Celebrate The Holidays At Holly Jolly Jekyll Island

Brandee Gruener
·2 min read

How does 1.5 million lights sound?

<p>Jekyll Island Authority</p>

Jekyll Island Authority

A holly jolly Christmas getaway awaits on Jekyll Island this year, with the Georgia barrier island celebrating the season in style until early January.

The pristine beaches of Jekyll Island State Park are an attraction year-round, but the island becomes a holiday destination when it lights up for the Christmas season (and we're talking 1.5 million lights).

One of the island's biggest events, the Holly Jolly Light Parade, is coming on December 9. Santa and his entourage travel the island in twinkling, festively decorated vehicles—and if you want to splurge, your group can book a trolley to join in the parade. On other nights, you can book a seat on the trolley to ooh and aah during a light tour.

Then, on December 16, Santa makes an appearance at the Winter Carnival & Big Truck Roundup. This kid-friendly event includes a chance to sit behind the wheel of a fire truck, free carnival rides, games, and music on the Village Green. After that, there are fireworks (December 21 and 28) and drive-in movie showings of "Mickey's Christmas Carol" (December 20 and 27).

If that's not enough merrymaking for you and yours, there are plenty of other festivities:

  • This year, the resort has added a new light tour: the Millionaire Motorcar. Up to six can squeeze in a real Model T for a nostalgic ride under twinkling lights.

  • Jekyll Island Mini Golf has transformed into Peppermint Land, decorated with giant gumdrops and gingerbread men to make your game even sweeter.

  • A North Pole express mailbox has popped up on Main and is taking last-minute requests to Santa until Christmas Eve.

  • The horses at Three Oaks Farm are decked out in Santa hats and jingle bells for horseback riding on the beach.

  • There are holiday crafts throughout the season at Goodyear Cottage so no one will be left without a stocking stuffer.

  • You can book a Holiday High Tea at the Jekyll Island Club Resort or dine with Santa or the Grinch at hotels around the island.

This isn't even a comprehensive list—for that, check out the Holly Jolly Jekyll Guide. If you can't get there by Christmas, some activities continue until January 7.

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Read the original article on Southern Living.