Celebrate the Holidays Island-Style this December on Pensacola Beach
The Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce invites you to “Season Your Holidays with Island Spirit” and enjoy a holiday lineup of coastal celebrations that capture the magic of the season — beachside during December. From sparkling boat parades and beachy Santas to fireworks lighting up the Santa Rosa Sound, Pensacola Beach is the place to make lasting holiday memories with family and friends.
“Pensacola Beach truly transforms into a holiday wonderland each December,” said Jessica Simpson, president and CEO of the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce. “Whether you’re watching the lighted boats on the water, seeing Santa arrive by sleigh, or ringing in the New Year on the sand, there’s something special here for everyone.”
Lighted Boat Parade – Friday, Dec. 5, at 6:30 p.m.
The 2025 Lighted Boat Parade will set sail from Sabine Marina in Little Sabine Bay at 6:30 p.m., make a festive loop through the Santa Rosa Sound and Pensacola Beach Boardwalk area, and circle back to Sabine Marina in a dazzling display of holiday cheer.
Before the boats light up the bay, families are invited to a Kids’ Pre-Parade Party at Shaggy’s Harbor Bar & Grill from 4 to 6 p.m. Enjoy cookie and ornament decorating, photos with Santa, and plenty of Christmas fun.
Once the parade concludes, Santa will arrive at the Quietwater Shell to greet children and take photos aboard his sleigh from 7:30-8:30 p.m., joined this year by Mrs. “Mermaid” Claus. Don’t miss the fireworks show over the Santa Rosa Sound from 7:30 to 8:00 p.m., sponsored by the Boardwalk Merchants Association.
Spectators can catch the best views from Little Sabine, the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, or any of the businesses along the parade route.
Boats of all sizes, shapes, and colors are invited to participate and compete for “Most Merry” and “Best of Show” awards. The registration deadline is Monday, Nov. 24 at 5 p.m., and the entry fee is $35 per boat. Lineup will begin at 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5 at Sabine Marina, with the parade starting at 6:30 p.m.
Larger boats that prefer not to loop through Little Sabine may join the parade once it reaches the Bob Sikes Bridge, at approximately 7:15 p.m. Additional details will be shared during the Captain’s Meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 3 at 6 p.m. at the Sandshaker Lounge.
Surfin’ Santa Beach Parade – Sunday, Dec. 7, at 2 p.m.
On Sunday, join us for the annual Surfin’ Santa Beach Parade! Beginning at 2 p.m. on Avenida 10, the parade will travel down Via De Luna Drive toward Casino Beach, ending at the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. This beachside parade is a favorite for families and holiday lovers alike as Santa closes out the festivities with his beachy, Florida flair.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks - Wednesday, Dec. 31 at Midnight
Ring in the New Year with a dazzling firework display over the Santa Rosa Sound! Sponsored by Escambia County, this fireworks display is one of the largest on Florida’s Gulf Coast and will start at midnight, filling the sky with vibrant colors as we say goodbye to 2025 and welcome the New Year.
Polar Bear Plunge - Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, Noon - 3 p.m.
Kick off 2026 with a splash! The annual Polar Bear Plunge, hosted by Paradise Inn/Bar & Grill, invites daring participants to take a refreshing dip in the Santa Rosa Sound. Registration opens at noon, with a $15 cash fee per person that includes a commemorative t-shirt. A $10 donation option is available for participants who’d like to join without a shirt, and there’s a $5 Cub Club option for kids in fifth grade and under. Proceeds benefit the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce, so come out, make a splash, and support a great cause!
Please be aware that all events are subject to change based on weather conditions. For the latest updates, check the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.