Harbor Lights: A Gulf Coast Must Do
Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival
Hey Gulf Coast Moms!
The most magical time of year is upon us! We’re talking glittering lights, the salty air of the Gulf, and moments that make you pause mid-sippy-cup to soak everything in. That’s right! It’s almost time for the Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival (affectionately known as our family’s annual “holiday bucket-list kickoff”)!
Why we LOVE it
Over the years, this wonderful event has grown into something spectacular: over 2 million lights spanning 40 acres in Jones Park, right here on our Mississippi coast.
It’s more than a light show! It’s a full-on holiday experience: ride the little train, stroll through Santa’s Village, watch the “Dancing Trees” light show, and—if you time it right—visit with Santa himself! You’ll also get to visit Inky and Crabby! Crabby is the fun new addition to the event!
In short: it’s the perfect excuse to wrap up the kiddos in cozy jackets, sip something warm (or tropical, because hey… you never know what winter will be like on the Coast), and just be present.
Mama’s Tips for a Smooth Evening
Buy tickets early: These go fast and the earlier you secure entry, the less you’ll stress once little feet are done for the night.
Bundle up (but not too much): Even on the Coast it can get breezy after dark. A light jacket + comfy shoes = perfect.
Arrive early: Beat some of the crowds, get great photos, and set your kiddos up for success.
Have a dinner plan: Whether you grab something nearby before or after, it’s nice to combine the lights with a relaxed meal so the night feels extra special.
Bring a camera/phone and a festive mindset: There are plenty of photo ops throughout the park!
Consider a combo with the Aquarium: If you’re wanting a full “holiday outing” without the stress of multiple trips, the collaboration makes it easy.
When & Where
When: Opens November 28, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. (and runs weeknights & weekends through December) at Jones Park.
Where: Jones Park, Gulfport, MS (just west of Hwy 49 and Hwy 90)
Tickets: General admission for adults & older children; smaller prices for younger kids; under 2 are free.
Why it’s perfect for you
As a mom who wants to give her family a fun tradition this holiday season, this festival checks all the boxes: it’s accessible, festive without being over-the-top, and rooted in our coastal community. Whether you make it a date night once the kids are tucked in or a full-blown family outing with cocoa in hand, this is the kind of event that gives back: smiles, laughter, memories, the kind you’ll revisit every holiday season.
So grab your calendar, pick a night, channel those twinkle-light vibes, and get ready to kick off the season with magic. Because here on the Gulf Coast, we do holidays with salty air and sparkling lights, and that makes everything just a little more memorable.
See you under the glow, mamas.
– Jen + Erin
