November 19, 2025A DIFFERENT KIND OF WHITE CHRISTMAS
Leave the snow boots. Around here, our white Christmas comes in the form of soft, powdery sand and sunshine that sparkles like tinsel. Carillon Beach is that rare place where holiday cheer meets ocean air. Peaceful, family-friendly, and effortlessly charming.
The best part? No one’s shoveling a driveway. Instead, it’s Gulf breezes, twinkle lights, and that unmistakable 30A ease. Families, couples, even the self-declared “Grinches” end up falling for the cozy, coastal magic of a beachside holiday.
HOLIDAY LIGHTS & FESTIVE DECOR IN CARILLON
Carillon Beach may be laid-back, but when it comes to holiday sparkle, this village shows up. Coastal cottages wrap themselves in white lights, wreaths hang from porch swings, and the Village Green glows like something straight out of a postcard.
The community tree lighting usually kicks off the season. Think lantern-lit walkways, neighbors gathering, and music floating through the air. It’s festive without the frenzy, and just the right amount of small-town magic to make you want to hum along.
LOCAL 30A CHRISTMAS EVENTS
If you’re in the mood to explore beyond Carillon, the 30A stretch is full of holiday happenings:
Carillon’s Tree Lighting & Holiday Parade
The kickoff event that makes the whole village sparkle.
- Meeting House, November 28, 10-11:30am & 4-6pm
Pier Park Christmas Parade & Santa Arrivals
Because even Santa knows a beachfront landing is better. After the parade, Santa returns to his Pier Park beach house.
- Pier Park, December 13, 4:30-4:45pm
Boat Parade of Lights in Panama City
Sailboats decked in holiday lights gliding across the bay. Yes, it’s as pretty as it sounds.
- St. Andrews Bay, December 13, 2025, 5:30-7:30pm
Holiday Village at Panama City Marina
A cheerful little waterfront setup with local vendors, live music, warm treats, and Santa making the rounds like he owns the place.
- Panama City Marina, December 13, 5-7pm
Seaside’s Holiday Parade & Turn On The Town
From the lively 30A parade to the grand tree lighting and live theatre, this is pure Seaside holiday magic.
- Seaside, Sunday, November 30, 3-8pm
Alys Beach Winter Wonderland & Tree Lighting
The annual lighting of the Christmas Tree, and photos with Santa, ia an evening that feels tailor-made for warm drinks and slow strolling.
- ·Alys Beach, November 28, 4:30pm
Hop in the car, grab a cocoa, and treat it like a cheerful coastal road trip, minus the reindeer.
WHERE TO ENJOY A COZY HOLIDAY DINNER
Holiday dinner, beach-style, can go two ways: dress up and go out, or cozy up and stay in. Either way, Carillon makes it easy.
- Cuvee 30A is perfect for those who appreciate a little flair with their festive meal.
- Shaka Sushi & Cocktail Bar: Skip the traditional turkey and celebrate Thanksgiving with a stunning sushi spread
- Café Thirty-A brings that classic 30A vibe. Smart, seasonal, and just a little indulgent.
- Havana Beach Bar & Grill at The Pearl Hotel? Think elevated coastal dining with a view that feels like a holiday card.
Pro tip: Reservations are your best friend this time of year. Prefer staying in? Oversee 30A homes are made for that with full kitchens, big tables, and space to set up your own mini feast. Light a candle, cue the playlist, and make it yours.
COZY COMFORTS IN A CARILLON VACATION RENTAL
There’s something extra special about celebrating Christmas in a beach house. Picture stockings hung by a fireplace that’s purely for ambiance, coffee (or mimosas) on the porch as the sun comes up, and plenty of room for everyone to unwrap, laugh, and lounge.
Oversee 30A homes in Carillon come with all the holiday comforts—just add twinkle lights and maybe a coastal-themed tree. Many guests bring their own decorations, but you can always ask about local decorating services if you’d rather skip the ladder and go straight to the sparkle.
BEACHY HOLIDAY TRADITIONS WORTH STARTING
Every great holiday deserves a twist, and Carillon is the perfect place to create your own coastal traditions:
- A Christmas morning walk on the beach instead of a dash to the fireplace.
- Matching pajamas or swimsuits for that family photo. Bonus points for Santa hats.
- A sunset toast on Christmas Eve while the waves hum their own carol.
- Turning seashells into ornaments for next year’s tree.
- Or maybe just lingering on the porch, lights twinkling, ocean in the distance, feeling thankful that “winter” looks like this.
