Northwest Florida Celebrates the Holidays with Festivities for All Ages

DESTIN, Fla. - Dec. 2, 2014 - PRLog -- The Emerald Coast does not get as cold as its northern neighbors but still has plenty to offer to get everyone in the holiday spirit. 12 Nights of Lights are enjoyed each December in the Village of Baytowne Wharf. Every Friday and Saturday of the month, there will be a festive light show at the Events Plaza complete with holiday music favorites. This is a free event each day at 6, 7, and 8pm. Destin vacation rentals are available in the vicinity for overnight accommodations.

The Festival of Trees is an annual highlight in Grand Boulevard. In Grand Park on November 25^th-December 31^st, non-profit organizations along the Emerald Coast will showcase decorative Christmas trees. 12 trees will be up for competition to win awards including Best of Show and People’s Choice. Visitors are welcome to vote for their favorite on November 25^th and admire the display throughout the month.

Destin, Florida is not known for getting snow so ice skating is a rare luxury for local residents. Baytowne on Ice is a seasonal favorite that attracts many visitors each year. Beginning December 8^th, an outdoor ice skating rink will be set up in the Village of Baytowne Wharf for people of all ages. The first hour of each day is reserved for “kids skate” for all skaters 12 and under. There are also season passes available and packages for sale including zipline rides and arcade specials. The ice rink will be available for private functions as well.

In HarborWalk Village, ARTWalk will continue as scheduled but will include special holiday festivities. On December 13^th and 14^th, the Village stages will provide a “Christmas Wish” concert, the Northwest Florida Ballet, and music from the Emerald Coast Community Band. Santa Claus will be visiting each day for family pictures and the weekend will close with a fireworks display on Sunday evening. On New Year’s Eve, the Street Party Countdown will begin at 7pm. Ring in the New Year at this free event with live performances by Departure and a Journey Tribute Band. Two firework shows will take place at 8pm and the annual ball drops at midnight.