Published: December 3, 2025
By: Shannon Pease-Severance
Tropical Tidings
South Florida shines bright with a holiday season full of twinkling light displays, open-air festivities, beachside celebrations and hot cocoa by the coast.
BROWARD COUNTY
Coconut Creek
Holiday Fantasy of Lights
Through January 3
Get in the holiday spirit while driving through this holiday display of lights. Fee applies.
Tradewinds Park, 3600 Sample Rd., http://www.holidaylightsdrivethru.com
COOPER CITY
Light up Cooper City
Friday, December 5
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
Cookies and Cocoa with Santa
Friday, December 12
Spend some sweet time with Santa while enjoying cookies, cocoa and crafts. $20/adult, $15/child. 6:30-8:30pm,
Community Center, 9000 SW 50 Place, 954-434-4300 http://www.coopercityfl.org
Menorah Lighting
Sunday, December 14
Celebrate Hanukkah with a menorah lighting in the park. 5-6:30pm,
Memorial Park, 9001 SW 51 St., http://www.coopercity.gov
CORAL SPRINGS
Light up the Lawn
Saturday, December 6
Bring the family for a tree lighting ceremony, snow zone and other fun winter surprises. Free. 5-9pm,
City Hall, Lawn, 9500 W. Sample Rd., http://www.coralsprings.org
Holiday Parade
Wednesday, December 10
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
Bethlehem Revisited
Friday-Tuesday, December 12-16
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
DAVIE
Lighting of the Greens
Saturday, December 6 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
Mrs. Claus’ Davie Christmas
Saturday, December 6
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
Winter Wonderland at Flamingo Gardens
Through December 30
Experience the magic of the season featuring lights, themed-displays, a 35-foot Christmas tree, Santa’s Village, scheduled appearances by Santa, a Hoffman’s Chocolates Pop-up Shop, live music and more. Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. 5:30-9pm,
Flamingo Gardens & Wildlife Sanctuary, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., 954-473-2955 http://www.flamingogardens.org
DEERFIELD BEACH
Ocean Way Holiday
Saturday, December 6
A magical evening with live entertainment, Santa, activities for kids and more. 5-9pm,
Main Beach Parking Lot, 149 SE Second Ave., http://www.deerfield-beach.com
FORT LAUDERDALE
Light Up Sistrunk
Friday, December 5
A one-of-a-kind holiday celebration with fun and entertainment, including a tree lighting, live bands, holiday activities, a health fair, kids zone and more. 5-8pm,
Sistrunk Boulevard, from NW Ninth to NW 11th Avenues, http://www.fortlauderdale.gov
Cookies with Santa
Saturday, December 6
Enjoy a sweet treat and a five-minute family photo session inside the Historic Stranahan House. The cost is $45 for a family of four, and $5 for each additional person. By appointment only. 9am-3:30pm,
Historic Stranahan House, 335 SE Sixth Ave., http://www.stranahanhouse.org/cookies-with-santa
Holiday Magic Whimsical Wonderland
Saturday, December 6
An evening for families with live entertainment, holiday crafts, 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., http://www.bonnethouse.org
50th Annual Holiday Concert
Saturday, December 6
The Florida Singing Sons present their annual holiday concert. 7-9pm,
First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale, http://www.floridasingingsons.org
Light Up Carter Park
Friday, December 12
There’s holiday cheer and fun for everyone at this event featuring live performances, bounce houses, train rides, face painting and more. 5-8pm,
Carter Park, 1450 W. Sunrise Blvd., http://www.fortlauderdale.gov
Winterfest Boat Parade
Saturday, December 13
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. 6-8:30pm.
http://www.winterfestparade.com
Menorah Lighting Celebration
Sunday, December 14
Honor the first night of Hanukkah at this celebration with a menorah lighting, music and treats. 6pm,
Las Olas Oceanside Park, 3000 E. Las Olas Blvd., http://www.fortlauderdale.gov
The Nutcracker
Friday-Sunday, December 19-21 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
Noon Year’s Eve Wednesday, December 31 Ring in 2026 with music, dancing, science experiments 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
Holiday in the Park
Friday, December 5
Kick off the holiday season with a family-friendly event featuring children’s activities, holiday crafts, community performances, visits with Santa, holiday music, inflatables and food trucks. 6-9pm,
Peter Bluesten Park, 501 SE First Ave., http://www.cohb.org/holiday
HOLLYWOOD
Hollywood Beach Candy Cane Parade
Saturday, December 6
A magical evening under the stars featuring floats, marching units and bands with a hometown flavor. Free. 7-10pm,
along the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, http://www.hollywoodfl.org
Christmas Near the Beach
Saturday, December 13
Enjoy a free holiday festival with a giant Christmas tree, a live nativity, live musical performances, photo opportunities with Santa, a festive marketplace and giveaways. 4-9pm,
ArtsPark at Young Circle, One Young Circle, http://www.hollywoodfl.org
Nature’s Gifts
Saturday, December 13
Make some nature-based arts and crafts to give to loved ones. $2 donation. 10am-1pm,
Long Key Nature Center, 3501 SW 130 AVe., Davie, http://www.broward.org/parks
LAUDERDALE-BY-THE-SEA
Christmas-by-the-Sea
Wednesday, December 3 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 3
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 19
A family-friendly festival with children’s activities, live performances, kiddie rides, Florida-style snow, photos with Santa and more. 6-10pm,
Margate Sports Complex, 1695 Banks Rd., http://www.margatefl.com
OAKLAND PARK
Holiday Village
Friday-Saturday, December 5-6
Have some holiday fun with children’s activities, a snow slide, a visit with Santa, live entertainment, a tree decorating contest and more. Free. Friday 5:30-10pm, Saturday 1-9pm.
Jaco Pastorius Park, 4000 N. Dixie Highway, 954-630-4500 http://www.oaklandparkfl.gov
PEMBROKE PINES
SnowFest
Saturday, December 6
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
Light Up City Hall
Saturday, December 6
Bring the family for a night of fun featuring selfies with Santa, ice skating, snow, vocal groups, food trucks and crafts. 5-9pm,
Plantation City Hall, 400 NW 73 Ave., http://www.plantation.org
Winter Wonderland
Through January 4
A wonderland of more than 40 themed holiday trees and more. Closed Sundays-Tuesdays. Call for hours. Free.
Plantation Historical Museum, 511 N. Fig Tree Lane, 954-797-2722 http://www.plantation.org/museum
POMPANO BEACH
Yuletide on Atlantic Parade
Thursday, December 4 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
Pompano Beach Holiday Boat Parade
Friday, December 12
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
Donuts with Santa
Saturday, December 13
Have a sweet time while enjoying delicious donuts and mingling with Saint Nick. $7/person. 9-11am,
Emma Lou Olson Center, 1801 NE Sixth St., http://www.pompanobeachfl.gov
SUNRISE
Light Up The Holidays Featuring Winter Wonderland
Saturday, December 6
Get into the holiday spirit with live music, decorations and a lighting of the city’s seasonal display. Free. 5-9pm,
Sunrise Amphitheater, 10770 W. Oakland Park Blvd., 954-747-4600
The Nutcracker Ballet
Friday-Sunday, December 12-14
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
TAMARAC
Winter Wonderland
Friday, December 12
Have a holly jolly night with reindeer games, bounce houses, face painting and more. 6pm,
Tamarac Park, 7501 N. University Dr., http://www.tamarac.org
Paws with Claus
Saturday, December 13
Bring your fur baby for pet-friendly holiday fun. 10am,
Gary B. Jones Park for People and Pups, 8101 Southgate Blvd., http://www.tamarac.org
WESTON
Symphony in the Park
Saturday, December 13
Bring lawn chairs or a blanket to enjoy a joyful holiday concert for all ages. Free.
Town Center Park Amphitheater, 1900 Bell Tower Lane, http://www.westonfl.org
WILTON MANORS
Holiday Lighting Ceremony
Thursday, December 4
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
Santa By Sea
Wednesday, December 10
Santa will take to the Sea from Colohatchee Park Boat Ramp to sail around the Island City with his elves to spread the holiday cheer. Be sure to come out to one of these parks to meet and greet Santa or if you live on the water, come out and say hello. 5pm,
Colohatchee Boat Ramp, 1975 NE 15 Ave., http://www.wiltonmanors.gov
Wilton Wonderland
Saturday, December 20 Bring the family to see Santa and friends to participate in holiday activities. 10am-noon,
Hagen Park, 2020 Wilton Dr., http://www.wiltonmanors.com
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY
AVENTURA
The Nutcracker
Friday-Sunday, December 12-14
Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida presents this classic ballet to Tchaikovsky’s popular score.
Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, 3385 NE 188 St., http://www.aventuracenter.org
CORAL GABLES
A Very Merry Garden
December 1 – January 4
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
Night at the Garden
Through January 11
Experience the fantasy and wonderment of effects including the wise talking tree and glowing pathways at this magical light spectacular. 6-10pm,
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Rd., 305-667-1651 http://www.fairchildgarden.org
CUTLER BAY
The Nutcracker
Saturday-Sunday, December 6-7
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 Celebration & Golf Cart Parade
Saturday, December 13
It’s a unique take on a typical parade as a procession of decked-out golf carts glide by. Additional holiday activities include photos with Santa, holiday inflatables, food trucks, face painters, a toy drive, music and more. 6-10pm,
Cutler Ridge Park, 10100 SW 200 St., http://www.cutlerbay-fl.gov
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
Sunday, December 14
Enjoy seasonal carols and a festive poetry reading with Seraphic Fire. 4pm,
The Moss Center, 10950 SW 211 St., 786-573-5300 http://www.mosscenter.org
DORAL
Holiday Celebration at the Park
Saturday, December 6
Celebrate the season with a festive evening of live performances, carnival rides, inflatables, face painters and more. 4-8pm,
Doral Central Park, 3000 NW 87 Ave., http://www.cityofdoral.com
Light Up the Night
Sunday, December 14
Festivities include a menorah lighting and light refreshments. 5:30-6:30pm,
Downtown Doral Park, 8395 NW 53 St., 305-593-6600www.cityofdoral.com
MIAMI
Miami City Ballet’s The Nutcracker
December 12-28
The Miami City Ballet presents George Balanchine’s dazzling choreography. Showtimes vary.
Adrienne Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., 305-949-6722 http://www.arshtcenter.org
Just for Me: Snowy Holiday
Saturday, December 20
Discover the science of polymers and create your own snow. Just for Me is a program dedicated to welcoming individuals and families with diverse sensory and accessibility needs. 10-11:30am,
Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, 1101 Biscayne Blvd.,http://www.frostscience.org
Christmas Wonderland
Through January 4
Experience loads of holiday displays, a midway with carnival rides, live shows, holiday festivities, interactive activities 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.
Miami, 12400 SW 152 St., Miami, http://www.zoomiami.org
MIAMI LAKES
Reindeer Run 5K
Saturday, December 13
Get a healthy start to the holiday season by running a festive 3-mile race. 8-10am,
Miami Lakes Veterans Park, 15151 NW 82 Ave., http://www.miamilakes-fl.gov
PALMETTO BAY
Historic Holiday Evening Stroll
Friday, December 5
Celebrate the spirit of the season with an enchanting evening as you stroll through the beautifully lit grounds. Explore the Historic Richmond Cottage decked in holiday décor. $20. 5:30-9pm,
Deering Estate, 16701 SW 72 Ave., 305-235-1668 http://www.deeringestate.org
Story Time & Photos With Santa
Saturday, December 13 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 $18/adult, $10/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 5-28
Be enchanted as Pinecrest Gardens transforms into a holiday wonderland featuring thousands of sparkling lights on select nights. 6:30-10pm,
Pinecrest Gardens, 11000 Red Rd., 305-669-6990 http://www.pinecrestgardens.org
PALM BEACH COUNTY
BOCA RATON
Gingerbread Holiday Concert
Sunday, December 7
Family-friendly concert for all ages featuring seasonal music and holiday cheer. $35. 3pm,
Lynn University Wold Performing Arts Center, 3601 N. Military Trail, 561-237-7000 http://www.lynn.edu/events
Hanukkah Storytime
Wednesday, December 10 Families are invited to listen to a story, play a game and make a Hanukkah-themed craft. 4:30-5:15pm,
West Boca Branch Library, 18685 FL-7, http://www.pbclibrary.org
Dino Christmas
Sunday, December 21 Enjoy an afternoon reading of The Dinosaurs’ Night Before Christmas and then make a simple craft. Ages 5-10. 2:30-3pm,
West Boca Branch Library, 18685 FL-7, http://www.pbclibrary.org
BOYNTON BEACH
Baby Bells
Thursday, December 4
Jingle along with your little one with rhymes, songs and movement activities for babies. 10:30-11am,
West Boynton Branch Library, 9451 Jog Rd., http://www.pbclibrary.org
Holiday Ornament Making
Saturday, December 6
Drop in to create a unique holiday ornament. Supplies provided. Ages 6-15. 2-3pm,
West Boynton Branch Library, 9451 Jog Rd., http://www.pbclibrary.org
Boynton Beach Holiday Parade
Saturday, December 6
Bring lawn chairs and settle in to watch a festive parade pass by. 4-6pm,
Downtown Boynton Beach, http://www.boynton-beach.org
Holiday Boat Parade
Friday, December 12
See festively decorated boats decked out in dazzling lights, travel along the Intracoastal waterway. 6-9pm,
Boynton Harbor Marina, 735 Casa Loma Blvd., http://www.boyntonbeachcra.com
DELRAY BEACH
Delray Beach Holiday Parade
Saturday, December 13
Watch this festive procession as it travels down Atlantic Avenue beginning at 6pm.
http://www.downtowndelraybeach.com
Chanukah Festival & Menorah Lighting
Sunday, December 14
Stop by Old School Square for a menorah lighting and family activities. 6pm,
Old School Square, 51 N. Swinton Ave., http://www.downtowndelraybeach.com
Jingle Bell Jog
Saturday, December 20
Get your jingle on at this 5K and Elf Dash morning run that gives out Santa suits to runners to race in. Pre-register online. 7:30am,
Anchor Park, 340 S. Ocean Blvd., http://www.jinglebelljog.net
Kwanzaa Celebration
Friday, December 26
Celebrate African heritage and culture through live music, gift making, storytelling and art activities. 2-5pm,
Spady Cultural Heritage Museum, 170 NW Fifth Ave., http://www.spadymuseum.com
WELLINGTON
Holiday Hogwarts and Hot Cocoa
Monday, December 1
Have a magical movie night with a cozy screening of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone while sipping on hot chocolate. 5:30-8:30pm,
Wellington Branch Library, 1951 Royal Fern Dr., http://www.pbclibrary.org
Holiday Cards for Kids
Saturday, December 6
Kids can make Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa cards for loved ones. Ages 4-12. 2:30-4pm,
Wellington Branch Library, 1951 Royal Fern Dr., http://www.pbclibrary.org
WEST PALM BEACH
Ballet Palm Beach Presents The Nutcracker
Friday-Sunday, December 5-7
The timeless Christmas classic returns, performed by Ballet Palm Beach.
Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., 561-832-7469 http://www.kravis.org
Winter in Paradise
Saturday, December 6
Enjoy a festive evening filled with live music and family-friendly activities, including arts and crafts, rollerskating and a holiday firetruck with snow. 5-9pm,
Heart & Soul Park, 825 N. Rosemary Ave., http://www.wpb.org
Nights in Northwood Village
Friday, December 12
Celebrate the holiday season with dazzling holiday lights, one-of-a-kind holiday gifts by local artisans and live entertainment. 6-9pm,
along Northwood Road, http://www.wpb.org
Aloha Islanders Tropical Holiday Spectacular
Sunday, December 21
See a vibrant, holiday-themed Polynesian show featuring drums, hula dancers and Samoan fire knife dancers. 4-7pm,
NewDay USA Stage on the Waterfront Commons, 100 N. Clematis Street
Zoo Lights
Select nights through January 4
Start a new tradition with family and friends by strolling the zoo while it’s twinkling with eco-friendly lights, festive music and magical moments. 5:30-9pm,
Palm Beach Zoo, 1301 Summit Blvd., 561-547-9453 http://www.palmbeachzoo.org
Ilumina: A Tropical Garden Lantern Festival
Wednesdays-Sundays, through January 11
Experience Mounts Botanical Garden after dark when nature, art and imagination come alive through a celebration of light. Timed tickets are available. $26/adult, $10/age 2-17.
Mounts Botanical Garden, 531 N. Military Trail, http://www.mounts.org/ilumina