Times & Prices
30A Christmas Night | Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach & Seaside
Best Holiday Light Displays Along 30A
The 30A corridor transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a variety of breathtaking light displays and festive events. From dazzling synchronized shows to cozy, illuminated pathways, these coastal towns deliver unforgettable holiday cheer. Here’s a closer look at what each town has to offer.
Seaside Holiday Lights and Christmas Village
Seaside takes center stage in 30A’s holiday celebrations with its Turn on the Town event on November 29, 2025, from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. The festivities begin with a spirited holiday parade that travels from Seagrove to the Seaside Amphitheater. The highlight? Santa’s arrival and the grand tree lighting ceremony, which turns the town square into a magical holiday scene locals lovingly call "pure Seaside holiday magic".
At the heart of Seaside’s holiday charm is the Christmas Village, home to the nightly 12 Nights of Lights show. This synchronized spectacle combines music with dazzling light displays. Families can also enjoy complimentary Santa photos in the Christmas Village from November 29 through December 21, 2025, available daily between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.. Beyond the main square, Airstream Row and Ruskin Place shine with their own festive decorations, and the Seaside School Archway tree has become a favorite photo spot.
WaterColor and Seagrove Twinkle Lights
WaterColor Town Center and Cerulean Park host the Old Florida Holiday & Winter Market on November 29, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Visitors describe this event as a picturesque evening enriched by twinkling lights adorning the park. The market offers a festive mix of carriage rides, local vendors, and opportunities for Santa photos. Additionally, the illuminated parade route that connects Seagrove to Seaside creates a magical, light-filled pathway.
Alys Beach and Rosemary Beach Displays
Alys Beach embraces the season with elegant lighting that accentuates its signature white architecture. The town also hosts a special outdoor screening of White Christmas on December 28, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. in Central Park, blending the charm of holiday cinema with festive lighting.
Over in Rosemary Beach, the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting takes place at South Barrett Square during the Festival of Trees. This event showcases beautifully decorated trees, with visitors voting for their favorites in the People’s Choice Award. Running daily from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., the festival offers free admission and a dynamic experience, as competitors refresh their displays throughout the season, ensuring something new for repeat visitors.
Special Holiday Events Around 30A
Holiday light tours are magical on their own, but adding special events to the mix brings an extra layer of fun and charm. These scheduled happenings combine festive displays with live entertainment, creating memorable experiences. Since these events occur on specific dates and times, planning ahead ensures you’ll snag good parking and make the most of your visit.
Grand Boulevard Coastal White Christmas
From December 18 to 23, 2025, Grand Boulevard's Coastal White Christmas turns Grand Park into a winter wonderland. Think sparkling lights, faux snow, and festive vibes. Families can enjoy free horse-drawn carriage and wagon rides, meet Santa under a massive Christmas tree, and watch kids' holiday performances by Emerald Coast Theatre Company. With plenty of shops and restaurants nearby, it’s easy to grab a meal or warm up indoors between activities. The flat, paved paths make this event accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, and restrooms and seating are conveniently located. Arrive before sunset to secure free parking and enjoy the full evening.
Eden Gardens Christmas Candlelight Open House
For a quieter, more nostalgic holiday experience, head to the Eden Gardens Christmas Candlelight Open House on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Eden Gardens State Park in Point Washington. Over 2,000 luminaries light the paths, leading visitors through live oaks to a beautifully decorated historic mansion. The evening includes live music, cookies, and warm beverages, all wrapped in the charm of Old Florida. Since this is a one-night-only event, plan to arrive early to snag a parking spot. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for the uneven paths and bring a jacket, as Gulf Coast evenings can dip into the 40s–60s °F. For updates on weather or parking, check sowal.co or state park listings.
DeFuniak Springs Christmas Reflections
Rounding out the 30A holiday scene is Christmas Reflections in DeFuniak Springs, running nightly from November 28 through December 31, 2025, between 5:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. This festival features over 10 million lights reflecting off the nearly circular Lake DeFuniak, creating a stunning mirrored effect. Visitors can drive the loop for a convenient, car-friendly experience, ideal for families with kids. On select nights, horse-drawn carriage rides are available for a cozy touch, though they come with additional fees and possible wait times during busy evenings. Admission is charged per vehicle or per person at the gate, so arriving early on weekdays can help you avoid crowds. Pair your visit with a meal or hot chocolate in downtown DeFuniak Springs to make it a full evening outing.
| Event | Dates | Times | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Boulevard Coastal White Christmas | Dec 18–23, 2025 | Evenings (nightly) | Families with young kids, shoppers, and multi-generational groups |
| Eden Gardens Christmas Candlelight Open House | Dec 6, 2025 | 5:00–8:00 p.m. | Couples, photographers, and history lovers |
| DeFuniak Springs Christmas Reflections | Nov 28–Dec 31, 2025 | 5:30–9:30 p.m. | Visitors seeking a large-scale light show with drive-through convenience |
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How to Plan Your 30A Lights Tour
Interactive Lights Tour Map and Schedule
Kick off your holiday lights adventure in Seaside, where you’ll find the charming Christmas Village lights and opportunities for photos with Santa. Then, head just 2 miles west to explore the festive displays at WaterColor and Seagrove, including the Town Center and Cerulean Park, which also host a holiday market. From there, continue 3 miles to Alys and Rosemary Beach for beautifully lit trees and holiday décor. For a change of scenery, take a 5-mile detour north to Eden Gardens State Park, where luminous luminary paths await. Next, make your way south to Grand Boulevard for a magical display of lights, and wrap up your tour with a 20-mile drive north to DeFuniak Springs to experience the captivating Christmas Reflections. This 35-mile loop is perfect for spreading out over several evenings.
| Display | Dates & Times | Price (USD) | Family Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seaside | Nov 29–Dec 21, daily 4:00–6:00 p.m. (Santa) | Free | ★★★★★ |
| WaterColor | Nov 29, 3:00–9:00 p.m. (market & lights) | Free | ★★★★★ |
| Alys Beach | Dec 28 (tree lighting, times TBD) | Free | ★★★★☆ |
| Eden Gardens | Dec 6, 5:00–8:00 p.m. | ~$4/adult | ★★★★★ |
| Grand Boulevard | Dec 18–23, nightly evenings | Free | ★★★★★ |
| DeFuniak Springs | Nov 28–Dec 31, 5:30–9:30 p.m. | $20/adult, $10/child | ★★★★☆ |
For a more interactive experience, use tools like Google My Maps or visit sowal.co for real-time updates on South Walton events, traffic conditions, and schedule changes. You can even create a custom map with color-coded stops and a timeline slider to plan your route and prioritize the displays your family will love most.
Once your itinerary is set, keep these tips in mind for a smooth and enjoyable tour.
Tips for Visiting 30A Holiday Light Displays
Time your visit wisely. Weeknights after 7:00 p.m. are usually less crowded, while arriving early - around 5:00–6:00 p.m. - on event nights helps secure parking before the crowds roll in. If possible, avoid weekends from December 18 to 31, as these are the busiest times. Arriving 30–45 minutes before sunset (around 5:30 p.m. in December) is a great way to catch the lights as they first illuminate.
Plan your parking strategy. Popular locations like Seaside and WaterColor can fill up quickly, so aim to arrive before 5:00 p.m. or look for side street parking and take a short walk. Alys Beach and Rosemary Beach often provide valet services or public parking garages for about $10. Grand Boulevard offers over 500 free parking spaces, making it one of the easiest stops. At Eden Gardens, the $4 state park entry fee includes parking, and in DeFuniak Springs, you’ll find both free downtown street parking and $5 lots. If you’re tackling shorter segments, like Seaside to WaterColor, consider carpooling or renting bikes to make parking easier.
Dress for the season and double-check event details. December evenings along 30A can get chilly, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s °F, so bring layers and a jacket. Many areas, like Seaside and Grand Boulevard, are stroller- and wheelchair-accessible, thanks to their paved paths. However, Eden Gardens’ luminary trails might have softer ground, so plan accordingly. To make your tour even more festive, enjoy seasonal treats like hot cocoa, Santa photos, or live performances at select stops. Before heading out, check sowal.co for the latest updates on events and weather conditions to ensure a hassle-free outing.
Post-Christmas and New Year's Light Displays
Grand Boulevard and Christmas Reflections
Even after Christmas Day has passed, some light displays continue to spread holiday cheer into the New Year. Two standout options are worth exploring during the week between Christmas and New Year's. Christmas Reflections in DeFuniak Springs runs nightly from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. through New Year's Eve. The lights beautifully illuminate Lake DeFuniak at Chipley Park, creating a magical setting for visitors. Located about 35–45 minutes from central 30A, this display is well worth the drive, offering stunning lakefront views and even the occasional carriage ride to delight families.
Meanwhile, Grand Boulevard keeps its festive lights and decorations up through the end of December, even after the Coastal White Christmas event concludes on December 23. Visitors can enjoy twinkling light canopies, a decorated park, and a large illuminated tree. It's an ideal spot to pair light-viewing with a night out, whether for dining or shopping. With convenient parking and a walkable layout, Grand Boulevard is just a 20–30 minute drive from most 30A communities. Check the interactive map above for detailed directions and schedules.
These extended displays provide a seamless continuation of the holiday festivities, blending perfectly with earlier seasonal events.
General 30A Strip Lighting
From December 26 to 31, the entire 30A corridor stays aglow with festive lights, creating enchanting atmospheres perfect for scenic drives or leisurely evening strolls. Each community along 30A offers its own unique charm, with well-lit pathways and boardwalks making it easy to explore. Simply park in a town center and enjoy the sights. With sunset falling between 4:50 and 5:15 p.m. during late December, plan your outing to catch the lights as they begin to shine. For up-to-date information on active displays or special New Year's Eve programming, visit sowal.co before heading out.
Conclusion
Exploring 30A during the holiday season offers a delightful mix of festive cheer and coastal serenity. From the charming Christmas Village in Seaside to the glowing luminaries at Eden Gardens, the faux snow and carriage rides at Grand Boulevard, and the shimmering reflections at DeFuniak Springs, the area provides a variety of holiday experiences. Whether you’re strolling through quaint town centers or marveling at dazzling light displays, there’s something magical for everyone.
What makes 30A truly special is the blend of Gulf Coast hospitality with timeless holiday traditions. The mild December evenings are perfect for enjoying light displays with loved ones, offering a coastal Christmas vibe without the chill of winter.
If you’re planning a visit, aim for the week between December 26–31. This is when the area is especially vibrant, with restaurants, shops, and town centers alive with holiday energy - perfect for soaking up the festive atmosphere.
For the latest schedules, unique finds, and insider tips tailored to South Walton’s 30A area, check out sowal.co before you go. Their interactive map and planning tools will help you craft the ultimate holiday itinerary, ensuring your time under 30A’s twinkling lights is both magical and unforgettable.
FAQs
When is the best time to see 30A holiday lights without large crowds?
The ideal time to take in the 30A holiday light displays without dealing with large crowds is during weekday evenings or earlier in the season, preferably before mid-December. Weekdays are typically less busy than weekends, and visiting during the first or second week of December offers a quieter, more relaxed experience.
To steer clear of peak holiday traffic, aim to visit before the hectic weeks leading up to Christmas and New Year's. Early evening hours are another smart choice, allowing you to enjoy the festive lights with fewer people around.
Do 30A holiday events have admission fees?
Many holiday events along 30A are open to the public at no cost, though certain attractions like special light displays or guided tours might have an admission fee. Prices differ from event to event, so it's smart to check the specifics beforehand. Planning ahead will help you get the most out of your holiday celebrations!
What should I wear when visiting the 30A holiday lights in the evening?
Evenings along 30A tend to cool down, with temperatures usually falling between 55-65°F (13-18°C). To stay comfortable, it's a good idea to layer up with a light jacket or a cozy sweater. And don't forget to wear comfortable walking shoes - perfect for wandering through light displays and soaking in the festive vibe.
