What to Do on 30A — the Day After Thanksgiving 🎉
Thanksgiving has come and gone, but if you’re on (or thinking about) Scenic Highway 30A and its beachside communities — good news: the holiday season is just getting started. From tree-lightings and markets to family-friendly events and photo ops with Santa, here’s your updated, Google-friendly guide to enjoying 30A this weekend and beyond.
🌟 Holiday Events Happening Right Now (or Soon!)
Rosemary Beach — Tree Lighting + Carriage Rides
- On Friday, Nov 28, 2025 at 6:00 PM, Rosemary Beach will host its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, complete with music, Santa, and a festive community countdown.
- After the lighting, explore the charming Town Center and enjoy a scenic carriage ride under the holiday lights — perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting that cozy, storybook-feeling evening.
Alys Beach — Winter Wonderland Kick-off
- On Friday, Nov 28 (today) from 4:00 PM, Alys Beach will launch its holiday festivities: expect cookies, Santa photos, kids’ activities, live music, and a community concert. The night ends with the beloved tree lighting ceremony — a great way to dive into the season.
The Stalls on 30A — Black Friday Holiday Shopping
If you’re up for shopping and holiday deals, swing by The Stalls this Black Friday (Nov 28). Over 30 artisans and vendors from across the Southeast will offer jewelry, home goods, clothing, baked goods and more. There’ll also be holiday crafts and Pet/Family photos with Santa.
🏃♂️ Fun & Active: Run Off the Turkey
Maybe you overdid it on Thanksgiving — or just want a festive way to burn calories. Consider the 30A 10K Thanksgiving Day Races or one-mile fun run in Rosemary Beach. A great way to start the holidays with energy, community, and fresh coastal air.
Even after Thanksgiving, 30A remains calm, mild, and perfect for a beach walk, bike cruise, or sunset stroll.
🎄 What the Holiday Season on 30A Looks Like (Beyond This Weekend)
- Expect more tree lightings, festive ambiance, and Santa visits as December unfolds.
- Shopping, holiday markets, and cozy coastal charm — many towns along 30A lean into the season with decorated homes, lights, relaxed dining, and holiday-themed events.
- A holiday with beachy vibes: sandy shores, crisp air, charming lights — 30A delivers a “Christmas with a coastal twist.”
✅ Tips for Visitors (or Locals Trying to Catch the Holiday Spirit)
- Check schedules ahead of time, especially for tree lightings or Santa photos — times can shift, and events fill up.
- Dress in layers — even if it’s Florida, evenings can get breezy, especially near the coast.
- Make it a full day: combine early-morning beach time or a run, a leisurely afternoon market visit or shopping, and finish with an evening event like a tree lighting or carriage ride.
- Bring a camera or your phone — between lights, coastal charm, and holiday décor, 30A becomes a photo-worthy winter wonderland.
