From frosty festivals to playful parades, there are many ways to celebrate the season.
Published: November 19, 2021
By: Shannon Pease-Severance
Broward County
COCONUT CREEK
Holiday Music Series
Saturday, December 4, 11, 18 &
Sunday, December 19
Stroll the marketplace while local musicians play holiday music. 2-5pm, 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., 954-357-8870
http://www.holidaylightsdrivethru.com
COOPER CITY
Light up Cooper City
Friday, December 3
Holiday fun includes twinkling lights and seasonal activities. 6-9pm, Memorial Park, between City Hall and the Community Center on 90th Ave., 954-434-4300
Brunch with Santa
Saturday, December 18
Visit with Santa during this annual event. For residents only. Pre-purchase required. $12/adult, $8/child. 10am, Cooper City High School, 9401 StirlingRd., 954-434-4300
CORAL SPRINGS
Downtown in December
Saturday, December 4
Bring the family for a holiday dance party, train rides, ice skating, snow and other fun winter surprises. Free. 5-9pm, City Hall, 9500 W. Sample Rd.,
The Nutcracker
Friday-Sunday, December 10-12
A delightful production of the holiday classic. Friday 8pm; Saturday 2pm & 8pm; Sunday 2pm. The Center, 2855 Coral Springs Dr., 954-344-5990
Holiday Parade
Wednesday, December 15
Enjoy the bright lights at the city’s annual holiday parade with floats, bands, entertainment and more. This year’s theme: Lights, Cameras, Selfies! 7pm, along Sample Road, from Coral Springs Drive to City Hall,
Cirque Musica Holiday Spectacular
Thursday, December 16
The world-renowned cast of Cirque Musica performs to popular holiday songs. 7pm, The Center, 2855 Coral Springs Dr., 954-344-5990
DANIA BEACH
Holiday Tree Lighting
Thursday, December 2
Lots of festive fun for the family including a Tree Lighting Ceremony, entertainment, crafts and photos with Santa. Tree lighting takes place at 6:15pm. 6-8pm, Dania Beach City Hall, 100 W. Dania Beach Blvd., 954-924-6800
DAVIE
Lighting of the Greens
Saturday, December 4
Evening includes holiday music, activities, entertainment, the official lighting of Bamford Park and a visit from Santa. 6-9pm, Bamford Sports Complex, 3801 S. Pine Island Rd.,
Tour with Mrs. Claus
Saturday, December 4
Let Mrs. Claus be your guide as you tour the old schoolhouse. Tours scheduled on the hour from 10am-1pm. $5. Old Davie School Historical Museum, 6650 Griffin Rd., 954-797-1044
Old Davie Christmas
Saturday, December 11
Bring the family for a visit with Santa, petting zoo, hayrides, holiday music and more. 11am-2pm, Old Davie School Historical Museum, 6650 Griffin Rd., 954-797-1044
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Friday-Sunday, December 17-19
Join Rudolph, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster and others on a heart-warming adventure performed by Florida Children’s Theatre. $25/advance, $30/door. FLCT Theatre at Broward College,
3501 Davie Rd., 954-763-6882
Garden of Lights
December 17-23 & 26-30
See the botanical gardens and the historic Wray Home decked out with thousands of lights and decorations. 5-9pm, Flamingo Gardens & Wildlife Sanctuary, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., 954-473-2955
http://www.flamingogardens.org
DEERFIELD BEACH
Ocean Way Holiday
Saturday, December 4
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
Movies in the Park
Friday, December 10
Bring the family for an outdoor screening of The Grinch. Free. 7pm, Middle School Athletic Complex, 501 SW Sixth Ave.
http://www.deerfield-beach.com
FORT LAUDERDALE
Holiday Lights Cruise
December 2-31
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 required. $35/adult, $15/child. Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi, stop number 1 by the Riverside Hotel, 954-467-6677
Light Up Sistrunk
Friday, December 3
A one-of-a-kind holiday celebration with fun and entertainment, including a tree lighting, holiday activities, a Kids Zone and more. 5-9pm, Sistrunk Boulevard, from NW Ninth to NW 11th avenues.
Florida Singing Sons
Friday, December 3
Symphony of Americas, joined by the Girl Choir of South Florida and Florida Singing Sons, performs Holidays of the Americas. 7:45-9:30pm, Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale,
Holiday Magic – Whimsical Wonderland
Saturday, December 4
An evening for families with live entertainment, a scavenger hunt, story time, letters to Santa and more. Pre-registration required. $30/adult, $15/teen, $5/child, 5 and under/free. 5:30-8pm, Bonnet House, 900 N. Birch Rd.,
Miami City Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Friday-Sunday, December 10-12
The Miami City Ballet presents George Balanchine’s dazzling choreography. Showtimes vary. Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave.
Winterfest Boat Parade
Saturday, December 11
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. 954-767-0686
http://www.winterfestparade.com
Light Up Carter Park
Saturday, December 11
Enjoy holiday cheer and activities that include live performances, bounce houses, train rides, face painters, crafts and prizes. 3-7pm, Carter Park, 1450 W. Sunrise Blvd.
North Pole Pajama Party
Saturdays, December 11 & 18
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-Sunday, December 17-19
The Arts Ballet Theatre transports the audience to a land filled with snowflakes and sugar plums in this holiday classic. $26.75-$46.75. Parker Playhouse, 707 NE Eighth St., 954-462-0222
http://www.parkerplayhouse.com
Victorian Christmas Tours
December 18-23
Learn how Christmas was celebrated in the early days of Fort Lauderdale during this docent-led holiday tour of the historic house. Stranahan House, 335 SE Sixth Ave., 954-524-4736
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical
Wednesday, December 22
See all your favorite holiday characters including Santa, Rudolph and the Abominable Snow Monster come to life during this musical adventure. $29.50 and up. 7pm, Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., 954-462-0222
Cirque Dreams Holidaze
Sunday-Monday, December 26-27
A holiday tradition that wraps together a whimsical, Broadway-style musical with contemporary circus artistry. $29-$69. Sunday, 7pm; Monday, 2pm & 8pm. Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., 954-462-0222
Noon Year’s Eve
Friday, December 31
Ring in 2022 with music, dancing, science activities and a “ball drop” at noon. 10am-5pm, Museum of Discovery and Science, 401 SW Second St., 954-467-6637
HALLANDALE BEACH
Chanukah Festival
Sunday, December 5
Music, a light show and more for the whole family. 7pm, The Big Easy Casino, 831 N. Federal Highway, 954-458-1877
http://www.chanukahfestival.com
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 4
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
Christmas Near The Beach
Saturday, December 11
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
Holiday Hayride & Campfire
Friday, December 17
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 1
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
Chanukah Festival
Sunday, December 5
Celebrate Chanukah with live music and festivities by the sea. 5:30-8:30pm, Beach Pavilion, One Commercial Blvd.
LIGHTHOUSE POINT
Lighthouse A’Glow
Wednesday, December 1
Spend an enchanted evening with holiday fun and activities. 6:30-8:30pm, Frank McDonough Park, 3500 NE 27 Ave.
http://www.city.lighthousepoint.com
MARGATE
Winter Festival
Friday, December 17
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
The Nutcracker
Saturday, December 18
A classical holiday ballet presented by Ballet Etudes for the whole family to enjoy. $38-$58. 7pm, Miramar Cultural Center, 2400 Civic Center Place
http://www.miramarculturalcenter.org
Visit with Santa
Sunday, December 19
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
OAKLAND PARK
Holiday Village
Friday-Saturday, December 3-4
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
PARKLAND
Light up the Park
Friday, December 10
Celebrate the season with holiday activities and a display of glimmering lights. 5:30-8pm, Pine Trails Park Amphitheater, 10561 Trails End, 954-757-4105
Snowfest
Thursday, December 16
Lots of wintery fun is in store for the whole family. See website for details. 5-8pm, Pine Trails Park, 10555 Trails End, 954-757-4105
PEMBROKE PINES
SnowFest
Saturday, December 4
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 30
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 2
Line up for a hometown holiday parade starting at Riverside Drive, heading west to Atlantic Boulevard. Free. 6:30pm, along Atlantic Boulevard, 954-786-4111
Breakfast with Santa
Saturday, December 11
Play some festive games and then have breakfast with the big guy. $7. 9-10am, Emma Lou Olson Civic Center, 1801 NE Sixth St., 954-786-4111
Pompano Beach Holiday Boat Parade
Friday, December 10
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
SUNRISE
Holiday Tree Lighting
Friday, December 3
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
Toys in the Sun Run
Sunday, December 5
A toy drive and community gathering with performances, activities and entertainment benefitting Joe DiMaggio’s Children’s Hospital and other children’s charities. $10/person with an unwrapped toy, or $20/person without
a toy. Registration takes place from 8-11am at Alligator Alley Harley-Davidson, 201 International Parkway
The Nutcracker Ballet
Friday-Sunday, December 10-12
Fort Lauderdale Youth Ballet presents the holiday classic about a young girl who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince. All ages. Reserved seating, $30. Friday & Saturday 7pm, Sunday 4pm. Sunrise Civic Center Theatre, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., 954-747-4646
Holiday Hayride & Campfire
Saturday, December 18
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, Markham Park, 16001 W. State Road 84, 954-357-8868
Elves and the Shoemaker
Saturday, December 18
See a live production of a classic fairytale about a poor cobbler and a team of helpful elves. $7. 2pm, Sunrise Civic Center Theatre, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., 954-747-4646
Tamarac Light the Night
Tuesday, December 2
A festive night featuring a Christmas tree, Menorah and Kinara lighting, an interactive children’s area, visit with Santa and a live holiday performance. 6:30pm, Caporella Park, 5200 Prospect Rd.,
Tinsel Town Holiday Drive-Thru
Friday, December 10
Celebrate the holiday season as you drive through an area filled with festive and themed décor. 6-8pm, Tamarac Sports Complex, 9901 NW 77 St., Tamarac
Paws with Claus Holiday Paw-ty and Adoption Event
Saturday, December 11
Dogs can be photographed with Santa and participate in a howling holiday time. 10am-noon, Gary B. Jones Park for People and Pups, 8101 Southgate Blvd.
WESTON
Yuletide Carolers
Thursday, December 23
Listen to the sounds of the season at the Bell Tower. 7-8:30pm, Weston Town Center
http://www.westontowncenter.net
WILTON MANORS
Holiday Lighting Ceremony
Thursday, December 2
Kick off the holidays with an annual lighting of a Menorah, Kinara and Christmas tree. 6:30pm, Justin Flippen Park, 2109 Wilton Dr.
Santa by the Sea
Wednesday, December 15
If you live by the water in Wilton Manors, step outside and wave hello to Santa, who will be sailing around the Island City with his elves to spread holiday cheer. Santa sets sail at 5pm from the Colohatchee Park Boat Ramp, 1975 NE 15 Ave.
Wilton Wonderland
Saturday, December 18
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 10-12
Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida presents this classic ballet to Tchaikovsky’s popular score. Friday & Saturday, 7pm; Sunday, 3pm. $40. Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, 3385 NE 188 St., Aventura
CORAL GABLES
Voices of Angels
Sunday, December 18
The Miami Children’s Chorus presents a captivating holiday performance. 6-7:30pm, First United Methodist Church of Coral Gables, 536 Coral Way,
http://www.miamichildrenschorus.org
The Nightgarden
Through January 2
Experience the fantasy and wonderment of effects including the wise talking tree, flying fairies, and holographic butterflies at this magical light spectacular. $24-$34. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Rd., 305-667-1651
http://www.fairchildgarden.org
CUTLER BAY
The Nutcracker
Saturday-Sunday, December 4-5
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 8pm, Sunday 3pm. South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211 St., 786-573-5300
Holiday Golf Cart Parade, Toy Drive and Winter Celebration
Saturday, December 11
It’s a unique take on a typical parade as a procession of decked-out golf carts glide by. Additional holiday activities included. Bring along a new, unwrapped toy to be donated to a child. 6-10pm, Cutler Ridge Park, 10100 SW 200 St.
DORAL
Holiday Tree Lighting & Movie Night
Wednesday, December 1
Be dazzled as twinkling lights add holiday cheer to the night. While there, the family can watch a special screening of Polar Express. 6pm, Downtown Doral Park, 8395 NW 53 St., 305-593-6600
Holiday Celebration at the Park
Friday, December 10
Celebrate the season with a festive evening of live performances, inflatables, a gingerbread house contest and more. 6pm, Doral Meadow Park, 11555 NW 58 St.
HIALEAH
Santa’s Snow Blast
Saturday, December 11
The kids can have lots of wintery fun at this event that includes a mountain of snow to play in, bounce houses, rides, games, live entertainment and more. 5-9pm, Milander Park, 4700 Palm Ave.
Santa’s Enchanted Forest
Through January 2
Lights, rides, food, games, entertainment and more make this holiday wonderland glow. Hialeah Park, 3100 E. Fourth Ave., Hialeah, 305-892-9997
http://www.santasenchantedforest.com
HOMESTEAD
Magic of Lights
Through January 1
Drive through a dazzling light display using the latest LED technology and digital animations. $20/standard vehicle. 6-10pm, Homestead-Miami Speedway, One Ralph Sanchez Speedway Blvd.
MIAMI
Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol
December 1-5, 8-12 & 16-19
Spun off A Christmas Carol classic, this show tells the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge’s former partner andchains-rattling ghost, Jacob Marley. Showtimes vary. Adrienne Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd.
Christmas is in the Air
Saturday, December 11
The Florida Chamber Orchestra presents a traditional concert with timeless holiday melodies. 8pm, Miami-Dade County Auditorium, 2901 W. Flagler St., 305-547-5414
http://www.miamidadecountyauditorium.org
The Polar Express Train Ride
December 11-30
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, a cookie and a keepsake sleigh bell.
$55-$70. Miami Central Station, 600 First Ave.
http://www.miamithepolarexpressride.com
Miami City Ballet’s The Nutcracker
December 16-19, 21-24 & 26
The Miami City Ballet presents George Balanchine’s dazzling choreography. Showtimes vary. Adrienne Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., 305-949-6722
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
MIAMI LAKES
Jingle Bell Jog 5K
Saturday, December 11
Participants of this themed race receive Santa suits to run in, jingle bells for their sneakers and a holiday- themed finishers medal. The event also includes a Little Elf Dash for kids. $45/adult, $20/child. 8am, Picnic Park West, 15151 NW 82 Ave.
http://www.jinglebelljog.net/miami-lakes
MIAMI SHORES
Dashing through the Shores
Saturday, December 4
Enjoy a tree lighting followed by a 3K Fun Run/Walk through Miami Shores. Jingle bells and glow sticks provided. $5/person. 6pm, Village Hall, 10050 NE Second Ave.
MIAMI SPRINGS
Christmas at the Gazebo
Saturday, December 4
See Santa, a holiday parade and participate in festivities featuring rides, snow and more. $15/non-resident, $5/resident. 5:45-9pm. Parade begins at City Hall, 201 Westward Dr., and proceeds to the Gazebo. 305-805-5000
http://www.miamisprings-fl.gov
PALMETTO BAY
Historic Holidays Evening Strolls
Friday, December 3 & Wednesday, December 15
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 11
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-noon, Deering Estate, 16701 SW 72 Ave., 305-235-1668
PINECREST
Nights of Lights
December 10-January 2
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. Closed on December 18. $15-$20. 6-9pm, Pinecrest Gardens, 11000 Red Rd., 305-669-6990
http://www.pinecrestgardens.org
SOUTH MIAMI
Santa’s Parade of the Elves
Sunday, December 5
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
Palm Beach County
Zoo Lights
December 3-5, 10-12, 17-23, 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. $14.95/adult,
$12.95/child. 6-9pm, Palm Beach Zoo, 1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach, 561-547-9453
Gingerbread Holiday Concert
Sunday, December 5
Family-friendly concert for all ages featuring seasonal classics and holiday cheer. $35. 3pm, Lynn University Wold Performing Arts Center, 3601 N. Military Trail, Boca Raton, 561-237-7000
Ornaments Naturally
Saturday, December 18
Create holiday decorations using shells, sea beans, pinecones and unusual natural materials. Materials are provided. $8/member, $12/non-member. 10am & 1pm, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton, 561-544-8605
Miami City Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Wednesday-Thursday, December 29-30
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
