Florida transforms into a festive wonderland during Christmas, offering a myriad of enchanting activities. Wander through St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights or drive through the Space Coast Lightfest for dazzling displays. Theme parks like Disney World and Universal Orlando host magical parades and shows, while unique events like the Sandi Tree in West Palm Beach and Surfing Santas in Cocoa Beach add a quirky coastal twist. Don’t miss out on cultural gems like the Dickens on Centre festival in Fernandina Beach. Whether you’re into light shows, boat parades, or historical tours, Florida’s holiday season is packed with unforgettable experiences, awaiting your discovery.
Experience the dazzling Nights of Lights in St. Augustine’s historic district.
Celebrate at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Walt Disney World.
Enjoy the unique Sandi Tree light show in West Palm Beach.
Attend the festive Dickens on Centre in Fernandina Beach.
Holiday Light Displays
Florida’s holiday season shines brightly with spectacular light displays that charm both residents and visitors alike.
One of the most enchanting events is the Nights of Lights in St. Augustine. Running from mid-November to the end of January, this event transforms the historic district with millions of twinkling lights. Visitors can explore the dazzling displays through various sightseeing tours by train, trolley, boat, or even helicopter, creating unforgettable holiday memories.
In Central Florida, the Holiday Festival of Lights in Plantation turns Central Park into a winter wonderland. This festival showcases millions of lights and themed displays, providing a magical atmosphere for families to enjoy.
Another notable event is the Space Coast Lightfest in Melbourne, where a drive-through holiday light display features animated scenes and decorations. This event not only brings joy to attendees but also benefits local charitable organizations.
Christmas in Florida is incomplete without festive boat parades. Boca Raton hosts a vibrant boat parade with beautifully decorated vessels, illuminating the waterfront. Similar parades in Fort Lauderdale and Jacksonville offer opportunities to admire decorated boats while supporting local causes.
These holiday light displays guarantee that the holiday season in Florida is nothing short of mesmerizing.
Theme Park Celebrations
Florida’s theme parks transform into magical holiday wonderlands, making them perfect for Christmas celebrations.
At Walt Disney World, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party offers enchanting parades and dazzling fireworks.
Meanwhile, Universal Orlando’s Grinchmas and Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter transport visitors to festive, storybook settings.
LEGOLAND Florida’s Winter Wonderland delights with a giant LEGO Christmas tree and special holiday shows, ensuring fun for the whole family.
Disney Holiday Magic
Experience the enchanting holiday magic at Disney parks in Florida, where exclusive events and festive decorations create an unforgettable Christmas celebration.
At the heart of this magical experience is Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom. Running on select nights from early November through late December, this event offers unique holiday shows, a special parade, and breathtaking Christmas light displays.
Step into a winter wonderland as you enter the Magic Kingdom, where an iconic Christmas tree greets visitors with twinkling lights and festive ornaments. The park is adorned with elaborate decorations, creating a spellbinding atmosphere that captures the essence of the season.
Don’t miss the holiday shows, featuring your favorite Disney characters in festive costumes, singing and dancing to classic Christmas tunes.
Beyond the Magic Kingdom, each Disney park brings its own holiday flair. At Epcot, the Festival of the Holidays celebrates global traditions with special foods and live performances.
Meanwhile, Disney’s Hollywood Studios dazzles with the ‘Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!’ nighttime spectacular, a stunning combination of fireworks and projections themed around beloved holiday films.
Throughout all the parks, character meet-and-greets in festive attire provide perfect photo opportunities, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.
Celebrating the holiday season, Universal Orlando Resort transforms into a festive wonderland with its annual Grinchmas event and a vibrant holiday parade. At Universal Studios, Grinchmas comes alive with live shows and whimsical decorations inspired by Dr. Seuss’s beloved characters, bringing joy to visitors of all ages.
The holiday parade is a highlight, featuring colorful floats, lively characters, and cheerful seasonal music. This festive holiday spectacle captures the magic of the season, creating unforgettable memories for families and friends.
A visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter during this time is particularly enchanting. Both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade sparkle with dazzling holiday lights, and the Hogwarts Castle light projection show adds an extra layer of wonder. These special touches make the seasonal celebrations at Universal Orlando truly magical.
After a day in the parks, guests can unwind at Universal’s CityWalk, where themed dining and entertainment options continue the festive spirit. Whether you’re enjoying a holiday meal or catching a live performance, CityWalk offers a perfect ending to a day filled with holiday cheer.
Running from mid-November through the first week of January, Universal Orlando’s seasonal festivities offer a prime destination for holiday fun and enchantment.
Legoland Winter Wonderland
For an equally enchanting holiday experience, LEGOLAND Florida offers a Winter Wonderland complete with a giant LEGO Christmas tree and festive decorations throughout the park.
Located at 1 Legoland Way in Winter Haven, Florida, LEGOLAND transforms into a spectacular holiday celebration that delights visitors of all ages.
The Holly Jolly Jubilee is one of the highlights of this annual event. This live show is packed with entertainment, making it a must-see for families looking to add a bit of holiday magic to their visit.
LEGOLAND’s themed attractions and special holiday shows are included with regular admission, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festive spirit without breaking the bank.
Here are some of the exciting features you can expect at LEGOLAND Florida during the holiday season:
Giant LEGO Christmas Tree: Admire the breathtaking LEGO Christmas tree, a centerpiece that lights up the park with holiday cheer.
Holly Jolly Jubilee Show: Experience a lively performance that will leave you singing and laughing.
Festive Decorations: Walk through the park and marvel at the beautiful holiday decorations that transform LEGOLAND into a winter wonderland.
LEGOLAND Florida’s Winter Wonderland offers a unique, joyful celebration perfect for creating unforgettable holiday memories.
Unique Christmas Events
Florida is home to some truly unique Christmas events that bring a special flair to the holiday season.
Imagine the Sandi Tree in West Palm Beach, a massive sand sculpture lit up with music, or the Surfing Santas event in Cocoa Beach, where costumed surfers hit the waves.
Don’t miss the Dickens on Centre in Fernandina Beach, transforming the city into a charming Victorian wonderland complete with festive activities for the whole family.
Sandi Tree Display
The Sandi Tree Display in West Palm Beach offers a remarkable fusion of holiday tradition and coastal charm with its 35-foot sand sculpture, enchanting visitors with its nightly light shows and festive attractions.
This unique holiday decoration, crafted from 700 tons of sand, transforms the beachfront into a magical holiday wonderland. The Sandi Tree is not just a visual treat; it also brings the festive spirit alive with mesmerizing light displays synchronized to festive music, creating an enchanting atmosphere for all ages.
Families can enjoy the Sandi Tree Display for free, making it an accessible and memorable holiday experience. This event includes a variety of holiday-themed activities and attractions, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It has become a beloved holiday tradition, drawing thousands of visitors each season to celebrate Christmas in a distinctive coastal setting.
Here are three key highlights of the Sandi Tree Display:
Spectacular Sand Sculpture: A 35-foot tree made of 700 tons of sand, showcasing intricate holiday decorations.
Nightly Light Shows: Dazzling light displays synchronized to festive music, creating a magical experience.
Holiday Activities: Various attractions and activities, perfect for a family experience.
This blend of sand, lights, and festive cheer makes the Sandi Tree Display a must-see event.
Surfing Santas Event
After marveling at the enchanting Sandi Tree Display, another unique Christmas event to experience in Florida is the Surfing Santas event in Cocoa Beach. Held annually on Christmas Eve, this festive holiday celebration transforms the beach into a vibrant community gathering where participants dress as Santa Claus and ride the waves. It’s a sight to behold, with hundreds of Santas catching the surf, bringing joy and laughter to spectators.
The Surfing Santas event isn’t just about the surfing Santas. It features live music, costume contests, and various activities that make it a day full of fun and excitement. This celebration also has a charitable side, raising money for local charities and encouraging attendees to bring non-perishable food items to support local food banks. In 2022, the event attracted over 10,000 attendees, showcasing its popularity and the festive spirit of the holiday surfing culture in Florida.
This beloved tradition emphasizes the warm and playful nature of Christmas in Florida, making it a must-see for both locals and visitors. It’s not just a holiday celebration; it’s a symbol of the lively and generous spirit of the Cocoa Beach community.
Victorian Dickens Celebration
Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at the Victorian Dickens Celebration in Fernandina Beach, where the city transforms into a lively representation of Victorian London with costumed characters from Charles Dickens’ novels. This enchanting event is perfect for families looking to kick off the holiday season in a unique and festive way.
The celebration offers a variety of activities that cater to all ages, making it an unforgettable experience:
Tiny Tims Kid Zone: This area is a haven for children, featuring crafts and games inspired by the holiday spirit. Kids can immerse themselves in the Victorian theme while having fun.
Performances and Caroling: The streets come alive with performances and caroling, adding a magical touch to the atmosphere. The sounds of traditional holiday songs fill the air, creating a warm and welcoming environment.
Holiday-Themed Markets: Local businesses participate by offering Victorian-style decorations and themed refreshments. These markets provide a perfect opportunity to find unique holiday gifts and enjoy seasonal treats.
The Victorian Dickens Celebration typically takes place in early December, making it an ideal event to start the holiday festivities. The historic district of Fernandina Beach, adorned with Victorian decorations, guarantees an immersive and joyous celebration for all who attend.
Holiday Boat Parades
Holiday boat parades in Florida offer a spectacular fusion of festivity and maritime tradition, drawing both locals and visitors to the state’s waterways for unforgettable seasonal celebrations. These holiday boat parades, adorned with festive lights, create a magical holiday atmosphere that illuminates the night and brings communities together.
One of the most popular events is the Winterfest Boat Parade in Fort Lauderdale. This grand spectacle showcases beautifully decorated boats, each one more dazzling than the last, making it a must-see Christmas tradition.
In Palm Beach, the Holiday Boat Parade delivers a vibrant display of illuminated vessels cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway. This event not only enhances the festive spirit but also supports local charities, allowing participants and spectators to give back to the community.
Similarly, Jacksonville’s Light Boat Parade draws crowds with its stunning light displays and festive decorations on boats, enriching the city’s holiday charm.
These parades typically take place in early December, providing an ideal activity for families and visitors seeking unique Christmas traditions. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, attending a holiday boat parade in Florida offers a delightful blend of visual splendor and communal goodwill, making the season even more special.
Historic Celebrations
Florida’s historic celebrations during the Christmas season offer a unique blend of tradition, culture, and festive charm.
One of the most enchanting events is the Night of Lights in St. Augustine. This historic celebration transforms the city’s historic district with millions of twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere from mid-November to the end of January. It’s truly a sight to behold and a perfect way to kick off the holiday spirit.
In Winter Park, the Holiday Home Tour invites visitors on a self-guided tour of beautifully decorated homes. These homes are adorned with stunning holiday decor, and the event supports local community organizations, making it a festive and charitable experience. It’s an opportunity to see some of the most beautifully decorated homes up close and get inspired for your own holiday decorations.
Orlando’s Festival of Trees showcases beautifully decorated trees and offers holiday entertainment while benefiting local artists and charities. This event is a feast for the eyes and a wonderful way to support the community during the festive season.
Here are three must-see historic celebrations in Florida:
Night of Lights in St. Augustine
Holiday Home Tour in Winter Park
Festival of Trees in Orlando
Family Activities
For families seeking festive fun, Florida offers a plethora of activities that promise to create unforgettable holiday memories.
One of the most enchanting experiences is the Nights of Lights in St. Augustine. This event transforms the historic district into a sparkling wonderland with millions of lights from mid-November to the end of January, making it a real treat for visitors of all ages.
Theme parks are another highlight during the holiday season. LEGOLAND Florida hosts its annual holiday celebration, featuring special shows, a giant LEGO Christmas tree, and festive decorations, all included in regular admission. It’s a fantastic destination for family activities that blend creativity and festivity seamlessly.
In Miami, Santas Enchanted Forest stands as the world’s largest holiday theme park. With over 100 rides, shows, and games, it offers endless entertainment, ensuring every family member finds something to enjoy.
Meanwhile, the Christmas at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales provides a more serene experience, allowing families to stroll through beautiful seasonal displays.
Cultural Celebrations
A myriad of cultural celebrations enrich Florida’s Christmas season, offering diverse experiences that reflect the state’s vibrant heritage and multicultural community. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional German festivities or a stroll through Victorian London, Florida has something for everyone.
Explore these festive delights:
Festival of Trees in Orlando: This event showcases beautifully decorated trees, each crafted by local artists. Families can wander through the displays, enjoy festive atmospheres, and support local charities. It’s a perfect way to start the holiday season while giving back to the community.
Nights of Lights in St. Augustine: Experience the historic district transformed into a dazzling wonderland, illuminated by millions of lights. Running from mid-November to January, this celebration includes enchanting holiday performances, creating a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
Dickens on Centre in Fernandina Beach: Step back in time to Victorian London with themed activities, street performers, and a Tiny Tims Kid Zone for children. This charming festival offers a nostalgic journey through the holidays, filled with cheer and whimsy.
These cultural celebrations provide a unique and festive way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit, showcasing the rich mosaic of traditions that make Florida’s Christmas season unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is There to Do in Florida at Christmas Time?
Florida offers a plethora of festive activities during Christmas, including theme park events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, dazzling light displays in St. Augustine, and unique experiences such as Santas Enchanted Forest and the Winterfest Boat Parade.
Is Florida a Good Place to Go for Christmas?
Florida is an excellent destination for Christmas, offering festive events like Nights of Lights in St. Augustine, unique celebrations at theme parks, and warm weather that allows for enjoyable outdoor holiday dining and shopping experiences.
Are There Any Christmas Towns in Florida?
Yes, Florida boasts several Christmas-themed towns, including Christmas, known for its year-round holiday spirit, Celebration with its Disney-crafted charm, St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights, and Fernandina Beach’s Dickens on Centre Victorian Christmas experience.
Are There Christmas Markets in Florida?
Yes, Florida hosts numerous Christmas markets, including Lake Worth’s Christkindlmarkt, Orlando’s Festival of Trees, and Clearwater’s Winter Wonderland. These markets offer traditional foods, crafts, and festive activities, creating a vibrant holiday shopping experience.
Conclusion
To summarize, Florida offers a multitude of delightful activities to celebrate Christmas, from enchanting holiday light displays and festive theme park celebrations to unique local events and vibrant boat parades.
Historic celebrations and family-friendly activities provide a rich fabric of experiences, while cultural festivities add depth and diversity to the season.
With so many options, Florida guarantees a memorable and joyous holiday season, making it a perfect destination to create cherished Christmas memories.
