Holiday Events and Things to Do in Destin, FL (November–December 2025)

Whether you’re planning a family escape, a couples’ getaway, or just want to soak up some festive coastal charm, the holiday season in Destin offers something special. 

Here’s your go‑to guide for November and December 2025, with events, activities, and a few insider tips for making the most of your time on the Emerald Coast.

Why the Holidays Work in Destin

The beaches remain beautiful, the crowds ease off, and the local towns lean into holiday spirit. 

Cooler (but still mild) temps, festive events, and that unmistakable beachfront backdrop make this time ideal. 

And if you’re thinking of doing a private boat charter while you’re here, you’ll find less congestion and more opportunity for something truly memorable.

November Highlights

Thanksgiving & Early Holiday Moments

• 31st Annual Thanksgiving Feast – Scheduled for November 27, 2025, in the Destin area. A large local gathering, great for families looking to mark the holiday without the full “sit‑down big dinner” pressure. Learn More.

• Santa’s Arrival & Tree Lighting at Destin Commons – Friday, November 21, from 6–8 pm at Destin Commons (4100 Legendary Dr.). Includes parade, Santa, tree lighting, face painting, and more. See Event Info.

• Grand Boulevard Hometown Holiday Parade & Celebration – Also around November 21, 2025, at Grand Boulevard (Miramar Beach). A festive way to kick off the season. Learn More. 

• Shopping and boutique visits at local outlets and beach‑town shops remain easy and relatively crowd‑free compared with summer.

• Consider a private boat outing early in November when water temps are still comfortable and the landscape is quieter.

December Festive Favourites

Decked‑Out Events to Mark on the Calendar

• City of Destin Annual Christmas Tree Lighting – Thursday, December 4, 2025 at Destin Community Center/downtown Destin. Free and family‑friendly. Learn More!

• Village of Baytowne Wharf Here Comes Santa Claus – Saturday, November 29 (but early December ambiance kicks in) at Baytowne Wharf. Free, fun for all ages. View more details. 

• Baytowne Wharf Grinchmas – Friday, December 12 and 19, 2025, 5–9pm at Baytowne Wharf (9100 Baytowne Blvd.). Learn More!

• Destin Boat Parade – December 13, 2025. Decorated boats cruise the harbor with a festive show fit for the season. View more details.

• For a quieter moment, stroll the beach at sunset and appreciate the cooling air, fewer crowds, and maybe cap the evening with a relaxed dinner overlooking the water.

Things to Do (Beyond the Events)

• Private boat charter. Whether you’re with family, friends, or a couple, December and late November are fantastic times to get out on the water with less traffic. Imagine twilight cruising, perhaps a light jacket in hand, and a serene Harbor or Bay ride.

• Shopping & local stops. Head to the Silver Sands Premium Outlets, Destin Commons, and the beach‑town boutiques for holiday deals with a view.

• Coastal walks & nature. Explore Henderson Beach State Park, enjoy beachside coffee or crabbing docks at sunrise, when the air is cooler and calm is king.

• Dinner with a view. Reserve a waterfront table for a sunset meal—especially appealing in December when the light lingers and the vibe shifts more relaxed.

Holiday Travel Tips for November & December

• Book early. Whether it’s lodging, a boat charter, or a special dinner reservation, November/December fills in faster than you’d think.

• Dress in layers. Daytime often stays mild; evenings can get breezy near the water—bring a light jacket.

• Go early/mid‑week. For best pricing and fewer crowds, aim for mid‑November or early December.

• Check weather & water conditions. Even in “off season,” the weather shifts quickly. A charter company will help navigate those changes.

• Plan for less heat, not no heat. You won’t need heavy winter gear, but you will want cozy options for after sundown.

Why a Private Charter Makes Sense Now

Picture yourself on a boat, gliding out from the harbor. Maybe you’re sipping something warm, maybe you’re wrapped up in a light sweater as the sun sets a bit earlier. 

The pace has dropped. The calendar’s slowed. 

The water is still beautiful. That’s the advantage of visiting in November/December—and why choosing a charter now gives you so much more space and time.

With a private charter, you gain:

• Flexible timing (less competition for midday rides)

• Personalized experience (crew focuses just on your group)

• Opportunities for unique moments (sunset from the water, dolphin spotting with fewer boats around)

Final Thoughts 

The holiday season in Destin isn’t just about Christmas lights—it’s about the mood, the space, and the coast doing what it does best. 

November and December give you a sweet blend: warm enough for the water, calm enough for the soul, and festive enough to feel like something more than “just another beach trip.”

Whether you’re here for the parade, the shopping, the breeze‑on‑the‑deck or the quiet ride into sunset, you’ll find your moment. 

And if you’re looking to embrace something unique this season? Consider a private water charter—low stress, high reward.

Here’s to festive memories, salt‑air breezes, and your best holiday stay yet in Destin.