Discover the Magic | A Guide to Festive Events in South Florida

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

As the year draws to a close, South Florida comes alive with the spirit of the holidays. From the shores of Martin and Palm Beach County to the vibrant cityscapes of Miami, each county offers its own unique set of festive experiences. From boat parades that shimmer along the waterfront to tree lighting ceremonies that illuminate the night, South Florida invites you to partake in a season of joy and celebration. Let's uncover the ways in which South Florida adds its own touch of magic to the holiday season.

Martin County:

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• 16th Anniversary Tykes & Teens Festival Of Trees & Lights
  • The Tykes & Teens Festival of Trees and Lights in Stuart is an annual event that showcases beautifully decorated Christmas trees, each a unique creation by local businesses and individuals. Hosted by the Tykes & Teens organization, the festival serves as a heartwarming fundraiser, with proceeds supporting vital mental health services for children and families in the community. In addition to the festive trees, attendees can enjoy live entertainment, seasonal treats, and even meet Santa Claus. 
  • Date: Nomember 14th - 16th
  • Event Schedule: Click Here
  • Flagler Place
    201 SW Flagler Ave
    Stuart , FL  34996
• Christmas On Main
  • ​Experience Christmas on Main Street in Downtown Stuart. Featuring live music, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Clause, plenty of holiday treats and shopping opportunities and the annual tree lighting. The historic streets are filled with twinkling lights, creating a magical backdrop for this annual celebration.
  • Date: November 24th; 4pm to 7pm
  • Historic Downton Stuart
• Martin County Christmas Boat Parade
  • The Martin County Florida Christmas Boat Parade is an annual nautical extravaganza with a breathtaking display of festively adorned boats. Boat owners go above and beyond, meticulously decorating their vessels with an array of colorful lights, seasonal decorations, and imaginative displays. As the sun sets, the shimmering boats set forth, accompanied by joyful music, creating a radiant and magical procession that captivates spectators along the riverbanks. 
  • Date: December 16th; 6:30pm
  • Downtown Stuart to Manatee Pocket

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Palm Beach County

• Delray Beach 100ft Christmas Tree Lighting
  • A tradition since 1992, the Delray Beach 100ft Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony is a beloved event in South Florida. This towering tree, adorned with over 15,000 dazzling lights, stands as a symbol of community spirit. The event features live entertainment, food vendors, and a visit from Santa Claus, creating a festive atmosphere for all.
  • Date: November 28th; 6pm to 9pm
  • Old School Square, Delray Beach, Fl 

• Sandi Tree Lighting
  • Sandi Tree Lighting in West Palm Beach is a distinctive holiday event where a towering Christmas tree named 'Sandi' graces downtown with its radiant glow. Sandi Tree is a stunning creation made entirely of sand, adorned with a dazzling array of lights that illuminate the night sky. The event includes live entertainment, activities, and a nightly light show.
  • Date: November 30th; 6pm to 10pm
  • West Palm Beach Waterfront
• ​Boca Raton Holiday Street Parade​
  • The Boca Raton Holiday Street Parade is a spectacular annual event that transforms downtown Boca Raton into a winter wonderland. The parade features themed floats, marching bands and community groups. It is the perfect holiday event for all ages.
  • Date: December 6th; 7:30pm to 9pm
  • Downtown Boca Raton, Along Federal Hwy

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Broward County 

• Gulfstream Park Village 'Symphony in Lights'
  • This event invites visitors to immerse themselves in a breathtaking display of festive lights. The Symphony in Lights features a dazzling light display, live entertainment, holiday music, and family-friendly activities. It's a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season.
  • Kick off party November 11th; 7pm to 10pm 
  • Date: November 11th - December 31st; 6pm to 11pm a 10 minute show starts at the top of every hour
  • Gulfstream Park, Hallandale Beach
• Holiday Fantasy of Lights
  • Located at Tradewinds Park, this drive-through holiday light display features millions of twinkling lights in various festive scenes. It's a magical experience for families and visitors alike.
  • November 22nd - January 1st; 6pm to 10pm
  • Tradewinds Park, Coconut Creek
• Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade
  • This is one of the most anticipated holiday events in Broward County. It features a dazzling parade of decorated boats that sail along the Intracoastal Waterway, creating a spectacular display of lights for spectators along the shoreline. 
  • December 16th; 4pm to 10pm 
  • Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park​​

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Miami-Dade County

• Santas Enchanted Forest
  • ​Santa's Enchanted Forest is one of the largest holiday theme parks in the world. Spanning 40 acres it features over 100 rides, shows, games, and attractions, along with millions of dazzling lights and festive decorations. Visitors can enjoy carnival rides, meet Santa Claus, and experience live entertainment.
  • November 9th - January 7th; 
  • 7400 NW 87th Avenue
    Miami, Florida 33166
• Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights 
  • This annual extravaganza transforms the vibrant streets of Miami Beach into a magical winter wonderland. With a stunning array of dazzling lights, festive decorations, and joyful displays, the festival sets the stage for a truly memorable holiday experience. See the schedule here. 

​From boat parades to tree lighting ceremonies, South Florida is full of  holiday events that capture the essence of the season. Whether you're in Stuart, Palm Beach, Broward, or Miami-Dade County, there's a cherished tradition waiting to be experienced. So, gather your loved ones, embrace the holiday spirit, and create lasting memories in sunny South Florida this year!  Cick here to book the perfect holiday stay.