The holiday season is bringing a mix of beachside traditions, waterfront celebrations, and festive light displays to Florida’s Space Coast. From hundreds of Santa-costumed surfers taking to the waves on Christmas Eve to illuminated boat parades and holiday markets, Cocoa Beach and surrounding Brevard County communities have plenty of ways to celebrate.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, holiday shopping, or seasonal entertainment, these upcoming events offer opportunities to experience the holidays along Florida’s coast.
Surfing Santas Returns to Cocoa Beach on Christmas Eve
One of Cocoa Beach’s most recognizable holiday traditions, Surfing Santas, returns December 24. The annual gathering brings hundreds of participants dressed as Santa Claus into the Atlantic Ocean for a holiday celebration that combines surfing with Christmas festivities.
Spectators can watch the costumed surfers take on the waves while enjoying live entertainment and costume contests. The event has become a popular Christmas Eve tradition for locals and visitors alike.
Christmas Boat Parade Lights Up the Waterways
Holiday celebrations will also take to the water with the Cocoa Beach Christmas Boat Parade on December 12 at 6 p.m. The annual event features boats decorated with colorful Christmas lights and holiday displays as they travel along the Indian River Lagoon.
The illuminated vessels offer a waterfront holiday experience that highlights the Space Coast’s boating culture.
Another opportunity to see decorated boats is the 24th Annual Turkey Creek Christmas Boat Parade in Palm Bay, scheduled for December 12 at 5:30 p.m.
Cookie Crawls and Holiday Markets Around Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach will kick off its holiday celebrations with a Cookie Crawl and Christmas Tree Lighting on November 26. The community event brings together seasonal treats, festive activities, and a holiday gathering for residents and visitors.
Nearby, Cocoa Village will host its annual Hot Cocoa Holidays celebration from November 28 through December 23. The extended holiday celebration includes Hot Cocoa Crawls, art bazaars, bike parades, and opportunities to shop at locally owned businesses.
Throughout the season, downtown Cocoa Village will feature holiday lights and decorations, creating a festive setting for exploring local shops and participating in community activities.
Holiday Lights and Animal Experiences at Brevard Zoo
For an evening surrounded by holiday lights, Brevard Zoo will host its annual Holiday Lights celebration from November 20, 2026, through January 2, 2027.
The display features approximately one million lights throughout the zoo, along with holiday entertainment, carolers, seasonal food, and festive activities.
The zoo will also host Jolly Days from December 19–23. Visitors can watch animals unwrap holiday treats while enjoying music and seasonal activities. Jolly Days activities are included with general zoo admission.
More Holiday Celebrations Across Brevard County
Additional holiday events are planned throughout Brevard County, including downtown Melbourne’s Candlelight Shopping series.
Taking place on four Saturday evenings from November 28 through December 19, the celebration will feature a tree lighting ceremony, appearances by Santa, a Cookie Crawl, Wine and Art Walks, and pop-up shops. The events provide an opportunity to explore downtown businesses while enjoying the holiday atmosphere.
In Melbourne Beach, Skydiving Saint Nicks is scheduled for December 26. The event features Santa and other participants arriving by parachute from a helicopter near the Crowne Plaza Melbourne Oceanfront. Tandem skydiving opportunities will also be available for those interested in participating.
Beyond community festivals and outdoor celebrations, the Space Coast’s seasonal calendar includes holiday performances, ballet productions, theater shows, symphony concerts and sing-alongs.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Surfing Santas in Cocoa Beach?
Surfing Santas takes place on Christmas Eve, December 24, featuring costumed surfers, live entertainment and costume contests.
When is the Cocoa Beach Christmas Boat Parade?
The Cocoa Beach Christmas Boat Parade is scheduled for December 12, at 6 p.m., featuring illuminated boats along the Indian River Lagoon.
When can visitors see Holiday Lights at Brevard Zoo?
Brevard Zoo’s Holiday Lights runs November 20, 2026, through January 2, 2027, with approximately one million lights, holiday entertainment, and seasonal food.
What holiday events are happening in Cocoa Village?
Hot Cocoa Holidays runs November 28 through December 23, featuring cocoa crawls, art bazaars, bike parades, and holiday shopping at local businesses.
Are there holiday events outside Cocoa Beach?
Yes. Communities throughout Brevard County will host seasonal celebrations, including downtown Melbourne’s Candlelight Shopping, the Turkey Creek Christmas Boat Parade in Palm Bay, and Skydiving Saint Nicks in Melbourne Beach.
For additional event information and updates, visit Visit Space Coast’s 2026 Holiday Event Preview.
Comments
