Apalachicola Christmas Celebration 2026
Quick facts
- Date: Friday, November 27, 2026 (Black Friday — the day after Thanksgiving), 3:30–9:30 PM
- Where: Downtown Apalachicola and Riverfront Park, Water Street
- Admission: Free
- Organizer: Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce, 17 Ave E, Apalachicola, FL 32320 — (850) 653-9419
- Last verified: October 19, 2026
What is the Apalachicola Downtown Christmas Celebration?
The day after Thanksgiving, the historic town of Apalachicola kicks off the holiday season in old-fashioned style. The streets are lined with luminaries and filled with holiday spirit, local merchants keep their doors open late, and the sounds of carolers echo through downtown all evening. It’s the coast’s traditional start to Christmas — and since it falls on Black Friday, it’s the perfect excuse to get a head start on holiday shopping at the local shops. See the official November calendar for details.
Santa arrives by shrimp boat
The highlight of the day: Santa arrives via shrimp boat at Riverfront Park on Water Street at 4:00 PM, where he’ll be on hand to hear every child’s Christmas wishes. The Chamber of Commerce staff hands out FREE hot dogs and popcorn to all the children who come to visit Santa.
Make a weekend of it: Shop Local Saturday
The celebration flows right into Shop Local Saturday on November 28 — downtown shops open for a full day of one-of-a-kind gift hunting with family and friends. And Postcards to Santa are available for pickup at the Chamber office now; drop them in Santa’s Mailbox by December 16 so Santa has time to write each child a return letter.
Where to stay for the Christmas Celebration
Thanksgiving weekend on the island, Christmas lights across the bridge — that’s the move. A Collins Vacation Rental on SGI puts you a short drive from downtown Apalachicola: Black Friday celebration in the evening, quiet beach morning after. Book direct with the local island team.
FAQ
When is the Apalachicola Downtown Christmas Celebration in 2026?
Friday, November 27, 2026 (Black Friday), from 3:30 to 9:30 PM in downtown Apalachicola and Riverfront Park.
Is the Christmas Celebration free?
Yes — it’s a free community event, and the Chamber hands out free hot dogs and popcorn to kids who visit Santa.
When does Santa arrive?
Santa arrives by shrimp boat at Riverfront Park on Water Street at 4:00 PM.
What happens on Shop Local Saturday?
The day after the celebration (Saturday, November 28), downtown Apalachicola shops open for a full day of local holiday shopping.
One more thing from the same TDC calendar check: the Military Tribute Exhibit dates are published now — November 1–29 at the Carrabelle History Museum, listed as a featured event. That unblocks your TBD page whenever you want to update it.