‘Tis the season for towns, neighborhoods and homes coming aglow with twinkling holiday lights. In South Walton, our 30A beach communities pull out all the stops to dazzle locals and visitors alike. Here’s our round-up of where you can find the best holiday lights here at the beach this year.
The gaslit homes found throughout WaterColor create a magical landscape in their own right, but WaterColor’s Cerulean Park takes the Christmas Cake with its stunning tree.
A simple Christmas tree stands proudly in the center of the Seaside amphitheater, directly on Scenic 30A along Airstream Row, and indeed the entire town is lit with twinkling holiday lights, making Seaside a perfect spot for a stroll to get into the holiday spirit. Don’t miss the tree and lights in Ruskin Place, just north of Central Square, or the large tree in the archway to Seaside Neighborhood School.
While passing through between Seagrove and Alys Beach, check out the wreath at Watersound Beach and the lights at The Big Chill.
Simple. Elegant. That’s Alys Beach’s trademark style, and their holiday decorations are no exception. Their massive tree is surrounded by a wonderful abundance of gorgeous gifts. Of course, Alys Beach is no stranger to pretty lights: Their annual Digital Graffiti festival is the “can’t miss” spectacle of the year.
In Rosemary Beach, Christmas lights are draped throughout the live oaks all along North and South Barrett square, giving the entire town a soft, magical glow. While the tree in the south by Rosemary Beach’s Town Hall is given velvet rope VIP treatment, it’s the fountain positioned directly on Scenic Highway 30A that steals the tree-lit show. Looking for a daytime show? Check out 30A’s new live webcam in Rosemary Beach, live from high atop Pescado’s stunning rooftop.
A few miles west of 30A by Sandestin, Grand Boulevard gets into the spirit with lights and decorations, the highlight of which is the Festival of Trees located in the center’s courtyard. The event showcases uniquely decorated Christmas trees from local non-profits. The trees debut the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and remain in the park through the holidays for the public to enjoy and learn more about the missions of these organizations. The showcase is open to the public at no charge.
Christmas in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin
Baytowne Wharf also puts on a show – literally. All through the month of December, enjoy a fun, family-friendly light show over the lagoon set to some of the most beloved holiday tunes. Watch three dazzling shows on the Village tree at 6 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. daily.
