November 19, 2025A holiday like no other, with sand instead of snow.
Some towns twinkle in December. Rosemary Beach goes further: it winks. Gas lamps glide along the walkways, soft white lights drape balconies, and the salty breeze carries just enough chill to make cocoa feel like a necessity.
Boutique windows gleam like tiny treasure chests, families stroll with cocoa in hand, and every corner hums the quiet confidence of a town that’s been practicing Christmas magic for years.
It’s an elegant warmth, polished but never stuffy, cozy without trying too hard, perfect for guests who love holidays with a hint of coastal swagger.
THE TOWN IN LIGHTS: ROSEMARY’S SIGNATURE HOLIDAY DECOR
By December, Rosemary Beach flips the switch. Trees sparkle along Main Street, balconies shimmer with greenery and twinkle lights, and every street corner is a scene begging to be paused for a photo. Families linger, couples stroll slower, and even the most cynical romantics admit it: the place makes you believe in holiday charm.
Those soft white lights? Great for proposals, last-minute portraits, or just letting the season sink in while strolling hand in hand.
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS EVENTS
Holiday season here has layers of fun, charm, and moments that make you pause and grin.
Holiday Markets & Pop-Up Shops
Local art, handmade gifts, festive treats, and surprises you never knew you needed fill colorful stands along the streets. The 30A Farmers Market in December is a special holiday-themed market, a great place to find gifts.
Rosemary Beach Tree Lighting Ceremony
Officially start the holiday season in South Barrett Square, with music floating through the square, warm cocoa, and a community countdown that’s all cheer, no stress.
- Friday, November 28, 2025, 6pm
Santa in the Courtyard
If he shows up, kids practically float toward him. Adults sneak a peek, too. He’s delightfully approachable.
- Saturdays in December, 10am-2pm
- Weekdays and Christmas Eve: Check the Merchants of Rosemary Beach social media pages for announcements about additional days, based on past events.
2025 Rosemary Beach Holiday Tour of Homes
The 7th annual self-guided stroll takes you through five stunning homes decked out for the season. Architectural beauty, playful décor, and at least one “maybe we need a second tree” moment guaranteed.
- Saturday, December 6, 11am-5pm
Christmas Eve Services
Nearby chapels and outdoor locations offer calm, reflective moments, perfect for those who like a quieter pause amid the sparkle.
COZY EATS AND HOLIDAY DINING
December is an invitation to slow down. Rosemary Beach delivers.
Edward’s Fine Food dazzles with candlelit charm and meals that feel like a celebration on every plate.
La Crema Tapas & Chocolate warms the spirit with rich flavors, shareable bites, and desserts that refuse to be rushed.
Breakfasts and coffee breaks deserve a moment too: pastries, hot cocoa, cinnamon-laced lattes, and bakery treats that vanish faster than you can say “Santa’s coming.”
Reservations are smart! Holiday dining here is in high demand and well worth planning for.
A ONE-DAY, ROSEMARY BEACH CHRISTMAS, MICRO-ITINERARY
Three versions:
A)
Your 9am–12pm plan: Holiday latte from Amavida → stroll Main Street under twinkling lights → shop for a coastal ornament you absolutely “needed.”
Your 12–3pm plan: Long lunch at Edward’s → wander through the holiday market → take too many photos of garlands on balconies.
Your 3–7pm plan: Hot cocoa break → tree lighting magic → dinner at La Crema → slow walk home under gas lamps feeling very Hallmark-movie.
B)
Morning magic (9am–12pm): Cinnamon latte → browse boutiques for last-minute gifts → beach walk that somehow turns into a mini photo shoot.
Afternoon cheer (12–4pm): Holiday Tour of Homes → early tapas at La Crema → pick up treats from a local bakery for later.
Evening sparkle (4–8pm): Santa in the Courtyard → twinkly stroll down Main Street → nightcap by the fire in your Oversee home.
C)
Start strong (9am–12pm): Breakfast at Summer Kitchen → market browsing → hunt for that perfect “coastal Christmas” gift.
Midday merriment (12–4pm): Bike ride through the decorated streets → chocolate stop at La Crema → sunset walk past the glowing tree.
Nighttime glow (4–8pm): Dinner at Edward’s → quiet cocoa on the porch → wrap gifts while pretending you planned ahead.
HOLIDAY SHOPPING IN STYLE
Main Street dresses for the holidays in full glamour. Elegant boutiques, carefully wrapped gifts, and shop windows that invite a pause mid-step.
Expect unique ornaments, coastal treasures, luxe accessories, and curated finds with character. Many stores even offer gift wrapping or shipping, which makes those “just one more” stops totally guilt-free.
And yes, buying a little something for yourself counts.
STAYING WARM IN A VACATION RENTAL
An Oversee home in December is holiday magic in human form.
Fireplaces crackle. Heated pools shimmer. Interiors feel calm, polished, and ready for gathering. Game nights stretch late. Stocked kitchens turn into the heart of festive feasts. Covered porches invite storm-watching, star-gazing, or simply sipping something warm while the wind whispers across the Gulf.
Spacious homes are perfect for families or groups, while cozy retreats are ideal for couples craving quiet.
DAY TRIP IDEAS & NEARBY HOLIDAY FUN
If one town isn’t enough, a short drive adds extra sparkle:
- Seaside brings colorful holiday energy and markets.
- Alys Beach dazzles with its architectural glow.
- Baytowne Wharf often offers fireworks, boat parades, and, when available, ice-skating that surprises every time.
These little excursions reward curiosity with more charm, lights, and seasonal cheer.
