The winter holidays are especially festive in Pensacola, with kick-off events starting the day after Thanksgiving and lasting all the way through the month of December.  At the extreme far northwest corner of the State of Florida, on what is known as the Florida Panhandle, lies the sea port city of Pensacola. Located on Pensacola Bay and protected by the barrier island of Santa Rosa, this historic city, called “The City of Five Flags” has a rich history.  Close to the Gulf of Mexico and originally settled in 1559, Pensacola has been ruled by five different governments:   Spain, France, Great Britain, the Confederate States of America, and the United States. The soft, white sand of the panhandle also earns Pensacola the area with the “World’s Whitest Beaches”.  Snow is rare, but is not out of the question.

Here are a few highlights to help you plan your visit:

The Pensacola Beach Lighted Boat Parade – Saturday, December 3^rd at 6:30 pm. Festive boats travel from Little Sabine Bay, around Santa Rosa Sound then to the Beach Boardwalk, finishing with fireworks.

Pensacola Christmas Parade – Saturday, December 10^th at 5:15 pm. In its 34^th year, the parade features the Blue Angels Flight Squadron, marching bands and other treats.

Lear/Rocheblave Home – Adults and children will enjoy learning holiday traditions in the 19^th century taking a tour of this historic home, decorated for the season.  Tours are available until December 17^th on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Winterfest Performance Trolley Tours – Climb aboard the trolley for a 60-minute theatrical performance. This moving show makes stops along the way through the downtown area, bringing holiday cheer to the entire neighborhood.

New Year’s Eve – Celebrate Pensacola-style on December 31^st with illuminated streets, fireworks, and a festive pelican counts down the new year from his perch high in the sky.

For accommodations:

The Holiday Beach Resort-Soundside. This RCI Gold Crown Award winning resort is located in the heart of the town on Santa Rosa Sound.  Comfortable 2 bedroom 2 bath condominium units feature full kitchen, washer/dryer, dishwasher, WIFI. Enjoy the view of the sunset and glistening water from a screened porch.  On-site beach, pier, fishing, heated swimming pool, tennis court, gas barbecue grills and outdoor hot tub.  Conveniently located close to Casino Beach, Gulf Island National Seashore, Portofino Boardwalk, Pensacola Beach Fishing Pier, National Naval Aviation Museum and IMAX Theatre, Pensacola Lighthouse and so much more.

–Contributed by C. Golden