If you are searching for a quaint, budget-friendly vacation destination, Jekyll Island is the place to be. This hidden gem of Georgia is perfect for groups of any size and people of any interest, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy right around the corner. One of the best times to visit Jekyll Island is at Christmas when the area truly comes alive and plays host to tons of fun holiday events. Here are some of our favorite happenings at the Holly Jolly Jekyll, all easily accessible near our Jekyll Island cottages.
Holly Jolly Jekyll Parade and the Lighting of the Great Tree
What’s Christmas without a parade and tree lighting? Just because you’re not at home doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the holiday fun. Jekyll Island has an incredible parade that runs down the main streets of the island and ends in the Historic District. Once the parade is through, the main lawn will host the Christmas tree lighting, where you can enjoy festive music, compete in the ugly sweater contest, and answer some Christmas trivia. Visitors are encouraged to bring toys to benefit the Toys for Tots Drive.
The Holly Jolly Jekyll Parade will take place on Saturday, December 7th, 2019. The parade will begin at 5:30 and will depart from the parking lot of the Jekyll Island Golf Course with the Christmas tree lighting to follow. There is no admission fee for this event.
Holidays in History
Jekyll Island is full of interesting history, and the Holidays in History event is the perfect way to learn about the island. Bring the whole family and stroll through the Historic District to witness the cottages dressed to the nines in their finest holiday decor. You can even go inside to look at artifacts and learn more about the history of the museum. This tour is the perfect way to get the whole family involved and to view some of the most gorgeous Christmas lights in the area!
The Holidays and History Tours will take place daily throughout December, except for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Tours take place at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. each day. Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for children, and tickets can be purchased online.
4th Annual Christmas Concert
If you’re looking for a laid-back way to enjoy some holiday cheer, come out to the 4th Annual Christmas Concert at the Jekyll Island Convention Center. The whole family is welcome to enjoy this free piano concert featuring pianist David Masterson, who will be playing some of your favorite Christmas tunes. This evening concert is a fabulous way to ring in the holiday season and finish off a long day of sightseeing and celebrating.
The Christmas concert will take place on Friday, December 20th, 2019 from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. The event is free and will take place at the Jekyll Island Convention Center.
Winter Carnival
Jekyll Island doesn’t get too cold in December, so it’s the perfect weather for you to come out and enjoy the Winter Carnival! This fun event is great for the entire family with events for adults and kids alike. Enjoy games, live music, and free rides all afternoon long, followed by fireworks in the evening! This is a fun way to let your kids go off some steam and enjoy your time together before Christmas.
The Winter Carnival will take place on December 21st, 2019 from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. The fireworks will begin at 6:30 p.m. The winter carnival is held at the Village Green at Beach Village. This is just a sampling of the fun holiday events you can take part in during Christmas on Jekyll Island. At the end of a long day of celebrating, return to one of our Jekyll Island Villas by the Sea to enjoy a cozy night in with your family or to watch the sunset over the water. For more information on spending the holiday on Jekyll Island, contact us today!
