2016 Tybee for the Holidays
The most festive time of year is fast approaching, and the good people of Tybee Island are excited about it. If you haven’t yet had the pleasure of spending the holidays on this grand barrier isle, you’re missing out on a splendid season of jubilee. Watch Tybee light up with holiday cheer as scintillating ornaments adorn the island. The entire month of December is busy with a surfeit of Christmastime celebrations kicking off all around town. With so much festivity amid the natural coastal beauty, the island is a winter wonderland like none other.
Lights on for Tybee
The island-wide holiday celebration kicks off at 6:30 pm on December 2nd, with Lights on for Tybee. Join Mayor Buelterman and Tybee citizens at the roundabout on Tybrisa Street for the official lighting of Tybee’s beautiful Christmas tree. Songs from local choirs will fill the air with sounds of joy while student dancers share their talents with the city. Families can enjoy a flurry of snowflakes at the Sea & Breeze throughout the evening as well. Look forward to Tybee Beautification’s Best Decorated Business awards and a special appearance from Mr. & Mrs. Claus!
1st Annual House of the Christmas Mouse
A fun family event in its first annual year follows on the 3rd. Grab the kiddos and head to the Tybee Arts Association campus for the House of the Christmas Mouse. Open from 10 am to 4 pm, HCM is a day of celebration for our littlest gift-givers. At HCM, children can shop for unique gifts and stocking stuffers without breaking the piggy bank, and they can even make heartfelt, handcrafted creations of their own.
Tybee Island Christmas Parade
The hallmark holiday celebration on the 3rd is definitely the Tybee Island Christmas Parade. Head to the island’s main strip, and prepare to be amazed by a dazzling display of festive holiday floats. Watch in wonder as Mr. & Mrs. Claus traverse Tybee’s streets in style. The action starts at 1 pm; expect music, fun and plenty of photo ops.
Tybee Lighthouse Christmas
The iconic Tybee Lighthouse Station is hosting a special Christmas presentation that will transport guests back more than eight decades in time. Experience the holiday season through the eyes of Tybee’s last Lighthouse Keeper, who occupied the light during the 1930s and 40s. Revisit traditions of yore while enjoying hot cider and carols amid candlelight. This limited opportunity is available only twice this year, December 10th and 17th at 7 and 8 pm. Call 912-786-5801 to reserve your seat before time runs out.
8th Annual Tybee Boat Parade
Join the good folks at the famous Crab Shack on December 11th as Tybee takes the holiday celebration to the waters. Now in its 8th year, the Tybee Boat Parade is a seaworthy spectacle like none you’ve ever seen. Watch captains and crews sail their decorated vessels from the Crab Shack docks in a festive floating parade. The event kicks off at 5 pm with a hot dog and chili bar and the boats set sail at 5:30. Stick around for the award ceremony upon the vessels’ return.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks
After the gift-giving holidays come and go, it’s time to ring in the New Year. Start your 2017 off with a bang at the beach! Head down to the Pier & Pavilion on south beach by 11:55 pm to see beautiful fireworks burst open in the ocean sky. It’s a fan favorite every time. They say that the way you start off your new year is important. It sets the tone for the 364 days to follow. What better way to invite positivity into your 2017 than by starting it off amid dazzling sky lights on a tranquil island?
Tybee Polar Plunge
Your holiday season on Tybee culminates with bold plunge into the Atlantic Ocean. Join thousands of pledge-makers on New Year’s Day at 12 pm sharp for the annual Tybee Polar Plunge. Fortunately, our temperate climate means the water won’t be too frigid, but you’re still sure to get the chill you need to seal in your resolutions. The polar plunge is fun for the whole family; make sure yours is a part of it.
