Enchanted events throughout South Florida
Published: November 28, 2022
By: Shannon Pease-Severance
From Santa sightings to menorah lightings, there are many ways to have a jolly good time this holiday season. Events take place all month long throughout Broward County, Miami-Dade County and Palm Beach County.
Broward County
COCONUT CREEK
Holiday Music Series
Saturdays, December 3, 10, 17 and Sunday, December 18
Stroll the marketplace while local musicians play holiday music. 1-5pm, Promenade at Coconut Creek, 4443 Lyons Rd.
http://www.promenadeatcoconutcreek.com
Menorah Lighting
Sunday, December 18
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. 6-10 pm. Tradewinds Park, 3600 W. Sample Rd., 954-357-8870
http://www.holidaylightsdrivethru.com
COOPER CITY
Light up Cooper City
Friday, December 2
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
Cookies and Cocoa with Santa
Friday, December 9
Spend some sweet time with Santa while enjoying cookies and cocoa. 6:30-8:30pm, Community Center, 9000 SW 50 Place, 954-434-4300
CORAL SPRINGS
Downtown in December
Saturday, December 3
Bring the family for a holiday dance party, train rides, snow, arts and crafts and other fun winter surprises. Free. 5-9pm, City Hall, 9500 W. Sample Rd.
Bethlehem Revisited
Friday-Tuesday, December 9-13
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 14
Enjoy the bright lights at the city’s annual holiday parade with floats, bands, entertainment and more. 7pm, along Sample Road, from Coral Springs Drive to City Hall, 944-344-1001
The Nutcracker
Friday-Sunday, December 16-18
A delightful production of the holiday classic. Friday 7:30pm; Saturday 2pm; Sunday 2pm. The Center, 2855 Coral Springs Dr., 954-344-5990
DANIA BEACH
Holiday Tree Lighting
Thursday, December 1
Festive fun for the family includes a synthetic ice-skating rink, entertainment, crafts, bounce houses, face painting and a tree lighting ceremony. 6-8pm, Dania Beach City Hall, 100 W. Dania Beach Blvd., 954-924-3690
DAVIE
Meet Mrs. Claus
Saturday, December 3
Write a letter to Santa Claus using an old-fashioned pen and read a holiday story with Mrs. Claus. $5. 10:30am & noon, Old Davie School Historical Museum, 6650 Griffin Rd., 954-797-1044
Lighting of the Greens
Saturday, December 3
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.
Nature’s Gifts
Saturday, December 10
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
Elf The Musical Jr.
Friday-Sunday, December 16-18
Based on the beloved holiday film, this live stage show is performed by Florida Children’s Theatre. $30. Friday and Saturday 7pm, Saturday and Sunday, 2pm. FLCT Theatre at Broward College, 3501 Davie Rd., 954-763-6882
Garden of Lights
December 16-23 & 26-30
See the botanical gardens and the historic Wray Home decked out with thousands of lights and decorations at night. 5pm, Flamingo Gardens & Wildlife Sanctuary, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., 954-473-2955
http://www.flamingogardens.org
DEERFIELD BEACH
Ocean Way Holiday
Saturday, December 3
A magical evening with a giant interactive snow globe, photos with Santa, live entertainment, holiday character show, stilt walkers and more. 5-9pm, Main Beach Parking Lot, 149 SE Second Ave.,
http://www.deerfield-beach.com
FORT LAUDERDALE
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
Light Up Sistrunk
Friday, December 2
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.
Holiday Magic – Whimsical Wonderland
Saturday, December 3
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. 5:30-8pm, Bonnet House, 900 N. Birch Rd.
Winterfest Boat Parade
Saturday, December 10
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
North Pole Pajama Party
Saturdays, December 10 & 17
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. 9am, Museum of Discovery and Science, 401 SW Second St., 954-713-0930
The Nutcracker
Friday, December 16
The Arts Ballet Theatre transports the audience to a land filled with snowflakes and sugar plums in this holiday classic. 10am, The Parker, 707 NE Eighth St., 954-462-0222
http://www.parkerplayhouse.com
Menorah Lighting Celebration
Sunday, December 18
Honor the first night of Hanukkah at this celebration with a traditional menorah lighting, music and treats. 6pm, Las Olas Oceanside Park, 3000 E. Las Olas Blvd.
Cirque Dreams Holidaze
Wednesday-Thursday, December 28-29
A holiday tradition that wraps together a whimsical, Broadway-style musical with contemporary circus artistry. $29-$69. Wednesday, 8pm; Thursday, 2pm & 8pm. Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., 954-462-0222
Noon Year’s Eve
Saturday, December 31
Ring in 2023 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
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
HOLLYWOOD
Hollywood Beach Candy Cane Parade
Saturday, December 3
A magical evening under the stars featuring floats, marching units and bands with a hometown flavor. Free. 7pm, along the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, 954-921-3404
Holiday Concert
Sunday, December 11
The Music Club showcases a festive music concert. Free. 2-3pm, Anne Kolb Nature Center, 751 Sheridan St., 954-357-5161
Christmas Near The Beach
Saturday, December 17
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
Chanukah Festival
Thursday, December 22
Music and more for the whole family. 7pm, Hard Rock Hotel, One Seminole Way,
http://www.chanukahfestival.com
Holiday Hayride & Campfire
Friday, December 30
Start a holiday tradition by taking a hayride around the park and enjoying an old-fashioned marshmallow roast around a campfire. $4. Pre-register online. 6:30-9pm, T.Y. Park, 3300 N. Park Rd., 954-357-8811
LAUDERDALE-BY-THE-SEA
Christmas-by-the-Sea
Wednesday, December 7
An evening of old-fashioned family fun, entertainment and activities. Free. 5-8:30pm, Anglin’s Square, Commercial Boulevard and El Mar Drive, 954-640-4200
LIGHTHOUSE POINT
Lighthouse A’Glow
Wednesday, December 7
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 16
A family-friendly festival with children’s activities, live performances, kiddie rides, Florida-style snow, photos with Santa and more. 6-10pm, Margate Boulevard from US 441 to NW 58 Street, 954-972-6458
MIRAMAR
Visit with Santa
Saturday, December 10
Meet Santa at the big beach chair to tell him what’s on your list and to take a photo on your own phone or camera. 2:30-4pm, Miramar Pineland, 3600 A. University Dr., 954-357-8776
The Nutcracker
Saturday, December 17
A classical holiday ballet presented by Ballet Etudes for the whole family to enjoy. $40-$60. 2:30pm & 7:30pm, Miramar Cultural Center, 2400 Civic Center Place
http://www.miramarculturalcenter.org
OAKLAND PARK
Holiday Village
Friday-Saturday, December 2-3
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 11am-10pm. Jaco Pastorius Park, 4000 N. Dixie Highway, 954-630-4500
PEMBROKE PINES
SnowFest
Saturday, December 3
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
PLANTATION
Winter Wonderland
Through December 31
A wonderland of more than 40 themed holiday trees, Hanukkah displays, miniature train village and more. Closed Sundays, Mondays and Wednesdays. Call for hours. Free. Plantation Historical Museum, 511 N. Fig Tree Lane, 954-797-2722
http://www.plantation.org/museum
POMPANO BEACH
Yuletide Parade
Thursday, December 1
Line up for a hometown holiday parade starting at Riverside Drive, heading west to Atlantic Boulevard. Free. 6:30pm, along Atlantic Boulevard,
Pompano Beach Holiday Boat Parade
Friday, December 9
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. 7-9pm.
http://www.pompanobeachchamber.com
This Shining Night
Saturday, December 10
The Florida Singing Sons present their annual holiday concert. 7pm, The Pink Church, 2331 NE 26 Ave.
http://www.floridasingingsons.org
Breakfast with Santa
Saturday, December 17
Play some festive games and then have breakfast with the big guy. $7. 9-11am, Emma Lou Olson Civic Center, 1801 NE Sixth St., 954-786-4111
SUNRISE
Holiday Tree Lighting
Friday, December 2
Get into the holiday spirit with live music, decorations and a lighting of the city’s seasonal display. Free. 6-8pm, Sunrise Civic Center Campus, 10610 W. Sunrise Blvd., 954-747-4600
Elf The Musical Jr.
Friday & Sunday, December 9 & 11
See this fun family musical based on the holiday film. $20. Sunrise Civic Center Theatre, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., 954-747-4646
The Nutcracker Ballet
Saturday-Sunday, December 17-18
Fort Lauderdale Youth Ballet presents the holiday classic about a young girl who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince. All ages. Reserved seating, $30. Saturday 7pm, Sunday 4pm. Sunrise Civic Center Theatre, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., 954-747-4646
TAMARAC
Holiday Tree Lighting
Thursday, December 1
A festive night featuring a Christmas tree, Menorah and Kinara lighting, an interactive children’s area, visit with Santa and a live holiday performance. 6-8pm, Tamarac Community Center, 8601 W. Commercial Blvd.
Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland
Friday, December 9
Have a holly jolly night filled with inflatable rides, pony rides, face painting, carnival games, photos with Santa and a special appearance by Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. 6-8pm, Tamarac Park, 7501 N. University Dr.
WESTON
Christmas Tree Lighting
Sunday, December 4
Enjoy the holiday festivities during this annual event. 4-8pm, Weston Town Center.
http://www.westontowncenter.net
WILTON MANORS
Santa Paws
Saturday, December 3
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.
Holiday Lighting Ceremony
Thursday, December 8
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.
Wilton Wonderland
Saturday, December 17
Bring the family to see Santa and to participate in holiday activities. 10am-noon, Hagen Park, 2020 Wilton Dr.
Miami-Dade County
AVENTURA
The Nutcracker
Friday-Sunday, December 9-11
Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida presents this classic ballet to Tchaikovsky’s popular score. Friday & Saturday, 7pm; Sunday, 3pm. $50 and up. Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, 3385 NE 188 St.
COCONUT GROVE
DIY – Holiday Magnets
Saturday, December 10
Kids ages 6-12 can create a decorative glass magnet to keep or give as a gift. Materials provided. Pre-registration required. 11am-noon, Coconut Grove Branch Library, 2875 McFarlane Rd., 305-442-8695
CORAL GABLES
Voices of Angels
Sunday, December 18
The Miami Children’s Chorus presents a captivating holiday performance. 6-8pm, First United Methodist Church of Coral Gables, 536 Coral Way
http://www.miamichildrenschorus.org
The Nightgarden
Through January 8
Experience the fantasy and wonderment of effects including the wise talking tree, flying fairies, and holographic butterflies at this magical light spectacular. $25-$46. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Rd., 305-667-1651
http://www.fairchildgarden.org
CUTLER BAY
The Nutcracker
Saturday-Sunday, December 3-4
This classic Christmas ballet about a little girl’s journey to the Land of Sweets is performed by the Miami Youth Ballet. $26-$41. Saturday 7pm, Sunday 4pm. The Moss Center, 10950 SW 211 St., 786-573-5300
Holiday Golf Cart Parade and Celebration
Saturday, December 10
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.
DORAL
Holiday Tree Lighting
Friday, December 2
Be dazzled as twinkling lights add holiday cheer to the night. 6-8pm, Downtown Doral Park, 8395 NW 53 St., 305-593-6600
Holiday Celebration at the Park
Friday, December 9
Celebrate the season with a festive evening of live performances, inflatables, face painters and more. 6-10pm, Doral Meadow Park, 11555 NW 58 St.
Light Up the Night
Monday, December 19
Festivities include a menorah lighting, light refreshments and recognition of first responders. 6-8pm, Downtown Doral Park, 8395 NW 53 St., 305-593-6600
HOMESTEAD
Magic of Lights
Through January 1
Drive through a dazzling light display using the latest LED technology and digital animations. $20/standard vehicle through Dec. 8; $25/standard vehicle Dec. 9 through Jan. 1. 6-10pm, Homestead-Miami Speedway, One Ralph Sanchez Speedway Blvd.
MIAMI
Christmas Market
Saturday, December 3
Have some fun at this European-themed market featuring artisan crafts and food. Santa Claus will visit from 11am-2pm. 10am-5pm, German-American Social Club, 11919 SW 56 St.
Joy: A Not So Silent Night
Friday, December 9
A live music event with snow, food trucks, bounce houses and more. 7-9pm, First Miami Presbyterian Church, 609 Brickell Ave.
http://www.firstmiami.org/brickellsoul
Miami City Ballet’s The Nutcracker
December 16-18 & 20-24
The Miami City Ballet presents George Balanchine’s dazzling choreography. Showtimes vary. Adrienne Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., 305-949-6722
The Polar Express Train Ride
Through December 29
Put on your pajamas and climb aboard this one-hour magical trip to meet Santa. Set to the sounds of the motion picture, the adventure includes hot chocolate and a treat by dancing chefs. $65-$75. Miami Central Station, 600 First Ave.
http://www.miamithepolarexpressride.com
Zoo Lights
Through December 30
During select nights in December, visitors can see the zoo twinkle with dazzling lights. See website for details. $20.95/adult, $18.95/child. 6:30-10pm, Zoo Miami, 12400 SW 152 St., 305-251-0400
Santa’s Enchanted Forest
Through January 8
Lights, rides, food, games, entertainment and more make this holiday wonderland glow. 7400 NW 87 Ave.
http://www.santasenchantedforest.com
MIAMI BEACH
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Friday, December 23
See a screening of the live-action version of this popular holiday movie. 3-5pm, Miami Beach Regional Library
MIAMI LAKES
Anime Holiday Party
Wednesday, December 7
Discover through anime how the holidays are celebrated in Japan. Ages 12-18. Pre-registration required. 4-5pm, Miami Lakes Branch Library, 6699 Windmill Gate Rd.
Reindeer Run 5K
Saturday, December 10
Get a healthy start to the holiday season by running a festive 3-mile race. There’s also a Little Reindeer Dash for kids. 8-11am, Miami Lakes Veterans Park, 15151 NW 82 Ave.
PALMETTO BAY
Historic Holidays Evening Strolls
Friday, December 2 & Wednesday, December 14
See the historic houses of the Deering Estate decorated in elegant holiday décor, keep warm by a campfire and watch some holiday films. $15/adult, $7/child. 6:30-9:30pm, Deering Estate, 16701 SW 72 Ave., 305-235-1668
Story Time & Photos With Santa
Saturday, December 17
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
PINECREST
Nights of Lights
December 11-January 1
Be enchanted as Pinecrest Gardens transforms into a holiday wonderland featuring thousands of sparkling lights, a holiday-themed maze, storytelling and live entertainment on select nights. $20/adult, $15/child. 6-9pm, Pinecrest Gardens, 11000 Red Rd., 305-669-6990
http://www.pinecrestgardens.org
SOUTH MIAMI
Santa’s Parade of the Elves
Sunday, December 4
See a procession of elves and entertainment wind their way through South Miami. 2pm, Sunset Drive from US-1 to 57th Avenue, and 57th Avenue from 72nd Street to 74th Street 305-668-3873
SUNNY ISLES BEACH
Winter Fest
Saturday-Sunday, December 3-4
A two-day celebration featuring an illumination ceremony, activities for all ages and more. $5/resident, $20/non-resident. Saturday 5-9pm, Sunday 10am-2pm. Gateway Park, 151 Sunny Isles Blvd.
Palm Beach County
Tree Lighting and Holiday Concert
Friday, December 2
Listen to a live concert and watch a tree lighting ceremony during this free, monthly concert series. 5-8pm, Boynton Beach Amphitheater, 120 E. Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach.
Zoo Lights
December 2-4, 9-11, 16-23, 26-30
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-$22. 6-9pm, Palm Beach Zoo, 1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach, 561-547-9453
Ornaments Naturally
Saturday, December 3
Create holiday decorations using shells, sea beans, pinecones and unusual natural materials. Materials are provided. $8/member, $13. 10am & 1pm, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton, 561-544-8605
Boynton Beach Holiday Parade
Saturday, December 3
Bring lawn chairs and settle in to watch a festive parade pass by. 4-6pm, Federal Highway and Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach.
Gumbo Limbo Aglow
December 6, 16, 20 & 30
Celebrate the SEAS’n during this nighttime event that includes holiday ambiance, illuminated outdoor aquariums, yard games and festive photo opportunities. $17.50. 6-7:30pm, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton, 561-544-8605
Holiday Boat Parade
Friday, December 9
See festively decorated boats, decked out in dazzling lights, travel along the waterway during this annual event. The parade travels south from the Ocean Avenue Bridge in Lantana to the C-15 Canal in Delray Beach at 6:30pm.
http://www.boyntonbeachcra.com
Delray Beach Holiday Parade
Saturday, December 10
Watch this festive procession as it travels down Atlantic Avenue beginning at 6pm. This year’s theme is: Winter Nights and Holiday Lights.
http://www.downtowndelraybeach.com
Gingerbread Holiday Concert
Sunday, December 11
Family-friendly concert for all ages featuring seasonal classics and holiday cheer. $35 and up. 3pm, Lynn University Wold Performing Arts Center, 3601 N. Military Trail, Boca Raton, 561-237-7000
Winter Wonderland Laser Lights & Bites
Fridays, December 16, 23 & 30
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. $18.95/adult, $14.95/child. 6-9pm, Cox Science Center and Aquarium, 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach.
http://www.coxsciencecenter.org
Jingle Bell Jog
Saturday, December 17
Get your jingle on at this 5K event that gives out Santa suits and shoelace bells to runners to race in. All runners receive a medal. 7:30-9:30am, Anchor Park, 340 S. Ocean Blvd., Delray Beach.
Menorah Lighting
Sunday, December 18
Stop by Old School Square for a menorah lighting at Sunset. Old School Square, 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach
http://www.downtowndelraybeach.com
Miami City Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Wednesday-Friday, December 28-30
The Miami City Ballet presents George Balanchine’s dazzling choreography. 2pm & 7pm, Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach, 561-832-7469
