The shore is the perfect place to kick off your holiday season, and this year Avalon and Stone Harbor are offering a packed schedule of events. Whether you're celebrating Halloween or enjoying Thanksgiving traditions, there's no better way to embrace the festive spirit than by spending the off-season at the beach. Even though the weather is cooler, the charm of the shore remains, with plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, and family-friendly activities. Here's everything happening this year, from Halloween weekend through Thanksgiving.

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Halloween on the 7 Mile Island

Stone Harbor Business District Trick-or-Treat – Saturday, October 26, 10am-4pm
Earlier that day, Stone Harbor invites families to the Business District Trick-or-Treat event from 10am-4pm. Participating stores will be marked with ghost signs, welcoming kids to come in for treats as they stroll through downtown.

‍Avalon Trunk or Treat – Saturday, October 26, 5-7pm
Families can kick off Halloween weekend with Avalon’s Trunk or Treat on October 26 from 5-7pm. Cars will be decorated, and kids can collect candy in a safe and fun setting. It’s a perfect way to get into the Halloween spirit without going door-to-door.

‍Seven Mile Island Trick-or-Treat – Thursday, October 31, 5-8pm
For those who love traditional trick-or-treating, Seven Mile Island offers a fun evening of candy collecting on Halloween night, October 31, from 5-8pm. Registered homes will display pumpkin markers, guiding kids from house to house across Avalon and Stone Harbor.

Thanksgiving Weekend in Avalon

Turkey Trot & Festive Friday – Friday, November 29
Thanksgiving weekend kicks off with Avalon’s Turkey Trot on Friday, November 29. Burn off some Thanksgiving calories by joining the 5K run or the 1.5-mile Family Walk. This annual event supports the Helen L. Diller Vacation Home for Blind Children and offers a great way to get outside and enjoy the holiday atmosphere.

After the Turkey Trot, families can jump into the day’s activities with Festive Friday, where more than 40 events will be happening throughout Avalon. From face painting and balloon art to character meet-and-greets, there’s something for kids of all ages. The day wraps up with Avalon’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Veterans Plaza, where you can see Santa and enjoy the twinkling lights.

‍Snowfest Saturday – Saturday, November 30
The fun continues with Snowfest Saturday on November 30. Dune Drive will be closed to traffic, transforming into a winter wonderland with rides, slides, and cozy stations. Families can take pictures with Santa, enjoy live music, and take part in a variety of interactive activities. It’s a day full of festive fun for the whole family, making Snowfest Saturday a highlight of Thanksgiving weekend.

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Stone Harbor’s Island Holiday Weekend

Holiday Market, Tree Lighting, & Merchants Hospitality Night – Friday, November 29
Just south of Avalon, Stone Harbor kicks off its Island Holiday Weekend on Friday, November 29. Families can browse the Holiday Market and take carousel rides during the day, followed by Merchants Hospitality Night, where shops offer complimentary snacks and drinks to shoppers. In the evening, the Tree Lighting Ceremony brings the whole community together, with the mayor leading the event.

‍Downtown Dash 5K & Christmas Parade – Saturday, November 30
On Saturday, November 30, Stone Harbor offers a full day of holiday fun, starting with the Downtown Dash 5K in the morning. Afterward, families can enjoy more of the Holiday Market, along with carousel rides, before the big Christmas Parade in the afternoon. The parade features floats, fire trucks, and community groups, officially kicking off the holiday season in Stone Harbor.

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A Perfect Holiday Getaway at the Shore

There is still a ton of family fun happening on the 7 Mile Island in the offseason! From Halloween celebrations to Thanksgiving traditions, Avalon and Stone Harbor provide endless opportunities for family fun, holiday shopping, and dining. Even with the cooler weather, the charm of the shore remains, and a holiday weekend spent at the beach is the perfect way to enjoy the season.

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25 Days of Holiday Lights

As you enjoy the holiday season at the shore, get ready for the 25 Days of Decor contest, hosted by I Heart 7 Mile for the second year in a row. Nominate your favorite holiday-decorated houses in Avalon or Stone Harbor by emailing patty@iheart7mile.com or tagging us on Instagram. Stay tuned for more details on how you can vote for the best holiday displays in the area!

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