By Katie King

“Season Your Holidays with Island Spirit” on Pensacola Beach this December

 
Get ready to embrace the holiday season with a coastal twist! This December, the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce invites everyone to experience a unique lineup of festive activities set against the stunning white sands of Pensacola Beach.

• Lighted Boat Parade – Friday, Dec. 6, at 6:30 p.m.

Before the boat parade begins, families can enjoy a kid-friendly pre-parade party with Santa from 4 to 6 p.m. at Shaggy’s Pensacola Beach.

The 2024 Lighted Boat Parade sets sail from Sabine Marina at 6:30 pm, where beautifully decorated boats will light up the Santa Rosa Sound. Santa’s parade boat will meander through the Sabine, travel under the Bob Sikes Bridge and will dock at the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, where Santa will make a special appearance!

The evening concludes with a spectacular firework display over the Santa Rosa Sound, making it a night to remember.

• Surfin’ Santa Beach Parade – Sunday, Dec. 8, 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 Gulfside Pavilion. 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 – Tuesday, Dec. 31 at Midnight

Ring in the New Year with a dazzling fireworks 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 2024 and welcome the New Year.

• Polar Bear Plunge – Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, Noon – 3 p.m.

Kick off 2025 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.