It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Christmas is a magical time filled with fun and excitement, and if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience this holiday season then look no further than Florida. From classic holiday festivals to unique attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Florida during Christmas.
Whether you are looking for family activities or something to do with friends, there are plenty of things to do for Christmas in Florida.
From ice skating and skiing to a visit to one of the state’s many theme parks, there are many fun things to do this holiday season in Florida.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or a romantic evening, you’ll find it here!
Is Christmas a Good Time to Visit Florida?
There’s definitely not a shortage of Things to Do for Christmas in Florida!
Christmas is a wonderful time of the year. What could be better than spending the holiday season in sunny Florida?
With its white-sand beaches, world-famous attractions, and warm winter weather, Florida can be an ideal vacation spot during the Christmas season.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or restful relaxation, there is something special and magical about this festive season in one of America’s most beloved states.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and if you’re looking for a place to soak up some holiday cheer and sunshine, Florida is the perfect destination!
Let’s explore what makes Florida an attractive destination for Christmas travelers!
1. St. Augustine
During the winter holidays, Saint Augustine becomes one of the most festive places in Florida. The city is adorned with millions of holiday lights.
In fact, the area has been named one of the top ten-holiday lighting displays in the world by National Geographic!
The historic buildings are decorated with thousands of bright white lights. This is a unique and fun way to kick off one of the many things to do for Christmas in Florida this holiday season.
The lighted Christmas tree at Cathedral Plaza is also a sight to behold.
This tree is a real one, and it’s lit up with colored lights. The gazebos are decorated with garland, and wreaths line the light poles.
The Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is a great destination for adults and kids alike. This museum offers nature trails, nature programs, and views of the city’s lighthouse.
They also offer world-class yacht charter services for the Nights of Lights festival.
The Luminary Night festival, held at the Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, is a great way to see the city’s best attractions during the holiday season.
This event is ideal for all ages and features activities such as a free tour of the Lighthouse, a tour of the museum, a parade, and more.
The holiday season is also the perfect time to check out the new West King Street area, which will be lit up with more than 3,000 lights.
This area is also home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Trolleys will be filled with people singing Christmas carols as they travel through town.
Many of these tours will also include a wine and carriage ride downtown.
The area will also be home to the GRINCHmas trolley ride, which will transport visitors around the city.
This ride includes family fun, Christmas drinks, and a chance to support local charities.
Another festive event is the Christmas Parade. The parade travels through the downtown area and will include marching bands, floats, performers, and horses.
2. Tampa Bay
Christmas is the perfect time to visit Tampa Bay, Florida! With its warm temperatures, stunning beaches and family-friendly attractions, Tampa Bay offers something for everyone.
If you’re looking for the most spectacular outdoor Christmas lights display, you can visit the Tampa Bay Rays stadium.
There’s even a snowman building area and glow-in-the-dark putt-putt golf.
For even more family fun, check out the Holiday Spectacular in downtown Tampa.
You’ll see twinkle lights, a Christmas tree, and a live ice show. You can even drop off a letter to Santa in the floating mailbox to the North Pole!
During the Christmas season, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is transformed into a winter wonderland known as Christmas Town. This seasonal extravaganza features festive shows, delicious treats, and millions of lights.
The park is decorated to make everyone feel like a kid again. In addition to the usual offerings, this year’s event will include some new and exciting features.
The park’s Christmas Town has something for everyone, and is one of the park’s most popular holiday events!
The park’s other seasonal attraction is the Holiday Magic Zone, which features holiday princesses and characters, as well as a variety of seasonal treats and special performances.
The Sugar Plum Princess and her Cavalier soldier will be added to this realm, and the Sugar Plum ballerina will join her in the new realm as well.
Other festive offerings include the new Holiday in the Sky fireworks show, which will feature dancing fountains and a new soundtrack.
The park will also be adorning the Serengeti Overlook building with a new light and projection show. In addition, guests will be able to enjoy Christmas Town’s signature holiday drinks throughout the park.
One of the park’s most popular holiday events is the Holly Jolly Express, a train ride that transports guests into the holiday spirit!
On this ride, you can enjoy signature Christmas Town Hot Chocolate, play your favorite Christmas tunes, and even view wild views of the park’s 65-acre veldt.
The park will also be showcasing the “Christmas on Ice” show, which features live performances and holiday-themed rides.
In addition, guests can get a special holiday greeting from Santa Claus, who will be available at various times throughout the day.
3. Art Basel Miami Beach
Are you looking for a world-class art experience this holiday season? Consider visiting Art Basel Miami Beach Florida! Not only is it the largest modern and contemporary art show in the United States, but it also takes place during Christmas.
From incredible exhibitions to exclusive events, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Art Basel Miami Beach Florida.
You may also want to check out the Miami Beach area for some festive Christmas activities. The city has several events throughout the month, including the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Christmas is an exciting and festive time of year, and there’s no better place to get into the holiday spirit than Art Basel Miami Beach in Florida!
With its stunning art galleries, world-famous beaches, and vibrant nightlife, this iconic destination draws people from all over the world!
4. Walt Disney World Orlando
A Christmas party for the whole family!
Christmas is an absolutely magical time to visit Walt Disney World in Orlando Florida!
The parks get transformed into a truly festive wonderland, with holiday decorations, seasonal shows and parades, and that extra bit of Disney magic.
During the Christmas holidays, Walt Disney World and its surrounding properties make a habit of treating visitors like royalty. The Magic Kingdom in particular has long been a destination for families of all sizes.
From the festive decorations around the resort to special holiday-themed events and activities, there are so many exciting things to do at the happiest place on Earth this time of year!
The rides, shows, and attractions are sure to make your Christmas unforgettable no matter what age you are!
Whether you’re looking for a family adventure, a romantic getaway, or just some good old-fashioned fun, there’s no better time of year to experience the world-famous attractions that Walt Disney has to offer.
Visiting Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida during Christmas is a magical experience!
5. St. Petersburg
When looking for things to do for Christmas in Florida, whether you are looking for a Christmas adventure or something more low-key, Saint Petersburg, Florida has a variety of options to choose from!
It’s one of the most popular places to visit during the holiday season, offering a variety of events to suit every taste and budget.
Some of the best Christmas events in Saint Petersburg are the Enchant Christmas light show and the Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park.
This holiday season, you can also enjoy a light show at Florida Botanical Gardens.
You can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride and see the Charles Dickens carolers perform. The Now Snowing celebration is the closest you will get to a white Christmas in Florida.
The event includes live performances and an ice skating rink.
The Oakdale Christmas House is one of the most popular displays in St. Petersburg.
This family-friendly display has been featured on HGTV’s All Out Christmas and the Today Show.
It’s free to enter and features over half a million twinkling lights. You can also visit the Vodka Museum for a look at Russian history.
Another fun Christmas activity is the Winter Village Tampa. This family-friendly destination features Christmas lights, outdoor ice skating, and vendors. The Winter Village is open on select days from November through December. You’ll also want to check out the Christmas Market. You can purchase food and beverages, including a delicious honey cake.
6. Jacksonville
Christmas is a special time of year, and visiting Jacksonville Florida can be an amazing way to celebrate!
The mild winter weather, the beautiful scenery, and the endless holiday events make Jacksonville a great place for travelers during Christmas.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities or seeking some holiday cheer, Jacksonville has something for everyone.
From exciting attractions to delicious local cuisine, there are plenty of reasons why a visit to Jacksonville is the perfect way to spend your Christmas holidays.
- First and foremost, you may want to visit the Florida Theatre. This is a nonprofit historic theater that will be giving free admission to guests who bring a nonperishable food donation. It’s also a fun place to see a show!
- You may also want to consider the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. This museum features over 5,000 works of art. They also have a seasonal snow village and ice skating!
- You can also visit the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, one of nine such museums in the country.
- Another great Christmas activity is the Living Nativity Experience. This experience brings the Christmas story to life. The experience is free and offers majestic visitors, live animals, and even an angelic vision. You’ll also get to see some of the best Christmas lights in Jacksonville.
- Another great event is Deck the Chairs. This is a public art wonderland that combines creative storytelling with public art. The event is free to attend and will feature 40 decorated lifeguard chairs. It will also feature a nightly light show and weekend stage programs.
- A free self-guided tour of the Cathedral District is also a fun option. The district is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.
During the Christmas season in Jacksonville, Florida, there are many things to do and see. Whether you are planning a day trip or just spending some time with your family, there are plenty of options to choose from.
7. SeaWorld Orlando
During the Christmas season, SeaWorld turns into a winter wonderland and offers its visitors holiday fun. In addition to the many fun seasonal shows, you can enjoy delicious holiday foods and drinks.
You’ll also find plenty of opportunities to get your picture taken with Santa, who can be found in the Shoppes at the Waterfront.
SeaWorld also offers a fun Christmas-themed parade, including a procession with elaborately adorned floats. There’s also a festive musical with puppets and a Nativity scene.
You can also meet your favorite Sesame Street characters!
There’s also an ice-skating rink where you can glide along to your favorite holiday tunes. You’ll also find plenty of holiday-themed food and treats at the Voyagers Smokehouse.
You can also get your picture taken in a giant snow globe. You’ll also have the chance to see the park transformed into a winter wonderland with over 3 million lights.
SeaWorld also has many unique Christmas-themed items that you can purchase only during this time. For instance, you can purchase a holiday-themed model train display.
You can also buy unique holiday beverages and snacks at various booths. Some of the booths also sell SeaWorld-themed gifts, which make great holiday presents.
Another holiday-themed event at SeaWorld is the Sea of Trees.
The attraction is located in the lagoon and features over 100-holiday trees. The trees sparkle and dance to holiday tunes.
The best place to see the show is from the bridge or from the Christmas Market area.
8. LEGOLAND
During the holiday season, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is one of the most popular places for families to celebrate the holidays. Located in Winter Haven, FL, LEGOLAND Florida offers an exciting mix of fun activities and attractions.
It’s a place where you can build with Master Model Builders, ride LEGO-inspired rides, explore LEGO mosaics, and watch LEGO performances.
You can also purchase a Legoland Florida ticket that gives you access to the theme park, the water park, and Holidays at LEGOLAND(r).
LEGOLAND Florida’s Christmas Bricktacular is an annual holiday celebration for families. It features an interactive light show, a live stage show, a brick drop, and a kid-friendly dance party.
It also includes opportunities for building with Master Model Builders and LEGO Toy Soldier.
The Holiday Village Postal Service is a fun way for children to write letters to the North Pole. The letters can be viewed and read by LEGO characters. The Postal Service also offers festive holiday shows.
You can even take a picture with a LEGO Reindeer.
During the LEGOLAND Florida Christmas Bricktacular, a 30-foot LEGO Christmas tree will be illuminated several times throughout the evening. It will also be transformed into a light and sound show.
There will be a dance party with Santa’s favorite elves, and an ornament build for guests to take home. This is an experience you’ll not want to miss!
There is also a LEGO Christmas Parade in LEGOLAND Florida. The theme changes every year. The parade features 85 illuminated floats, dancers, and more.
The parade is free to attend with your park admission.
9. Historic Spanish Point “Holly Days & Mangrove Lights”
Located on Little Sarasota Bay in Osprey, Florida, Historic Spanish Point is a 30-acre wonderland. During the winter months, the resort offers a myriad of holiday festivities.
In addition to the traditional tree and garland displays, the resort also has a special holiday-themed ice skating rink. The rink is free to visitors, and a small fee is charged for the guests of members.
The resort also boasts a plethora of year-round activities, including the Sarasota Farmers Market at Lemon and Main Streets.
The resort has more than 30 nature trails and extensive gardens on the Gulf Coast.
This quaint seaside retreat offers a glimpse of a bygone era, with many of the amenities of a modern-day resort. The resort also offers discounted admission for its members.
The resort offers special holiday rates to visitors, including members of the military. For the best possible experience, it’s a good idea to arrive early.
The resort is not for the faint of heart, but its plethora of activities is worth the trek.
The site is an ideal destination for families or couples and offers the chance to ring in the new year with some old-school holiday cheer.
10. Victorian Christmas Stroll
Located on the University of Tampa campus, the Henry B. Plant Museum of Tampa is a National Historic Landmark that boasts a plethora of fascinating artifacts.
The museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and is the perfect place to take the family for some holiday fun.
The museum has a ton of history to wade through, but the most impressive part of the museum is its display of antique toys and collectibles. This includes an impressive collection of nifty ornaments, antique toys, and even some wacky objets d’art.
The museum boasts a number of impressive feats, including a 2 mile-long drive-through of twinkling displays in the form of the Festival of Lights.
While the museum isn’t exactly a walkable neighborhood, it is easy to reach on foot via the University of Tampa campus or the nifty Thomas Parking Garage.
During the holiday season, visitors will also have the opportunity to enjoy the holiday lights at ZooTampa’s annual holiday event, Christmas in the Wild.
The museum’s other notable attractions include a hands-on replica of the original 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel and a collection of vintage automobiles.
Looking for More Things to Do for Christmas in Florida?
What Is The Most Christmassy Town In Florida?
Nothing captures the Christmas spirit quite like visiting a quaint town filled with twinkling lights and holiday cheer. The most Christmassy town in the Sunshine State can be a number of cities!
Stroll along tree-lined streets and marvel at stunning mansions that have been decked out in all things Christmas in many towns!
You’ll be transported to a winter wonderland as you take in the scent of fresh pine trees and hear carolers singing traditional songs from back home.
Take a spin on one of the local ice rinks or visit Santa’s workshop where little ones can design their own crafts and toys! With so much to see and do, it’s no surprise why the entire state of Florida rocks around Christmas time and year-round!
11. Fort Lauderdale
Whether you’re looking for a place to get away from the cold weather and snow or you’re looking for a family vacation that’s more about the sights and sounds of Christmas, Fort Lauderdale is a great place to start.
There are several Christmas activities and events to choose from in the area, so you can make the most of the holiday season.
The Fort Lauderdale Beach Holiday Festival is a fun family-friendly event. It features performances from Santa, live music, holiday market vendors, and more. You can also take a spin on an ice rink, visit with a strolling character, or shop for unique gifts.
There are several other fun Christmas events in Fort Lauderdale, including the Winter Wonderland at the Plantation Historical Museum.
The Enchant Maze is a Christmas light maze, which leads to a Christmas surprise. You can also try hot chocolate while you listen to some carolers.
You’ll also want to check out the Swap Shop, which has the largest selection of discount merchandise in the area. The Swap Shop also features a flea market, drive-in theater, and farmer’s market.
Another Christmas event you should check out is the Winterfest Boat Parade, which draws all types of watercraft, from small kayaks to large showboats. It’s also the largest of its kind in the country, and the best place to see it is at the Grandstand Viewing Area.
The biggest Christmas event in Florida is Santa’s Enchanted Forest, which features a super-tall Christmas tree, over 100 rides, and light displays.
It has been running for 38 years and is a favorite among one of the top things to do for Christmas in Florida for South Florida residents!
12. Pensacola
During December, Pensacola, Florida transforms into a jolly Christmas town. The city hosts a multitude of holiday events, from Santa’s visit to the hottest new attraction.
The Pensacola Winterfest is the ultimate way to celebrate Christmas in the Panhandle!
The Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park features an outdoor ice rink, a miniature Christmas train, and holiday special events. There are also food and drink offerings.
There are even a few activities that can be enjoyed by dogs and their owners.
Pensacola is also home to several museums. These museums offer artistic and historical insights into the city. Some of the museums offer tours of the downtown area.
There are even a few Segway tours to help visitors see all the city has to offer.
Pensacola, Florida is also home to several museums that have exhibits geared toward Christmas. Some of the best of these displays include the Gingerbread House Festival. This event is a great chance to see more than 150 gingerbread houses created by local organizations.
Pensacola is also home to the Cox Pensacola Christmas Parade. This event typically draws more than 50,000 people.
This parade features a number of entries, including the Blue Angels flight team. The parade is also a great way to support the local high school marching bands.
13. Amelia Island
Amelia Island, Florida is one of the most beautiful destinations in the US, and there’s no better time to visit than during the Christmas season. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and unique wildlife, it’s easy to see why Amelia Island has been a popular holiday destination for years.
During the Christmas season, Amelia Island is filled with Christmas cheer. The town is full of festive activities, from snowman-building competitions to ice skating rinks and carolers singing on the streets.
Each year, the traditional Christmas Tree Light is held in historic Fernandina Beach. This free event is located right on the riverfront and features music, food, local vendors, children’s activities, and pirates.
This holiday event has recently included a visit from Father Christmas. The perfect event for anyone who likes to lounge by the Christmas lights during the holiday season.
It’s a perfect place to spend your holiday getaway. It’s known for its natural beauty, warm Southern hospitality, and variety of outdoor activities.
The Annual Amelia Island Museum of History Holiday Home Tour is a popular holiday tradition. Each home has been decorated by a local decorator for the holidays.
You can also participate in wildlife-watching tours, a silent auction, and more!
14. Space Coast Light Festival Stroll Night
Space Coast Light Festival transforms into an enchanting winter wonderland. This family-friendly celebration features animated displays and shimmering lights.
Another notable Florida holiday event is the Space Coast Light Festival. This drive-through Florida Christmas event features three million lights.
Your journey’s climax will be reached when you cross a 200-foot “Light Tunnel”, which explodes with light. You can enjoy the light festival by driving in your own vehicle, van, or bus.
For a more intimate experience, groups can book private hayrides to the festival.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and if you’re looking for a place to soak up some holiday cheer and sunshine, Florida is the perfect destination!
With its amazing weather, unique attractions, vibrant culture, and miles of sandy beaches, Christmas in Florida is an experience like no other.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or restful relaxation, there is something special and magical about this festive season in one of America’s most beloved states.
Unwrap these Magical Holiday Experiences in Florida!
