Celebrate Santa’s Coastal Playground—A Holiday Festival to Remember in Florence, Oregon
When it comes to celebrating the holidays on the Oregon Coast, no one does it quite like Florence. The lights, the laughter, the ocean air—it all comes together in one joyful, small-town celebration: Santa’s Coastal Playground – Bay Street Holiday Festival, happening Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. in Historic Old Town Florence.
On the first weekend of December each year, Florence’s beloved waterfront transforms into a twinkling wonderland where families, friends, and neighbors gather to celebrate the season, coastal style. This free, family-friendly festival is presented by the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce, and it’s one of the most heartwarming traditions on the central Oregon coast.
A Festive Afternoon in Old Town Florence
The holiday spirit comes alive at 3:00 p.m. with lighted balloon giveaways and the cheerful sounds of children laughing along Bay Street. At 3:30 p.m., the Walk & Bike Parade begins, filling the historic district with creative costumes, decorated bikes, wagons, and plenty of smiles.
At 4:00 p.m., all eyes turn toward the grand commotion as Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive with an escort from the Western Lane Fire & EMS Authority in Old Town to greet their fans. Families can climb aboard a festive hayride, courtesy of Florence Public Works, while the Florence Community Choir fills the air with classic holiday tunes beginning at 4:30 p.m.
Then comes the magical moment everyone’s been waiting for—the City Tree Lighting Ceremony at 5:00 p.m., when thousands of twinkling lights shimmer to life, casting a festive glow over the waterfront at Siuslaw River Interpretive Center Park and officially lighting the way for the holiday season in Florence.
Make a Weekend of It
The magic doesn’t have to end there. After the tree lighting, stroll over to the Florence Events Center for C.R.O.W.’s “Holly Jolly Follies: Meant to Be,” a delightful holiday variety show packed with local talent, laughter, and toe-tapping music.
With so much to see and do, this is the perfect excuse to make a weekend getaway of it. Florence is filled with cozy hotels, charming inns, and inviting vacation rentals—many offering fireplaces, ocean views, and easy access to both Old Town and the beach. Whether you prefer a boutique inn along the Siuslaw River, a quiet retreat tucked into the forest, or a resort-style stay near the beach, you’ll find the perfect home base for your holiday adventure. Learn all about your choices here.
Dine, Shop, and Savor the Season
No visit to Florence would be complete without exploring its incredible food scene. You’ll find something for every taste—from fresh seafood and coastal chowder to wood-fired pizza, artisan coffee, and international cuisine. Many local restaurants decorate for the holidays and offer special winter menus, so it’s the perfect time to indulge. Explore the delicious side of Florence here.
If you’re looking for that perfect holiday gift or keepsake, take a stroll through Historic Old Town Florence, where the streets sparkle with lights and every shop window seems to tell its own holiday story. You’ll find art galleries showcasing local and regional artists, boutique shops with handcrafted treasures, and unique stores offering coastal décor, jewelry, books, and more.
Don’t stop there—venture beyond Old Town and you’ll discover a treasure trove of interesting stores all around town, from antique and vintage shops to outdoor outfitters and one-of-a-kind specialty retailers. Shopping local not only makes your holiday gifts more meaningful—it supports the people who make Florence such a welcoming community.
Experience the Coast in Its Winter Glory
December in Florence offers another kind of magic—storm watching. It’s that time of year when nature shows off her power and beauty in unforgettable ways. Stand along the bluffs above Heceta Beach and visit Strawberry Hill or any of the many overlooks just north of town, and watch the ocean put on a show as waves crash against the rocks and spray high into the air.
On calmer days, bundle up and stroll along the wide, sandy beaches, where the salty air, driftwood, and dramatic skies make for perfect photos—and peaceful reflection. There’s something about the rhythm of the waves and the scent of pine and sea air that reminds you of the best of the season: connection, wonder, and joy.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re coming for the Santa’s Coastal Playground – Bay Street Holiday Festival, Holly Jolly Follies, or simply to enjoy a cozy weekend getaway filled with good food, shopping, and scenic beauty, Florence, Oregon, welcomes you with open arms.
You’ll find everything you need to plan your holiday visit—including places to stay, dining options, local attractions, and event details—at FlorenceFun.com.
Florence is Oregon’s Coastal Playground so this holiday season, discover the joy of the Oregon Coast. Celebrate community, tradition, and the beauty of winter by the sea at Santa’s Coastal Playground in Florence, Oregon—where the holidays shine brightest.
