Although it’s not yet Thanksgiving, preparations have already begun for Christmas. Holiday events in the Golden Isles are plentiful and they start NOW! In EIL tradition, we’re sharing a Holiday Happenings guide, but this year, we’re doing it countdown style so you can pull out your calendar and plan accordingly. As always, we remind you to bookmark the digital calendar on our website at elegantislandliving.net and follow the EIL social media accounts for additional events and pop-ups as we get closer to Christmas. There’s SO much to do!
MORE THAN A MONTH BEFORE CHRISTMAS
These November events are our “Early Birds” that herald the approach of the Christmas season. Now is the time to pull your yuletide decorations out of attics, closets, and basements, and check each strand of lights. For any holiday slackers, this is your reminder that shopping for gifts and stocking stuffers should commence – and these events are perfect to do that!
Saturday, November 23
Join the Golden Isles YMCA Foundation for Breakfast with Santa at Hilton Garden Inn in Brunswick from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Breakfast will be provided along with photos with Santa and activities for the children! Tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased online on the Golden Isles YMCA Foundation website or HERE.
The Moxie Craft Fest Handmade Holiday Market will be back in its usual spot at Old City Hall in Historic Downtown Brunswick from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. More than 40 modern artisans from throughout the Southeast will be selling their wares. Food trucks and local coffee will be on site to fuel you up for all-day shopping! For more details, follow Moxie Craft Fest on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at moxiecraftfest.com.
The St. Simons Lighthouse Museum Store will be holding its annual Holiday Gift Open House from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Enjoy 20% off your entire purchase (some exclusions apply) as you browse the unique, locally made, or customized items exclusively available in the Museum Store. There will also be an author talk and book signing with David Sweat at 11:00 a.m. in the Event Hall to discuss and sign his book entitled Brunswick’s Golden Era of Minor League Baseball. The book features the fascinating history of the Brunswick Pirates and the old Georgia-Florida League, offering a deep dive into unforgettable stories. The book talk is free and open to the public. To register, visit coastalgeorgiahistory.org.
A MERRY MID-CENTURY CHRISTMAS
Some of our fondest Christmas nostalgia comes out of the 50s and 60s. The 50s were a big time for Christmas parades and new toys! Children’s toy sales took advantage of the market created by the baby boom era. Popular novelty items included Silly Putty, introduced in 1950, Play-Doh in 1956, and Mr. Potato Head who came on the scene in 1952, when kids used a real potato with the plastic features. Die-cast metal Matchbox cars were sold by the millions after Lesney Products created them in 1953 based on employee Jack Odell’s news that his daughter’s school would only allow toys that were small enough to fit inside a matchbox. For outdoor fun in 1958, the Frisbee and Hula Hoop were popular choices. Barbie’s arrival in 1959 changed the world of dolls forever, and left an impact that we see even today…right, Ken? The 60s brought us favorites like Operation, Rock’Em Sock’Em Robots, Twister, the Easy-Bake Oven, and Lite Brite. The 60s are when some of our favorite Christmas movies appeared: A Charlie Brown Christmas, How The Grinch Stole Christmas, and Rankin/Bass classics Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, The Little Drummer Boy, and Frosty the Snowman. And where would we be without Christmas albums from the 60s from artists like Nat King Cole, Burl Ives, Andy Williams, Vince Guaraldi, The Beach Boys, Elvis, and The Chipmunks? Simply unthinkable! Here’s to those good ol’ holly jolly days.
THREE WEEKS BEFORE CHRISTMAS (Thanksgiving – December 5)
Enjoy your Thanksgiving gatherings, put away the leftovers, and then head out to see the Christmas lights! This is when we “officially” kick off the most wonderful time of the year! There will be craft markets with holiday décor and gift offerings and, of course, Small Business Saturday shopping, so get out there and support our local businesses!
Thursday, November 28 (ongoing)
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
On St. Simons Island, a true beacon signaling the arrival of the holiday season are the Christmas lights at Spencer’s Christmas House. Wally Spencer was a WWII veteran and much-loved member of our community. He and his wife Urania put their home at 144 Shore Rush Drive on the map with over-the-top light displays and a colossal Christmas village. Although Wally passed away in 2020, the tradition has been continued by his family to keep his memory and spirit alive. The switch is flipped to turn the lights on Thanksgiving night and the display remains lit nightly through Christmas.
Friday, November 29
There will be a Christmas Celebration at Gather Thrift + Cafe in Brunswick from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Huge discounts throughout the store, cookie decorating, and pictures with Santa. Join the fun!
Christmas Tree Lighting in Historic Downtown Brunswick. Gather at Queen Square on Newcastle Street at 5:30 p.m. for this fun annual family event that includes the reading of Clement Clarke Moore’s well-known poem, “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” Christmas music, and a visit from Santa. Carriage rides will be offered so you can view the holiday lights and decorations at each of the Signature Squares along Newcastle Street.
Friday, November 29-Sunday, December 1
Crafts in the Village More than 70 artists, crafters, and artisan makers will be under the oaks in Postell Park on St. Simons Island, 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 & Saturday and 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday. Santa will be there for photos from 1:00-4:00 p.m. on Saturday! For sneak peeks of vendors, follow Crafts in the Village on Facebook. For more information, visit craftsinthevillage.com.
The Jekyll Island Historic District as the island transforms into the magical Holly Jolly Jekyll wonderland November 29 through January 5. More than 1,500,000 light bulbs illuminate the night throughout over 350 light displays and a great tree that boasts 45,000+ lights. This is a must-see if you’re in the Golden Isles around the holidays! Even the mini golf course gets holiday treatment as it becomes Peppermint Land, decorated with life-sized gingerbread characters, peppermint sticks, and gumdrops. Trolley tours, exclusive Millionaire Motor Car Model T tours, and self-guided light tour options are offered. For more details about light tours and a full calendar of holiday events, visit jekyllisland.com.
Saturday, November 30
Support local makers in Historic Downtown Brunswick by shopping Crafts Along Newcastle from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on November 30 and December 7. Community crafters and artisans showcase handmade treasures, creative delights, gourmet food items, and more in the downtown squares on Newcastle Street.
Christmas Tree Lighting at Oaks on the River Luxury Boutique Resort in Darien. Gather in the lobby at 6:00 p.m. for cookies, hot cocoa, apple cider and the lighting of the Christmas tree to start the holiday season. For more information, visit oaksontheriverresort.com/calendar.
Sunday, December 1
A highlight of the Christmas season for classical music lovers is the much-anticipated annual concert by the Golden Isles Community Messiah Chorus. This year’s performance of Handel’s “Messiah” is scheduled to take place at St. Simons Presbyterian Church at 4:00 p.m. This revered island tradition that began in 1985 is a holiday “must do” for many, so plant to arrive early to ensure a seat at this one special performance.
Tuesday, December 3
Celebrate the season with Holiday High Tea in the Jekyll Island Club’s Grand Dining Room. Delight in a festive four-course menu with tea sandwiches, scones, and desserts, plus a special holiday favor to take home. Offered from 2:00-4:00 p.m. December 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, and 26. Reserve your seats at the table at jekyllclub.com/holiday-traditions.
Head down to Pier Village on St. Simons Island for the Holiday Tree Lighting at 6:00 p.m. Bring your voices and cheer for all to hear!
Wednesday, December 4
Sign up for a Seaside Polar Express Family Adventure at Jekyll Ocean Club at 6:00 p.m. on December 4. During this Family Fun Night, you’ll want to wear your coziest PJs to enjoy a special screening of The Polar Express, complete with hot cocoa station, s’mores, and more. Each child will receive a golden ticket and a festive bell on a ribbon to commemorate this magical evening. Reserve at jekyllclub.com/holiday-traditions.
Thursday, December 5
Don’t let your pets miss out on the chance to party with Kris Kringle! The Glynn County Recreation and Parks Department hosts Santa Paws photo sessions in the St. Simons Island Casino Atrium from 3:00-6:00 p.m. Bring your pups dressed in their holiday best to pose for pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Photos will be sent to you for use as holiday cards or gifts. This event is free but donations of pet food, blankets, and toys for the animals in the care of Glynn County Animal Services will be accepted and greatly appreciated.
Join Hope 1312 Collective for some holiday magic at the Festival of Trees: Jingle & Mingle Kids Holiday Festival from 3:00-6:00 p.m. at The Bijoux (1317 Newcastle St.) in Downtown Brunswick! This afternoon for kids packed with festive activities, treats, and surprises benefits Hope 1312 Collective. $10/child - purchase tickets in advance HERE. Arts & crafts, cookie decorating, Christmas karaoke, holiday games, face painting, photo ops & more. Kids get exclusive early access to the Festival of Trees, where they can explore, look around, and even vote for the Kids' Choice Favorite Tree!
5th Annual Festival of the Trees benefiting Hope 1312. Everyone is invited to enjoy a sparkling evening at the Queen and Grant in historic downtown Brunswick that will feature the Hope Experience, a cocktail party from 7:00-10:00 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres, open bar, live auction. and option for tree delivery. This festive fundraiser is an opportunity to gather, celebrate, and provide hope for our community’s children in the child welfare system while viewing trees and wreaths decorated by teams from local businesses and organizations. Become an event donor, sponsor by decorating a tree or wreath, or purchase your tickets to attend the cocktail party/auction at hope1312co.org.
2 WEEKS BEFORE CHRISTMAS (December 6 – December 12)
This is the busiest week of the Christmas season in the Golden Isles! From fundraisers to concerts and other performances, you may have to make some hard choices, because it’s impossible to do it all! But with only two weeks to go before the big day, you’ll have opportunities to see Santa and get those last-minute lists to him or to tell the Grinch he’d better be practicing his “Dahoo Doray!”
Friday, December 6
Mix and mingle at the annual Merry Mixer benefiting Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Georgia. Eat, drink and be merry while raising much needed funds for the 11 Boys and Girls Clubs they support in Glynn and McIntosh Counties. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. at Halyards and Tramici on St. Simons Island. $150 general admission includes food, 2 drink tickets, silent auction, and music by Mason Waters and the Groove Allstars. Tickets and sponsorship packages available at bgcsega.com/events.
Bring the kids out to the St. Simons Island Casino Theatre for Santa Cinema on Friday, December 6. A Christmas classic will be shown every half hour between 6:00-8:00 p.m. Kids can also visit with Santa, write a letter, and enjoy hot cocoa and cookies. Parents are invited to take photos. Santa will have a special gift for every child. $3 per person (cash only).
The Golden Isles Live Christmas Concert at Wesley Church at Frederica on Friday, December 6 will feature Kate Voss and The Hot Sauce. A true variety band, this act pulls from Kate’s varied background of jazz, blues, pop, country, western-swing, oldies, Americana and rockabilly. As a full-time musician and award-winning performer, Voss has cultivated a stage presence that charms and delights folks and a voice that "Nails the authenticity of the era" with tunes from Brenda Lee to Nancy Sinatra and Patsy Cline to Ray Charles. Kate sings lead vocals, plays the Ukulele Bass, and occasionally plays melodica. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit goldenisleslive.org.
Friday & Saturday, December 6-7
Step back in time by visiting Christmas at Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation (5556 US Hwy 17 N, Brunswick) between 6:00-8:00 p.m. An illuminated path under centuries old oaks beckons guests to the rice plantation home for a tour. Inside the antebellum house, rooms are beautifully decorated for the holidays and interpreters appear in period dress. Experience camp life as a soldier with musket and cannon demonstrations with a marsh-front view as the backdrop. Kids can join Santa for a chat by the cozy fireplace as you sip wassail and nibble cookies. Photos are welcome. Guests pay admission at the Visitor Center/Museum and then walk the lighted path to the festivities at their own pace. (Alternate transport is available for those with mobility issues.) To see all attractions, it’s recommended that you arrive no later than 7:00 p.m. Regular admission rates apply. For more information, call 912.264.7333 or follow Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation on Facebook.
Friday – Saturday December 6-8
Reserve your seats for A Christmas Tail at the Brunswick Actors’ Theatre to be immersed in a heartwarming story about a mystical cat, a little girl, and some holiday magic that occurs in a small butcher shop one Christmas Eve. When struggling butcher Ralph Minetti has nothing left to believe in, a little girl comes into his shop on Park Ave. in New York City to visit the bow tie wearing store cat, Gus. But Gus is no ordinary feline, for as Ralph tells little Amanda, every Christmas Eve, Gus starts to talk. But will the magic be enough of an epiphany to change a bitter, disillusioned, middle-aged grocer who hasn't seen his own estranged teen-aged daughter for five years and who owes money to both his suppliers and the mob? This comedy by Joe Simonelli is directed by Lynda Dalton-Gallagher. Shows December 6-8 and 13-15, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 3:00 p.m. Tickets at soglogallery.com.
Saturday, December 7
Enjoy a delicious buffet of morning treats during Breakfast with Santa from 8:00-11:00 a.m. at Oaks on the River in Darien. This is a wonderful opportunity to get some photos with Ol’ St. Nick. For more information and to make reservations, visit oaksontheriverresort.com.
Lace up your running shoes and join Girls on the Run Golden Isles for a Holiday Celebration 5K that gives GOTR members of all abilities a tangible sense of accomplishment when they cross the finish line. Celebrate this joyous with them as they receive commemorative medals to mark their accomplishment. The run will take place at 8:00 a.m. The location will be announced closer to registration date. To learn more and register for the 5K, visit gotrgoldenisles.org.
More than 30 vendors both indoors and out will provide holiday shopping galore during the 14th Annual Holiday Market Craft Fair at Lord of Life Lutheran Church on St. Simons Island. From 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., you’ll find quality handmade items including art, pottery, jewelry, ornaments, and holiday décor, specialty soaps, accessories, and many other gift ideas at the Market. The church will host its bake sale, book sale, and offer coffee and breakfast snacks as well as lunch. Raffle prizes include restaurant gift cards and specialty gift baskets. Santa Claus will be there to greet guests and pose for photos with young and old. For additional information, call 912.638.4673.
Celebrate the memorable decades of days gone by with a tour of seven Historic Brunswick homes dressed in holiday style with the return of Magnolia Garden Club’s Christmas Tour of Homes. The tour, which includes The First Presbyterian Church and the “Rain House” at Historic Victorian Oak Grove Cemetery, takes place from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m, on Saturday, December 7. There’s also a fabulous bake sale of delicious treats at First Presbyterian Church from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., so grab some goodies! Tickets are $30 in advance or $35 on event day. Email for more information or to purchase tickets: mgctohinfo@gmail.com
Bring the family out to ACS Victory Board’s annual Merry Movies at Island Cinemas for holiday movie screenings and photos with Santa. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. and movies start at 10:15 a.m. Choose a screening of The Grinch (2018, 65 min.) or An Elf’s Story: The Elf on the Shelf (26 min.). Tickets $15 each and can be purchased in advance at acsvictoryboard.org.
We know the Grinch’s heart grew three sizes, but we still don’t trust him not to steal all the toys, so Santa will be keeping an eye on him at the End the Stigma Toy Drive and Green Eggs & Ham Breakfast with Santa and the Grinch at Golden Isles Olive Oil in Redfern Village on St. Simons Island. This 8th annual toy drive collects donations of new, unwrapped toys for children who are spending their Christmas in the care of the Southeast Georgia Health System. Don those holiday sweaters and come out with the family to enjoy a breakfast buffet featuring green eggs and ham from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and snap some photos with your favorite holiday characters. Reservations are required for the breakfast because seating is limited, but you don’t need them if you’re just dropping by to make toy donations and take photos. Adults $15, $8 kids. Free for kids who bring an unwrapped toy for the toy drive. Call 912.602.9736 or purchase online at goldenislesoliveoil.com.
Santa Claus is coming to town! Join the Bailey Boys family for Cookies with Santa! Enjoy fresh cookies, cold milk, and a jolly fun time from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. No reservations required.
Restoration Imports’ Carte Blanche Holiday Open House will be filled with holiday cheer. Drop in from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to nibble on delicious sweet and savory treats, register for door prizes, and shop seasonal décor and more. For more details, follow Restoration Imports on Facebook and Instagram.
Join Santa on Jekyll Island for some extra holiday fun with a visit to the Winter Carnival & Big Truck Roundup from noon to 4:00 p.m. Kids can enjoy free carnival rides, games, and music on Jekyll Island’s Village Green or go sit behind the wheel of emergency vehicles from Jekyll Island Fire/EMS and Georgia State Patrol at Great Dunes Beach Park. For more info, visit jekyllisland.com.
The St. Simons Island Pier Village Christmas Golf Cart Parade will be jingle-jangling down Mallery Street on Saturday, December 7 at 1:00 p.m. Make sure to come by to see families riding through the village in their holiday finery and stay to see Santa’s arrival by horse & carriage. He’ll be making a quick stop to pose for pictures and jot down some notes on his naughty/nice list before heading back to the North Pole to pack up the sleigh for his big night.
On December 7, buzz on over to the Morgan Center on Jekyll Island for the SCAD Holiday Concert with the university’s premier vocal ensemble, the Bee Sharps. The 7:30 p.m. concert will be sure to add extra joy and holiday cheer to the Christmas season through the Bee Sharps’ enchanting performance. Reserve your seats jekyllclub.com/holiday-traditions.
Saturday & Sunday, December 7-8
The Glynn Visual Arts 16th Annual Mistletoe Market in Postell Park on St. Simons Island will be held Saturday, December 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This two-day art festival offers fine art, fabulous gifts, and family joy in a festive outdoor island holiday atmosphere. More than 60 juried talented artists and skilled artisans will showcase an impressive and eclectic collection of handmade artwork for your holiday shopping. It’s the perfect opportunity for residents and visitors alike to find that one-of-a-kind purchase or gift for the holiday season—or a little something for yourself. Gift-wrapping station, hospitality tent, and photos with Santa too!
Sunday, December 8
Southeast Georgia Health System will offer a Sensory Santa experience at The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort for children with special needs. These are free, 15-minute private meetings with Santa in a “sensory friendly” environment between 1:00-5:00 p.m. There are no crowds, loud noises, or bright lights and no professional photographer is present, but parents are welcome to take photos. Reservations are required. Call Erica at 912.466.7234 or email eboyd@sghs.org.
Up the road, Darien will host its annual Joyful Christmas celebration with this year’s theme “From Dickens to Digital.” Festivities begin at 4:30 p.m. with the 11th Annual Community Event at Grant Chapel. A lighted Christmas Parade makes its way through downtown at 6:00 p.m. The Discover Darien Community Christmas Tree Lighting with caroling takes place at the corner of Hwy 17 and Broad St immediately following the parade. Pictures with Santa hosted will be at the McIntosh Art Association Old Jail Art Center beginning at 7:00 p.m. The historic district will shine with luminaria courtesy of McIntosh Recreational Department and downtown businesses will be staying open late for Christmas shopping and lots of holiday cheer! Make sure to drop by and see our friends at Sugar Marsh Cottage for some hot chocolate! For more information, visit darienmcintoshchamber.com.
Tuesday, December 10
The Coastal Symphony of Georgia presents a Christmas in the Winds Christmas Concert at Vitality Living Frederica, 3615 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island. The Coastal Symphony Wind Quintet will perform holiday favorites at 6:30 p.m. A festive cocktail reception will follow the concert. Tickets $50 and seating is limited. For tickets and more information, visit coastalsymphonyofgeorgia.org.
Thursday, December 12
Join Hospice of the Golden Isles on their Brunswick campus for the annual Lights of Love celebration of life, love and giving. A Service of Remembrance will be held at 5:00 p.m. and then the wooded Hospice campus will be transformed with the glow of thousands of holiday lights, shining in honor and memory of those who have touched our lives during the Lights of Love program. For more information about this special event or to purchase a memorial/honorary dove ornament to display or as a keepsake, call 912.265.4735 or visit hospice.me.
Join Golden Isles Olive Oil for Gingerbread Cookie Time from 5:00-7:30 p.m. In celebration of the holidays, they are bringing back two opportunities to enjoy this popular cookie decorating event where each guest gets a dozen gingerbread men and ladies, icing, sprinkles, candies to make them uniquely yours. $45 per person. Reservations required - book online at goldenislesoliveoil.com.
ONE WEEK BEFORE CHRISTMAS (December 13 – December 19)
GULP! The big day is just a week away. Don’t be nervous. Get that last minute shopping done, relax and enjoy a show or catch one of the festive parades. If you’re feeling fancy, a holiday high tea with friends would be a treat!
Thursday, December 12 – Sunday, December 15
The Island Players bring one of the most beloved holiday characters of all time to the St. Simon’s Casino Theatre stage with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr., based on the hit holiday classic song. Rudolph wants nothing more than to be just like the other reindeer, but his bright red nose seems to always get in the way! Feeling like a misfit, Rudolph sets off on a journey to find a place where he belongs. Along the way, he meets new friends who show him that he was always been right where he belonged at the North Pole and when Santa’s big night is at risk, Rudolph is finally able to show everyone how his differences are what truly make him special. Show Dates and Times: December 12-15, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at theislandplayers.com.
Friday, December 13
There will be Holiday BEDlam happening from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Mullet Bay on St. Simons Island. This annual fundraiser supports Operation Bed Spread and its mission to make sure every child gets a good night's sleep in their own bed. Music by the Gowen Family Band, food, drinks, raffles & other fun. $50 at the door.
The Georgia Elvis Festival, a production of ETAFestivals.com, is presenting six stage shows spotlighting the talents of award-winning Elvis Tribute Artists at Epworth by the Sea on St. Simons Island from Friday, December 13-Sunday December 15. The show celebrating your favorite holiday music by the King is Friday afternoon’s Elvis: A Christmas Spectacular, featuring David Lee, Austin Irby, Finley Watkins, Jeff Lewis, Dana Myers, and Riley Jenkins. All-Access Festival Passes and tickets for individual shows at Epworth are available at georgiaelvisfest.com.
Friday-Sunday, December 13-15
The Grinch, presented by Jill Stanford Dance Center will be hitting the stage of the Brunswick High School Auditorium for its annual fun family-friendly production. Show times at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, and 2:00 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at jillstanforddancecenter.com.
Golden Isles Arts & Humanities continues its holiday tradition by presenting Charles Dickens’ classic tale A Christmas Carol at The Ritz Theatre with Bryan Thompson reprising his role as miserly Ebenezer Scrooge. Join him on the magical nocturnal journey through his past, present and future as he discovers the true meaning of Christmas. Show times at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 3:00 p.m. Sunday. For more details and tickets, visit goldenislesarts.org.
Reserve your seats for A Christmas Tail at the Brunswick Actors’ Theatre to be immersed in a heartwarming story about a mystical cat, a little girl, and some holiday magic that occurs in a small butcher shop one Christmas Eve. When struggling butcher Ralph Minetti has nothing left to believe in, a little girl comes into his shop on Park Ave. in New York City to visit the bow tie wearing store cat, Gus. But Gus is no ordinary feline, for as Ralph tells little Amanda, every Christmas Eve, Gus starts to talk. But will the magic be enough of an epiphany to change a bitter, disillusioned, middle-aged grocer who hasn't seen his own estranged teen-aged daughter for five years and who owes money to both his suppliers and the mob? This comedy by Joe Simonelli is directed by Lynda Dalton-Gallagher. Shows December 6-8 and 13-15, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 3:00 p.m. Tickets at soglogallery.com.
Saturday, December 14
Don’t miss “The Best Bake Sale in the South!” Head over to the Historic Tabby Cabins at Gascoigne Bluff between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. for the Cassina Garden Club Christmas Bake Sale. This popular island holiday tradition is free and open to the public and features tasty homemade cakes, pies, breads, candies and cookies plus holiday treats and gifts such as toasted pecans, jelly and jams. Be there early for the best selection! The Interpretive Cabin will be also open to the public for tours during the sale.
On December 14 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., have Breakfast with the Grinch in the Morgan Center Ballroom. You don’t have to be Cindy Lou Who to have a seat at this Green Eggs & Ham themed buffet and create lasting memories with the former recluse from Mount Crumpit. Tickets at jekyllclub.com/holiday-traditions.
Join Golden Isles Olive Oil for Gingerbread Cookie Time from 2:00-4:30 p.m. In celebration of the holidays, they are bringing back two opportunities to enjoy this popular cookie decorating event where each guest gets a dozen gingerbread men and ladies, icing, sprinkles, candies to make them uniquely yours. $45 per person. Reservations required - book online at goldenislesoliveoil.com.
It will be a magical evening filled with twinkling lights, festive floats from local businesses and community groups, and joyful music at the Brunswick Christmas Parade in the heart of Downtown Brunswick on Gloucester Street. Don't miss out on this spectacular celebration of the holiday season! The parade will start at MLK at 6:00 p.m., proceed along Gloucester Street, and end at Bay Street. Registration is open at discoverbrunswick.brushfire.com.
Saturday, December 14 – Sunday, December 15
Crafts in the Village More than 70 artists, crafters, and artisan makers will be under the oaks in Postell Park on St. Simons Island, selling jewelry, pottery, paintings, photography, woodworking, gourmet goodies, candles, soap, and so much more. Santa will be there for photos from 1:00-4:00 p.m. on Saturday! Vendors are on site 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday and 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday. For sneak peeks of vendor, follow Crafts in the Village on Facebook. For more information, visit craftsinthevillage.com.
Sunday, December 15
Eighty Ocean Kitchen & Bar hosts High Tea by the Sea at 2:00 p.m. on December 15. There will be a specially curated menu featuring finger sandwiches, quiche, scones, and macarons, paired with elegant tea and champagne service which you can enjoy from the cozy screened-in patio or in the lounge. Each guest will also receive a keepsake ornament as a special memento. Book now at jekyllclub.com/holiday-traditions.
Thursday, December 19
The Brunswick Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce holiday tradition continues: December Business After Hours at Mellow Mushroom! There will be delicious food, drinks, and networking from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Don’t forget to wear your ugliest Christmas Sweater! Register HERE.
CHRISTMAS WEEK (December 20 – December 25)
This is it! Christmas week! Food drive, fireworks, Santa on the fire truck. It really is the most wonderful time of the year.
Friday-Saturday, December 20-21
Be sure to drop by Spencer’s Christmas House (144 Shore Rush Drive, SSI) with donations of non-perishable food for their 5th Annual Food Drive to continue the annual tradition of giving back in Wally’s honor. This community event celebrates the beautiful lights and Christmas wonderland on display and includes a brass choir performance, a visit from the Kona Ice truck, appearances by Santa and the Grinch, and more. Please come out and donate in the spirit of our beloved “Mr. Christmas.”
Saturday, December 21
A delicious buffet will be served in the Grand Dining Room at Jekyll Island Club Resort from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on December 21 for Lunch with Santa. Bring the kids for this special visit from Jolly Ol’ Saint Nick so you can get a memorable family photo. Reserve your seats at jekyllclub.com/holiday-traditions.
Friday-Sunday, December 20-22
Golden Isles Arts & Humanities continues its holiday tradition by presenting Charles Dickens’ classic tale A Christmas Carol at The Ritz Theatre with Bryan Thompson reprising his role as miserly Ebenezer Scrooge. Join him on the magical nocturnal journey through his past, present and future as he discovers the true meaning of Christmas. Show times at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 3:00 p.m. Sunday. For more details and tickets, visit goldenislesarts.org.
Sunday, December 22
Holiday Drive-In Movie Bundle the kids up in their PJs and find your parking spot at the Jekyll Island Convention Center for a special movie presentation of Frosty the Snowman at 5:30 p.m. For more info, visit jekyllisland.com.
Monday, December 23
Holiday Fireworks will light the skies at dusk on Jekyll Island. For more info, visit jekyllisland.com.
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!
AND ON TO NEW YEAR’S DAY! (December 26 – Jan 1)
Time to wrap up the last of the holiday festivities and ring in a brand new year! Here's hoping that 2025 brings peace, joy, good health, and prosperity to us all!
Sunday, December 29
Holiday Drive-In Movie Bundle the kids up in their PJs and find your parking spot at the Jekyll Island Convention Center for a special repeat movie presentation of Frosty the Snowman. For more info, visit jekyllisland.com.
Monday, December 30
Holiday Fireworks will once again light the skies at dusk on Jekyll Island. For more info, visit jekyllisland.com.
New Year’s Eve
Tuesday, December 31
In Historic Downtown Brunswick, it’s the annual New Year’s Eve Shrimp Drop at Mary Ross Waterfront Park! No need to wait for midnight for the countdown, they say goodbye to 2024 and welcome 2025 with Bob the Shrimp as the clock rings 8:00 p.m. Festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. with live music, food, axe throwing with Hauling Axes, and fun inflatables for the kids. Join the fun!
The Jekyll Island Club Resort hosts a Great Gatsby New Year’s Eve Party in the Morgan Center ballroom, beginning at 8:30 p.m. Enjoy an unforgettable night of dancing to live music, fantastic company, and raise a complimentary glass of champagne to toast the arrival of 2025 at midnight. Adults only. Tickets $74+ per person and are available at jekyllclub.com.
The Westin Jekyll Island Beach Resort will be hosting its 2nd Annual New Year’s Party from 7:00 p.m.-12:30 a.m. The event will be held in their large outdoor space called "The Overlook" with views of the ocean and will featuring an open bar, live music, food, midnight toast, and late-night bites. Tickets are $139 per person and can be purchased at jekyllislandevents.com. The party is expected to sell out, so get your tickets early! Stay and party room packages are also available at the Westin.
Ziggy’s on St. Simons Island will be ringing in 2025 with a New Year’s Eve Party beginning at 8:00 p.m. It’s a little early for details yet, but you know a Ziggy’s party means a good time! Stay tuned for more or visit ziggys.online.
