Holiday Happenings Calendar 2025

Because the seasonal events are now coming at us full speed and most of us try keep up with everything by date, here’s our updated calendar of holiday happenings in and around the Golden Isles. Keep it handy as we motor through to Christmas! 

For updates, last-minute pop-ups, and other events added after we published this list, follow the Elegant Island Living social media accounts and check our online calendar HERE. It’s a busy season! 

NOVEMBER

November 20

There’s a Holiday Open House at Uncle Don’s Local Market! Drop by between 3:00-7:00 p.m. for complimentary small bites, $10 wine tasting, and shopping with local vendors.

The “Dream So Real” Christmas belly dance show by Golden Isles Belly Dance is back! The show will take place at the Historic Ritz Theater in downtown Brunswick at 7:00 p.m. This is a family-friendly show that your whole family is bound to enjoy. The dancers will take you on an unforgettable magical journey around the world, as well as inside your mind, and bring even more sparkle and joy to this holiday season! Purchase tickets at https://29169.danceticketing.com/r/events/.

November 22

Head over to Hilton Garden Inn between 8:30-10:30 a.m. for Breakfast & Photos with Santa. Only $10 per person. Presented by the Golden Isles YMCA Foundation.

Visit the Jolly Makers Market hosted by Glynn County UGA Extension and Brunswick Artisans from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the Ballard Building, 325 Old Jesup Road, where there will be a variety of local vendors with handcrafted items and food vendors as well.

The Moxie Craft Fest Handmade Holiday Market will be happening at Old City Hall in Historic Downtown Brunswick from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Modern artisans from throughout the Southeast will be selling their wares, and there will be food truck and local coffee on site to keep you fueled up for the day.

Drop by Ashantilly Center in Darien for an Open Studio at Ashantilly Press where you can print a free holiday or Christmas card between 11am-2pm. No experience needed!

November 26

Enjoy a festive evening of creativity and cheer at Jekyll Island Club Resort’s Holiday Paint & Sip. Follow step-by-step painting instruction while sipping your favorite beverage in the cozy, historic setting of the Federal Reserve/Aldrich Room from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Perfect for couples, friends, or solo guests looking to unwind and create a holiday keepsake to take home. All supplies are included. $70+ per canvas. Reserve your seat at jekyllclub.com/local-experiences.

November 27 – Happy Thanksgiving!

On Thanksgiving night, the switch will be flipped to turn the lights on at Spencer’s Christmas House at 144 Shore Rush Drive on St. Simons Island. The Christmas tradition of over-the-top light displays and animated inflatables started by beloved SSI resident and WWII veteran Wally Spencer has been continued by family to keep his memory and spirit alive. A must-see stop during the holiday season, the display is lit nightly through Christmas, and a food drive will be held on December 19 & 20 with Santa, The Grinch, the Brass Choir, and treats from the Kona Ice Truck.

November 28

Head to Queen Square for the Christmas Tree Lighting in Historic Downtown Brunswick. Festivities include a reading of “Twas the Night Before Christmas,” live music, and an opportunity to visit with Santa. Watch the Historic Downtown Brunswick social media accounts for more details and time. At 6:00 p.m.

November 28-30

More than 70 artists, crafters, and artisan makers will be under the oaks in Postell Park on St. Simons Island for Crafts in the Village. They’ll be selling jewelry, pottery, paintings, photography, woodworking, gourmet goodies, candles, soap, and so much more. Vendors are on site 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Friday and 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday. Santa’s likely to stop by for photos too, so follow Crafts in the Village on Facebook for details.

From November 28 through Christmas

The Glynn Visual Arts Holiday Art Market opens Friday, November 28 at 10am in the Portman Gallery at the Visual Arts Center (106 Island Drive, St. Simons Island). From decor to gifts with Christmas Gnomes, pottery, jewelry, paintings, and more, you’ll find charming pieces in a variety of sizes and price ranges, all hand-made by local GVA artist members. Find unique, original gifts for everyone on your list. The Holiday Art Market will remain open through Tuesday, December 23. Also beginning Friday, November 28 and continuing through Monday, December 29, is the Jekyll Island Arts Association Merry Artists Market at Goodyear Cottage in the Jekyll Island Historic District. Discover one-of-a-kind gifts made by the artists of the Jekyll Island Arts Association. In addition to the selection of unique gifts and stocking stuffers, artists will be on-site demonstrating their crafts on weekends during this month-long holiday market event. 

Beginning the weekend after Thanksgiving, Jekyll Island Historic District transforms into a magical Holly Jolly Jekyll wonderland. More than 2,000,000 light bulbs from over 500 light displays will illuminate the night throughout the season in addition to the Historic District’s great tree that boasts 45,000+ lights. The miniature golf course becomes Peppermint Land, decorated with life-sized gingerbread characters, peppermint sticks, and gumdrops. Trolley tours and self-guided light tour options are offered through Christmas. For more details about light tours and a full calendar of holiday events, visit jekyllisland.com.

The Jekyll Island Club Resort hosts its own Holiday Market in the Hall of Mirrors during the holiday season. Browse local artisan booths featuring handcrafted gifts, seasonal décor, and sweet holiday treats — perfect for finding something special for everyone on your list. Open for shopping from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on November 28 & 29, and from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. December 4, 11-12, 18-20, 26. Starting December 4, the Resort also offers Holiday High Tea in the Grand Dining Room from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on select dates (December 4,5,11,12,18,19,23,26,27,29). This festive four-course experience of tea sandwiches, scones, and seasonal desserts, comes complete with a special holiday keepsake and is a favorite holiday tradition for many, so dates sell out quickly. Reserve your seats at jekyllclub.com/holiday-traditions

November 29

Support small business & local artisans by doing your holiday shopping at The Southern Peach on St. Simons Island. Enjoy complimentary wine & hors d’oeuvres while browsing the wares of several talented vendors during their Holiday Sip & Shop from 4:00-7:00 p.m.

The community is invited to gather in the lobby at 6:00 p.m.for the Christmas Tree Lighting at Oaks on the River Resort in Darien. There will be complimentary cookies, hot cocoa, apple cider for this festive start to the holiday season.

DECEMBER

December 4

First the kids get a chance to Jingle & Mingle during the signature children’s event for the 5^th Annual Festival of the Trees benefiting Hope 1312 Collective at the Queen and Grant. From 3:30 to 6:00 p.m., there will be cookie decorating, crafts, games, goodie bags, Kona Ice, pictures with Santa and a sneak peek at the trees. After that, the adults can come out to play at the 7:00 p.m. Holiday Cocktail Party & Christmas Tree Auction, enjoying hors d’oeuvres, seasonal sips, and the opportunity to walk away with one of these extraordinary trees decorated by community members and local businesses. Tickets for both events can be purchased online at hope1312co.org.

December 5

The Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Georgia’s annual Merry Mixer returns to Halyards and Tramici. From 5:00-10:00 p.m., guests will enjoy seasonal treats, music by Howl2GoDueling Pianos, and holiday cheer while helping empower local youth through vital programs and mentorship. Tickets at bgcsega.com/events.

December 5-6

Christmas at Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation offers a step back in time from the illuminated path under centuries old oaks to the to the antebellum rice plantation home, where rooms are beautifully decorated for the holidays, interpreters appear in period dress, and Santa welcomes visitors to enjoy wassail and cookies by the fire. Musket and cannon demonstrations outside. Friday and Saturday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Regular admission rates apply.

December 6

Start the day with Breakfast with Santa at The Hangout Bar & Grill in Brunswick from 8:00-10:00 a.m.

The American Legion Post 9 (4470 US-17 N, Brunswick) hosts its Community Christmas Craft Fair offering artisan gifts and decor, festive holiday treats and cozy beverages, fun activities for kids, raffles every hour, and Santa & Mrs. Claus stopping by for photos. Shop for unique handmade holiday gifts, beautiful decorations, and enjoy festive fun for all ages from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Admission is free. 

Bring the family out in their holiday PJs to enjoy morning screenings of The Polar Express or A Charlie Brown Christmas and photos with Santa at ACS Victory Board’s annual Merry Movies at Island Cinemas on St. Simons Island. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. for pictures with Santa, and movies will start at 10:00 a.m. Tickets at acsvictoryboard.org.

The 15^th Annual Holiday Market Craft Fair at Lord of Life Lutheran Church on St. Simons Island will feature 30+ vendors offering quality handmade items perfect for holiday gifts from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The church will host its bake sale, book sale, and offer coffee, snacks, and lunch. Raffle prizes and Santa Claus will be there too!

Golden Isles Olive Oil, in conjunction with the Angels and Warriors Toy Drive will be hosting their 9^th Annual Breakfast with Santa & The Grinch from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Bring new, unwrapped toys to donate for kids who are in the hospital at Southeast Georgia Health System over the holidays, enjoy a buffet breakfast including green eggs and ham, plus free photo opportunities with holiday characters. Free kids’ breakfast per donation of an unwrapped toy. Tickets at goldenislesoliveoil.com.

Golf carts dressed in their holiday finest (and Santa too!) will be rolling along Mallery Street for the St. Simons Island Pier Village Christmas Golf Cart at 11:00 a.m. (Line-up begins by the ball fields at 10:30 a.m.)

At Bailey Boys (155 Skylane Road), free Cookies with Santa event, kids can enjoy fresh cookies, cold milk, and coloring time with Santa from 12:00-2:00 p.m. Bring your cameras for photos, parents!

Head over to Jekyll Island between 12:00-4:00 p.m. for the Winter Carnival & Big Truck Roundup. Free carnival rides, games, and music on the Village Green and emergency vehicles from Jekyll Island Fire/EMS and GSP for kids to explore at Great Dunes Beach Park.

Spend a sweet afternoon with the family decorating festive sugar cookies at Jekyll Island Club Resort’s Holiday Cookie Decorating Workshop. From M&Ms to Red Hots, colorful icings to holiday sprinkles — you’ll have everything you need to create your own delicious masterpieces. At the 2:00-4:00 p.m. workshop, each decorator will receive 6 cookies to design and take home, plus enjoy a cozy spread of punch and mulled cider. This isn’t a decorating class or frosting tutorial — just a fun, festive activity for all ages to get into the Christmas spirit.

Slip into your coziest pajamas and enjoy a screening of The Polar Express under the stars at at Jekyll Ocean Club from 6:00-9:00 p.m. Savor complimentary popcorn and s’mores by the fire, and visit our festive hot cocoa station for a warm holiday treat. At this special Polar Express Family Adventure experience, each child will receive a golden ticket and a jingle bell keepsake to remember the evening. Gather your family for a night of laughter, holiday spirit, and timeless memories. $30 per family (up to 6 members). Purchase tickets at jekyllclub.com/local-experiences.

December 6-7

Glynn Visual Arts’ 16th Annual Mistletoe Market will be held in Postell Park on St. Simons Island from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday and from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday. 60+ juried talented artists and skilled artisans offer fine art and fabulous gifts. Gift-wrapping station, hospitality tent, and photos with Santa too!

This year, by popular demand, there are two scheduled performances of Handel’s Messiah by the Golden Isles Community Chorus! St. Simons Presbyterian Church will host the free concerts at 3:00 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.

Don’t miss the wildly funny and heartfelt Whos’s Holiday! at Brunswick Actors’ Theatre! This ADULTS ONLY comedy, and one woman show starring Amy Lovin, tells the story of Cindy Lou Who as she recalls that Christmas Eve she first met the Grinch and the twisted turn of events her life has now taken. Directed by Lynda Dalton-Gallagher​​​. Shows at 3:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m. December 6 and at 3:00 p.m. on December 7. Tickets at soglogallery.com.

December 7

Experience the magic of the holidays with a FREE, family-friendly bike ride through Downtown and Historic Brunswick. Wear your favorite festive attire and reflective gear on this Holiday Lights Bike Ride. Registration (spots are limited), helmets, and bike lights are required. Check-in at 4:30 p.m., Ride begins at 5:25 p.m. Register at bikesignup.com.

Join Jekyll Island Club Resort as they Swing Into the Holidays with a Big Band Celebration at the Morgan Center from 7:30-10:00 p.m. Big band swing and holiday favorites will be performed in classic style as you sip your welcome glass of sparkling wine and indulge in a dessert station. A cash bar will also be available throughout the night. Tickets available at jekyllclub.com/local-experiences.

December 8

The 4th Annual Christmas for Kids fundraiser will be held at Brogen’s North from 6:00-10:00 p.m. With live music from The Pine Box Dwellers and Red18, an auction with items from local businesses, a 50/50 raffle, and a pig pick, you’ll want to dash (or dance) right over and join the fun! 

December 9

The Coastal Symphony of Georgia invites you to Celebrate the Season with a Soundbites Christmas Concert featuring the Jacksonville Brass Consortium at Vitality Living Frederica on St. Simons. Concert begins at 6:30 p.m.  Cocktail reception following the concert. Tickets $50 at coastalsymphonyofgeorgia.org.

December 11

Hospice of the Golden Isles hosts its annual Lights of Love celebration, beginning with a Service of Remembrance at 5:00 p.m. Come see the Brunswick campus illuminated by the glow of thousands of holiday lights. Memorial/honorary dove ornaments available for purchase at hospice.me.

December 11-14

The Island Players’ holiday production “Twice Upon a Christmas” is a whimsical take on two classic Christmas stories: “The Gift of the Magi” and “Scrooge Has Left the Building.” Performances at the St Simons Casino Theatre, Thursdays-Saturdays 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3:00 p.m. Tickets at theislandplayersssi.com.

December 12

The Golden Isles Live Christmas Concert at Wesley Church at Frederica features world renowned soprano of opera and musical theatre Lauren Jelencovich. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: goldenisleslive.org.

Golden Isles Christmas is back at First Baptist Church Brunswick by popular demand! This magical night of music and worship helps us to remember the true spirit of Christmas and offers three opportunities for you to join: 7:30 p.m. December 12, and 5:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. on December 14. 

December 12-14

The Grinch, presented by Jill Stanford Dance Center takes place at Brunswick High School Auditorium. Showtimes: Friday 7:00 p.m., Saturday 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., Sunday 2:00 p.m. Tickets: jillstanforddancecenter.com.

December 13

Start the day with a delicious buffet of morning treats and gets some photos of the kids with Ol’ St. Nick during Breakfast with Santa from 8:00-11:00 a.m. at Oaks on the River in Darien. For more information and to make reservations, visit oaksontheriverresort.com.

Come shop at the Forward Brunswick Christmas Market at Mary Ross Waterfront Park from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. There will be fresh food and seasonal gift vendors, Christmas carolers, food trucks, a used toy swap, the Firefly Craft Bus, a visit from Santa, and more! 

You’ll find “The Best Bake Sale in the South!” at the Historic Tabby Cabins at Gascoigne Bluff from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. You’ll want to be early for the best selection of tasty homemade cakes, pies, breads, candies and cookies plus holiday treats and gifts such as toasted pecans, jelly and jams offered at the Cassina Garden Club Christmas Bake Sale.

It’s will be a very Grinchy Day at Jekyll Island Club Resort! Begin the day with Breakfast with The Grinch in the Club Ballroom. From 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., they’ll offer a “Green Eggs & Ham” themed buffet with some grinchy surprises. Don your kids in their holiday best and snap a photo with everyone’s favorite holiday grouch. Then attend the Grinch Candle Making Class from 2:00-3:00 p.m., guests will create a custom-scented candle, learn about fragrance blending, and decorate with seasonal touches — the perfect holiday keepsake or gift! Reserve your spots for these events at jekyllclub.com/local-experiences. Later that evening, from 7:00-9:00 p.m., enjoy a family-friendly Movie Night on the Lawn beside The Pool House, watching How the Grinch Stole Christmas, complete with complimentary popcorn and water provided by the hotel.

It’s “A Cowboy Christmas” Brunswick Christmas Parade at 5:30 p.m., with twinkling lights, joyful music, and festive floats from local businesses and community groups beginning their procession at Howard Coffin Park and continuing down Gloucester Street.

On Jekyll Island, the Holly Jolly Jekyll Light Parade with Santa and his friends in creatively decorated and colorfully lit carts and vehicles will make their way around the island beginning at 7:00 p.m.

December 13-14

Crafts in the Village 70+ artists, crafters, and artisan makers will be under the oaks in Postell Park on St. Simons Island, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday and 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, selling jewelry, pottery, paintings, photography, woodworking, gourmet goodies, candles, soap, and more. Santa is sure to stop by for photos too, so follow Crafts in the Village on Facebook for details

The wildly funny and heartfelt Whos’s Holiday! at Brunswick Actors’ Theatre has its last weekend of performances! This ADULTS ONLY comedy, and one woman show starring Amy Lovin, tells the story of Cindy Lou Who as she recalls that Christmas Eve she first met the Grinch and the twisted turn of events her life has now taken. Directed by Lynda Dalton-Gallagher​​​. Shows at 3:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m. December 13 and at 3:00 p.m. on December 14. Tickets at soglogallery.com.

December 14

Enjoy a Very Brunchy Grinchmas at Ocean Lodge Resort with whomazing brunch items, drink specials, and photos with The Grinch and his…um…friends? Seatings between 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Book on OpenTable. 

Golden Isles Christmas is back at First Baptist Church Brunswick by popular demand! This magical night of music and worship helps us to remember the true spirit of Christmas and offers three opportunities for you to join: 7:30 p.m. December 12, and 5:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. on December 14. 

December 17

Treat yourself to some holiday fun with tickets to Michelle Malone and the Hot Toddies, Live in Concert. Georgia’s premier holiday band is coming to Brunswick Actors’ Theatre for a special Classic Christmas Show presented by Onstage Brunswick at 7:00 p.m. You’ll be sure to have a jazzy and jolly time! Tickets $25 and $40 (VIP) and can be purchased at tickets.onstagebrunswick.com.

December 18-21

The Island Players’ holiday production “Twice Upon a Christmas” is a whimsical take on two classic Christmas stories: “The Gift of the Magi” and “Scrooge Has Left the Building.” Performances at the St Simons Casino Theatre, Thursdays-Saturdays 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3:00 p.m. Tickets at theislandplayersssi.com.

Golden Isles Arts & Humanities continues its holiday tradition of presenting Charles Dickens’ classic tale A Christmas Carol at The Ritz Theatre with a full cast that includes Bryan Thompson reprising his role as miserly Ebenezer Scrooge. Tickets available at goldenislesarts.org.

December 19-20

Bring non-perishable food to Spencer’s Christmas Wonderland at 144 Shore Rush Drive, SSI for their 6th Annual Food Drive to continue the annual tradition of giving back in Wally’s honor. There will be a brass choir, Kona Ice, appearances by Santa and the Grinch, and more between 6:00-9:00 p.m. nightly.

December 20

A merry family tradition for many, Tea with Santa returns to Jekyll Island Club Resort! Enjoy a jolly afternoon in the Grand Dining Room filled with holiday magic, tasty treats, and a special visit from Santa himself. Savor tea sandwiches, scones, and sweet desserts while making memories that will have little ones smiling all season long. Seatings at 11:00 a.m. (with Santa photo time at 10:00 a.m.) and 3:00 p.m. (with Santa photo time at 2:00 p.m.). Santa photos will also be available during the tea service. Please note that Santa photos are separate and not included in the event price. Reserve seats at jekyllclub.com/local-experiences.

There are two opportunities to enjoy special Christmas Movie Experiences at SoGo Gallery/Brunswick Actors’ Theatre. The afternoon event is for kids & the evening screening is for adults. Tickets for both are available on EventBrite and proceeds support the creation of a new indie cinema + lounge experience coming soon to downtown Brunswick. Be among the first to experience the concept in action! Beginning at 1:30 p.m., it’s The Polar Express: A Family Christmas Movie Experience! Wear your favorite Christmas PJ’s as the pop-up cinema is turned into a cozy winter wonderland for kids (and grown-ups too) with a special screening of The Polar Express. The movie will begin at 2:30 p.m., but starting at 1:30 p.m., there will be hot chocolate and Christmas cookie decorating. Following the movie, snap photos with Santa Claus in the festive lobby! Parents can snap their own photos or have the on-site photographer capture the moment. At 5:30 p.m., treat yourself to a little Christmas comedy and adult-style cheer when the doors open for Christmas with the Kranks—An Elegant, Adults-Only Holiday Movie Experience. Sip some wine, mingle with other couples and friends, snag a photo at the festive photo booth, and unwind with light holiday bites and laughter. The movie starts at 6:30 p.m. Whether it’s a date night, girls’ night, or just an excuse to get out and celebrate the season, this cozy evening offers the ideal mix of festive fun and community spirit. 

Celebrate the season with Putt-Putt with Santa, a fun, family-friendly event from 3:00-5:00 p.m. on the Jekyll Ocean Club Lawn hosted in partnership with First Tee Golden Isles, featuring holiday-themed putt-putt golf, kid-friendly auction, hot chocolate & cider station, s’mores station, and a special visit from Santa. Tickets $10 and can be purchased at jekyllclub.com/local-experiences.

December 21

Enjoy Breakfast with Santa and his friends at Ocean Lodge Resort from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Kids can write letters and get photos with Santa while partaking in a delicious breakfast buffet ($45 for adults, $25 for children). There will also be holiday drink specials for all. Reserve seats on OpenTable. 

Award-winning playwright, producer, director, and performer Jason Woods returns to BAT with his haunting yet heartwarming one-man rendition of A Christmas Carol at 3pm. Tickets available at soglogallery.com.

Join St. Athanasius Episcopal Church in Brunswick at 5:00 p.m. for Jingle & Jazz Christmas Concert featuring Michael Hulett, an unforgettable evening where the soul of jazz meets the spirit of Christmas, filling the sanctuary with joy, warmth, and community. From smooth saxophone sounds to holiday classics, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season surrounded by good music and good company. Tickets are $20/person. Available from any church member, at the Rector’s Office (Mon–Thurs, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.), or after worship services every Sunday beginning at 11:15 a.m.

December 22

Jekyll Island celebrates the season with Holiday Fireworks at dusk, 7:00-7:30 p.m.

December 23

Enjoy a festive evening of creativity and cheer at Jekyll Island Club Resort’s Holiday Paint & Sip. Follow step-by-step painting instruction while sipping your favorite beverage in the cozy, historic setting of the Federal Reserve/Aldrich Room from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Perfect for couples, friends, or solo guests looking to unwind and create a holiday keepsake to take home. All supplies are included. $70+ per canvas. Reserve your seat at jekyllclub.com/local-experiences.

December 24

On Christmas Eve, Santa continues the beloved 70+ year tradition of riding around St. Simons Island on Engine 32, a festively lit, bright red antique fire truck, escorted by the Glynn County Volunteer Fire Department and making stops to meet and hand out stockings to children with the assistance of the St. Simons Civinettes. We’ll be sharing the route and info about the stops on our website. On Christmas Eve, follow our social media accounts and the EIL elves will let you know when Santa’s at a stop and where he’s heading next.

December 25

MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE!