Holiday on the Harbor & Boat Parade of Lights
Quick facts
- Date: Saturday, December 12, 2026, 1:00–7:00 PM ET
- Boat parade: around 6:15 PM
- Where: Carrabelle Riverfront, Marine Street, Carrabelle, FL 32322
- Admission: Free
- Organizer: Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce, (850) 697-2585, chamber@nettally.com
- Last verified: October 26, 2026
What is Holiday on the Harbor Carrabelle?
The Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce hosts this favorite Forgotten Coast Christmas tradition on the second Saturday in December: an afternoon street festival along Marine Street and the harbor, with children’s activities, arts and crafts vendors, food, live music, and a visit from Santa — then, as dark falls, the boat parade. See the official TDC listing for details.
Santa, kids, and festival fun
Santa makes his grand entrance on the City of Carrabelle Fire Truck, then holds court at his booth — visits and photos with Santa are free. Kids also get mini-train rides, a bouncy house (courtesy of the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department), and a book giveaway from Bring Me a Book Franklin. Live music from local artists fills the afternoon, plus a performance by the Forgotten Coast Dancing Witches.
Food and holiday shopping
Come hungry: fresh seafood and home-style cooking from festival food vendors and Carrabelle’s cafes and restaurants, plus holiday treats. Vendors sell unique art and crafts and locally made goods for holiday gifting, and Carrabelle’s shops and art galleries — many within walking distance — stay open for the festival.
The Carrabelle Boat Parade of Lights
Find a spot along the water and watch the Christmas parade of boats decked out in lights, decor, and holiday outfits. The parade starts around 6:15 PM and proceeds around the harbor between the Marine St. Fishing Pavilion and the Tillie Miller Bridge, so it can be enjoyed from many viewing spots — and the harbor reflects the glow back, doubling the lights. After the parade, winners are announced, with trophies including Best in Show. A fireworks finale follows the parade.
Can I enter my own boat in the parade?
Yes — entering your own decorated boat is free. Register through the Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce (2026 Boat Registration Form on the Chamber’s event page, or call (850) 697-2585).
Where to stay for Holiday on the Harbor Carrabelle
Carrabelle is an easy drive from the island, so this pairs perfectly with a December beach stay. A Collins Vacation Rental on SGI puts you on St. George Island for quiet beach mornings, with the harbor lights an evening drive away. Book direct with the local island team.
FAQ
When is Holiday on the Harbor in 2026?
Saturday, December 12, 2026. The festival runs 1–7 PM ET on Marine Street and along the harbor in Carrabelle, and the boat parade starts around 6:15 PM.
Is Holiday on the Harbor free?
Yes — the festival is free and family-friendly, and entering your own decorated boat is free too.
Where is the best place to watch the boat parade?
Any spot along the Carrabelle River waterfront — the parade runs around the harbor between the Marine St. Fishing Pavilion and the Tillie Miller Bridge, so it can be enjoyed from many viewing spots.
Can I enter my own boat?
Yes, boat entry is free. Register through the Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce at (850) 697-2585 or chamber@nettally.com.
Who organizes the Holiday on the Harbor?
The Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with community sponsors and funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.