Holidays always bring an abundance of events in Destin. From holiday gift shopping events to celebrations of the new year, there’s always something going on from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. While this year is a bit different from others, there are still plenty of events to choose from. It’s deciding which ones are worth going to that’s the real challenge.

With that in mind, here are our suggestions on things to do in Destin Florida in December:

1. Christmas Eve Dinner at Beach Walk Café

crab cake on plate at beach walk cafeIt’s not the holiday season without a delicious Christmas meal prepared by Beach Walk’s Executive Chef Daniel Peters. On Christmas Eve from 5 to 8 p.m., guests can join Chef Daniel and his team for a delicious four-course meal, featuring dishes like Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes and Rosemary Roasted Christmas Prime Rib. You can view the full menu on Beach Walk Café’s website, and for more information or to make a reservation, call 850-650-7100.

2. Holiday on the Harbor

Head to the Destin Harbor, home to the largest charter fishing fleet in the country, to watch the 34th annual Destin Christmas Boat Parade. It’s probably the most talked about event in Destin Florida in December. Boats of all sizes will line up to compete, donning their best holiday décor. They’ll ride along the harbor to show off their displays to the public, with judges stationed at Margaritaville, and the evening will end with a spectacular fireworks finale. Learn more on the Destin Chamber of Commerce’s website.

3. Holiday Cheers at the Rooftop Bar

holiday drinksOur sister property, The Henderson, recently opened Destin’s first rooftop bar. It overlooks Henderson Beach State Park, providing an uninterrupted view of the coastline. Throughout the year, they serve delicious appetizers and tasty cocktails, but for the holidays they plan on hosting holiday cheers. With holiday inspired drinks, the space provides a beautiful, cozy space to get in the holiday spirit. Learn more about the Rooftop Bar at The Henderson.

4. New Year’s Eve Dinner at Beach Walk Café

Another holiday tradition that you don’t want to miss is a New Year’s Eve dinner at Beach Walk Café. Finish 2020 the right way by celebrating the end of the year with scrumptious food from Chef Daniel. It’s similar to the Christmas Eve dinner in that it’s a four-course menu, but the options are different. From Pan Seared Scallops and Pork Belly to Snowy Grouper, this is a meal in Destin Florida in December that you’re going to crave year-round. To see the full menu, visit Beach Walk’s website, and call 850-650-7100 to secure your space.

5. Jolly Jubilee

Destin Commons, which is just down the road from Henderson Park Inn, hosts a number of events from the end of November throughout December. With its 50-foot Christmas tree as the anchor, it’s one of the best spots to check out live holiday performances, like carolers, in Destin Florida in December.

These are just some of the best things to do in Destin Florida in December! While December is filling up already, we still have a few rooms available, and if you’re ready to book your December trip to Destin, take a look at all our Destin hotel rooms.