Palm trees wrapped in lights surrounding a festive outdoor plaza with people gathering around a lit holiday tree at dusk

Celebrate the Magic of the Holidays in Seaside, Florida

Holidays in Seaside, from Turn on the Town to the last gift on the list

Snow may never fall on Scenic Highway 30A, but the holidays still find their way to Seaside.

The days stay mild enough for a walk on the beach. The evenings bring everyone back to Central Square. And when the town lights up for the season, it feels like the whole community has come together to celebrate.

Christmas in Seaside is less about checking things off a list and more about slowing down long enough to enjoy the season together. Here is what to know as you start planning the holidays in SEASIDE®.

Seaside Holiday Parade & Turn on the Town

| 3–8 PM | Seaside Amphitheater, Central Square

Where the season officially begins.

Every holiday season in Seaside starts with Turn on the Town. The annual tradition, featuring the Seaside Holiday Parade, gathers the community at the Seaside Amphitheater as the town lights up to welcome the holidays.

Bring the whole family. Arrive early. Stay for the lights.

Holiday Shopping in Seaside

Gifts with a story behind them.

Skip the mall this year. The shops of Seaside are just a short walk from one another, which makes holiday shopping feel more like an afternoon stroll than a chore.

Find coastal style at The SEASIDE Style® and Kids + baby by The Seaside Style®, a new favorite hat at Headley Hat Co, or a piece of permanent jewelry at Lala Links to remember the trip by.

Gather Around the Table

The best part of the holidays is who you share them with.

For a holiday dinner by the water, Bud & Alley’s has been serving oceanfront dining in Seaside since 1986. Find more places to gather on our dining guide, and book ahead for busy holiday weekends.

Make It a Holiday Stay

The best traditions are the ones you come back for.

Seaside was designed for walking, so Central Square, the shops and the beach are never far from your front porch. Settle into one of the eight guest rooms at The Court, or bring the whole family together in a cottage or home in town.

Spend the morning on the beach, the afternoon finding gifts and the evening back in Central Square. Whether it is your family’s first Christmas in Seaside or your tenth, there is always room for one more tradition.

More holiday events will be added to the Seaside events calendar as they are announced.

See the Seaside Events Calendar

Christmas in Seaside: Frequently Asked Questions

What is there to do for Christmas in Seaside, Florida?

The holiday season in Seaside begins with the Seaside Holiday Parade and Turn on the Town on Saturday, November 28, 2026. Throughout the season, visitors can shop for gifts in Seaside’s shops, gather for dinner at local restaurants and enjoy walks on the beach. More holiday events will be added to the Seaside events calendar as they are announced.

When is Turn on the Town in Seaside in 2026?

The Seaside Holiday Parade and Turn on the Town takes place on Saturday, November 28, 2026, from 3 to 8 PM at the Seaside Amphitheater in Central Square.

Where can I go holiday shopping in Seaside?

Seaside’s shops are all within walking distance in town, including The SEASIDE Style®, Kids + baby by The Seaside Style®, Headley Hat Co and Lala Links. Hours can vary by merchant, so it is a good idea to check ahead before your visit.

Where can I stay in Seaside for the holidays?

Seaside offers a range of places to stay, from The Court, a boutique hotel with eight guest rooms, to private cottages and homes available through Homeowner’s Collection and other rental partners.

Santa sitting on golden throne with two smiling, face-painted children at SEASIDE.

Light up the season. Find the perfect gift. Gather together.

The holidays in Seaside are made for gathering. Explore upcoming events and start planning your Christmas by the sea.

Stay Connected.

Follow @seasidefl on Instagram.