Island Holiday Weekend in Stone Harbor was born by inspiration from film classics, like “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “A Christmas Story,” to the best personal holiday memories we all remember and share, like Christmas parades, carols and sing-alongs, waiting to light the tree, and tender moments with people we love.
Some stores and businesses re-open just for this Weekend, and many have special offers, Shop Small discounts, and holiday deals.
You can also find lots of entertainment and fun things to do with family and friends all weekend long.
In this guide, you’ll find Island Holiday Weekend information for:
> Saturday Events & Activities
Information listed here, including hours, dates/ times, features, and services, may vary and are subject to change without notice. Please contact event organizer directly to confirm or inquire. We will update this page as we receive more information.
Friday Events & Activities
The official kickoff and countdown to Christmas in Stone Harbor begins with Island Holiday Weekend, where you’ll find a Carousel & Holiday Market offering family-friendly entertainment and shopping – all in one place! Families can also enjoy “A Christmas Story” Scavenger Hunt on Friday and Saturday by registering with the Chamber of Commerce at the Water Tower Lot.
Visitors and residents with furry friends are invited to participate in the Paw Prints Pet-Paw-rade, and all spectators can enjoy a performance by Turning Pointe Dance Studio at 12:45 pm in front of Harbor Square Theatre before the parade begins at 1 pm down 96th Street.
As the day turns into night, experience the joy and warm glow of Christmas with an Old-Fashioned Christmas Tree Lighting in the heart of Stone Harbor! Featuring familiar tunes of Christmas caroling by the 7 Mile Players, you’re invited to come early and sing along before the tree lighting with Mayor Judith Davies-Dunhour at 6 pm.
Stroll along the downtown and side streets of 96th Street, as Stone Harbor welcomes holiday shoppers for their Hospitality Night! Here, you’ll find complimentary snacks and hot beverages – as well as Shop Small discounts and treasures for loved ones on your list. And be sure to rest up for another fun-filled day of Island Holiday Weekend.
Saturday Events & Activities
Kids get off to a racing start on Saturday morning with the Downtown Holiday Dash! This 5K race offers “A Christmas Story”-inspired challenging course – as kids are dressed to race in snowman suits and holiday attire!
Families and friends can enjoy another day of rides, entertainment, and shopping at the Carousel & Holiday Market. You can also bring the kids to the Stone Harbor Firehouse for pictures with Santa from 3 to 5 pm.
It all leads up to the Christmas Parade in Stone Harbor down 96th Street, which begins at 6:30 pm. Featuring fire trucks, community organizations, floats, and festive performers all decked out to welcome all residents and visitors with greetings and cheer for the holiday season!
Special Holiday Exhibits
Stone Harbor Museum will be hosting an Open House during Island Holiday Weekend in Stone Harbor. Visitors can tour the museum artifacts and learn the history behind the people, businesses, and events that shaped and impacted this beloved beach town. The Museum will be open on Friday and Saturday, November 24 and 25 from 10 am to 1 pm, after which it will be closed until spring 2024.
Also during Island Holiday Weekend, the Women’s Civic Club of Stone Harbor invites visitors and residents to stroll through their winter wonderland by the beach and browse several beautifully decorated trees. This unique Festival of Trees takes place all day on Friday from 10 am to 8 pm, and half the day on Saturday from 10 am to noon.
Holiday Beach Tag Sales
Holiday Beach Tags for Stone Harbor will also be available for in-person purchase during Island Holiday weekend. These limited edition beach tags feature festive holiday-themed designs, and are the perfect gift for any beach lovers on your list.
What Else You Should Know
Neighboring Avalon is also having their Thanksgiving Weekend events and activities, so there may be more traffic than usual on the island. You may also want to consider booking dinner reservations in advance, even before you arrive in town.
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