Itinerary: Holiday/ Seasonal Happenings in Pensacola
Coming to Pensacola for the holiday season? Explore this itinerary to discover all the essential activities and experiences during the festive season.
Whether you're in Pensacola for a week, or even just the weekend, here are some different ideas of how to spend your time in our slice of paradise. Just because it's the holiday season, doesn't mean you can't get out and explore! There are so many things to do to get into the festive spirit.
Take a Stroll Downtown
Downtown Pensacola has a variety of things to do. If you happen to be here on one of the nights Winterfest is taking place, be sure to take advantage of that. There are a variety of offerings, from photos with Santa, snow on Palafox, and more. Downtown Pensacola comes alive with festive activities. Be sure to check out the dates for this event below. You won't want to miss out! Also hosted downtown is the annual Cox Christmas Parade.
Just looking to browse around, maybe grab a cup of coffee or hot chocolate? Taking a stroll in Downtown Pensacola during the holiday season is the ultimate way to get in the holiday jolly spirit. Grab a warm cup of coffee at Bodacious. There are several restaurants and bars along Palafox, so be sure to stop in and grab a drink or bite to eat. Thousands of twinkling lights line Palafox Street beginning November 8th, creating the magical glow that will leave you with memories of a lifetime. Don't forget to check out the Visit Pensacola Holiday Cube while you're here - great for your next Instagram post. Don't forget to tag us so we can join in on the fun, @visitpensacola.
Simply walking and taking in the sights and sounds during the holiday season is a great way to explore and get some steps in.
Walk on the Beach
Going for a beach walk is a no brainer when in Pensacola, no matter the season. The weather is usually pretty enjoyable, so grab your jacket and sunglasses and hit the sand - we will pretend it's snow! Whether you want to walk the shoreline, have a picnic, or just sit and soak up the sun, the beach is still beautiful during the fall and winter seasons.
A fun thing to do while you're here - take a Christmas card photo on the beach! This allows you to combine the beauty of the pristine white sand and shoreline with the joy of the holiday season. It's a wonderful way to create lasting memories and share the warmth and relaxation of a beach holiday in Pensacola with your loved ones.
Not to mention there are a few holiday events on the beach as well. The lighted boat parade can be seen at Little Sabine Bay and Santa Rosa Sound out at Pensacola Beach. There is also the Surfin' Santa Beach Parade - talk about a coastal Christmas! In Perdido Key, the annual Flora-Bama Santa Drop takes place where Santa sky dives into the white sands. Who says you can't enjoy a bushwacker while you're there too? Be sure to check out event date and times below to plan your itinerary.
Shop Local
There's no time like the holidays to embrace the season of giving and shop local. Last minute Christmas shopping is made easy in Pensacola. With several shops around Downtown Pensacola, Perdido Key, and Pensacola Beach, there are plenty of locations you'll be able to find that perfect gift.
With several different neighborhoods, Pensacola offers a blend of options and excitement during the holidays. shopping is a fun way to be productive but also enjoy the holiday season. Local shops, twinkling lights, great sales, and holiday markets will make your shopping experience memorable and festive. A few great markets to stop in - Holiday Market at Community Maritime Park & Palafox Market.
Check out the History
Pensacola is home to 460+ years of history and the good news is - you can explore it in different ways. From museums, to historic forts, to the Americas First Settlement Trail there is something for everyone.
Looking for more of a coastal historic vibe? Fort Pickens and Fort Barrancas are neat places to check out - especially in the brisk cooler weather. If you catch yourself downtown, be sure to check out one of the museums if you're looking to get indoors and out of the cold.
Enjoy the Outdoors
The holiday season in Pensacola isn't just about Christmas shopping and festive happenings. Sometimes, what you really need is a break from the glittering lights and the joyous chaos of the season - Pensacola offers the perfect escape into nature. Our weather during the holidays makes for a perfect breakaway into the outdoors.
During the holiday season, exploring by state & national park, fishing, nature & wildlife, sailing, paddling, biking, surfing, and boating are all local favorites. If you feel like getting into the colder waters, venture out with snorkeling or diving.
Whether you're seeking peace on a nature trail, adventure on the water, or the excitement of discovering what lies beneath the waves, Pensacola's outdoor experiences during the holidays are a gift that keeps on giving.
