Top Florida Events in December 2025
The cooler December weather motivates Floridians to get outside and remember why we live here. Events are the perfect excuse to venture out and explore.
From the enchanting charm of Mount Dora to the vibrant streets of Miami Beach, December in Florida is full of festive, unique events.
Northwest Florida
Pensacola Winterfest – Pensacola
When: Select dates throughout December (visit the official website for all the details)
Where: “Plaza Wonderland”, 223 S Palafox St, Pensacola, FL 32502
More Information: Pensacola Winterfest is a popular December celebration in Northwest Florida.
The Downtown Pensacola event has different ticketed activities for guests to enjoy.
Don’t miss the colorful, whimsical, and fun-filled annual Elf Parade on Friday, Nov. 28th.
Line-up begins at 12:30pm at the corner of Baylen and Government Streets behind the Escambia County Courthouse.
Make sure to catch the free nightly preshows to sing and dance with some of the event’s coolest characters.
Snow and music start at 5:30 pm on Fridays, 5:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, and on all Tour nights.
Learn more from the official event website.
Check out Fun Things to Do in Pensacola & Pensacola Beach
Crestview Christmas Parade – Crestview
When: December 6th, 2025
Where: Downtown Crestview along Main Street, Crestview, FL 32536
More Information: The Crestview Christmas Parade makes its way down Main Street in Downtown Crestview each year. See decked-out holiday floats – one of which transports Santa.
The celebration includes lights, snow, reindeer, and all sorts of holiday fun.
The festivities begin with the City’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at 5 pm.
Learn more from the official event website.
Yule of Yesteryear – Valparaiso
When: December 13th, 2025
Where: Heritage Museum – Perrine Park, 115 Westview Ave., Valparaiso, FL 32580
More Information: Yule of Yesteryear is a FREE annual event every December in Valparaiso (Okaloosa County).
The celebration is hosted by the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida and includes live entertainment, food trucks, a bake sale, and much more.
Event attendees enjoy free parking and museum admission. Partake in the 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 these Fun Things to Do in Destin – The Emerald Coast.
21st Annual Christmas Miracle Children’s Fiesta – Fort Walton Beach
When: December 21st, 2025
Where: The Northwest Florida Fairgrounds, 1958 Lewis Turner Blvd., Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
More Information: The 21st Annual Christmas Miracle Children’s Fiesta is a great event in Fort Walton Beach to attend this December.
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 attend this celebration can receive brand-new toys.
- 12 pm – 1 pm: Special Needs Families
- 1 pm – 6 pm: General Public
More than 30,000 kids have benefited from the Christmas Miracle Fiesta since its inception.
Learn more from the official event website.
North Central Florida
Christmas on the Square – Live Oak
When: December 4th through the 6th, 2025
Where: City of Live Oak Square
More Information: The 41st Annual Christmas on the Square event is being held with the theme, “A Little Christmas Charm,” featuring a variety of seasonal activities.
The multi-day celebration includes a tree lighting ceremony, multiple fun runs, arts and crafts vendors, a car show, and educational agriculture exhibits.
The festivities culminate in a lighted Christmas parade and include specialized features like Santa Land, live music, and a fireworks show.
Learn more on the Facebook Event.
Alachua’s Annual Christmas on Main Tree Lighting Event – Alachua
When: December 5th, 2025, from 5:00 pm – 8 pm.
Where: Main Street in Alachua
More Information: Downtown Alachua transforms into a winter wonderland for the Main Street Christmas Tree Lighting Event.
The event includes activities for the whole family, like arts and crafts, live music, and free hot chocolate and popcorn.
Of course, the tree lighting is the main event, so 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. Click here.
Learn more from the official event website.
While in the area, don’t miss the Top Things to Do Near Gainesville FL.
Cottom’s Farm Christmas Village – Weirsdale
When: Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve 2025; December 13th is the 2025 Craft & Vendor Fair.
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.
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.
Lady Lake Christmas Parade – Lady Lake
When: December 6th, 2025
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 – there’s a new theme each year.
The theme for 2025 is Santa’s Toy Workshop.
The parade includes themed floats and appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Marching bands perform holiday music.
Learn more from the official event website.
Northeast Florida
Deck the Chairs – Jacksonville Beach
When: November 26th, 2025 through January 1st, 2026
Where: Jacksonville Beach Seaside Pavilion and the Jacksonville Zoo
More Information: Deck The Chairs (DTC) proudly serves the Jacksonville Beach community by providing a free, six-week holiday event promoting art in public space.
In addition, the event creates opportunities for children’s arts education and outreach.
This year, an estimated 3,000 individuals decorate, perform, and manage the holiday event — more than 2,000 are young artists and students from the north Florida region.
Learn more from the official event website.
While in the area, don’t miss the Top Things to Do in Jacksonville.
11th Annual Dickens on Centre Festival – Fernandina Beach
When: December 11th through the 14th, 2025 (scroll down for more specifics)
Where: Downtown Fernandina Beach
More Information: The 11th Annual Dickens on Centre is a unique Victorian Christmas Festival in historic Fernandina Beach.
This weekend celebration includes free trolley rides, excellent holiday shopping opportunities, fun for the kids, and live Victorian-inspired holiday entertainment.
Illuminated Procession
- Thursday, December 11th, 2025: 5 – 7 pm
Christmas Market Schedule
- Friday, December 12th, 2025: 5 – 9 pm
- Saturday, December 13th, 2025: 10 am – 9 pm
- Sunday, December 14th, 2025: 10 am – 3 pm
Trolley Hours
- Thursday, December 11th, 2025: 5:00 – 8:00 pm
- Friday, December 12th, 2025: 5:00 – 10:00 pm
- Saturday, December 13th, 2025: 9:30 am – 10:00 pm
- Sunday, December 14th, 2025: 9:30 am – 4:00 pm
Learn more from the official event website.
While in the area, make A Pitstop at the Pippi Longstocking House in Fernandina Beach.
Florida Christmas Remembered – Barberville
When: December 13th, 2025
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.
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
When: December 13th, 2025
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.
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.
Central West Florida
HarvestMoon Fun Farm’s 5th Annual Christmas Celebration – Masaryktown
When: November 29th through December 23rd, 2025
Where: HarvestMoon Fun Farm, 15990 Stur St, Masaryktown, FL 34604
More Information: Celebrate the Holidays at HarvestMoon Fun Farm!
It’s the perfect spot to make magical family memories with festive lights, Santa visits, and plenty of farm fun.
- Enchanted Hayride: Sing along to Christmas carols as you take in the holiday spirit.
- Santa Claus: Meet the big guy himself and snap a picture!
- Jumping Pillow: Kids will love bouncing on the 70-foot jumping pillow.
- Christmas Lane: Stroll through a beautifully lit path full of holiday charm.
- Petting Farm: Say hello to some adorable furry friends.
- Light Show: Dazzling displays to light up your night.
- Seasonal Treats: Sip on hot cocoa and enjoy festive snacks.
Admission:
- Advance Tickets: $13.95 + tax (ages 3 & up).
- At the Gate: $15.95 per person.
- Kids Under 2: Free! Refreshments and snacks available for purchase.
For more details, check out www.harvestmoonfunfarm.com.
Hernando Beach Front Porch Art Walk – Hernando Beach
When: December 6th, 2025, from 10 am to 2 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.
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.
Hernando Beach is a resilient community. We encourage everyone to support the artists and local businesses especially after such a brutal hurricane season.
Learn more from the official event website.
While in the area, don’t miss Exploring Florida’s Adventure Coast, Brooksville – Weeki Wachee
North Pole Express – Parrish
When:
November 28, 29, 30
December 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
December 10, 11, 12, 13, 14
December 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22
Where: 12210 83rd St E, Parrish, FL 34219
More Information: If you’ve wanted to ride a train 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.
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.
7th Annual Florida Cracker Christmas – Brooksville
When: December 13th, 2025
Where: Jack Daniels Amphitheatre, 966 East Jefferson Street, Brooksville, FL 34601
More Information: The 7th Annual Florida Cracker Christmas is an iconic Brooksville December event.
The Old Florida celebration includes live musical performances and plenty of Southern hospitality.
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.
A Taste of Chanukah – Sarasota
When: December 14th, 2025
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.
Kosher food is available for purchase during this great Chanukah celebration.
Learn more from the official event website.
While in the area, check out Awesome Things To Do in Sarasota.
Tampa Theatre’s Holiday Classics – Tampa
When: Select dates from November 30, 2025 to December 18, 2025.
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 America’s favorite pastimes on the big screen.
Starting on November 30th, Tampa Theatre is showing the following classic movies:
Sunday, Nov. 30th at 3pm: MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET
Sunday, Dec. 7th at 3pm: Sing-Along WHITE CHRISTMAS
Sunday, Dec. 14th at 3pm: ELF at 3:00 pm
Friday, Dec. 19th – Tuesday, Dec. 23 select times: IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE
Sunday, Dec. 28th at 3pm: LOVE ACTUALLY
Make sure to book your tickets in advance.
Learn more from the official event website.
While in the area, check out the Top Things to Do in Tampa, Florida
Downtown St. Pete Holiday Events
When: Select dates in December (see below)
Where: South Straub Park, North Straub Park, Pioneer Park, Crescent Lake Park, Vinoy Park & St. Pete Pier
- Snowfest – December 6th, 2025
- Holiday Movies in the Park
– December 6 at Vinoy Park- Home Alone 2: Lost in New York
– December 13 at Pinellas Pioneer Settlement – The Santa Clause
– December 20 at Huggins-Stengel Field – A Miser Brothers’ Christmas - S’mores with Santa – December 13th and 14th, 2025
- Gingerbread Building Contest – December 13th, 2025
- Meet Santa in the Park December 13th through the 23rd, 2025
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 Things to Do in St. Pete, FL.
Central Florida
Citrus Tower’s Holiday Light Show – Clermont
When: November 28th to January 7th, 2026; Nightly from 7:00 – 8:00 pm and 8:00 – 9:00 pm.
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.
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, check out the Best Things to Do in Clermont, FL.
Season of Light – Maitland
When: December 6th, 2025, from 5 pm to 8:30 pm.
Where: Lake Lily Park, corner of Orlando and Maitland Avenues.
More Information: Head to Lake Lily Park for Maitland’s Season of Light, an event with carnival games, live music, and fireworks.
Enjoy holiday activities like snow sledding, Christmas tree lighting, and seeing Santa Claus.
This free-admission winter celebration is family-friendly and fun for all.
Learn more from the official event website.
While in the area, don’t miss the Top Things to Do in Maitland, Florida.
Deland Holiday Indie Market
When: December 7th, 2025
Where: 113 W Georgia Ave, DeLand, FL 32720
A Holiday Market is being hosted by the DeLand Indie Market, featuring an unforgettable day of shopping, food, music, and libations. The event will host 65 vendors, offering visitors a wide selection of goods and services.
The market serves as a festive seasonal celebration for the community and its participants.
Learn more on the Facebook event.
Holidays at Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales
When: Throughout December 2025
Where: Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853
More Information: Bok Tower Gardens holds several events that bring 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.
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 Bok Tower Gardens event page.
Check out the Best Things to Do in Lake Wales, FL.
The Christmas Mansion Tours – Deland
When: November 1st, 2025 through Januaray 18th, 2026
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.
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 Best Things to Do in DeLand.
Wekiva Island Winter Wonderland – Longwood
When: Select dates in December.
Where: Various locations on Wekiva Island. (Visit the Wekiva Island Facebook page for more details).
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.
Various activities are hosted throughout December for this celebration. This includes a 30 foot Christmas tree lighting ceremony, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, outdoor Christmas movie viewing, and more.
Learn more from the official event website.
Mount Dora Holiday Events
32nd Annual Mount Dora Christmas Walk
When: December 5th, 2025
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 festive town while taking in all of the gorgeous holiday décor.
You can take care of some holiday shopping at local boutiques and meet Santa Claus while strolling through the city.
Learn more from the official event website.
Check out the Best Things to Do in Mount Dora.
65th Annual Mount Dora Christmas Parade
When: December 5th and 6th, 2025
Where: Donnelly Park, 530 N Donnelly St, Mount Dora, Florida, 32757
More Information: As far as Florida December events go, the 64th Annual Mount Dora Christmas Parade is a tradition you won’t want to miss.
The Mount Dora Lions Club sponsors the parade and has festive floats making their way through the city.
Learn more from the City of Mount Dora Facebook page.
Mount Dora Snow in the Park
When: December 13th, 2025
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.
The event also accepts food and toy donations to benefit the local community.
Learn more from the official event website.
Central East Florida
66th Annual Christmas Parade – Holly Hill
When: December 6th, 2025, from 10 am to noon.
Where: City of Holly Hill (intersection of Flomich St. and US1/Ridgewood Avenue at 15th Street).
More Information: The 66th 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.
Learn more from the official event website.
Whiskers in Wonderland – Port St. Lucie
When: December 13th, 2025, from 5 pm to 8 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.
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.
Holiday Bike Parade – Cocoa
When: December 19th, 2025
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.
A group of officials escorts the parade 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 2025 – Cocoa Beach
When: December 24th, from 7:30 am to 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 great Reasons to Visit the Florida’s Space Coast
Southwest Florida
Holiday in the Park – Fort Myers
When: December 6th, 2025
Where: Roberto Clemente Park, 1936 Henderson Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33916
More Information: Holiday in the Park is a Fort Myers tradition hosted by the Lee County Black History Society.
The celebration includes a Soul Santa Parade, live entertainment, guided tours of the Williams Academy Black History Museum, and other festive activities.
Admission is free.
Learn more from the official event website.
When visiting the area, check out our Ultimate Guide to Fort Myers & Fort Myers Beach.
50th Annual Edison and Ford Holiday Nights – Fort Myers
When: November 28th through December 23rd, and December 26th, 2025 through January 4th, 2026
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.
The Edison and Ford Holiday Nights are one of our favorite December events in Florida.
This ticketed celebration commemorates its 50th 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.
Southeast Florida
Luminosa at Jungle Island – Miami
When: Weekends in December
Where: Miami’s Jungle Island, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, FL 33132
More Information: Step into a one-of-a-kind light festival bringing Miami nightlife to life with over 1,000,000 LED lights.
Luminosa is a lush jungle illuminated with breathtaking and larger-than-life lanterns.
Traverse through hundreds of artistic lanterns highlighting the spirit of Miami with ambiance and holiday vibes!
Book your tickets in advance.
Learn more from the official event website.
While in the area, enjoy the Best Brunch Restaurants in Miami.
Art Basel – Miami Beach
When: December 5th through the 7th, 2025
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.
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 Best Places to Get Key Lime Pie in Miami.
Palm Beach Food and Wine Festival
When: December 11th through 14th, 2025
Where: Various locations in Palm Beach County.
More Information: December is the perfect time to experience the Palm Beach food scene.
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.
Miccosukee Indian Arts & Crafts Festival – Miami
When: December 26th through the 28th, 2025
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.
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.
Holiday In Paradise – West Palm Beach
When: Starting with the tree lighting on December 4th, 2025
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.
In addition to seeing Sandi, 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 Fun Things to Do Around the Palm Beaches.
Christmas Winter Festival – Miami
When: December 13th, 2025
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.
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 Best Bakeries in Miami, FL.
Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights
When: December 13th, 14th, 20th, 21st, 2025
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.
This free holiday celebration includes intricate light designs, live musical performances, and so much more.
Learn more from the official event website.
Here are a few other suggestions for things to do in December:
- Top Florida Holiday Boat Parades
- Best Drive-Thru Christmas Light Displays in Florida
- “Dazzling Nights” in Orlando is Better Than Ever
- Cut Down Your Own Florida Christmas Tree
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