Drive To These Holiday Displays in and Near Pensacola, FL

October 31st, 2023 by

Ah, the holidays in Pensacola! Is there anything quite like it? The community is buzzing and the city is adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. If you’re a resident or planning a visit, you’re in for a real treat. Pensacola and its surrounding areas offer some of the most enchanting holiday displays and events that you won’t want to miss. So let’s explore the best holiday displays in and near Pensacola, FL – a short driving distance from Mobile and Daphne as well!

A holiday display in Pensacola, FL

Pensacola Winterfest

Downtown Pensacola comes alive with song, dance, arts, and crafts during the holidays. Pensacola Winterfest offers tours and photos with Santa in Plaza Wonderland at the corner of Government Street and Palafox Place. Snow and music start at 5:30 on Fridays and 5:00 on Saturdays and Sundays. The event features various themed tours like “A Whoville Christmas Caper” and “Polar Express Tour,” making it a perfect outing for families.

First City Lights Festival

The First City Lights Festival serves as the year’s most anticipated downtown event, celebrating the holiday season with a blend of retail therapy, culinary delights, historical exploration, and artistic flair. Situated primarily on Palafox Street, the downtown area of Pensacola transforms into a luminous spectacle with half a million twinkling holiday lights. The festivities kick off at 5:00 pm on November 9th and continue to brighten the city until mid-January.

Geek Lights on the Corner

Located at the corner of Blue Water Bay Boulevard and Antiqua Way in Niceville, this display is designed and maintained by Jeff Werner. It features more than 50,000 lights synchronized to music and runs every night from 6:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m. until January 2nd. This year, donations will be accepted on behalf of cancer research.

Candy Cane Lane

Every year, Sea Oats Drive in Destin transforms into Candy Cane Lane. Neighbors compete to create the most festive holiday lights display, making it a must-visit spot for anyone who loves over-the-top holiday decorations.

Festival of Trees at Grand Boulevard

If you’re looking for something more elegant, the Festival of Trees at Grand Boulevard offers a tasteful display. The event features beautifully decorated Christmas trees that are sure to inspire your holiday décor.

Light Up Milton

This charming small town near Pensacola goes all out for the holidays. The entire historic district is adorned with lights, and there’s even a Christmas parade to kick off the season.

Navarre Park Christmas in the Park

This event features a Christmas village, complete with Santa’s workshop, a petting zoo, and of course, a stunning light display. It’s a great place to take the kids for an evening of holiday fun.

Sowell’s North Pole Christmas Light Display

Located in Milton, this family-owned farm transforms into a winter wonderland complete with a light display, hayrides, and a Christmas tree forest. It’s a bit of a drive, but well worth it for the full holiday experience.

ZooLights at Gulf Breeze Zoo

For something a little different, head to Gulf Breeze Zoo for their annual ZooLights event. The entire zoo is illuminated with holiday lights, and you can even enjoy some hot cocoa as you stroll through the exhibits.

So there you have it! Pensacola and its surrounding areas offer a plethora of options for enjoying the holiday season. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening, a family outing, or just a solo adventure, there’s something for everyone. 

And hey, if you’re in the market for a new car to take you to all these fabulous events, consider stopping by Allen Turner Hyundai. They’ve got a great selection to get you to your holiday destinations in style.

Happy Holidays, Pensacola!

Photo by Chad Madden on Unsplash

Posted in Local