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45 Top Florida Events in December 2023

Last Updated on March 26, 2024

Are you looking for fun December events in Florida? We’ve put together a great selection of events.

The cooler December weather brings many exciting and festive events to the Sunshine State.

Florida Christmas Tree

We are recommending an array of events happening in every corner of Florida.

From the enchanting charm of Mount Dora to the vibrant streets of Miami Beach, December in Florida is full of great, unique events.

Flamingo Christmas from Authentic Florida

Whether you are a local seeking new experiences or a visitor eager to sight-see, these December events are a perfect opportunity to explore more of this amazing state.

Table of Contents

    Northwest Florida

    Yule of Yesteryear – Valparaiso

    Yule of Yesteryear Promotional Flyer

    When: Saturday, December 9, 2023, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

    Where: Heritage Museum – Perrine Park, 115 Westview Ave., Valparaiso, FL 32580

    More Information: Yule of Yesteryear is an annual event that takes place in Florida every December.

    The Valparaiso celebration is hosted by the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida and includes live entertainment, food trucks, a bake sale, and more.

    Yule Schedule for Yule of Yesteryear

    Event attendees enjoy free parking and museum admission. Partaking in holiday fun by sending letters to Santa and listening to local choir groups and bell ringers.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, enjoy the Best Fishing Spots in Destin.

    19th Annual Christmas Miracle Children’s Fiesta – Fort Walton Beach

    19th Annual Christmas Miracle Childrens Fiesta Promotional Flyer.

    When: December 17, 2023 from 1:00 to 6:00 pm.

    Where: The Northwest Florida Fairgrounds, 1958 Lewis Turner Blvd., Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547

    More Information: The 19th Annual Christmas Miracle Children’s Fiesta is a great Fort Walton Beach event to attend this December.

    Toy bag at Christmas Miracle Childrens Fiesta

    Hosted by United for a Good Cause Inc., this free fiesta is geared toward financially challenged families.

    With the help of Toys of Tots and donations from local businesses and individuals, all children who go to this celebration can receive brand-new toys.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Pensacola Winterfest – Pensacola

    Pensacola Winterfest

    When: Select dates throughout December

    Where: 223 S Palafox St, Pensacola, FL 32502

    More Information: Pensacola Winterfest is a popular December weekend celebration in Northwest Florida.

    The Downtown Pensacola event has a bunch of different ticketed activities for guests to enjoy, like A Whoville Christmas Caper and a Polar Express Tour.

    Check out Fun Things to Do in Pensacola & Pensacola Beach – 2023.

    Winterfest Characters on the beach.

    Make sure to catch the free nightly preshows to sing and dance with some of the event’s coolest characters.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Crestview Christmas Parade – Crestview

    Crestview Parade Rescheduled

    When: Saturday, December 9, 2023

    Where: Downtown Crestview

    More Information: The Crestview Christmas Parade is a Downtown Crestview event that makes its way down Main Street. See decked-out holiday floats – one of which transports Santa himself.

    Crestview Parade Float
    Source: Main Street Crestview Association, Inc.

    The celebration will include lights, snow, reindeer, and other holiday fun.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    North Central Florida

    Main Street Christmas Tree Lighting – Alachua

    Alachua Christmas Tree Lighting

    When: Friday, December 1, 2023 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm

    Where: Mainstreet Alachua

    More Information: Downtown Alachua transforms into a winter wonderland for the Main Street Christmas Tree Lighting.

    The event includes activities for the whole family, like arts and crafts, live music, and free hot chocolate and popcorn.

    Christmas On Main Street Alachua

    Of course, we know the tree lighting is the main event, so make sure to get a good spot and watch the holiday season begin with a dazzling array of lights.

    Guests can also reserve time with Santa with classic photo ops.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, don’t miss the Top 5 Things to Do Near Gainesville FL.

    Lady Lake Christmas Parade – Lady Lake

    Lady Lake Christmas Parade promotional flyer.

    When: Saturday, December 2, 2023, starting at 10:00 am.

    Where: 107 S Old Dixie Hwy, Lady Lake, Florida, 32159

    More Information: The Lady Lake Christmas Parade is a fun Florida event with a twist – the theme is Christmas in Space. Depart from classic Christmas celebrations and join the cosmic-themed fun.

    Lady Lake Parade Route

    The parade includes themed floats and appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Marching bands are performing holiday music while floats represent various planets and galaxies during this unique Christmas event.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Cottom’s Farm Christmas Village – Weirsdale

    Cottom's Farm Christmas Village

    When: December 8-24, 2023

    Where: Cottom’s Farm, 4650 Marion County Road, Weirsdale, FL 32195

    More Information: Head to Cottom’s Farm and visit its Christmas Village. This ticketed event includes a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as hayrides and Christmas light strolls around the property.

    Cottoms Cocoa Cafe

    On December 9th, the village hosts its annual Craft & Vendor Fair, a fantastic holiday shopping opportunity for unique Christmas gift ideas.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Holiday Floral Arranging – Lake City

    Holiday Floral Arranging

    When: December 21, 2023, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm.

    Where: 437 NW Hall of Fame Dr., Lake City, FL 32055

    More Information: Do you admire and envy the beautiful holiday floral arrangements you see each year? If you want to level up your holiday décor skills, we suggest attending the Holiday Floral Arranging workshop.

    Holiday Floral Arranging graphic

    The ticketed workshop lasts approximately three hours and teaches participants how to craft the perfect low holiday table arrangement. Make sure to register in advance for this hands-on event.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, check out 19 Best Things to Do in Lake City, FL.

    Northeast Florida

    Deck the Chairs – Jacksonville Beach

    Deck the chairs 2023 promotional flyer.

    When: December 6th through December 31st, 2023.

    Where: Jacksonville Beach

    More Information: Deck the Chairs is a holiday-themed event for middle and high school art programs. Area schools provide student art displays for this fun Jacksonville area event.

    Octopus Garden lit up.

    Enjoy nightly light shows, check out the art, and more at this unique event.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, don’t miss the Top 5 Things to Do in Downtown Jacksonville.

    Florida Christmas Remembered – Barberville

    A Florida Christmas Remembered promotional flyer.

    When: Saturday, December 9, 2023

    Where: Barberville Pioneer Settlement, 1776 Lightfoot Lane, Barberville, Florida 32105

    More Information: A Florida Christmas Remembered is a quintessential December event hosted by the Barberville Pioneer Settlement.

    The ticketed event offers plenty of things for the entire family to do.

    Barberville Pioneer Settlement during the holidays

    There is live music, an arts and crafts area, meet-and-greets with Santa, living history demonstrations, and more fun at this holiday celebration.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Holiday in the Gardens – Palm Coast

    Holiday in the Gardens 2023

    When: December 9, 2023, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.

    Where: Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, 6400 N Ocean Shore Blvd, Palm Coast, FL 32137

    More Information: Head over to Washington Oaks Gardens State Park for their Holiday in the Gardens event.

    It’s a ticketed event that includes arts and crafts vendors, food, music, a kid’s area, a plant sale, and more.

    Washington Oaks holiday plants
    Source: Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

    Entry is ticketed by car. The event collects toy and food donations for local families, so bring what you can to this great local celebration.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    After this event, check out the Things to Do on the Palm Coast and Flagler Beaches.

    Dickens on Centre – Fernandina Beach

    Dickens on Centre logo

    When: December 7-10, 2023

    Where: Downtown Fernandina Beach

    More Information: The 9th Annual Dickens on Centre is a fantastic Florida event this December.

    We love this unique Victorian Christmas Festival in historic Fernandina Beach.

    Dickens on Centre Map

    This weekend celebration includes free trolley rides, excellent holiday shopping opportunities, fun for the kids, and live Victorian-inspired holiday entertainment.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, make A Pitstop at the Pippi Longstocking House in Fernandina Beach.

    Central West Florida

    Hernando Beach Front Porch Art Walk

    Hernando Beach Front Porch Art Walk promotional flyer.

    When: December 2, 2023, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

    Where: 3400-4036 Shoal Line Blvd., Hernando Beach, FL 34607

    More Information: The Hernando Beach Front Porch Art Walk is a monthly event that takes place on the first Saturday of every month.

    Hernando Beach Art Walk Christmas

    See Hernando Beach area artists display their work. It’s a great opportunity to take in the local art scene and maybe even take a one-of-a-kind piece home with you.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, don’t miss the Exploring Florida’s Adventure Coast, Brooksville – Weeki Wachee in 2023 andTop 5 Things to Do North of Tampa.

    Breakfast with Santa – Clearwater

    Clearwater Breakfast with Santa promotional flyer.

    When: December 3, 2023, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.

    Where: Clearwater Marine Aquarium, 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767

    More Information: If you want to share a meal with Santa at one of our favorite Clearwater spots, Breakfast with Santa at the Clearwater Aquarium is the perfect event to attend.

    Santa and Mrs claus at breakfast with santa
    Source: Clearwater Marine Aquarium

    Partake in a delicious, gourmet breakfast buffet that has an omelet station, build-your-own-waffle station, and other classic breakfast options.

    Santa makes an appearance for a fantastic aquatic-themed photo op at this unique ticketed event.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    After the event, check out the 18 Best Things to Do in Clearwater Beach.

    Honeymoon Island Bluegrass Festival – Dunedin

    Honeymoon Island Bluegrass Festival

    When: December 2, 2023

    Where: Honeymoon Island State Park, 1 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, FL 34698

    More Information: For another unique Florida December event, head over to Dunedin for the Honeymoon Island Bluegrass Festival at Honeymoon Island State Park.

    Honeymoon Island Bluegrass Festival

    This ticketed event includes six hours of continuous Bluegrass music, local food vendors, a kid’s area, and other fun entertainment.

    Feel free to bring your furry friends, as this festival is dog-friendly.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, check out the 7 Best Florida Beach Towns and 19 Best Things to Do in Dunedin, FL – 2024.

    North Pole Express – Parrish

    North Pole Express Christmas Train.

    When: Dec. 1-3, Dec. 6-10, Dec. 13-17, Dec. 20-21

    Where: 12210 83rd St E, Parrish, FL 34219

    More Information: If you have wanted to take a train ride to the North Pole, Parrish’s North Pole Express is a must-attend event.

    Ticketed guests can take a 35-minute train ride from Parrish to the North Pole.

    North Pole Express

    Upon arriving at the North Pole, prepare to be greeted with entertainment, activities, hot chocolate, cookies, and a meet-and-greet with Santa.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Tampa Theatre’s Holiday Classics – Tampa

    Tampa Theatre Holiday Classics

    When: Now through January 7, 2024

    Where: Tampa Theatre, 711 N Franklin St., Tampa, FL 33602

    More Information: The holiday season isn’t complete without watching classic holiday movies. Tampa Theatre’s Holiday Classics allows guests to experience one of our favorite pastimes on the big screen.

    Tampa Theatre

    Through December, Tampa Theatre has showings of classics like National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, The Grinch, and It’s a Wonderful Life. Make sure to book your tickets in advance.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, check out the 11 Top Things to Do in Tampa, Florida and 10 Best Bakeries in Tampa, FL.

    Downtown St. Pete Holiday Events

    Winter Events child sledding on the snow.

    When: November 25, 2023 -January 1, 2024

    Where: South Straub Park, North Straub Park, Pioneer Park, Crescent Lake Park, Vinoy Park & St. Pete Pier

    Christmas lights put up on trees in a park.
    • Holiday Lights & Displays
    • Snowfest Santa in the Park
    • Movie in the Park
    • Santa’s Calling
    • Cookie’s with Santa

    More Information: Downtown St. Pete hosts many holiday events in December.

    You won’t want to miss these awesome festivities, from a snow-themed festival and meeting Santa Claus to watching Christmas movies and more.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, don’t miss the Top 5 Things to Do in St. Pete, FL in 2023.

    A Taste of Chanukah – Sarasota

    A Taste of Chanukah promotional flyer.

    When: Sunday, December 10, 2023 from 4:00 to 6:00 pm.

    Where: Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231

    More Information: A Taste of Chanukah is a Winter Music & Food Festival hosted by the Chabad of Sarasota.

    The ticketed event includes fun activities like a snow slide, train rides, and a live DJ.

    Menorah being lit at a festival.

    Kosher food is available for purchase during this great Chanukah celebration.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, check out Top 10 Awesome Things To Do in Sarasota.

    Florida Cracker Christmas – Brooksville

    Florida Cracker Christmas promotional flyer.

    When: Saturday, December 9, 2023 from 6:00 to 9:00 pm.

    Where: Jack Daniels Amphitheatre, 966 East Jefferson Street, Brooksville, FL 34601

    More Information: The 5th Annual Florida Cracker Christmas is an iconic Brooksville December event.

    The Old Florida celebration includes live musical performances and plenty of Southern hospitality.

    Florida Cracker Christmas graphic

    A portion of the proceeds for this event benefit Operation Heart F.E.L.T., a nonprofit that provides meals to local students during weekends and school breaks.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, make sure to Put the Florida Mermaid Trail in Brooksville on Your Bucket List and Celebrating the History of Weeki Wachee Springs.

    Central Florida

    Mount Dora Holiday Events

    Mount Dora Christmas Walk

    Mount Dora Christmas Walk Event Flyer

    When: December 1, 2023

    Where: Downtown Mount Dora, 530 N Donnelly St, Mount Dora, Florida, 32757

    More Information: The Mount Dora Christmas Walk has event-goers walking through the charming town while taking in all of the gorgeous holiday décor.

    Mount Dora Holiday Lights

    Do some holiday shopping at local boutiques and meet Santa Claus while strolling through the city.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Check out 23 Best Things to Do in Mount Dora in 2023.

    Mount Dora Christmas Parade

    Mount Dora Christmas Parade promotional flyer.

    When: December 2, 2023, 10:00 am through 12:00 pm

    Where: Donnelly Park, 530 N Donnelly St, Mount Dora, Florida, 32757

    More Information: As far as Florida December events go, the 63rd Annual Mount Dora Christmas Parade is a tradition you won’t want to miss.

    Mount Dora Christmas Parade

    The Mount Dora Lions Club sponsors the parade and has festive floats making their way through the city.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Mount Dora Snow in the Park

    Mount Dora Snow in the Park promotional flyer.

    When: December 9, 2023, from 3:00 to 7:00 pm.

    Where: 100 N Donnelly St, Mt Dora, FL 32757

    More Information: We love it when events bring snow to the Sunshine State – and Mount Dora Snow in the Park does just that.

    The celebration includes an array of winter fun.

    Mount Dora Snow in the Park

    The event accepts food and toy donations to benefit the local community.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, don’t miss the 23 Best Things to Do in Mount Dora in 2023.

    Citrus Tower’s Holiday Light Show – Clermont

    Florida Citrus Tower Light Show.

    When: Nightly from 7:00 – 9:00 pm in December.

    Where: Citrus Tower, 141 S Hwy 27, Clermont, FL 34711

    More Information: The Citrus Tower’s Holiday Light Show is a nightly event happening in Clermont through the end of the year.

    Watch the iconic Citrus Tower glow with holiday lights and enjoy treats like hot cocoa and sugar cookies.

    Citrus Tower lights

    The Citrus Tower and Citrus Coffee Co. are open during the event, making it a great time to see one of our favorite views of Florida after dark.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area visit the 16 Best Things to Do in Clermont, FL.

    Season of Light

    Maitland Season of Light

    When: Saturday, December 2, 2023 from 5:00 to 8:30 pm.

    Where: Lake Lily Park, 1776 Independence Lane, Maitland, FL, 32751

    More Information: Head to Lake Lily Park for Maitland’s Season of Light, an event with carnival games, live music, and fireworks.

    Santa walking down a path

    Enjoy holiday activities like snow sledding, Christmas tree lighting, and seeing Santa Claus at this free-admission winter celebration.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, don’t miss the 7 Top Things to Do in Maitland, Florida.

    Holidays in the Highlands – Lake Wales

    Holidays in the Highlands

    When: Throughout December

    Where: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853

    More Information: Holidays in the Highlands is a Bok Tower Gardens event that brings visitors to one of the highest points in Florida to celebrate the season.

    In addition to beautiful winter garden displays, the event has historic El Retiro decked out in Christmas décor.

    Bok Tower Gardens holiday tree.

    One of our favorite features is the live Carillon concerts.

    Listen to music from The Nutcracker performed through the lovely carillon bells at this unforgettable event.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Check out Bok Tower Gardens Sparkle for the Holidays and 6 Best Things to Do in Lake Wales, FL.

    The Christmas Mansion Tours – Deland

    Christmas Mansion tour with holiday decorations.

    When: Now through January 20, 2024

    Where: Stetson Mansion, 1031 Camphor Ln, DeLand, FL 32720

    More Information: The Stetson Mansion is a historic piece of DeLand.

    During the holiday season, this amazing piece of Florida history hosts Christmas Mansion Tours.

    Merry Christmas sign on a piano

    Engage in guided or self-guided tours of the mansion and see all the grand holiday décor.

    Each of the rooms is elaborately decorated for this elegant Christmas celebration.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, don’t miss the 15 Best Things to Do in DeLand.

    Wekiva Island Winter Wonderland

    Wekiva Island Winter Wonderland promotional flyer.

    When: December 1-26, 2023

    Where: Various locations on Wekiva Island.

    More Information: Wekiva Island Winter Wonderland is an annual event that transforms Wekiva Island into a winter wonderland with snow flurries and a Christmas tree forest.

    Santa waiting to greet guests

    Various activities are hosted throughout December for this celebration. This includes a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, outdoor Christmas movie viewing, and more.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Central East Florida

    Whiskers in Wonderland – Port St. Lucie

    Whiskers in Wonderland Promotional Flyer.

    When: December 9, 2023 at 5:00 pm.

    Where: Humane Society of St. Lucie County, 8890 Glades Cut Off Rd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34986

    More Information: Whiskers in Wonderland is a perfect event for pet lovers. It is a free-admission holiday celebration hosted by the Humane Society of St. Lucie County.

    Dog in santa hat

    Enjoy food trucks, live music, local vendors, and photos with Santa Paws.

    Pet adoptions are open during the event, so you can take a new furry family member home for the holidays.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    64th Annual Christmas Parade – Holly Hill

    Holly Hill Christmas Parade

    When: Saturday, December 2, 2023, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.

    Where: City of Holly Hill

    More Information: The 64th Annual Christmas Parade is a festive event taking place in Holly Hill.

    Watch floats decorated with holiday spirit as they go down US-1 during this fun Old Florida celebration.

    Parade route for holly hill

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Holiday Bike Parade – Cocoa

    Holiday Bike Parade at Cocoa Riverfront Park

    When: Saturday, December 15, 2023, starting at 6:30 pm.

    Where: 401 Riveredge Blvd, Cocoa, FL 32922

    More Information: The Holiday Bike Parade in Cocoa Village is a free event that is perfect for creative and active participants.

    Decorate your bicycle with garland, colored lights, and other holiday décor – you can win awards for your craftiness.

    Cocoa Village Bike Parade entrant
    Source: Historic Cocoa Village

    The parade will be escorted by a group official through historic Cocoa Village.

    This event accepts hygiene and cleaning products as donations benefiting Family Promise of Brevard.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Surfing Santas of Cocoa Beach

    Surfing Santas 2024 Events
    Source: Surfing Santas

    When: Sunday, December 24th, from 7:30am – Noon

    Where: 3 Minutemen Causeway, Cocoa Beach, Florida 32931

    More Information: Surfing Santas of Cocoa Beach is an annual event where participants dress up as Santa Claus and other holiday characters and surf along the coast of Cocoa Beach, Florida.

    This festive gathering typically takes place on Christmas Eve. It attracts both local surfers and visitors from various places.

    The event often features a variety of Santa-clad surfers riding the waves, sometimes accompanied by elves, reindeer, and other Christmas-themed characters.

    Learn more from the official Surfing Santas website.

    While in the area, check out 12 Reasons to Visit the Florida’s Space Coast (2024).

    Southwest Florida

    Johnsonville Night Lights in the Garden – Naples

    Jacksonville Night Lights in the Gardens Promotional Flyer

    When: Nov. 24-Jan. 7, except for Dec. 24, Dec, 25 and Dec. 31

    Where: 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples, FL 34112

    More Information: Johnsonville Night Lights in the Garden is a ticketed event taking place at the Naples Botanical Garden.

    This popular nighttime event has the gardens decked out in stunning lights, illuminating the property with the holiday spirit.

    Holiday lights at night

    Make sure to book your tickets in advance, as most nights are likely to sell out.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, don’t miss our Ultimate Guide to Naples, Florida 2023.

    Holiday in the Park – Fort Meyers

    Holiday in the park promotional flyer.

    When: Saturday, December 2, 2023, from 3:00 to 7:00 pm.

    Where: Roberto Clemente Park, 1936 Henderson Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33916

    More Information: Holiday in the Park is a Fort Myers event hosted by the Lee County Black History Society.

    Holiday lights in the park

    The celebration includes a Soul Santa Parade, live entertainment, guided tours of the Williams Academy Black History Museum, and other festive activities.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    When visiting the area, check out our Ultimate Guide to Fort Myers & Fort Myers Beach.

    48th Annual Edison and Ford Holiday Nights – Fort Myers

    Edison and Ford Holiday Nights

    When: Nov. 24-Dec. 31, except for Dec. 24-25

    Where: Edison and Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901

    More Information: It’s no secret that we love the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, so of course, the Edison and Ford Holiday Nights are one of our favorite December events in Florida.

    Edison and Ford Winter Estates
    Source: Edison and Ford Winter Estates

    This ticketed celebration is commemorating its 48th year with new light displays, historic decorations, and more.

    The nightly guided holiday tradition tours ensure you see all the incredible details the property has included for this event.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Looking for other fun things to do in the area? Check out An Ultimate Guide to Fort Myers & Fort Myers Beach (2023).

    North Jetty Park Food Truck Rally – Nokomis

    North Jetty Park Food Truck Rally Promotional Flyer

    When: December 1, 2023

    Where: North Jetty Park, 1000 S Casey Key Road, Nokomis, FL 34275

    More Information: Head to North Jetty Park in Sarasota County for the North Jetty Park Food Truck Rally.

    Shiny Gumbo Food truck

    This family-friendly event has games, music, and a great selection of local food trucks.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Southeast Florida

    Jungle Bells Cirque – Miami

    Jungle Bells Cirque Promotional Flyer

    When: December 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 25th, 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th, 30th, 2023.

    Where: Miami’s Jungle Island, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, FL 33132

    More Information: Jungle Bells Cirque is a jungle-themed holiday extravaganza in Miami’s Jungle Island.

    Santa performs the unique 60-minute show and a cast of jungle animals.  

    Jungle Bells Cirque

    Performances are held during weekends in December. Book your tickets in advance through the official website.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, enjoy the 20 Best Brunch Restaurants in Miami.

    Christmas Winter Festival – Miami

    Winter Festival Promotional Flyer

    When: Saturday, December 9, 2023

    Where: Florida Technical College, 20505 South Dixie Hwy. Miami, FL 33189

    More Information: The Christmas Winter Festival is a free admission event at Florida Technical College’s South Miami campus.

    Grinch and cheerleaders

    This holiday celebration includes a free photo with the infamous Grinch himself, games, raffles, face painting, and more.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    If you are looking for a treat, don’t miss the 11 Best Bakeries in Miami, FL.

    Order Up! at the Lowe Art Museum – Coral Gables

    Order Up hamburger

    When: Now through January 14, 2024

    Where: Lowe Art Museum in Coral Gables, 1301 Stanford Dr, Miami, FL 33146

    More Information: Check out the Order Up! exhibition at the Lowe Art Museum in Coral Gables to see unique art inspired by the Pop Art movement of the 1960s.

    Order Up Art
    Source: Order Up

    Thirty-five pieces of oversized glass sculptures created by artist John Miller have been curated for this solo exhibition. Sculptures include items like food and drinks, fitting a 1950s-diner theme.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    After the exhibit, check out the 11 Best Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants in Miami.

    Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights

    Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights

    When: Dec. 1-2 along Lincoln Road, Dec. 15-16 at the Gabriel South Beach Hotel, and Dec. 22-23 at the Betsy Hotel.

    Where: Lincoln Road, Gabriel South Beach Hotel, and Betsy Hotel

    More Information: The Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights is a huge December event that spans three locations.

    Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights

    This free holiday celebration includes intricate light designs, live musical performances, and so much more.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Art Basel Miami Beach

    Art Basel Miami art display

    When: Dec. 8-11, 2023

    Where: 1901 Convention Center Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139

    More Information: Art Basel Miami Beach is a modern and contemporary art show featuring artists from five continents.

    Art Basel Miami Beach

    Tickets must be purchased online in advance to see this limited-time collection.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    While in the area, try a Florida classic from one of the 7 Best Places to Get Key Lime Pie in Miami.

    Holiday In Paradise – West Palm Beach

    City of West Palm Beach Holiday

    When: Nov. 30-Dec. 31, 2023

    Where: On the waterfront in West Palm Beach

    More Information: West Palm Beach’s Holiday In Paradise is a huge December event.

    This winter festival boasts Sandi, the world’s only holiday sand tree that measures 35 feet and weighs an incredible 700 tons.

    Holiday in Paradise

    In addition to seeing Sandi, we always enjoy the light shows, music, a Ferris wheel, and other activities at this fun South Florida celebration.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Check out 6 Fun Things to Do Around the Palm Beaches.

    Miccosukee Indian Arts & Crafts Festival – Miami

    Miccosukee Indian Arts & Crafts Festival

    When: Saturday, December 28-31, 2023

    Where: Miccosukee Indian Village, 500 SW 177th Ave, Miami, FL 33194

    More Information: Learn about and celebrate Native American culture at the Miccosukee Indian Arts & Crafts Festival.

    Miccosukee Indian Village
    Source: Miccosukee Indian Village

    The event takes place in the Miccosukee Indian Village, located in the Everglades.

    Enjoy indigenous music and dance performances, authentic cuisine, and an artisan market at this amazing 4-day festival.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Palm Beach Food and Wine Festival

    Palm Beach Food and Wine Festival Logo

    When: Saturday, December 7-10, 2023

    Where: Various locations in Palm Beach County

    More Information: We think that December is the perfect time to experience the Palm Beach food scene.

    Palm beach food and wine festival food
    Source: Palm Beach Food and Wine Festival

    The Palm Beach Food and Wine Festival is a great opportunity to do just that.

    The ticketed event includes 50 restaurants and over 60 wineries. Sample exquisite dishes and desserts from many of South Florida’s best restaurants during this culinary festival.

    Learn more from the official event website.

    Here are a few other suggestions for things to do in December:

    2 thoughts on “45 Top Florida Events in December 2023”

    1. The Holly Days Home Tour is held every year on the first weekend in December in historic downtown Punta Gorda. Punta Gorda Garden Club puts it on and all proceeds got to college scholarships and donations to local organizations. This year was the first year it was held since 2019 due to Covid and Hurricane Ian, and it was well-attended as it had been in the past. This community tradition is bigger and better each time it is held. Please consider including it in the list of Christmas events in 2024. Thank you!

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