Published: November 28, 2023
By: Compiled by Shannon Pease-Severance
From dazzling lights to whimsical nights, there are oh-so many ways to celebrate the season. Here we unwrap the many family-friendly holiday events taking place in South Florida in December 2023.
Broward County
Coconut Creek
Menorah Lighting
Thursday, December 7
Enjoy live music, latkes, donuts and the annual menorah lighting. 5pm, Promenade at Coconut Creek, 4443 Lyons Rd.,
http://www.promenadeatcoconutcreek.com
Holiday Fantasy of Lights
Through January 1
A spectacular drive-through display of illuminated trees and animated figures. Tradewinds Park, 3600 W. Sample Rd.,
http://www.holidaylightsdrivethru.com
Cooper City
Light up Cooper City
Friday, December 1
Holiday fun includes twinkling lights and seasonal activities. 6:30-9pm, Memorial Park, between City Hall and the Community Center on 90th Ave., 954-434-4300
http://www.coopercityfl.org
Menorah Lighting
Thursday, December 7
Celebrate the first night of Hanukkah with a menorah lighting, children’s activities and refreshments. 5-6:30pm, Memorial Park, 9001 SW 51 St.,
http://www.coopercity.gov
Cookies and Cocoa with Santa
Friday, December 8
Spend some sweet time with Santa while enjoying cookies and cocoa. 6:30-8:30pm, Community Center, 9000 SW 50 Place, 954-434-4300
http://www.coopercityfl.org
Coral Springs
Downtown in December
Saturday, December 2
Bring the family for light up displays, train rides and other fun winter surprises. Free. 5-7pm, City Hall Lawn, 9500 W. Sample Rd.,
http://www.coralsprings.org
Bethlehem Revisited
Friday-Tuesday, December 8-12
A hands-on, interactive walk-through experience that recreates the town of Bethlehem with a cast of volunteers of all ages. 7pm-9pm, Friday, Monday & Tuesday; 6pm-9pm, Saturday & Sunday. First United Methodist Church of Coral Springs, 8650 W. Sample Rd.,
http://www.bethlehem-revisited.com
Holiday Parade
Wednesday, December 13
Enjoy the bright lights at the city’s annual holiday parade with floats, bands, entertainment and more. 7-9pm, along Sample Road, from Coral Springs Drive to City Hall, 944-344-1001 http://www.coralsprings.org
Davie
Mrs. Claus’ Davie Christmas
Saturday, December 2
Write a letter to Santa Claus using an old-fashioned pen and read a holiday story with Mrs. Claus. $5. 10am-1pm, Old Davie School Historical Museum, 6650 Griffin Rd., 954-797-1044
http://www.olddavieschool.org
Lighting of the Greens
Saturday, December 2
Evening includes activities, live entertainment, a Jingle Bell Horse Parade, the official lighting of Bamford Park and a visit from Santa. 6-9pm, Bamford Sports Complex,
3801 S. Pine Island Rd.,
http://www.davie-fl.gov
Nature’s Gifts
Saturday, December 9
Kids can drop by the Discovery Room to make a variety of craft projects from natural and recycled materials. Ages 3-10, with an adult. $5. 10am-1pm, Long Key Nature Center, 3501 SW 130 Ave., 954-357-8797
http://www.broward.org/parks
Garden of Lights
December 15-23 & 26-30
See the botanical gardens and the historic Wray Home decked out with thousands of lights and decorations at night. 5-10pm, Flamingo Gardens & Wildlife Sanctuary, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., 954-473-2955
http://www.flamingogardens.org
Deerfield Beach
Ocean Way Holiday
Saturday, December 2
A magical evening with a giant interactive snow globe, Santa and his reindeer, ice skating, live entertainment, treats and more. 5-9pm, Main Beach Parking Lot, 149 SE Second Ave.,
http://www.deerfield-beach.com
Fort Lauderdale
Light Up Sistrunk
Friday, December 1
A one-of-a-kind holiday celebration with fun and entertainment, including a tree lighting, live bands, holiday activities, a Kids Zone and more. 5-8pm, Sistrunk Boulevard, from NW Ninth to NW 11th Avenues,
http://www.fortlauderdale.gov
Holiday Magic – Whimsical Wonderland
December 1-2 & 6-8
An evening for families with live entertainment, a scavenger hunt, story time, letters to Santa and more. Pre-registration required. $35/adult, $15/teen, $5/child, 5 and under/free. Bonnet House, 900 N. Birch Rd.,
http://www.bonnethouse.org
Holiday Lights Cruise
December 1-31
Check out the lights that line the shore while cruising the Intracoastal by way of Water Taxi. The tour includes sightseeing, holiday music and sing-alongs. Space is limited. Advance purchase recommended. $35/adult, $15/child. Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi, stop number 1 by the Riverside Hotel, 954-467-6677
http://www.watertaxi.com
Menorah Lighting Celebration
Thursday, December 7
Honor the first night of Hanukkah at this celebration with a traditional menorah lighting, music and treats. 5:30pm, Las Olas Oceanside Park, 3000 E. Las Olas Blvd.,
http://www.fortlauderdale.gov
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker
Friday-Sunday, December 8-10
Miami City Ballet brings this winter wonderland performance to the stage featuring more than 100 talented dancers, dazzling costumes and glimmering sets. $39 and up. Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave.,Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222
http://www.browardcenter.org
North Pole Pajama Party
Saturdays, December 9 & 16
Wear your pajamas or elf costume and celebrate the season with a holiday science show, holiday activities, museum exploration and an IMAX screening of The Polar Express. $30. Activities begin at 9am, film at 10am. Museum of Discovery and Science, 401 SW Second St., 954-713-0930
http://www.mods.org
The Nutcracker
Friday-Sunday, December 15-17
The Arts Ballet Theatre transports the audience to a land filled with snowflakes and sugar plums in this holiday classic. The Parker, 707 NE Eighth St., 954-462-0222
http://www.parkerplayhouse.com
Winterfest Boat Parade
Saturday, December 16
Line up along Fort Lauderdale’s waterways to enjoy the dazzling annual boat parade, from downtown Fort Lauderdale to Lake Santa Barbara in Pompano Beach. Free. 6:30-8:30pm.
http://www.winterfestparade.com
Kwanzaa Ujamaa
Friday, December 29
Pay homage to the fourth principle of Kwanzaa, cooperative economics. 3-6pm, Bass Park, 2750 NW 19 St.,
http://www.fortlauderdale.gov
Noon Year’s Eve
Sunday, December 31
Ring in 2024 with music, dancing, science activities and a “ball drop” at noon. Free with paid museum admission. 10am-5pm, Museum of Discovery and Science, 401 SW Second St., 954-467-6637
http://www.mods.org
Hallandale Beach
Symphony in Lights
Through December 31
A spectacular dancing light show with hundreds of thousands of animated lights and a towering Christmas tree all synchronized to music. The 10-minute show begins at the top of every hour. Free. 6-11pm, Gulfstream Park, 901 S. Federal Hwy., Hallandale Beach, 954-454-7000
http://www.gulfstreampark.com
Hollywood
Hollywood Beach Candy Cane Parade
Saturday, December 2
A magical evening under the stars featuring floats, marching units and bands with a hometown flavor. Free. 7pm, along the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk,
http://www.hollywoodfl.org
Christmas Near The Beach
Saturday, December 9
A community tradition that includes singing, dancing, musicians, a night market and more. Free. 4-9pm, ArtsPark at Young Circle, Hollywood Boulevard and Federal Highway,
http://www.christmasnearthebeach.com
Lauderdale-By-The-Sea
Christmas-by-the-Sea
Wednesday, December 6
An evening of old-fashioned family fun, entertainment and activities. Free. 5-8pm, Anglin’s Square, Commercial Boulevard and El Mar Drive,
http://www.discoverlbts.com
Lighthouse Point
Lighthouse A’Glow
Wednesday, December 6
Spend an enchanted evening with holiday fun and activities. 6:30-8:30pm, Frank McDonough Park, 3500 NE 27 Ave.,
http://www.lighthousepointfl.gov
Margate
Winter Festival
Friday, December 15
A family-friendly festival with children’s activities, live performances, kiddie rides, Florida-style snow, photos with Santa and more. 6-10pm, Margate Boulevard and State Road 7,
http://www.margatefl.com
Oakland Park
Holiday Village
Friday-Saturday, December 1-2
Have some holiday fun with children’s activities, a snow slide, a visit with Santa, a Christmas tree decorating competition and more. Free. Friday 5:30-10pm, Saturday 1-9pm. Jaco Pastorius Park, 4000 N. Dixie Highway, 954-630-4500
http://www.oaklandparkfl.gov
Breakfast With Santa
Saturday, December 9
Spend some special time visiting and dining with Santa. 9:30-11am, Ethel M. Gordon Oakland Park Library, 1298 NE 37 St., Oakland Park, 954-630-4372
http://www.oaklandparkfl.gov
Pembroke Pines
SnowFest
Saturday, December 2
Bundle up to play in tons of snow and participate in a variety of holiday activities. Pre-registered residents only. 4-8pm, Charles F. Dodge City Center, 601 City Center Way, 954-392-2116
http://www.ppines.com
Plantation
Winter Wonderland
Through December 31
A wonderland of more than 40 themed holiday trees and more. Closed Sundays and Mondays. Call for hours. Free. Plantation Historical Museum, 511 N. Fig Tree Lane, 954-797-2722
http://www.plantation.org/museum
Pompano Beach
A Ceremony of Carols
Saturday-Sunday, December 2-3
The Florida Singing Sons present their annual holiday concert. Saturday, 7pm; Sunday, 4pm, The Pink Church, 2331 NE 26 Ave.,
http://www.floridasingingsons.org
Yuletide on Atlantic Parade
Thursday, December 7
Line up for a hometown holiday parade starting at Riverside Drive, heading west to Atlantic Boulevard. Free. 6:30-9:30pm, along Atlantic Boulevard,
http://www.pompanobeachfl.gov
Breakfast with Santa
Saturday, December 9
Have some festive fun and then enjoy breakfast with the big guy. $7. 9-11am, Emma Lou Olson Civic Center, 1801 NE Sixth St., 954-786-4111
http://www.pompanobeachfl.gov
Pompano Beach Holiday Boat Parade
Friday, December 15
Whether you are watching or participating, this is a great procession on the Intracoastal Waterway, starting at Lake Santa Barbara heading north to Hillsboro Boulevard at 7pm.
http://www.pompanobeachchamber.com
Sunrise
Holiday Tree Lighting
Friday, December 1
Get into the holiday spirit with live music, decorations and a lighting of the city’s seasonal display. Tree lighting at 7pm. Free. 6-8pm, Sunrise Civic Center Campus, 10610 W. Sunrise Blvd., 954-747-4600
The Nutcracker Ballet
Friday-Sunday, December 8-10
Fort Lauderdale Youth Ballet presents the holiday classic about a young girl who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince. All ages. Reserved seating, $35. Sunrise Civic Center Theatre, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., 954-747-4646
http://www.sunrisefl.gov
The Grinch Family Movie
Friday, December 22
See The Grinch (2018) movie and then meet Santa and The Grinch after. $7. 6:30-9pm, Sunrise Civic Center Theatre, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., 954-747-4646
http://www.sunrisefl.gov
Tamarac
Winter Wonderland
Friday, December 8
Have a holly jolly night with reindeer games, bounce houses, face painting, cookie decorating, photos with Santa and a special appearance by Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. 6-8pm, Tamarac Park, 7501 N. University Dr.,
http://www.tamarac.org
Holiday Paw-ty
Saturday, December 9
Bring your pet for a best-dressed holiday hound contest, and photo opportunity with Santa. 10am-noon, Gary B. Jones Park for People and Pups, 8101 Southgate Blvd.,
http://www.tamarac.org
Weston
Christmas Tree Lighting
Sunday, December 3
Enjoy the holiday festivities during this annual event. 4-8pm, Weston Town Center,
http://www.westontowncenter.net
Wilton Manors
Santa Paws
Saturday, December 2
Share the holiday joy with your pup by capturing the moment with pet photos with Santa. 10am-noon, Colohatchee Dog Park, 1975 NE 15 Ave.,
http://www.wiltonmanors.com
Holiday Lighting Ceremony
Thursday, December 7
Kick off the holidays with an annual lighting of a Menorah, Kinara and Christmas tree, musical performances and holiday cheer. 6:30pm, Justin Flippen Park, 2109 Wilton Dr.,
http://www.wiltonmanors.com
Wilton Wonderland
Saturday, December 16
Bring the family to see Santa and to participate in holiday activities. 10am-noon, Hagen Park, 2020 Wilton Dr.,
http://www.wiltonmanors.com
Palm Beach County
Boca Raton
Gingerbread Holiday Concert
Sunday, December 10
Family-friendly concert for all ages featuring seasonal music and holiday cheer. $35 and up. 3pm, Lynn University Wold Performing Arts Center, 3601 N. Military Trail, Boca Raton, 561-237-7000 http://www.lynn.edu/events
Boynton Beach
Winter Nights & Magic Lights
Friday, December 1
Enjoy an echanted night of music, food trucks and a holiday market. 5-9pm, Boynton Beach Amphitheater, 120 E. Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach,
http://www.boynton-beach.org
Boynton Beach Holiday Parade
Saturday, December 2
Bring lawn chairs and settle in to watch a festive parade pass by. 4-6pm, Federal Highway between Boynton Beach Boulevard and Woolbright Road, Boynton Beach,
http://www.boynton-beach.org
Holiday Boat Parade
Friday, December 8
See festively decorated boats, decked out in dazzling lights, travel along the waterway during this annual event. 6:30-9pm, Boynton Harbor Marina, 735 Casa Loma Blvd., Boynton Beach, http://www.boyntonbeachcra.com
Delray Beach
Menorah Lighting
Thursday, December 7
Stop by Old School Square for a menorah lighting. 5-7pm, Old School Square, 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach,
http://www.downtowndelraybeach.com
Delray Beach Holiday Parade
Saturday, December 9
Watch this festive procession as it travels down Atlantic Avenue beginning at 6pm.
http://www.downtowndelraybeach.com
Jingle Bell Jog
Saturday, December 23
Get your jingle on at this 5K and Elf Dash morning run that gives out Santa suits and shoelace bells to runners to race in. Pre-register online. Anchor Park, 340 S. Ocean Blvd., Delray Beach, http://www.jinglebelljog.net
West Palm Beach
Zoo Lights
Select nights through January 7
Start a new tradition with family and friends by strolling the zoo while it’s twinkling with more than 1 million eco-friendly lights. Pre-purchase required online. $15-$26. 5:30-9pm, Palm Beach Zoo, 1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach, 561-547-9453
http://www.palmbeachzoo.org
Winter Wonderland Laser Lights & Bites
Fridays, December 1, 8, 15 & 22
Sing and dance to holiday favorites during this outdoor laser concert spectacular. The night also features food trucks, science-themed activities, mini golf and more. $22/adult, $18/child. 6-9pm, Cox Science Center and Aquarium, 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach,
http://www.coxsciencecenter.org
Miami City Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Thursday-Saturday, December 28-30
The Miami City Ballet presents George Balanchine’s dazzling choreography. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach, 561-832-7469
http://www.kravis.org
Miami-Dade County
Aventura
The Nutcracker Gala Event
Friday-Sunday, December 8-10
Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida presents this classic ballet to Tchaikovsky’s popular score. $60 and up. Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, 3385 NE 188 St.,
http://www.aventuracenter.org
Coral Gables A Very Merry Garden
Throughout December
A month-long celebration with reindeer games, letters to Santa and hot chocolate and storytime with Mrs. C. 10am-5pm, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden,10901 Old Cutler Rd., 305-667-1651 http://www.fairchildgarden.org
The Nightgarden
Through mid-January
Experience the fantasy and wonderment of effects including the wise talking tree and rainbow colored pathways at this magical light spectacular. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Rd., 305-667-1651
http://www.fairchildgarden.org
Cutler Bay
The Nutcracker
Saturday-Sunday, December 2-3
This classic Christmas ballet about a little girl’s journey to the Land of Sweets is performed by the Miami Youth Ballet. $36-51. Saturday 7pm, Sunday 3pm. The Moss Center, 10950 SW 211 St., 786-573-5300
http://www.mosscenter.org
Holiday Golf Cart Parade, Toy Drive and Celebration
Saturday, December 9
It’s a unique take on a typical parade as a procession of decked-out golf carts glide by. Additional holiday activities included. 6-10pm, Cutler Ridge Park, 10100 SW 200 St.,
http://www.cutlerbay-fl.gov
A Seraphic Fire Christmas
Sunday, December 17
Enjoy seasonal carols and heart-warming music by Associate Conductor James K. Bass and the ensemble. $20-$55. 4pm, The Moss Center, 10950 SW 211 St., 786-573-5300
http://www.mosscenter.org
Doral
Holiday Tree Lighting
Friday, December 1
Be dazzled as twinkling lights add holiday cheer to the night. 6-8pm, Downtown Doral Park, 8395 NW 53 St., 305-593-6600
http://www.cityofdoral.com
Light Up the Night
Thursday, December 7
Festivities include a menorah lighting, light refreshments and recognition of first responders. 6-8pm, Downtown Doral Park, 8395 NW 53 St., 305-593-6600
http://www.cityofdoral.com
Holiday Celebration at the Park
Friday, December 8
Celebrate the season with a festive evening of live performances, inflatables, face painters and more. 6-10pm, Doral Meadow Park, 11555 NW 58 St.,
http://www.cityofdoral.com
Miami
Miami City Ballet’s The Nutcracker
December 15-24
The Miami City Ballet presents George Balanchine’s dazzling choreography. $43 and up. Showtimes vary. Adrienne Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., 305-949-6722
http://www.arshtcenter.org
Christmas Wonderland
Through January 7
Experience a half mile of holiday displays, a midway with more than 50 carnival rides, live shows, holiday festivities, spectacular lighting and more. Tropical Park, 7900 SW 40 St.,
http://www.miamiwonderland.com
Zoo Lights
Select nights through December 30
See dazzling displays of lights and different themed nights throughout the holiday season. The event kicks off on Nov. 24 with opening night activities and a tree lighting
at 7pm. Zoo Miami, 12400 SW 152 St., Miami,
http://www.zoomiami.org
Winter Wonderland Sock Skating
Throughout December
Glide, twirl and experience winter in a unique way on a sock skating rink. See website for dates and details. Miami Children’s Museum, 980 MacArthur Causeway,
http://www.miamichildrensmuseum.org
Santa’s Enchanted Forest
Through January 7
Lights, rides, food, games, entertainment and more make this holiday wonderland glow. Santa’s Enchanted Forest, 7400 NW 87 Ave., Miami,
http://www.santasenchantedforest.com
Miami Lakes
Reindeer Run 5K
Saturday, December 9
Get a healthy start to the holiday season by running a festive 3-mile race. 8-11am, Miami Lakes Veterans Park, 15151 NW 82 Ave.,
http://www.miamilakes-fl.gov
Palmetto Bay
Historic Holidays Evening Strolls
Friday, December 1 & Wednesday, December 13
See the historic houses of the Deering Estate decorated in elegant holiday décor, keep warm by a campfire and watch some holiday films. Limited number of tickets, online only. $15/adult, $7/child. 6:30-9:30pm, Deering Estate, 16701 SW 72 Ave., 305-235-1668
http://www.deeringestate.org
Story Time & Photos With Santa
Saturday, December 16
Stop by for a photo with the big guy, holiday arts and crafts and a story time with Santa’s elves. Included with paid admission of $15/adult, $7/child. Additional fee for photos. 10am-1pm, Deering Estate, 16701 SW 72 Ave., 305-235-1668
http://www.deeringestate.org
Pinecrest
Nights of Lights
Select nights December 9-January 6
Be enchanted as Pinecrest Gardens transforms into a holiday wonderland featuring thousands of sparkling lights on select nights. 6-9pm, Pinecrest Gardens, 11000 Red Rd., 305-669-6990 http://www.pinecrestgardens.org
Sunny Isles Beach
Winter Fest
Sunday, December 3
A family celebration featuring an illumination ceremony, activities for all ages and more. $5/resident, $20/non-resident in advance, $5 increase at gate. 4:30-8:30pm, Gateway Park, 151 Sunny Isles Blvd.,
http://www.sibfl.net
