Merry Christmas America Parade

Destin’s 42nd annual Christmas Parade celebrates the season with the theme Merry Christmas America, recognizing America’s 250th birthday. This daytime community parade gives residents and visitors a festive reason to gather along the route.

What to Expect

The parade starts at 10 a.m. on December 12. Floats begin at Destin Methodist Church, 200 Beach Drive, travel along Beach Drive and continue west on Harbor Boulevard toward Stahlman Avenue. The city directs spectators to stand on the north side of Harbor Boulevard. No fixed ending time is published.

Date, Time and Location

• Date: 12/12/2026
• Time: 10:00am; no fixed ending time published Central Time
• Location: Parade starts at Destin Methodist Church, 200 Beach Drive, Destin, FL 32541; spectator route continues along Beach Drive and Harbor Boulevard to Stahlman Avenue
• Admission: $0 calendar admission for spectators. Float participation is a separate arrangement with the city and has its own application and donation requirements.

Planning Your Visit

Choose a viewing spot on the north side of Harbor Boulevard and arrive before the procession begins. Allow for traffic and route access changes, follow city directions, and keep children clear of moving floats and the roadway. The church is the listed starting location, rather than an indoor event venue. Do not assume the parade finishes at a particular hour.

Groups interested in entering a float should contact the Destin Community Center. The city lists December 4, 2026, as the application and donation deadline. This spectator listing does not register a float. For questions, contact Parks & Recreation at (850) 654-5181.

Featured parade image comes from the Destin Chamber’s event listing.

Check the organizer’s latest announcements on the day, especially for outdoor activities affected by weather. Allow time for traffic and walking from parking, and confirm any accessibility or activity-specific requirements directly with the venue.

Official Event Information

Read the official event listing for the current program and updates. Featured artwork is from the event sources linked in this listing.