If you’re dreaming of a warm-weather Christmas getaway, look no further than Wakulla County. Just south of Tallahassee, this coastal region transforms into a charming holiday hub every December.
Complete with lights, parades, Santa sightings, and even snow (yes, snow in Florida!). Whether you’re planning a family road trip or looking for festive Christmas activities near you, Wakulla’s small-town celebrations offer something for everyone.
Christmas in Panacea – December 5 & 6, 2025
Join us for a full day of family-friendly holiday fun on Florida’s coast. From markets and Santa sightings to snow and a drone show over the bay, Christmas in Panacea is one of the region’s most festive traditions.
Community Tree Lighting in Panacea Town Square | Friday, December 5
📍 Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Panacea Town Square
Kick off the holiday weekend with a cozy, small-town celebration at the Panacea Town Square. The annual Community Tree Lighting brings neighbors together for the official lighting of the town’s Christmas tree. It’s the perfect way to ease into the holiday spirit before Saturday’s big events.
Mistletoe Market at Panacea Community Garden | Saturday, December 6
📍 Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📍 Location: Panacea Community Garden
Start your morning at the Mistletoe Market, where you’ll find:
- Handmade gifts and crafts
- Holiday baked goods and seasonal snacks
- Local vendors and community artisans
- Live music and festive entertainment throughout the day
Family Activities & Refreshments at Woolley Park | Saturday, December 6
📍 Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Woolley Park
Bring the whole family for free, kid-friendly fun including:
- Bounce houses and carnival games
- Face painting
- Holiday music and performances
- Free refreshments and snacks
- Santa mingling with visitors and posing for photos (4:00-5:30pm)
Let It Snow in Florida | All Afternoon
Experience snowfall in the Sunshine State with snow machines creating a winter wonderland atmosphere right in Panacea.
Visit with Santa | 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Don’t miss your chance to snap a photo with Santa as he strolls through the park spreading cheer.
Parade of Lights | 6:00 PM
Enjoy a festive holiday parade featuring:
- Lighted floats
- Local performers
- Holiday music
A Wakulla County favorite that draws families from all around.
Drone Light Show Over Dickerson Bay | After the Parade
End the night with Panacea’s first-ever drone light show, a silent and stunning visual display of holiday magic in the sky.
- Colorful LED drones choreographed to festive patterns
- Reflections over the water at Dickerson Bay
- A peaceful, modern finale to the holiday celebration
📍 VisitPanacea.org for full event info
Christmas in Sopchoppy – Saturday, December 13
Sopchoppy delivers the ultimate small-town holiday vibe with two unforgettable events in one day.
Christmas in Sopchoppy Festival
📍 Time: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Sopchoppy Depot Park
Held at Sopchoppy Depot Park, this free festival includes:
- Handmade crafts and holiday vendors—perfect for last-minute shoppers
- Food trucks and festive treats
Sopchoppy Opry – A Country Gold Christmas
📍 Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Location: Sopchoppy High School Auditorium
Wrap up your day with a holiday concert at the historic Sopchoppy High School Auditorium (164 Yellow Jacket Ave). Enjoy classic country hits with a seasonal twist, performed by talented local musicians.
🎟 Book your tickets at SopchoppyOpry.com. Proceeds go toward the restoration of this historic venue.
St. Marks Golf Cart Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 20
📍 Time: Line up at 7:00 PM | Parade begins 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Bo Lynn’s Grocery
For one of the most unique Christmas things near you, head to St. Marks on December 20 for the 19th Annual Golf Cart Christmas Parade.
Decorated golf carts, festive music, and community spirit fill the streets of this beloved riverfront town. It’s a can’t-miss tradition that captures the heart of Wakulla’s coastal charm.
Why Wakulla is One of the Best Places to Visit in December
Whether you’re escaping the cold or looking for classic holiday celebrations with a Southern twist, Wakulla County offers:
🎅 Friendly small towns with big holiday spirit
🏖️ Warm Gulf breezes instead of snowstorms
🎄 Family-friendly Christmas events all month long
🛍️ Local shopping at festive markets and vendor fairs
🍤 Fresh seafood you can eat year-round
If you’re searching for the best places to visit during Christmas or planning your holiday vacation in Florida, Wakulla is a hidden gem worth discovering.
Plan Your Christmas Vacation in Wakulla
From glowing drone shows to Christmas parades and holiday markets, Wakulla County has everything you need for a warm, memory-filled holiday season.
Mark your calendar, invite your friends, and join us for a December to remember. Start planning at VisitWakulla.com
