The SEASIDE SCHOOL™ Half Marathon + 5K Run is Sunday, February 15, 2026.

4,000 runners from across the nation and beyond will gather on our beautiful beaches to participate in the most scenic race in the U.S.

To ensure the safety of all participants, please observe the following road closures along Highway 30A:

• Both lanes of County Highway 30A will be closed from CR 395 at Seagrove to CR 393 at Gulf Place from 5:30 AM to 10:00 AM. 
• The Eastbound Lane of County Highway 30A from CR 393 at Gulf Place to Seaside will be closed from 5:30 AM until 10:30 AM. 
• The Westbound Lane of County Highway 30A will reopen at 9:45 AM from Grayton Beach State Park to CR 393 at Gulf Place. 
• The Westbound Lane from CR 395 at Seagrove to Grayton Beach State Park will full reopen no later than 10:30 AM.

RACE WEEKEND PARKING

Public parking near SEASIDE® is extremely limited, so we encourage participants and guests to take the complimentary shuttle that’s available Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday from Emerald Coast Middle School (ECMS) located at 4019 US-98 #6024, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459. Look for signage on Hwy 98 at ECMS for parking, and volunteers will direct you to an available lot.

Saturday, February 14, 2026: For Saturday’s Expo and Packet Pickup, extremely limited public parking is available and all residential SEASIDE® parking will not be accessible to race participants. Please ride the complimentary shuttles running from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM CST.

Sunday, February 15, 2026: PARKING IN SEASIDE® WILL BE AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY TO PARKING PASS HOLDERS ON RACE DAY. 

For Race Day, all SEASIDE® entry points from 30A and 395 will be closed, and only those with a valid pass will be permitted to enter. Each intersection and point of entry will be manned and this policy will be strictly enforced. Please ride the complimentary shuttles running from 4:45 AM – 3:30 PM CST. 

All Parking Pass holders will need to have entered SEASIDE® before 5:30 AM CST to access the VIP Parking Area. To ensure the safety of all runners and participants, cars will not be allowed to exit SEASIDE® until the road is re-opened at 10:30 AM CST. 

SHUTTLE SCHEDULE

Public parking is available behind Emerald Coast Middle School. When you enter the school, proceed straight and make a right to access the rear parking area. The shuttle will pick up guests at the back of the school.  While there is parking available in front of the school, please note that the shuttle only picks up and drops off behind the school.

Friday, February 13, 2026

Shuttles will run from Emerald Coast Middle School to Seaside from 5 PM to 11 PM. The last pickup from Seaside will be at 10:45 PM at the entrance of the Seaside Lyceum.

Saturday, February 14, 2026

Shuttles will run from Emerald Coast Middle School to Seaside from 10 AM to 5 PM. The last pickup from Seaside will be at the corner of Quincy and 30A at 4:45 PM. 

Sunday, February 15, 2026

Shuttles will run from Emerald Coast Middle School to Seaside from 4:45 AM to 3:30 PM. The last pickup from Seaside will be at the corner of Quincy and 30A at 3:30 PM.

From Turn on the Town to fireworks galore, Seaside employees share their favorite holiday activities 

By Margaret Abrams 

Visitors flock to Seaside over the holiday season, eager to see the lights around town and the Christmas trees in all their glory. Staff members also have their favorite holiday activities, from Turn on the Town when the epic lights flash on for the very first time to visiting the holiday market for last-minute gifts. Watching “The Nutcracker” and visiting Santa also topped the list of annual traditions. And of course, while it’s all about family, many employees like getting their stores festive for the holiday season. 

Ryan Phillips, the Director of Sales and Store Operations, has been working in Seaside for the past decade and loves walking around town when it’s quiet to look at the lights. Ryan isn’t the only one who loves the Christmas decoration, which grows brighter every year. 

Administrative Services Manager Paula Simpler, who has been working at Seaside for the past 35 years, said, “I like walking around town after dark when it is not busy and seeing all the lights. It just has that magical feeling.”

Jack Massey, a seasonal club attendant from Dallas, Texas, has been working in Seaside for the past two years and loves to walk around the town with his family to look at the lights, as well as taking in the New Year’s Eve fireworks from the beach. He said, “Everything feels magical around Christmas time.”

For most people in Seaside, it’s all about spending time with family in town … and capturing those special moments with Santa annually. E-commerce manager Kennedi Bell loves taking her kids to see Santa and said, “It is so magical and has become a tradition for our family.” 

Director of Buying and Merchandising Pam Riley enjoys “spending time in town in the evenings when the lights are all on.” Pam said, “Seaside is a hidden gem around the holidays. It feels quaint and cozy, and all the shops have great merchandise for gifting.”

Another year of lights, love, fireworks, festivities, and a town that refuses to settle.

Starting with the sweet stuff:

6 stunning venues to fall in love with:

The Court

SEASIDE® Beach

SEASIDE® Pavilion

Lyceum Lawn

SEASIDE® Tennis & Pickleball Courts

Central Square

Plus…

Countless site visits turned to Save-the-Dates

Couples from across the country are choosing SEASIDE® for intentional celebrations

SEASIDE® brides chose all shapes and sizes from intimate beachfront ceremonies to tented blowout bashes to town weekend takeovers, 

Most popular walk down the aisle: the Lyceum Lawn (for the elegant main character)

Top wedding month: May 

Most popular scenes: grand entrances, classic touches, stunning neutrals, intentional pops of color, statement florals, and glowing brides

Wedding personalities: The Romantic Traditionalist, The Coastal Minimalist, The Bold Color Couple, and the Modern Bohemian

Let’s not leave out

Escaping with intention for retreats, masterminds, or small group escapes

Setting your remote workplace as somewhere in Central Square

Logging into our town-wide wifi for an afternoon Zoom

2025 by the numbers

365 days of sunsets and fun

275 hosted events (yes, you read that right!)

87 live music performances across seasons

52 weeks of Farmers Markets anchoring the town year-round

51 Central Square Cinema screenings and 39 children’s theatre performances that filled the calendar and the amphitheater

4 days of 30A Songwriters Festival

2 performances by Ballet Pensacola

1 Easter Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt with 25,000 eggs

1 Fourth of July fireworks display lighting up the Gulf

1 Halloweener Derby with 90 Dachshunds racing to the finish line, still undefeated as the most chaotic joy per square foot

1 epic yellow brick road for our Wizard of Oz Halloween

1 magical evening when SEASIDE® transformed to Oz with no detail left behind

1 colorful welcome to the Christmas Village by Sarah Page Art

1 mile-long Holiday parade with Santa as the grand marshal

1 crowd-sourced countdown with Santa to Turn on the Town

Thousands of moments that became part of your traditions or core memories

And how could we forget…

1 incredible 4-day Seaside Seeing Red Wine Festival with 37 vintners, countless bottles poured, and the best memories made

Your hands-down favorite detail: when we coordinate the Post Office to match the event experience

And don’t miss: New Year’s Eve Fireworks because we do not do quiet exits

Whether it was a major holiday, a sunny week, or just a beautiful Tuesday in Central Square, we were there…. And so were you. SEASIDE® isn’t just the backdrop. It is the experience. Thank you for celebrating the little details and the big moments in SEASIDE®.

Wrapped and Ready for What’s Next

If 2025 was busy. 2026 will be even more intentional.

More events. More weddings. More memories.

More stories you can find only in SEASIDE®.

From milestone celebrations and incentive escapes to picture-perfect weddings and generational gatherings, Seaside remains the standard in charm community and connection

Seaside has transcended its “best-kept secret” status to become one of America’s most beloved and photographed towns. Far from being just a famous locale, its pastel cottages and white picket fences have graced screens and “best of” lists, proving its foundational role in creating truly memorable experiences.

Why Groups and Couples Choose Seaside

Seaside is more than just a beautiful backdrop; it integrates seamlessly into your story, whether for intimate weddings, focused team retreats, or significant family milestones.

Ideal for Small Group Meetings and Executive Retreats

With its walkable, community-centric design and inspiring coastal setting, Seaside fosters clarity, connection and creativity. Imagine productive breakouts in a breezy pavilion, insightful brainstorms in a secluded corner or welcoming receptions under string lights on a private lawn. It’s a refreshing departure from conventional ballrooms.

Perfect for Incentive and Recognition Trips

For teams deserving more than a standard room block and buffet, Seaside delivers. Custom-curated itineraries, private beach dinners, and unforgettable afternoons exploring the town provide top performers with truly rewarding time, attention, and atmosphere.

Unmatched for Multi-Generational Moments

Few places effortlessly cater to toddlers, teens, newlyweds and grandparents in the same vicinity. Seaside invites every generation to unplug, play and stay awhile with timeless traditions like snow cones, story time and summer concerts.

Exquisite Weddings and Wedding Weekend Buyouts

Wedding planners and couples nationwide choose Seaside for their most significant day. Beyond the stunning setting, it’s the unparalleled feeling and the ability to transform a wedding into a full weekend experience — complete with bike rides, brunches, beach bonfires and guests who can easily walk from ceremony to celebration. Seaside creates moments that linger a lifetime.

Introducing In-House Wedding Venue Management

Seaside is delighted to announce that wedding venue bookings for The Lyceum Lawn, The Court, The Seaside Pavilion, Seaside Beach, Central Square and the Pickleball Courts are now managed in-house, ensuring an even more streamlined and personalized planning experience. In addition, the Seaside Chapel and Ruskin Place maintain independent bookable sites. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony or a grand weekend celebration, Seaside offers a versatile collection of venues, each possessing unique charm, character and an unmistakable sense of place.

Each of these options are designed to showcase Seaside’s beautiful architecture and natural surroundings:

• The Lyceum Lawn: A spacious, open-air green behind Central Square framed by a two-story promenade and palms, its central yet secluded location makes it ideal for large events, productions or elegant tented dinners.
• The Court Lawn: An intimate outdoor setting surrounded by eight guest suites that formerly served as a motor court. With lush landscaping and mature magnolias, it’s perfect for smaller gatherings, private dinners, brand activations or weekend retreats.
• The Seaside Pavilion: A breezy, covered space just steps from the beach, offering an incredible Gulf view with both style and shade in a beautifully relaxed setting.
• Seaside Beach: For those dreaming of a “toes-in-the-sand” moment, Seaside’s sugar-white sand, turquoise waves, and unforgettable golden-hour light for vows and photos.
• Central Square and the Amphitheater: In the heart of town, these offer a grand stage for larger celebrations, surrounded by the vibrant energy of the town and its charming walkable streets.
• Pickleball Courts: A distinctive setting for a fun pre-wedding rally or sporty welcome party, this uniquely Seaside space encourages engagement in a relaxed courtside scene. 

Beyond the ceremony, Seaside facilitates turning your wedding into a full weekend experience. With premium local merchants and amenities, couples can create meaningful moments at every turn, from welcome parties and farewell brunches to spa treatments, gift bag goodies and curated guest itineraries. Combining venue rental with destination offerings makes Seaside an integral part of your story.

Your Dedicated Wedding Contact: Tate Forbes

At the heart of this exciting new chapter is the genesis of the Department of Venues & Experiences, created to connect guests to their dream trips through curated escapes, milestone moments and signature events. Leading the department is Tate Forbes, your dedicated contact for all wedding inquiries while Jami Ray serves as the Director of Destination Strategies. Together, this team brings industry expertise, elevated hospitality, a guest-centered approach and a deep love for Seaside’s legacy. This shift to in-house management brings thoughtful guidance every step of the way with a seamless planning process, rooted in clear communication, elevated service and the personal touch that makes a day truly unforgettable.

 

“What makes Seaside so special is that every corner feels intentional, from the iconic architecture to the welcoming walkability. Couples are not just choosing a venue; they are choosing a feeling, a story, and a place their guests will remember forever. I am thrilled to help bring those moments to life and guide each couple through a planning experience that feels as thoughtful and beautiful as their big day.”

— Tate Forbes, Department of Venues & Experiences

As the fall season arrives and holiday engagements sparkle, Seaside invites you to envision your perfect day here, where nostalgia, beauty and community converge to create something timeless. 

To learn more or begin planning, complete the event interest form at https://seasidefl.com/gatherings-meetings/

There’s No Place Like Seaside for Halloween

This Halloween, Seaside is bringing a new kind of magic to Central Square. In collaboration with @butlerscenicco, the town center will be reimagined into a whimsical journey through Oz, where every corner holds a touch of storybook wonder.

Trick-or-Treat on the Yellow Brick Road

From 4:00 to 7:00 PM, families are invited to follow the Yellow Brick Road during Seaside’s annual Trick or Treat Seaside. Merchants throughout town will hand out candy to trick-or-treaters while familiar characters from the Land of Oz–Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion– come to life in the heart of town.

Adding to the magic, many of Seaside’s merchants are going all out to create enchanting, Oz-inspired moments in front of their storefronts, turning the town into an immersive experience for families to enjoy.

A Movie Under the Stars

The magic continues at 7:00 PM when guests can settle in under the night sky for a special outdoor showing of The Wizard of Oz in the Seaside Amphitheater. Bring a blanket, gather your loved ones, and experience this timeless classic in the most enchanting of settings.

Transportation & Parking Guide

To ensure a smooth and festive evening, Seaside encourages all guests traveling by car to make use of the complimentary shuttle service running to and from town throughout the event. Shuttles will pick up and drop off guests at the Seaside Shuttle Lot on 331, offering reliable transportation directly into town while keeping the streets safe and walkable for trick-or-treaters.

Parking will be complimentary on the day of Halloween, but spaces tend to fill up quickly. We recommend guests take advantage of the complimentary Seaside Shuttle for a convenient and stress-free way to join the festivities.

Celebrate With Us

With candy, costumes, characters, creative storefronts, and cinema beneath the stars, there’s truly no place like #SeasideFL for Halloween. We can’t wait to see you there!

The season brings dazzling entertainment, festive ambiance, and a merry good time

By Wendy O. Dixon

Beginning Thanksgiving Day weekend with the showing of the beloved “Nutcracker” ballet and ending with a New Year’s Eve spectacular celebration, Seaside celebrates the most wonderful time of the year by preserving traditions and making memories. 

Many families make Seaside their home away from home, where they can enjoy a beachside Thanksgiving or Christmas that can include a beach-themed tree trimming and a Gulf Coast-inspired holiday feast. 

Seaside merchants also get into the spirit, with gorgeous decorations that sparkle and twinkle. 

Holiday Events

The holiday season begins Sunday, Nov. 23, with a performance of “The Nutcracker,” based on the critically acclaimed Russian ballet set to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score. From the ballet that launched a national holiday tradition, dancers will perform under the stars at the Seaside Amphitheater. “The Nutcracker” performance is the result of the vision of Seaside co-founder Daryl Davis, who introduced performance arts in Seaside. The show will be held at 5 p.m. and is free to the public.

Friday, Nov. 28, grab your blankets and head down to the amphitheater for a holiday edition of Central Square Cinema on the lawn in Central Square. The featured movie is “The Grinch (animated),” a classic for all to enjoy.

The festive events continue Saturday, Nov. 29, with Turn on the Town. Hosted by the Merchants of Seaside, the day includes a parade and the annual tree lighting ceremony. The event features live music and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Santa, master of ceremonies for the evening, will invite all of the kids to join him in front of the stage for a sing-along before magically brightening up the town. Then, the countdown begins in unison to light the 24-foot Christmas tree, as all of downtown Seaside is illuminated with bright, holiday lights. Following the lighting ceremony, bring your camera for photos with jolly ole Saint Nick. 

Additional events in December include a concert under the stars, more photo ops with Santa, and the New Year’s Eve celebration. More details to follow in the winter issue of The Seaside Times. 

The most magical time of the year is just around the corner, and there’s no better place to celebrate than in Seaside, Florida! We’re thrilled to announce that vendor applications for the 2025 SEASIDE® Holiday Market are now open. Join us December 6-7 to showcase your artisan creations and holiday gifts in a setting brimming with festive charm.

Vendors will have the opportunity to display their products in a 10×10 tent with a 6’ table and linen included, creating a warm, inviting space for holiday shoppers. There is a $250 participation fee, and applications are due October 17, 2025. Successful applicants will be notified by October 31, 2025.

SEASIDE® Merchants are encouraged to participate at no cost, making this the perfect chance to share your holiday offerings with the community and visitors alike.

From twinkling lights to festive music, the SEASIDE® Holiday Market is more than a shopping experience, it’s a beloved seasonal tradition where families, friends, and neighbors gather to celebrate the joy of the season. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this magical event!

Apply today and make your holiday season sparkle in Seaside!

APPLY HERE

The Seeing Red Wine Festival® is set to return to SEASIDE® for its 33rd year, promising another unforgettable weekend of world-class wines, elevated cuisine, and coastal charm. This year’s festival will take place November 6th–9th, 2025, and tickets and VIP packages are now available.

Backdropped by the Gulf of Mexico and SEASIDE®’s iconic town center, the weekend will once again feature a premier selection of wines, thoughtfully paired bites, and lively musical performances. Signature events include the elegant Vintner’s Dinner, the Al Fresco Reserve Wine Tasting, the ever-popular Grand Tasting, and a sparkling finish with the Celebration of Bubbles.

New for 2025: 

Super VIP Bundle – Limited Packages Remain

For the first time, guests can elevate their festival weekend with the Super VIP Bundle, offering premium access to the weekend’s top-tier experiences at a bundled rate.

This limited package includes:

• Friday VIP Al Fresco Reserve Wine Tasting
• Saturday Battle of the Somms Experience
• Saturday VIP Grand Tasting
• Sunday Celebration of Bubbles

Private Beach Welcome Reception

Guests staying at The Court, SEASIDE®’s boutique hotel, or with our official rental partner, Homeowner’s Collection, will receive access to an exclusive beach bonfire welcome reception on Friday, November 7. Enjoy cocktails, light bites, and a front-row seat to a breathtaking Gulf sunset—an intimate kickoff to an unforgettable weekend.

Returning in 2025: The Battle of the Somms

Back by popular demand, the Battle of the Somms returns to Daytrader Tiki Bar & Restaurant in partnership with Ithaka Hospitality Partners. In this exclusive VIP event, Master Sommeliers Thomas Price and Larry O’Brien go head-to-head in a dynamic wine pairing competition. Guests will enjoy a menu crafted by Chef Nikhil Abuvala (Daytrader) and Chef Leo Maurelli (1856, Auburn) and cast their votes for the best pairings of the night. “Following the success of last year, we’re delighted to welcome back Ithaka Hospitality Partners in an even greater capacity. Their thoughtful approach and expertise helped elevate the guest experience, and this year, their expanded role promises to bring even more warmth, refinement, and hospitality to every detail of the weekend.”

“The Seeing Red Wine Festival® is truly a signature event, offering an unforgettable mix of world-class wines, elevated cuisine, and the charming backdrop of SEASIDE®,” said Tate Forbes, Senior Director of Venues & Experiences. “Guests can look forward to the return of live curated music from our cherished community partner, Sinfonia Gulf Coast, creating the perfect ambiance throughout the festival,” Forbes added. “And with the launch of our Super VIP Bundle, we’re thrilled to offer an effortless way to enjoy the best of the weekend.”

Thursday, November 6 | 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Bud & Alley’s Vintners Dinner | Enjoy an evening of delicious wines alongside a curated menu at Bud & Alley’s with Copper Cane as we toast to the beginning of Seeing Red weekend. Tickets to the Vintners Dinner are available à la carte and can be purchased by emailing michael@budandalleys.com

Friday, November 7 | 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. – SOLD OUT

Al Fresco Reserve Tasting | An elegant evening filled with a curated selection of vintage and reserve wines, poured by the winemakers and vintners. Mingle among friends and fellow wine enthusiasts as you enjoy paired-to-perfection hors d’oeuvres and live music in Seaside’s Lyceum Lawn.

Saturday, November 8 | 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Battle of the Somms | The ultimate VIP wine experience in partnership with Ithaka Hospitality is back for its second year. Enjoy a curated lunch as two of the nation’s top sommeliers go head-to-head in a lively tasting competition, each pairing their wine of choice to earn your vote. You’ll sip, savor, and help crown the champion in this spirited, flavor-forward faceoff.

Saturday, November 8 | 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Grand Tasting | Seaside’s Central Square comes to life for the Seeing Red Grand Tasting. Sip on wines poured by winemakers and vintners from around the world, paired with cuisine curated by local chefs, including those in Seaside. Live music fills the air as you sip and mingle with fellow wine enthusiasts.

Sunday, November 9 | 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Celebration of Bubbles | Raise a toast with Chef Jim Shirley to the 19th Annual Celebration of Bubbles! Sparkling wine enthusiasts will join Chef and his team at the Lyceum Lawn as they explore Champagne, Cava, Prosecco (and more!) while enjoying a selection of delectable brunch offerings that will be the pièce de résistance of a remarkable weekend. Tickets for the Celebration of Bubbles are available individually and are not included in General Admission or VIP packages.

Tickets and VIP packages are limited and expected to sell quickly. To purchase, visit seasideseeingred.com and explore all available ticket options, including individual event passes, weekend bundles, and the exclusive Super VIP experience. We look forward to welcoming you to SEASIDE® this November for a weekend of wine, flavor, and unforgettable moments.

SEASIDE® invites you and your family to join us on Friday, July 4th, 2025 for our annual Independence Day Celebration, a full day of patriotic festivities, performances, and fun for all ages. From morning contests to an unforgettable fireworks show over the Gulf, there’s something for everyone in the heart of SEASIDE®.

Morning & Midday Festivities | 9 AM–12 PM

Kick off the celebration at our Block Party with small-town charm and family favorites:

🇺🇸 9:00 AM – National Anthem

🇺🇸 9:00 AM – Performance by The REP (in front of Sundog Books)

🎶 10:00 AM – Musical performance by Emerald Coast Theatre Company

🚲 11:00 AM – Bike Decorating Contest & Parade

🍉 11:00 AM – Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest at Art of Simple

🌭 11:30 AM – Hot Dog Eating Contest

Evening Entertainment | SEASIDE® Amphitheater

🎼 7:00 PM – Sinfonia Gulf Coast Pops Concert
🎆 8:30 PM – Fireworks Spectacular over the Gulf

Getting to SEASIDE® on July 4th

Please note that July 4th is our busiest day of the year, and parking in town is extremely limited. We strongly encourage biking or walking into SEASIDE® whenever possible.

A complimentary shuttle service will be available throughout the day (6am to Midnight), with the pick-up spot detailed on the map below.

Come early, stay late, and celebrate the red, white, and blue with us in SEASIDE®!

Art has always had a home in Seaside, Fla. As we welcomed the Cultural Arts Alliance for the SEASIDE® Art Walk on May 28, we reflected on the creative roots that run deep through our community. Long before the 30A art scene became what it is today, it was taking shape right here, in Ruskin Place, on the sidewalks of Central Square, and in the hearts of a few passionate pioneers who believed Seaside could be a place that nurtured artists.

It all began over 20 years ago. In 2006, Eileen West, Wendy Mignot, and Tracy Lewis met with a shared vision: to bring art into the open and create something that felt like home for locals and visitors. What started as a simple idea: monthly gallery shows, music in the park and a glass of wine among friends quickly became a cornerstone of the community. The first Friday Art Walk in Seaside wasn’t just a fun night out; it became the event of the month and inspired a movement across 30A.

In the years since, Seaside’s creative legacy has continued to grow. From Via Colori, the chalk art festival led by Billie Gaffrey, to the revitalization of Art Walk in 2017 by Wendy Mignot and Aaron Sutton, Seaside has quietly, yet confidently, shaped the artistic spirit of the coast.

In May, guests wandered through Central Square as our merchants welcomed back a curated lineup of talented artists from across the region. The collectors and visitors appreciated the original works and live demos while they sipped on glasses of wine, taking in the creative energy that’s defined Seaside from the beginning. Because when it comes to the arts, Seaside isn’t just a stop on the map. It’s where the story began.