From Christmas Eve surfing traditions in Cocoa Beach to illuminated zoo trails and waterfront boat parades, Florida’s Space Coast has several ways to celebrate the holiday season.
The holiday season is bringing a full lineup of festive events to Florida’s Space Coast, with celebrations ranging from costumed surfers and decorated boats to holiday light displays and community gatherings. Throughout November and December, Brevard County communities will offer opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the season.
Here are several holiday events to add to your calendar.
Surfing Santas Returns to Cocoa Beach on Christmas Eve
One of Cocoa Beach’s most recognizable holiday traditions, Surfing Santas returns December 24, bringing hundreds of participants dressed as Santa Claus to the Atlantic Ocean.
The annual Christmas Eve gathering draws surfers and spectators to the beach for a holiday celebration that combines Florida’s surf culture with Christmas festivities. Participants take to the waves in Santa suits and other holiday-themed costumes, creating a uniquely coastal holiday scene.
The event has become a popular Space Coast tradition for locals and visitors looking for a different way to celebrate Christmas Eve.
Christmas Boat Parades Illuminate the Waterways
Holiday celebrations will also take place along the Space Coast’s waterways on December 12, when two communities host their annual Christmas boat parades.
The Cocoa Beach Christmas Boat Parade begins at 6 p.m. along the Indian River Lagoon. Boats decorated with Christmas lights and seasonal displays will travel along the water, giving spectators an opportunity to enjoy the holiday decorations from the shoreline.
Further south, Palm Bay will host the 24th Annual Turkey Creek Christmas Boat Parade at 5:30 p.m. on December 12. The event brings decorated vessels to Turkey Creek for another evening of waterfront holiday festivities.
Both parades offer a way to experience the season while enjoying Florida’s coastal setting.
Holiday Shopping and Community Celebrations
Cocoa Beach will begin its holiday festivities with a Cookie Crawl and Christmas Tree Lighting on November 26, bringing seasonal activities to the community.
In nearby Cocoa Village, Hot Cocoa Holidays will run November 28 through December 23. The seasonal celebration includes Hot Cocoa Crawls, art bazaars, bike parades, and opportunities to shop at locally owned businesses.
The events provide opportunities to support local merchants while enjoying holiday activities throughout the historic village.
Brevard Zoo Brings Back Holiday Lights
For an evening of seasonal displays and entertainment, Brevard Zoo will host its annual Holiday Lights celebration from November 20 through January 2, 2027.
The event will feature approximately one million lights throughout the zoo, transforming the grounds into a holiday destination. Visitors can also enjoy holiday carolers, seasonal entertainment, food, and other festive activities.
The zoo will additionally host Jolly Days December 19–23, offering another opportunity for families to enjoy seasonal programming during the holiday break.
DeBary Hall Plans Three Holiday Celebrations
Further inland, DeBary Hall Historic Site in DeLand will host three holiday celebrations during the season.
The historic property, located at 123 W. Indiana Ave., will welcome visitors for special holiday programming. Specific event schedules and activity details are available through Volusia County.
For more information, contact Volusia County at 386-736-2700. County offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will be closed December 25 and January 1.
Find More Holiday Events in Central Florida
From waterfront celebrations to holiday markets and family-friendly attractions, Central Florida offers plenty of ways to enjoy the season.
Visit the Central Florida Lifestyle events calendar to discover additional holiday happenings throughout the region. Event organizers can also submit upcoming events for consideration on the calendar.
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