NC Coast December Events 2023

December is a month full of festivities and celebrations, and the NC Coast has no shortage of exciting events to ring in the holiday season. From dazzling Christmas parades to lively New Year's Eve parties, there is something for everyone to enjoy on this picturesque coastal stretch.

Whether you are a local or a visitor, the Crystal Coast offers a perfect opportunity to get into the holiday spirit and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones that last a lifetime. So, without further ado, let's explore the top December events on the Crystal Coast and get ready to have some fun!

Christmas Parades on the Crystal Coast

Light Up The Night Christmas Parade December 1st

Join the town of Atlantic Beach as they light up the night with a spectacular parade of lights starting at 6 PM. As the parade ends, be sure to visit the Fire Department so the kids can meet Santa and enjoy cookies, hot chocolate & photos, all free of charge!

Get ready for the annual Crystal Coast Christmas Flotilla! Everything from Yachts to kayaks will be decorated and lighting up the Morehead City waterfront at 5:30 PM and the Beaufort waterfront at 6:15 PM. It's a lovely evening event to spend with family, enjoying the kaleidoscope of colors reflecting off our beautiful waters!

48th Annual Newport Christmas Parade December 3rd

This year's Newport Christmas Parade theme is "Christmas on the Farm," so let's kick off the holiday season at 3 PM with a Newport, NC country parade of fun!

2023 Morehead City Christmas Parade December 9th

Don't forget to mark your calendars for the annual Morehead City Christmas Parade - a festive tradition that brings together people of all ages! This year's parade will be held on Saturday, December 9th, starting at 11:00 AM. It will run along Arendell Street, eastbound, from 17th to 6th Street. So, get ready to bundle up, grab a seat, and enjoy the creative floats from local businesses, community groups, and performances from nearby school marching bands and dance teams. And the parade's highlight will be Santa himself making an appearance - a sight sure to delight children and adults alike!

December 1st:

Town of Newport Tree Lighting Celebration 2PM-4PM

Santa is coming to the Town of Newport for the tree-lighting celebration! There will be hot chocolate and cookies, and Santa will give candy canes to all the children. This event is free to attend, so bring the family for a festive and fun holiday event!

Christmas Tree Lighting @ Katherine Davis Park 5:30PM

Hosted by the Town of Morehead City, this event is perfect for folks of all ages. Bring the whole family to enjoy music, games, hot chocolate, and even some holiday magic. You might even get a chance to meet Mr. & Mrs. Claus! The festivities start at 5:30 pm, with Mayor Jerry Jones leading the crowd in lighting the tree promptly at 6:00 pm. Be sure to dress your best and enter the best-dressed contest, and, of course, don't forget your smartphone or camera to capture the perfect photo opportunity in front of the beautiful tree!

December 2nd:

Emerald Isle Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair 9 AM

The Emerald Isle Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair is the perfect event for those who want to get a jump start on their holiday shopping and support our local businesses! With more than 30 vendors, you will surely find the perfect coastal treasure for that special someone. The fair is free, open to the public, and held in the heart of Emerald Isle at the Emerald Isle Parks & Recreation Dept.

Breakfast with Santa! 6 AM

Breakfast with Santa at the Bridge Downeast is a fun and festive event for the whole family! Kick off the holiday season with a pancake breakfast and a visit from Santa.

Island Santa Bar Crawl 10 AM

Dress in your best Christmas costumes, and let's crawl for a cause! There will be games and a costume contest, and the whole crawl will benefit the Make-a-Wish Foundation!

Friends of the NC Maritime Museum Holiday Party 5:30 PM

Celebrate the holiday season with the NC Maritime Museum with a holiday party. There will be great food, drinks, and the opportunity to mingle with friends. Admission is free, but a reservation is required.

More Holiday Fun at the NC Coast

The NC Coast offers a variety of other holiday events during the month of December. Be sure to check out these events to keep the holiday season filled with festive cheer!