HOLIDAY LIGHTING CEREMONY
Downtown Pensacola comes alive with the illumination of more than a half-million holiday lights along Palafox Street and beyond. Visitors can watch the lighting alongside Santa and the Grinch from Winterfest in front of the Museum of History or from viewing locations down the corridor. Winterfest's charming mini-train can also be spotted circling Plaza Ferdinand as guests stroll and take in the festive glow.
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Hours
5 p.m.
Parking
Paid curbside parking is $1/hour Tuesday–Thursday and $1.75/hour Friday after 6 p.m. and Saturday; Jefferson St. Parking Garage is $1.75/hour. Free parking is available Sunday and Monday and at select parking lots.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Choose a viewing spot along the Palafox corridor or in front of the Museum of History to watch the lights being illuminated.
- Consider using a select parking lot or parking on Sunday or Monday for free parking.
- Visit Plaza Ferdinand to browse the Holiday Lights Edition market and see the mini-train circling the plaza.
- Take the free trolley during Holiday Haul to get around downtown shops.
Special Events & Promotions
- Santa and the Grinch from Winterfest appear at the ceremony.
Links & Contact
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can visitors see during the ceremony?
More than a half-million holiday lights are illuminated along Palafox Street and beyond, with viewing spots along the corridor.
Will Santa or the Grinch be there?
Santa and the Grinch from Winterfest are mentioned at the ceremony, in front of the Museum of History and along the Palafox corridor.
Where can I park downtown?
Paid curbside parking is available, and the Jefferson Street Parking Garage and select lots are other options. Free parking is available on Sundays and Mondays and at select lots.
Is there anything else to see nearby during the evening?
Winterfest’s mini-train circles Plaza Ferdinand, and downtown shops are open for visitors to browse during Holiday Haul.
Can I visit the holiday market during the lighting event?
The Palafox Market Holiday Lights Edition is in Plaza Ferdinand, with local vendors offering locally produced gifts, baked goods and art.
Browse Christmas in Pensacola
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.