Christmas is perhaps the best time of year to visit the North Carolina coast. The average air temperature is 59.4 degrees and the sun is warm. In a celebration of this wonderful weather and the holidays, the Chamber organizes the Christmas by the Sea Parade, the first Saturday in December on Oak Island. The Christmas by the Sea Parade steps off on Saturday, December 7, 2019 at 2pm on the 2.4-mile parade route from Oak Island Town Hall, traveling Oak Island Drive to McGlamery Street. The parade showcases the businesses and organizations in our community. The hometown feel of the parade makes it a favorite event of locals, second homeowners and visitors. A float decorating contest will be held. An event of the Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce.