Enjoy your Holiday the Island Way
The holidays are right around the corner, which means it's the perfect time to start planning activities for your holiday trip. Whether you choose to come for Christmas or New Year's, there are plenty of great activities happening in Port Aransas.
You won't want to miss this!
Santa in the Sand
Starting December 1, make your way to Roberts Point Park to catch the reveal of the hand-carved Sand Santa. Each year, 2Sand Santa boasts a new festive layout for all to see. Take your family holiday photo with Sandy Clause, or enjoy the jovial view. This giant sand sculpture is created by world-class sand sculptors and will be on display for the whole holiday season.
Spread Christmas Cheer
Clear your calendar on December 6 for a day filled with Christmas spirit! The day starts with the Holiday Golf Cart Parade, where the community will be decorating their golf carts to look like they came straight from Santa's workshop. Watch them cruise around town and try to spot your favorite cart decorated with lights and holiday cheer.
Then, head over to Robert Point Park for the official lighting of the new 20-foot Community Christmas Tree, a dazzling display that will set the stage for an evening filled with joy and holiday spirit. Following the tree lighting, families and friends will enjoy a variety of exciting activities, entertainment, and seasonal fun.
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will be available for photos, creating lasting memories for children and adults alike. The annual Ugly Sweater Contest will also take place, where guests are encouraged to don their most creative and outlandish holiday attire for a chance to win festive prizes.
In the spirit of giving, the event will support two local causes. The EMS Toy Drive invites guests to bring new toys for children in need, while the Helping Hands Food Pantry Canned Food Drive encourages donations of non-perishable food items to help families in the community this holiday season.
For younger attendees, there will be a craft station where children can make their own holiday ornament, as well as a bounce house for additional entertainment. Holiday-themed costumed characters will also be on hand to interact with guests, adding to the event's festive atmosphere.
Bingo Bells are Jingling
What Is Bingo Bells?
New to this year’s Santa Soirée is Bingo Bells, a festive twist where a scavenger hunt meets classic bingo! This one-day event invites you to explore and support local Port Aransas businesses while getting into the holiday spirit. Pick up a specialty bingo card and mark off squares as you shop, dine, and enjoy holiday-themed activities around town. Once you score a BINGO, you’ll be entered into a holiday giveaway packed with amazing prizes! Bingo Bells runs all day on Saturday, December 13, with the final call happening at the conclusion of the Holiday Drone Show.
Follow these steps to reach BINGO:
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Pick Up Your Bingo Card: Stop by participating locations or the Port Aransas Welcome Center to grab your special Bingo Bells card.
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Shop, Dine & Explore: On Saturday, December 13, visit local shops, restaurants, and experiences throughout Port Aransas that are marked on the bingo card. Each business will stamp its square on your bingo card once you’ve made a purchase, dined in, or joined an activity!
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Turn In Your Card: Drop off your completed cards at Fisherman’s Wharf in the designated Bingo Bells Box. You can turn them in early at the deposit “mailbox” before 6 p.m., or drop them off during the evening festivities.
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Win Holiday Prizes: Winners will be announced immediately following the Holiday Drone Show at Fisherman’s Wharf, so stick around for the magic!
BINGO!
Local businesses are spreading extra cheer by donating amazing prizes, including gift cards valued at $25 or more! You could win goodies from your favorite Port A shops and restaurants just by joining the holiday fun.
Fa la la la, fun!
From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., head over to watch the annual Lighted Boat Parade in the Port Aransas marina. Boats from Port Aransas will be decorated in their best and brightest Christmas lights with themes to match. There will be a vote for the best boat, so keep your eyes out! Spectators are encouraged to watch from
Port Aransas Fisherman's Wharf and
Grumbles Seafood Co.
After the Lighted Boat Parade, enjoy the newest Port Aransas holiday event, the Holiday Drone Show. Drones will fly through the sky to create beautiful holiday designs to celebrate the holidays. The drones will be flying over the Port Aransas Fisherman's Wharf parking lot, so find a good spot and watch this amazing show. This was a fan favorite last year, so mark your calendars—you won't want to miss out on the fun!
Tis the Season to Shop
Shop local this holiday season! The Holiday Shop Around means gifts galore are waiting for you in Port Aransas shops and boutiques...and at great prices. So many fun and whimsical treasures await you during this weekend of small-town glory. Spend time around town during Shop Around, and you're sure to find the perfect gift for your family, your friends, and most importantly, yourself. Happy shopping!
Sandy Paws Love Santa Claus
Bring your furbabies for a picture with the Clauses! Island Pet Company is a great place to get pet supplies, food, toys, treats, wellness products, and seasonal gifts. Take your naughty and nice pups to see Santa and have some holiday fun with your favorite furry friend!
Grab your Favorite Christmas PJs
Celebrate the season with five festive family-friendly short films and a joyful holiday pajama party featuring cheerful games, delicious sweets and snacks, and plenty of cozy fun. Youth ages 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Don’t forget to wear your most festive pajamas for the pajama contest, and bring your favorite pillow and blanket for movie time. Reserve your spot today and join the holiday fun!
Ring in the New Year
Don't miss out on the New Year's Eve fireworks display at Roberts Point Park. Thirty minutes after dark watch the sky light up with a gorgeous fireworks display. Watch from any restaurants on the marina, boats, or the park.
Whatever the holiday, Port Aransas has activities for the whole family to create memories they can carry, and maybe even some new family traditions.
