October 16, 2026
Date: Saturday, November 28, 2026
Time: 3–8 p.m.
Location: Seaside, along Scenic Highway 30A (Krier Plaza and the Seaside Amphitheater)
Turn on the Town is Seaside’s kickoff to the holidays on Thanksgiving weekend. The day starts with a parade along 30A, followed by a live performance from Emerald Coast Theatre Company at Krier Plaza. Then everyone gathers in the Seaside Amphitheater for the Christmas tree lighting, where Santa officially welcomes the season. After the lighting, Santa moves to the Christmas Village for photos until 8 p.m.
Groups and businesses can register to be in the parade through Seaside’s event page, and all parade registration proceeds benefit Point Washington Medical Clinic. Expect slowdowns on 30A around Seaside during the parade, so plan to arrive early and park once.
Before you make the drive: we confirmed this listing on Seaside’s events calendar on October 16, 2026, a week after Hurricane Isaias came ashore near Destin. Some South Walton amenities and beach accesses are still being repaired, so confirm with the organizer before you go.