Sometimes a snowy Christmas is straight out of a fairy tale. But other times, all you really need is some sunshine on your skin. For a warm holiday getaway, Georgia’s Golden Isles offer sandy beaches and mild coastal temperatures all winter long. Even better? The long list of family-friendly holiday events take center stage. Celebrate the season at an annual event, find great live music to entertain the kids or feel the warmth of the holidays at a themed festival.
ST. SIMONS ISLAND
Mistletoe Market: December 7–8, 2019
Seek out the perfect gift of locally made artwork, pottery, sculpture, photography, woodworking and more as you browse more than 60 artist booths at Glynn Visual Arts’ eighth annual Mistletoe Market held at Postell Park. Other exciting happenings include the Holiday Hound Hike, a festive dog parade, and a kids’ creation station.
Family Christmas Concert at Christ Church: December 8, 2019
It’s a piano performance with a holiday twist! Terry Readdick will bring favorite holiday pieces like “Joy to the World” and “Jingle Bells”—plus selections from The Nutcracker. This will get the whole family in the Christmas Spirit.
Christmas Tour of Lights: December 13–27, 2019
Spanning much of December, Lighthouse Trolleys will take families around the area for its Annual Fendig Family Christmas Tour of Lights! The 90-minute tour includes a sing-along with Christmas Carols, festive music played throughout the tour and a surprise stop to visit Santa. You’ll even get to vote on the best house in each neighborhood.
SEA ISLAND
Sea Island Half Marathon: November 16, 2019
Runners will take in the scenic sights and views around Sea Island as they opt between a 10K or half marathon course with minimal elevation gain. The race, presented by Vineyard Vines, will feature a post-race party and champagne brunch, Vineyard Vines participant performance tee, medal and more.
JEKYLL ISLAND
Holly Jolly Light Tours: November 29–December 28, 2019
The Jekyll Island Mosaic Museum will be offering the jolliest of holiday trolley rides. Tour the Historic District and gaze at over half a million holiday lights! The centuries old live oak trees will be decorated spectacularly for the season. So grab a holiday beverage and let the kids experience this coastal take on a winter wonderland.
Merry Artists’ Show & Sale: November 29–December 31, 2019
If you’re thinking about something a little more creative than a tie or sweater for those on your gift list this holiday season, the Jekyll Island Arts Association’s fifth annual Merry Artists’ Show & Sale is your shopping solution. You’ll discover unique works of art, all created by Jekyll Island Arts Association members and on sale throughout the holidays at Goodyear Cottage.
Holiday High Tea: December 3 & 18, 2019
A holiday tradition at the Jekyll Island Club Resort, the holiday high tea is the perfect opportunity to gather your closest friends and family for a festive afternoon filled with delicious treats and beautiful decorations. Enjoy the sounds of the season while you sip on the expansive selection of teas and dine on tea sandwiches, soup, warm scones and exquisite sweets. Reservations required.
Holly Jolly Jekyll Parade: December 7, 2019
Ring in the holidays with Santa, his sleigh and golf carts decked out in their best holiday gear! This parade will be jingling all the way from the Historic District to the Beach Village. Celebrate this holly jolly event with the whole family.
BRUNSWICK
Festival of Lights and Window Wonderland: November 29–December 14, 2019
Celebrate the holidays with festive lights and decorations, including creative displays in Historic Downtown Brunswick’s windows and storefronts! Decorations will be up throughout the holiday season, and many special activities are scheduled in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation’s 39th Annual Christmas: December 7, 2019
Take a step back in time at Brunswick’s historic rice plantation and enjoy the special holiday-themed decorations for the Christmas season. Visitors will walk along the illuminated path under centuries-old oaks, take in the beautifully decorated plantation home, witness pre-Civil War re-enactments and cannon firings and even visit with Santa Claus himself!
Brunswick Christmas Parade: December 7, 2019
This annual community parade takes place on the first Saturday in December. Starting at 5:30 p.m. at Howard Coffin Park, more than 100 floats, vehicles, walking groups and marching bands will make their way down Newcastle Street as they light up the night and fill the air with holiday cheer.
A Christmas Carol: December 13–22, 2019
Watch a live performance at the Historic Ritz Theatre of Charles Dickens’ immortal tale of the mean old miser Scrooge and his magical night discovering the true meaning of Christmas. Live on stage and starring Bryan Thompson as Ebenezer Scrooge.
The Golden Isles offer a wide variety of accommodations options, from beachfront lodging to camping to hotels near the airport. Seasonal savings are available at the many islands that make up the region.