By Christopher Manson
Thursday, Nov. 7
Sinfonia Gulf Coast Presents Catalyst Quartet
Seaside Chapel, Santa Rosa Beach, 7:30 p.m.
SinfoniaGulfCoast.org
The 2024-25 season lights up 30A with “Luminescence: Catalyst by Candlelight,” an intimate performance by the Grammy Award-winning Catalyst Quartet. The program – set against the beautifully candlelit Seaside Chapel – includes three pieces by Paquito D’Rivera, Astor Piazzolla’s “Suite del Angel,” George Gershwin’s “Lullaby,” and Maurice Ravel’s “String Quartet in F Major.” Tickets are $65 per person. Purchase online or call 850.460.8800. Seating is limited.
Friday, Nov. 22
Santa’s Arrival and Tree Lighting
Destin Commons, 6-8 p.m.
destincommons.com
A magical holiday celebration for all ages, with face painting, complimentary photo booth, balloon sculpting, Santa’s sleigh, and a fireworks finale.
Friday, Nov. 22
Saturday, Nov. 23
Sunday, Nov. 24
Northwest Florida Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”
Mattie Kelly Arts Center, Niceville, 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2:30 p.m. Sunday
nfballet.org
The 45th annual production of the classic seasonal fairytale, and the only full-length version presented on the Emerald Coast. Features a cast of more than 140 performers, including international guest artists and over 100 local children. Music performed by the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Dr. David Ott.
Tickets are $48 for adults and $22 for children ages 12 and under. Purchase tickets online.
Saturday, Nov. 23
Christmas Festival of Lights
The Windmills at Hammock Bay, Freeport, 3-6 p.m.
hammockbayfl.com
Celebrate the holiday season with a FREE family-friendly spectacular.
Saturday, Nov. 30
Here Comes Santa Claus
The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin, 6-9 p.m.
Cheer Santa on as he makes his way to Baytowne and watch as he lights the Village tree! Enjoy face-painting, kids crafts and a beautiful fireworks display!
Santa’s Arrival
HarborWalk Village, Destin, 12:30-4 p.m.
emeraldgrande.com
Mr. Ho-ho-ho hits the Destin Harbor, with a parade at 12:30, followed by visits with the kiddos and a special holiday performance from 1 to 4 p.m.
Holiday Craft Fair
The Preserve: A Bluewater Tap Room, Niceville, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
thepreserve850@gmail.com
Email Heather at the address above for more info. Eats to be provided Cousins Maine Lobster food truck.
Wednesday, Dec. 4
Holiday Concert Series and Visits With Santa
The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Miramar Beach, 6-8 p.m.
baytownewharf.com
Holiday classics and quality time with Mr. Claus.
Thursday, Dec. 5
Free Pop-Up Movie Night: “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas”
Yoga by You Studio,
Niceville, 5:30 p.m.
yogabyyouniceville.com
Director Henry Selick’s beloved stop-motion animated movie, with complimentary popcorn and ciders. FREE yoga class passes for newcomers attending the screening.
Friday, Dec. 6
Holiday Pops: Christmas On Broadway
Mattie Kelly Arts Center, Niceville, 7-9 p.m.
mattiekellyartscenter.org
The popular symphony event features Broadway actress-singer Grace Morgan, with favorites from the Great White Way and Disney, along with holiday classics. Also – the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra Chorale, Unified Gospel Choir and Voices of Northwest Florida. Cost is $45 for adults and $16 for youth ages 18 and under and military.
Call 850.729.6000 for tickets.
Saturday, Dec. 7
2024 Niceville-Valparaiso Community Christmas Parade
City of Niceville, 10 a.m.
nicevillevalparaisorotary.org
This year’s theme is “The Magic of Christmas.” Visit the event page on Facebook for rules and registration info.
Monday, Dec. 9
Niceville High School Chorus Holiday Concert
Mattie Kelly Arts Center, Niceville, 7 p.m.
gofan.co
All seven (!) NHS choruses – teachers, local elementary and middle school talents, and more – are joined by professional instrumentalists. Plus, special guests The Ruckel Middle School Envoys Chorus. Tickets are $10 through Dec. 1 and $15 after.
Wednesday, Dec. 11
Holiday Concert Series and Visits With Santa
The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Miramar Beach, 6-8 p.m.
baytownewharf.com
Holiday classics and quality time with Mr. Claus.
Saturday, Dec. 14
Breakfast With Santa
Props Brewery Hammock Bay, Freeport, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
propsbrewery.com
Brunch and photos with Santa Claus.
Wednesday, Dec. 18
Holiday Concert Series and Visits With Santa
The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Miramar Beach, 6-8 p.m.
baytownewharf.com
Holiday classics and quality time with Mr. Claus.
