As the chilly breeze of December sweeps across Florida, the Sunshine State is gearing up for a dazzling display of holiday festivities. From twinkling lights adorning boats to enchanting Christmas displays, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season. Let’s unwrap the magic and explore the upcoming events in the coastal paradise of Florida.
St. Pete Beach Holiday Lighted Boat Parade (December 1st)
The holiday spirit sets sail on Friday, December 1st, as the St. Pete Beach Holiday Lighted Boat Parade illuminates the waters. Departing from Blind Pass Bridge, the boats embark on a journey southward to the Pinellas Bayway Bridge. The parade offers a chance to meet Santa and enjoy live music at the parade viewing party and tree lighting ceremony.
Venice Christmas Boat Parade (December 2nd)
The 35th Annual Venice Christmas Boat Parade graces the Intracoastal Waterway on December 2nd at 6 p.m. Boats adorned with festive lights create a magical spectacle. Make sure to secure your spot early to witness this nautical holiday tradition.
Cedar Hollow, Sarasota
Check out Cedar Hollow Neighborhood, just south of Fruitville off of Honore on Camus Street. From roofs completely covered in lights to tractors decked out in lights to an archway tunnel drive through, there’s plenty for the entire family to enjoy! It’s to drive up and down al the streets and see what surprise is around every corner. Click here for more information.
Colonial Gables, Sarasota
Colonial Gables is a neighborhood at the corner of Bee Ridge and Woodmont Drive. Grab a warm drink and walk or cruise through the beautiful light displays. The entire neighborhood has decided to get in on the fun – from snow machines to Santa’s village and gingerbread houses to melting snowmen, each house is decked out!
UTC Holiday Lights Show
140 University Town Center Dr. Sarasota, FL 34243
When: Nightly, every half hour between 6:30 and 9:00 PM.
Experience The Holidays at UTC!
Join us as we bring the magic of the holidays to life with a spectacular projection light show outside on our East Grand Entrance (near Kona Grill & Urban Outfitters). We ask all guests to practice social distancing while viewing the shows.
Christmas Extravaganza at Gaylord Palms (November 17, 2023 – January 3, 2024) Discover a holiday getaway at Gaylord Palms in Kissimmee, featuring “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” live shows, and fan-favorite activities. Whether you stay overnight or visit for the day, create unforgettable memories amid dazzling displays and festive treats.
Enchant Christmas at Tropicana Field (Until December 31st) Tropicana Field in St. Pete transforms into a winter wonderland with Enchant. Explore a mesmerizing light maze, shop at the market, and glide along an ice-skating trail. The enchantment continues until December 31st.
Christmas Celebrations Across Florida
- Naples: Christmas on Third Street South Enjoy a weeklong festival with tree-lighting celebrations, snowfall, decorating contests, and more.
- Sarasota: Holiday Nights on St. Armands Experience the beauty of Christmas decorations at St. Armands Circle, highlighted by a Christmas parade, tree lighting, carolers, and promotions.
- Fort Myers: Edison and Ford Holiday Nights Join the tradition of Edison and Ford Holiday Nights with a beautifully decorated museum, estate, and nightly festivities.
Theme Park Extravaganza
- Walt Disney World Dive into the holiday magic at Walt Disney World with Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and festive decorations across all four parks.
- Universal Orlando Universal Orlando offers Christmas magic with entertainment, decorations, and special events across Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios.
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Experience the holiday spirit at Busch Gardens with a Christmas Town transformation, character meet-and-greets, and spectacular shows.
- Legoland Florida Immerse yourself in Brick-mas at Legoland, featuring holiday shows, meet-and-greets, and a 30-foot LEGO Christmas Tree.