December is officially here, folks! I’m not sure where 2016 has gone, but it’s gone by in a hurry. There are events galore on the Emerald Coast this time of year, and here’s a quick list of our family’s favorites.

Ft. Walton Beach Christmas “Parade of Lights”
Monday, December 5th, 6:30 pm
Parade rolls up Eglin Parkway from from First Street to the Kmart parking lot. We haven’t been to this NIGHT parade with our kids just yet, but I went every year growing up.

32nd Annual Destin Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 10 at 10:00 am
Parade begins at Old Time Pottery shopping center and rolls westward to Stahlman Avenue.
This mid-morning parade is perfect for kids of all ages. Santa himself closes out the parade on one of Destin’s very own fire engines.

Baytowne on Ice
Rink is opened every day from now through February 10th. Check the website for prices and operating hours.
My beach babies LOVE having the chance to ice skate in Destin!

Gingerbread House Making Event at Destin Whole Foods
Saturday, December 17th
$20 per family for a gingerbread house. Check Whole Foods Destin’s Facebook page for registration information.

30th Annual Destin Harbor Boat Parade
Sunday, December 11, 6:00 pm
Grab a spot at any restaurant on the harbor and be dazzled by the festively lit boats that pass by. A true Destin Christmas tradition!

LuLu’s Noon Year’s Eve Party
Beginning at 10:00 am on Saturday, December 31st
This is the perfect even for those kids (and grown ups) that can’t make it to midnight. Sandcastle-building contest, food, live kid-friendly music, and a countdown to NOON with fireworks and a beach ball drop. TONS OF FUN!

This is certainly not an exhaustive list…there are many, many other holiday events going on this month. Get out there and have fun this season!