Port St. Joe, a paradise on Florida’s picturesque Gulf Coast, is a hidden gem known for its rich history, coastal charm, and strong sense of community. While summer often steals the spotlight in Florida, winter in Port St. Joe offers a distinctive and vibrant atmosphere. With cooler breezes and fewer crowds, it’s the perfect time to experience a host of exciting events that bring locals and visitors together. From holiday festivities to outdoor adventures and new experiences, Port St. Joe has something fun for everyone this winter.
Christmas on the Coast Parade
December 14, 2024
A staple of the winter season, the Christmas on the Coast Parade brings the community together in a festive celebration. The parade winds its way down Highway 98 to Marina Drive and back near downtown Port St. Joe, featuring elaborately decorated floats, marching bands, and local organizations eager to spread holiday cheer. It’s a joyful occasion filled with bright lights, colorful costumes, and the unmistakable sound of holiday tunes. If you’re visiting the area during winter, the Christmas on the Coast Parade is a can’t-miss event that captures the festive spirit of the community.
A staple of the winter season, the Christmas on the Coast Parade brings the community together in a festive celebration. The parade winds its way down Highway 98 to Marina Drive and back near downtown Port St. Joe, featuring elaborately decorated floats, marching bands, and local organizations eager to spread holiday cheer. It’s a joyful occasion filled with bright lights, colorful costumes, and the unmistakable sound of holiday tunes. If you’re visiting the area during winter, the Christmas on the Coast Parade is a can’t-miss event that captures the festive spirit of the community.
New Year's Eve Fireworks Celebration
December 31, 2024
As part of the festive winter season, The Gulf County TDC and The City of Port St. Joe are hosting a dazzling fireworks display on New Year's Eve. This vibrant event will light up the night sky, creating a marvelous conclusion to the year. The best viewing spots are in the Port St. Joe downtown area and George Core Park, where you can gather with others to enjoy the grand finale of the evening. With colorful bursts illuminating the waterfront, the fireworks celebration is the perfect way to welcome the new year in Port St. Joe.
As part of the festive winter season, The Gulf County TDC and The City of Port St. Joe are hosting a dazzling fireworks display on New Year's Eve. This vibrant event will light up the night sky, creating a marvelous conclusion to the year. The best viewing spots are in the Port St. Joe downtown area and George Core Park, where you can gather with others to enjoy the grand finale of the evening. With colorful bursts illuminating the waterfront, the fireworks celebration is the perfect way to welcome the new year in Port St. Joe.
Forgotten Coast Festival of Trees
November through December
Another beloved event during the winter months is the Forgotten Coast Festival of Trees. Presented and hosted by The Joe Center for the Arts, this must-see event showcases beautifully decorated Christmas trees that are donated by local businesses and organizations. Each exhibit is uniquely themed, offering a wide range of creative and festive designs.
The Festival of Trees is a charitable event, with all proceeds going toward local causes. The festival also includes holiday music, a gift shop, Candy Cane Lane, and a silent auction where visitors can bid on various holiday-themed items. This event is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit while supporting local charities and enjoying some of the best creative talents in Port St. Joe.
Another beloved event during the winter months is the Forgotten Coast Festival of Trees. Presented and hosted by The Joe Center for the Arts, this must-see event showcases beautifully decorated Christmas trees that are donated by local businesses and organizations. Each exhibit is uniquely themed, offering a wide range of creative and festive designs.
The Festival of Trees is a charitable event, with all proceeds going toward local causes. The festival also includes holiday music, a gift shop, Candy Cane Lane, and a silent auction where visitors can bid on various holiday-themed items. This event is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit while supporting local charities and enjoying some of the best creative talents in Port St. Joe.
Cape San Blas Polar Plunge
January 1, 2025
For the adventurous at heart, the Cape San Blas Polar Plunge offers a thrilling way to kick off the new year. This quirky tradition invites brave participants to take a quick dip into the chilly waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Held at the picturesque Cape Palms Park, the event draws a crowd of brave participants and spectators who gather to cheer on the swimmers.
While the water may be cold, the excitement and camaraderie create a warm, lively atmosphere. After the dip, many participants gather on the beach, where they can warm up with donuts, coffee, and hot chocolate. The Cape San Blas Polar Plunge is more than just a winter event — it’s a memorable experience that perfectly embodies the spirit of adventure and community in Port St. Joe.
For the adventurous at heart, the Cape San Blas Polar Plunge offers a thrilling way to kick off the new year. This quirky tradition invites brave participants to take a quick dip into the chilly waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Held at the picturesque Cape Palms Park, the event draws a crowd of brave participants and spectators who gather to cheer on the swimmers.
While the water may be cold, the excitement and camaraderie create a warm, lively atmosphere. After the dip, many participants gather on the beach, where they can warm up with donuts, coffee, and hot chocolate. The Cape San Blas Polar Plunge is more than just a winter event — it’s a memorable experience that perfectly embodies the spirit of adventure and community in Port St. Joe.
Bay Day
February 1, 2025
Hosted by Friends of St. Joseph Bay Preserves, Bay Day is a cherished winter event that celebrates the natural wonders and ecological importance of the area. Held at the St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve Visitor Center, this must-see event offers something for everyone, from nature enthusiasts to food lovers. The Low Country Shrimp Boil is a standout, enjoyed on the deck with stunning views of St. Joseph Bay. Live music by the Crossroad Bluegrass Band fills the air, and the silent auction provides opportunities to bid on unique chef experiences and art pieces. Bay Day also features guided tram tours through the backwoods of the preserve, giving visitors the chance to explore its trails and learn about native wildlife. Educational exhibits on topics like water quality, seagrass research, and shorebirds are on display, making it a great day for environmental outreach and education. The event also includes a birding tour at Salinas Park Bayside. With no admission fee, Bay Day is a fun, informative experience that brings the community together to support the preservation of one of Florida's most pristine regions.
Hosted by Friends of St. Joseph Bay Preserves, Bay Day is a cherished winter event that celebrates the natural wonders and ecological importance of the area. Held at the St. Joseph Bay State Buffer Preserve Visitor Center, this must-see event offers something for everyone, from nature enthusiasts to food lovers. The Low Country Shrimp Boil is a standout, enjoyed on the deck with stunning views of St. Joseph Bay. Live music by the Crossroad Bluegrass Band fills the air, and the silent auction provides opportunities to bid on unique chef experiences and art pieces. Bay Day also features guided tram tours through the backwoods of the preserve, giving visitors the chance to explore its trails and learn about native wildlife. Educational exhibits on topics like water quality, seagrass research, and shorebirds are on display, making it a great day for environmental outreach and education. The event also includes a birding tour at Salinas Park Bayside. With no admission fee, Bay Day is a fun, informative experience that brings the community together to support the preservation of one of Florida's most pristine regions.
Winter in Port St. Joe is anything but quiet. The town comes alive with a variety of events that cater to all interests, from festive parades and fireworks displays to outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a resident or visiting for the season, Port St. Joe’s winter events offer the perfect opportunity to celebrate the season, connect with the community, and create lasting memories.
No matter what kind of experience you’re looking for, Port St. Joe has something to make your winter truly special. Explore the Port St. Joe real estate landscape today with Beach Properties Real Estate Group by your side.
