Pensacola—a coastal city rich in history and charm—is facing an unprecedented holiday crisis. The Grinch and Scrooge, two notorious foes of Christmas cheer, have joined forces to wreak havoc on the town and its surrounding areas. Together, they’ve set out to destroy Christmas, leaving a trail of chaos in their wake. But hope is not lost. Local residents, businesses, and even a mischievous Elf on the Shelf have rallied together to thwart their dastardly plans. And at the heart of the effort are the incredible holiday-themed tours offered by Pensacola History & Hauntings and Amazing City Tours (850-941-4321; Pensacola Ghost Events).
The Grinch and Scrooge Take Over Pensacola
The Grinch began his rampage by tampering with beloved Pensacola landmarks. At Seville Quarter, he replaced the flowing fountain with bubbling hot chocolate, creating a sticky spectacle that both delighted and frustrated locals. Meanwhile, Scrooge took a more practical approach to his mischief, slapping "Out of Order" signs on all the downtown parking meters, causing holiday shoppers to scramble for alternatives.
The pair didn’t stop there. They tangled Christmas lights in Plaza Ferdinand VII, turning the serene park into a maze of wires and sparks. At Joe Patti’s Seafood Market, they swapped fresh fish displays for piles of coal, leaving stunned shoppers scratching their heads. Even the historic Pensacola Lighthouse wasn’t spared, as Scrooge dimmed its beam, plunging the coastline into darkness.
As the chaos mounted, Pensacola’s residents and visitors knew they had to take action. Enter the team at Pensacola History & Hauntings and Amazing City Tours, who devised four engaging holiday adventures to rally the community and save Christmas.
1. The Ultimate Christmas Scavenger Hunt: Saving Christmas in Pensacola!
This family-friendly adventure is at the heart of the resistance against the Grinch and Scrooge. Participants team up with Santa and his allies to complete a series of holiday-themed challenges across Pensacola. Each stop reveals part of the villains’ plans, offering participants the chance to outwit them with clever puzzles, games, and tasks.
From re-stringing the tangled lights in Plaza Ferdinand to restoring the Seville Quarter fountain, every challenge brings the town closer to restoring holiday cheer. Along the way, families can choose between activities like singing carols or crafting ornaments, ensuring fun for everyone. This spirited scavenger hunt is an unforgettable way to embrace the season while saving Christmas.
2. Ghosts of Christmas Trolley Tour: Haunted History & Merry Mayhem
For those seeking a mix of history, mystery, and holiday fun, the Ghosts of Christmas Trolley Tour offers a thrilling ride through downtown Pensacola. Visitors will hear chilling tales of ghostly encounters and festive mischief as they stop at iconic locations like The Kennedy House, Old Christ Church, and the infamous Red Light Brothel District.
Armed with paranormal equipment like EMF detectors, bubble guns for festive "ghost orbs," and dowsing rods, participants can uncover the spirits’ role in the holiday chaos. This tour is more than just spooky stories—it’s a chance to rally the spirits themselves to aid in the fight against Scrooge and the Grinch.
3. Spirits of Seville Quarter Ghost Tour & Meal
What better way to confront holiday mischief than by investigating the haunted history of Seville Quarter, one of Pensacola’s most storied locations? This tour combines ghost hunting with fine dining, offering participants the chance to use thermal cameras and other paranormal tools while uncovering the building’s eerie past.
After the ghostly adventures, participants can enjoy a $12 voucher toward a delicious meal at Seville Quarter. Whether it’s tales of debauchery, murder, or paranormal encounters, this tour ensures that holiday revelers leave with full bellies and a renewed sense of Christmas spirit.
4. Ghosts of Christmas Haunted GLO Walking Tour with Ghost Equipment
For those who prefer an up-close and personal experience, the Haunted Pensacola Walking Ghost Tour is a must. Led by expert guides and a real paranormal investigator from "Second Sight" TV, this walking tour delves into the city’s haunted past. Using ghost-hunting equipment, participants will explore eerie locations and uncover how Scrooge and the Grinch have stirred up unrest among the city’s ghosts.
This glow-in-the-dark experience combines history, mystery, and a touch of holiday magic, making it an essential part of the effort to save Christmas in Pensacola.
The Goal: Restore Holiday Cheer
Through these tours, locals and visitors alike can join forces to outsmart the Grinch, confront Scrooge’s schemes, and restore Pensacola’s holiday cheer. Each adventure offers a unique perspective on the city’s history and culture while bringing the community together in a shared mission.
Christmas may be under siege, but Pensacola’s resilience shines brighter than ever. With the help of Pensacola History & Hauntings and Amazing City Tours, the city’s landmarks, lights, and holiday spirit will be restored. So grab your friends and family, book your tour today, and help save Christmas in Pensacola—one adventure at a time!