Carrabelle Holiday on the Harbor & Boat Parade of Lights

The Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce is hosting the 2025 Holiday on the Harbor Festival and Boat Parade of Lights on Saturday, December 13 from 1:00-7:00 pm ET on Marine Street and by the harbor in Carrabelle, FL. This festival will feature children’s activities, arts and crafts, delicious food, holiday and live music, and the beloved lighted boat parade. This free, family-friendly Christmas tradition is a favorite on the Forgotten Coast.

Families can look forward to visits with Santa, mini-train rides, a bouncy house (courtesy of the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department) and a book giveaway from Bring Me a Book Franklin. As always, Santa will make his grand entrance on the Fire Truck and families are welcome to stop by Santa’s booth for visits and photos. 

This festive event will offer yummy holiday treats and delicious food to enjoy. Guests can enjoy delicious fresh seafood and tasty home-style cooking at one of several cafes, restaurants or festival food vendors. Shoppers can browse vendors with unique art and crafts, and locally made goods. Visitors can complete their holiday shopping with one-of-a-kind items at Carrabelle’s shops and art galleries, many within walking distance. 

Live music will fill the air with performances by Kevin Andrew and the Rockulla Performers, Mark Welch of Sumpin' Old & Sumpin' New, and John Jeremiah. The entertainment doesn’t end there as there will also be fun music by DJ Beanie Baby. Guests will also be delighted by a performance by the Forgotten Coast Dancing Witches and by the talented young athletes of the Salty Seahawks Competitive Cheer Team.  

As the sun sets, festival-goers can gather along the waterfront for the magical Christmas boat parade decked out in lights, décor, and holiday outfits! This parade sparkles with double the lights as the Carrabelle harbor beautifully reflects back the glow of the lighted boats. Boaters can see this special nautical tradition from an unbeatable viewing point by entering their own decorated boat for free!

The parade, which can be enjoyed from many viewing spots, starts around 6:15 pm and proceeds around the harbor between the Marine St. Fishing Pavilion and the Tillie Miller Bridge. Afterward, the boat parade winners will be announced by Mayor Sebrina Brown with TowBoatUS from the Carrabelle River! Awards will be given for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places in four categories, plus Best In Show and the Marina Challenge. Prizes include $100 for 1st place, $75 for 2nd, $50 for 3rd, and a one-year free TowBoatUS membership (value $175) for Best of Show. 

For event details, vendor information or boat parade registration, contact https://www.carrabelle.org/, Chamber@nettally.com or 850-697-2585.  Hosted by the Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce. Funded in part by the Franklin County Tourist Development Council.  Sponsored by Centennial Bank, Inovia Consulting Group, Anglers Edge Marine, The Old Carrabelle Hotel, Duke Energy, Dan Hartman and Robin Hilton, Realtor at Jeff Galloway Real Estate.