Golden Isles Holiday Events: Celebrate on St. Simons & Jekyll Island

September 5, 2025

St. Simons and Jekyll Island have a way of bringing their own festive flair to the holidays, blending incredible weather with coastal traditions that make the season truly unforgettable.

Tired of blistering snow? No problem: Here you’ll find nothing but twinkling lights draped over century-old oaks and miles of soft sand. Over the icy Northern winds? Nothing here but mild coastal breezes and beautiful moonlit nights. Plus, the whole family will love the dazzling light displays and festive happenings going on all winter long. So if you’re looking for a winter getaway that feels both magical and laid back, this is the place to be, and here are just a few reasons why:

Shrimp & Grits Festival: A Flavorful Start to the Season

Although technically, the holiday season doesn’t begin in October, why wait to kick it off when you can start early? The Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival is the perfect event to begin the festivities and enjoy a delicious taste of the Golden Isles! This flavorful celebration brings together local chefs, live music, and that warm, inviting spirit this coastal community is known for. From sizzling shrimp dishes prepared every way imaginable to creamy, dreamy grits, there’s plenty to sample while enjoying the family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a fun and tasty way to start your holiday adventures, experience the beautiful fall season, and meet some friendly locals!

Cold-Stunned Plunge on Jekyll Island

November brings the annual Cold-Stunned Plunge, which sees participants dashing into the Atlantic’s waters as spectators line the beach to root them on. This cheerful tradition raises awareness and funds for sea turtle conservation. Whether you’re plunging or watching, the event brings the community together in true Jekyll Island spirit.

Holiday Festivities on St. Simons Island

You’ll find no shortage of lively celebrations and family-friendly gatherings, so if you’re looking for more fun holiday events on St. Simons, here are a few standouts!

The season officially begins with the Pier Village Annual Christmas Tree Lighting. Twinkling lights, festive music, and a visit from Santa make the season merry and bright, setting the tone for the weeks ahead. You can also browse for unique treasures at the Mistletoe Market, while the little ones delight in the holiday crafts and activities at Crafts in the Village in Postell Park. Another favorite is the Christmas Tour of Lights with Lighthouse Trolleys. Don a jacket, bring some hot cocoa, and enjoy a guided ride through the island’s most dazzling holiday displays!

Christmas on Jekyll Island

If you’re searching for unforgettable holiday events on Jekyll Island, you’ll be happy to know that this barrier island transforms into a true winter wonderland each holiday season.

The highlight is Holly Jolly Jekyll, where over a million lights illuminate the island, creating a magical backdrop for the light parade and nightly activities that keep the holiday spirit alive all December long! Festivities include a Big Truck Roundup, fireworks displays, and photo ops in Peppermint Land, a miniature golf course surrounded by life-sized holiday treats and characters. In the historic district, step back in time with horse-drawn carriage rides and guided tours sure to delight visitors of all ages!

Other Golden Isles Holiday Events

Just a short drive from St. Simons and Jekyll Island, Brunswick offers even more holiday events. The Brunswick Porchfest fills the streets with live music and a sense of community as bands gather to perform on neighborhood front porches, and the historic Ritz Theatre brings Charles Dickens’ timeless tale, ‘A Christmas Carol,’ to life on stage. You won’t want to miss the Brunswick Christmas Parade, an evening procession starting at Howard Coffin Park, winding down Gloucester Street, featuring marching bands, colorful floats, and a visit from Santa Claus. With so many holiday happenings nearby, there’s no shortage of festive fun in the Golden Isles!

Ringing in the New Year in the Golden Isles

We can’t think of a better place to bring in the New Year than the Golden Isles. Here, the celebrations are a little more laid-back, making it an ideal location for couples, families, and groups of all sizes that want to toast the year ahead without a big fuss. Why not celebrate simply with a quiet meal, a moonlit beachwalk, or just listening to the waves as the clock strikes midnight? Pick a holiday movie and cuddle up together in your vacation rental with pizza and popcorn, or treat the family to a special dinner at the Georgia Sea Grill. However you choose to welcome the New Year, the Golden Isles will make it a celebratory event!

Hunt for Treasures on Jekyll Island

Just when you thought the holiday season was wrapping up, Jekyll Island gives you its Island Treasures event in January and February. Inspired by the glass floats once used by East Coast fishermen, this annual hide-and-seek adventure invites participants to search for glass globes hidden around the island. Find one and you can exchange it for a hand-blown glass float, each crafted by a different artist from across the country—a magical keepsake of your Golden Isles getaway!

Where to Stay: Make it a Holiday to Remember with Hodnett Cooper

What could make the holidays even brighter? The perfect home base! With Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals, you’ll find everything from cozy condos with incredible views to spacious homes designed for the whole family. Our properties feature spacious and fully equipped kitchens, large gathering spaces, and easy access to beaches, restaurants, and all the holiday events on St. Simons and Jekyll Island. Whether you’re planning a quiet getaway for two, a short break with friends, or a longer stay with your extended family, Hodnett Cooper will make the holidays extra special.

Browse our selection of beautiful vacation homes and condos—everything from pet-friendly properties to oceanfront retreats— and make this holiday season one to remember!