As the holiday season falls over the Crystal Coast, our vibrant communities are brimming with festive events. Al Williams Properties is thrilled to present a curated list of holiday happenings across our beloved coastline. Join us in celebrating the most wonderful time of the year!
Atlantic Beach’s Festive Flair
Atlantic Beach Light Up the Night Christmas Parade
Atlantic Beach – December 1 at 6pm
This enchanting event brings the community together for a spectacular evening under the stars. Imagine a procession of beautifully decorated floats, all twinkling with thousands of lights, creating a dazzling display against the night sky.
It’s a perfect outing for families, friends, and anyone looking to capture the true essence of Christmas spirit. Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration where the glow of holiday cheer lights up the night and warms the hearts of all who attend. Join us for a night where Atlantic Beach shines brighter than ever!
Beaufort’s Historical Holiday
Beaufort Christmas Parade
Front Street Beaufort – December 2nd at 11:00am
Beaufort is a small town with a lot of personality, and this fun and coastal culture is on full display at the annual Beaufort Christmas Parade. Held in the heart of the waterfront downtown, the yearly parade is a fun event for visitors of all ages, and is a celebration that is sure to put all Crystal Coast visitors in a holiday state of mind.
Friends of the Maritime Museum Holiday Flotilla
Beaufort Waterfront – December 2nd from 5:30-7:30pm
The historic Beaufort waterfront comes alive during this holiday celebration that combines this community’s love of the water with a literal boatload of holiday lights. The annual Friends of the Maritime Museum Holiday Flotilla is a fun and festive event that will wow spectators throughout the Crystal Coast, and which will put visitors of all ages in a holiday state of mind.
Core Sound Decoy Festival
Harkers Island – December 1st-2nd
The small community of Harkers Island comes to life at this annual event that puts this community’s rich heritage and history in the spotlight. The annual Core Sound Decoy Festival, which is held the first full weekend in December, is a unique celebration that combines exhibits, demonstrations, vendors, food, and much more, to the delight of local visitors and residents alike.
Christmas Candlelight Tour
Historic Beaufort – December 9th from 5:00-8:00pm
Celebrating its 16th year in 2023, the Christmas Candlelight Tour is a celebration of Beaufort’s centuries of history and community spirit, and will be a festive event for locals and visitors alike. Hosted by the Beaufort Historical Association, the Christmas Candlelight Tour provides a rare look into some of Beaufort’s most prestigious and history-rich homes, businesses, and landmarks, and is a fun way to discover more about this popular vacation destination while enjoying the spirit of the season.
Olde Fashioned Holiday Market
Carteret County Courthouse Grounds – December 16th from 4:00-8:00m
95+ local vendors will be present offering whatever your heart desires. There will be farmers with fresh, cool weather veggies, pasture-raised meat, honey, eggs, and other farm products; fishermen with fresh, local seafood; cooks with delicious pastries, breads, cookies, candy, and ready-to-eat food; and artisans with well-made, unique art and craft work for the perfect holiday gifts for friends and family.
The night will include live music, hot seasonal beverages, and Santa in his golf cart sleigh!
Morehead City’s Merriment
Morehead City Christmas Tree Lighting
Downtown Morehead City – December 1st at 6:00pm
Kick off the season on December 1st with the lighting of the Christmas tree, complete with music, hot cocoa, and an ugly sweater contest!
Chowder & Cheer
Downtown Morehead City – December 2nd from 12:00-5:30pm
The first Saturday afternoon each December brings those who want to explore downtown while tasting samples of Chowder or “Cheer” throughout the afternoon. The event wraps up as the annual Flotilla kicks off after nightfall.
Tickets are sold in advance and sell out quickly!
The Gingerbread Festival & Competition
Carteret County Civic Center – December 9th-11th
Stroll through a winter wonderland of holiday themed crab pot Christmas trees and inhale the sweet aroma of the gingerbread creations. Enjoy kids crafts, games, Santa visits, and holiday entertainment both Saturday and Sunday.
Enjoy Santa visits, face painting, and a gingerbread cafe. And be sure to vote for your favorite gingerbread entry and favorite tree!
Morehead City Christmas Parade
Downtown Morehead City – December 9th at 11:00am
The Christmas Parade is a longstanding tradition in downtown Morehead City. Featuring creative floats from local businesses and community groups, as well as performances from nearby school marching bands and dance teams, the parade is a fun and festive event for the whole family! Even Santa makes an appearance!
At Al Williams Properties, we believe the holiday season is a magical time to explore and appreciate the warmth and charm of our coastal communities. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, we invite you to immerse yourself in the seasonal joy found throughout the Crystal Coast.
Photo Credit: Downtown Morehead City