Top Things to Do in the 2024 Holiday Season

Florida may not have the snow of the North Pole, but the New Smyrna Beach Area brings its own coastal charm to the holidays, offering a magical experience without a wintery blanket of white.

Exciting Holiday Events You Won’t Want to Miss!

The New Smyrna Beach Area offers several events to get you in the holiday spirit. Visit Joy to the Arts, Saturday, November 30, and Sunday, December 1, at The Hub on Canal for a showcase of unique artisan creations, from pottery to handcrafted jewelry, all of which make the perfect gifts for friends and family. The event kicks off with a preview night for members of Jane’s and The Hub at 5 p.m. on Friday, November 29, with live music, drinks, and appetizers. 

The free Christmas in the Park celebration on Saturday, December 7 at 5:30 p.m. in Port Orange is an annual tradition. Join in on festive carols, enjoy performances by adult and children’s choirs, dance to a live band, and take in the holiday lights during a buggy ride.  

Who doesn’t love a parade? You’ll find more than one here this holiday season. The NSB Christmas Parade will make its way through town on Saturday, December 7, starting at 4:30 p.m. With this year’s theme of “A Christmas Carol,” you’re sure to see floats featuring Scrooge and his ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future along the route. The parade will start at the intersection of Flagler Avenue and South Atlantic, then head west on Canal until it reaches Orange Street, so make sure to stake out a spot to take in the action.

Another parade, this one on the water, takes place on Saturday, December 14, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The Holiday Boat Parade features various watercraft, decked out with lights and decorations, floating along the Indian River. 

Winter Wonderland on Canal Street

In addition to the Christmas Parade mentioned earlier, other festivities on Canal Street, starting in late November, will certainly get you in the holiday spirit. The Christmas season opens on Friday, November 29 at 5 p.m., with a tree-lighting ceremony. The event, held on the corner of Live Oak and Canal Street, also features live entertainment and a grand entrance by St. Nick himself.

You’ll want to come back to Canal Street the following day, Saturday, November 30, for the Coastal Christmas Market, running from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. With a plethora of shopping stops and live entertainment, you’ll be filled with holiday cheer… as well as an armload of gifts!

On Thursday, December 5th, don’t miss Girls’ Night Out from 5:00 to 8:30 p.m.—a fun-filled evening of shopping, dining, raffles, and live music. With exclusive deals from local merchants and the chance to win a diamond necklace or gift basket, this event is the perfect excuse to grab your friends for a night on the town.

Beyond the events, Canal Street is a must-visit any day during the season. Stroll the palm-lined, festively lit street, explore art galleries, and unique shops, and enjoy its coastal charm. It’s where holiday magic meets seaside vibes!

Celebrate on Flagler Avenue

Celebrate the season on Flagler Avenue with the Merry Hitmas Music Festival, taking place on weekends from December 6–21. This holiday music festival features over 30 free live shows across various locations along Flagler Avenue, showcasing holiday classics, multi-decade hits, and exciting cross-genre entertainment. Enjoy food and drink specials as you soak in the festive vibes—some venues are 21+.

After Christmas, keep the celebrations alive with the Countdown Jam on Flagler Avenue as we ring in 2024! Enjoy free live music at multiple shows across the street leading up to the New Year. Be sure to check back for the music schedule closer to the date.

And don’t forget the galleries and shops along Flagler! With everything from fine art to whimsical souvenirs, if you can imagine it, you can find it here.

Dine on Third Ave

Whether for a holiday get-together with family and friends, a quick snack to break up your gift-shopping excursion, or a cocktail to toast the season, Third Avenue is the place to be. Nothing could be cozier during the winter than sitting near the “Il Forno” wood-fired oven at The Garlic, enjoying some traditional Tuscan fare. Or enjoy the ocean views from Norwood’s Restaurant and Treehouse Bar. Make sure to get tickets for the Norwood Holiday Wine Festival on Friday, December 13. Regular admission and VIP packages are available. 

Just looking for a quick bite? Mon Delice serves up delectable pastries and sandwiches, as well as fresh-brewed coffee and a selection of wine. Kick back and enjoy some drinks and light fare while taking in some live music at Beachside Tavern to wind down after a full day of shopping. 

Get Outdoors

Of course, the holiday season isn’t just about shopping and crowds. To take a break from the festivities, to reflect on the year, or just to get out and get some fresh air, you’ll find miles of trails to connect with Florida’s natural environment in the New Smyrna Beach Area. Whether you want to walk, ride a bike, or even go on horseback, there’s a trail for you. Stroll along the Eldora Hammock Trail that borders Canaveral National Seashore. Or take the boardwalk through New Smyrna Dunes to enjoy the scenic overlooks. 

Of course, the New Smyrna Beach Area is known for its 17 miles of pristine beaches. Celebrate the holiday season with your toes in the sand, either for a quick visit to Flagler Avenue Beach or spend the afternoon exploring Canaveral National Seashore. 

Make this holiday season one to remember by spending it in the New Smyrna Beach Area. You’ll trade piles of white snow for beaches of white sand, and perhaps get a glimpse of Santa in shorts. Most important, you’ll make memories for years to come.