Brevard County's Surfing Santas event kicks off Friday at Cocoa Beach, offering a mix of holiday cheer and seasonal activities for families. The event, which runs through Sunday, features a parade, live music, food vendors, and a Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Organizers say the event has grown since its 2019 debut, drawing thousands to the Space Coast each year. "It's become a staple for our community," said event coordinator Lisa Martinez. "We've added more rides and expanded the food court this year." The main parade begins at 5 p.m. daily, winding through the beach and downtown Cocoa. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will make appearances, along with holiday-themed inflatables and a petting zoo. Food options include hot chocolate, funnel cakes, and holiday cookies, with proceeds benefiting local charities. The event also includes a craft fair and a fireworks display Saturday night. Tickets are free, but organizers recommend arriving early for the best viewing spots. Surfing Santas is held in partnership with the Cocoa Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Brevard County Parks and Recreation Department. The event has faced challenges in recent years due to weather, but organizers say they've improved contingency plans. "We learned from past storms," Martinez said. "This year, we have backup generators and tents for all activities." The Christmas tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday, with the tree located at the Cocoa Beach Pier. The event is part of a larger effort to boost tourism in Brevard County during the holiday season. "We want to give families a reason to visit the Space Coast this December," said chamber president Mark Thompson. "Surfing Santas is just one piece of that puzzle."