Jekyll Island Holiday Events & Christmas Activities

Jekyll Island is one of the best places in the Golden Isles to experience Christmas magic. Each year, the island transforms into a festive coastal wonderland with millions of twinkling lights, holiday trolley tours, family activities, Santa visits, fireworks, and seasonal events.

The season's highlight is Holly Jolly Jekyll, a holiday celebration that draws visitors from across Georgia and beyond. Whether you want to take a holiday light tour, play Christmas-themed mini golf, visit Santa, or enjoy a festive family event, there is plenty to add to your holiday plans.

Holly Jolly Jekyll runs from November 27, 2026, through January 3, 2027. Event dates and activities change each year, so check the official Holly Jolly Jekyll website before heading to the island.

Holly Jolly Jekyll Holiday Lights

The holiday lights are one of Jekyll Island's biggest seasonal attractions. During Holly Jolly Jekyll, the island is decorated with millions of lights and hundreds of displays, including the spectacular Great Tree in the Historic District.

There are two main ways to enjoy the holiday lights:

Holly Jolly Light Tours

Take a ride on Jekyll's holiday trolley to see the festive light displays around the island. The guided tours offer a relaxing way for the whole family to enjoy the decorations, especially if you would rather leave the driving to someone else. Tours operate on select nights and typically require advance reservations. Visit the Holly Jolly Jekyll website for tour information.

Self-Guided Holiday Light Tour

You can also enjoy the lights from your own vehicle. Follow the official self-guided holiday light tour route and stop in the Jekyll Island Historic District to explore the decorations on foot. Check the Holly Jolly Jekyll website for the current map and driving instructions.

Jekyll Island Holiday Activities for Families

Beyond the holiday lights, Jekyll Island offers several seasonal attractions that make it fun to visit throughout the Christmas season.

Peppermint Land Mini Golf

Jekyll Island Mini Golf gets a holiday makeover during Holly Jolly Jekyll. The two 18-hole courses feature oversized peppermint sticks, life-size gumdrops, gingerbread characters, and other festive displays. It's a fun activity for kids and adults alike.

Located near the Beach Village area, mini golf is an easy addition to a day of island exploration. Visit Beach Village for more information about nearby shopping and dining.

Pictures with Santa

Santa makes special appearances at the Skeet House on Pier Road on select dates throughout the holiday season. Families can stop by for a visit and holiday photos. Check the official Holly Jolly Jekyll schedule for dates and registration requirements.

North Pole South

Stop by North Pole South for holiday gifts, Christmas treats, and seasonal beverages. It's a fun place to pick up a festive souvenir or something special for the holidays. Check the Holly Jolly Jekyll website for current details.

Holidays in History

Step back in time and experience what Christmas was like on Jekyll Island during the Gilded Age. These special tours explore the island's Historic District, decorated cottages, and holiday traditions from the Jekyll Island Club era. Tours are offered on select dates.

Learn more about the island's history and historic buildings through Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum.

Holly Jolly Scavenger Hunt

Families can visit Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum to begin a self-guided scavenger hunt through the Historic District. It's a fun way to explore the island while keeping kids engaged along the way.

Holly Jolly Jekyll Special Events in 2026

In addition to the season-long attractions, Holly Jolly Jekyll features special events throughout the holiday season. Some of the 2026 highlights include:

• November 28 – Cold-Stunned Plunge: Take a chilly plunge into the Atlantic Ocean to support sea turtle conservation and rehabilitation through the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.
• December 5 – Winter Carnival & Big Truck Roundup: Bring the kids to the Village Green for carnival rides, games, music, and a chance to see emergency vehicles up close. Check the Holly Jolly Jekyll event page for event details.
• December 12 – Merry Fishmas: Join the Kids Can Fish Foundation for a special holiday event and a chance to meet Santa.
• December 21 – Holiday Fireworks: Watch the night sky light up during a festive fireworks display. Check the Holly Jolly Jekyll event page for details and viewing information.

Other seasonal events may include holiday workshops, Santa visits, holiday shopping, and special family activities. Event schedules can change, so confirm dates and details before making plans.

For additional seasonal activities, visit the Jekyll Island Events Calendar or browse the Holly Jolly Jekyll itineraries for ideas on planning your visit.

More Holiday Events & Attractions on Jekyll Island

While Holly Jolly Jekyll is the island's main holiday celebration, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the season:

• Jekyll Island Authority: Find information about island attractions, activities, parking, and visitor planning.
• Jekyll Island Events Calendar: Browse seasonal events, holiday activities, workshops, and special programs.
• Jekyll Island Club Resort: Explore holiday dining, afternoon tea, family activities, and special seasonal experiences at the historic resort.
• Jekyll Island Club Resort Holiday Activities: See the resort's holiday programming, including special events and dining experiences.
• Jekyll Ocean Club: Learn more about this beachfront resort and its seasonal experiences.
• Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum: Explore the island's history and check for holiday programming and special tours.
• Georgia Sea Turtle Center: Visit this Jekyll Island attraction to learn about sea turtle conservation and rehabilitation.
• Jekyll Island Beach Village: Explore shopping, dining, and nearby attractions while visiting the island.

Tips for Visiting Jekyll Island During the Holidays

Holly Jolly Jekyll is a popular holiday destination, so a little planning can make your visit easier and more enjoyable.

• Plan for the causeway toll: Jekyll Island charges an entrance fee. Check the Jekyll Island website for current rates and payment information.
• Arrive early: Traffic can build up during popular holiday events, especially on weekends and fireworks nights. Give yourself extra time to get onto the island and find parking.
• Book tours ahead of time: Holiday light tours and some special activities have limited availability and may require advance reservations.
• Check event details: Dates, times, ticket prices, and activity schedules can change from year to year. Always confirm details with the event organizer.
• Make a full day of it: Combine the holiday lights with mini golf, the playground, a beach walk, or dinner at one of Jekyll Island's restaurants.

For more seasonal activities throughout the area, visit our Golden Isles Christmas & Holiday Event Guides for holiday happenings on St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, Brunswick, and Sea Island.

Know of another Jekyll Island holiday event we should include? Contact St. SiMoms and let us know!