In an effort to save our collective parental holiday sanity, MBMom has consolidated the BEST 2025 South Florida Holiday events, activations and Christmas event in Florida into a handy guide (***to be updated regularly***)!
They are organized (mostly) chronologically and grouped geographically for your convenience. Happy Holiday SEASON MBMoms! And don’t forget about Winter Break Camps–we also have a handy guide for that!
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Brunch With Santa At Serena Pastificio at Mizner Park

DATE/TIME/LOCATION: Sunday, December 7; 11am-4pm at Serena Pastificio in Mizner Park – 301 Plaza Real Boca Raton
‘Tis the season at Serena Pastificio – To Brunch with Santa! Enjoy a festive atmosphere featuring photos with Santa* until 3pm, holiday music playing and a buffet including brunch favorites, appetizers, a carving station, desserts and more!
Pricing is $70/Adult and $25/Child (12 and under), plus IPIC ACCESS Gold+ Members receive 10% off all food and beverage. *Includes digital download of photography, a $45 value
Delray Beach 100’ Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration and Yuletide Street Fair

DATE/TIME: Tuesday, December 2; 6-9pm
Join to celebrate 32 years of the 100 Ft. Christmas Tree. Help welcome the holidays with festivities, delicious food, musical performances, crafts, and many more holiday surprises.
Do some holiday shopping with over 60 vendors down Atlantic Ave., Old School Square, and Pineapple Grove. Enjoy the culinary creations at one of the many food trucks on Swinton Ave. Silent disco, and more in one festive, fun-filled night. Most importantly, you don’t want to miss Santa lighting up the tree.
A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live In Downtown Delray

DATE/TIME: Wednesday, December 17; 6pm
Fresh off international tours and three Top 5 Billboard hits, Patrick Lamb joins his amazing band and a children’s choir from the Delray Beach area for a joyful, family-friendly holiday concert beneath Delray’s iconic 100ft Christmas Tree.
More than just a concert, Patrick Lamb’s Charlie Brown Christmas brings together families, students, and music lovers in a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and community. The event highlights the importance of arts education by giving student choirs from Delray-area schools the chance to perform in a professionally produced show, uniting parents, educators, and friends in a shared holiday experience.
10th Annual Tree Lighting at BRiC

DATE/TIME: Saturday, November 20; 5:30-7:30pm
BRiC is once again kicking off the holiday season in style with the first community tree lighting event of the season. Celebrating CP Group’s 10th Annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Extravaganza, we are hopping onboard The Polar Express to witness a Tree Lighting like never before! Here’s what’s new this year:
* Santa’s Epic Arrival – Be there by 5:40 PM, and look up!
* Trackless Train Rides – A twinkling ride for all ages.
* Dazzling Magic Show – Illusions like the Dancing Cane and Floating Table.
* Youth Orchestra of Palm Beach County – Holiday and Polar Express favorites performed live.
* Meet Santa, Mrs. Claus & their Elves – including Family Photo Portraits.
* Puppy Cuddles & Adoptions – Snuggle and maybe take one home.
* Hot Chocolate Bar – With all the toppings!
* Outdoor Movie Screening of The Polar Express.
And of course, some familiar favorites are returning and include face painting and festive art activities led by artNest Studios and the Boca Raton Historical Society in Santa’s workshop, performances by Organic Movements Dance School, Food Truck Lane, a snowman bounce house, 360° camera booth, live nativity, and VIP experience.
Boca Holiday Street Parade & Boca Jolly Days

DATE/TIME: Wednesday, December 3; 7:30-9pm
The 53rd Annual Boca Raton Holiday Street Parade will feature decorated floats and community groups which will entertain viewers as they bring dancing, lighting, and music to Federal Highway in Downtown Boca. The parade will start at Federal Highway and SE 5th Street, and travel north to the Mizner Park Amphitheater.
Boca Jolly Days Event Highlights from our South Florida Holiday Events Guide:
- Holiday Tree Lighting: Kicking off the season on November 23rd at Mizner Park.
- Holiday Pops Concert: A performance on Saturday, December 7, 2025, at 7 PM at the Mizner Park Amphitheater.
- Night Market: A Night Market and Meet & Greet with Olaf is planned for Thursday, December 12, from 6–9 PM at Sanborn Square.
- Merry in Mizner: This event with Cookies and Cocoa is scheduled for Friday, December 20, at 6 PM at the South Gazebo in Mizner Park.
- Jolly Jamboree: A post-Christmas event on December 26th at Sugar Sand Park Community Center featuring face painting, airbrush tattoos, and a trackless train.
- Deck the House Decorating Contest: Residents can enter their decorated homes for a chance to win prizes, with winners notified on December 22nd.
Mizner Park Holiday Concert at The Studio

DATE/TIME: Friday, December 19; 7:30pm
Holiday Magic: Timeless Songs of the Season invites you into an enchanting evening where classic melodies make the season shine. This elegant concert blends the warmth of vintage holiday favorites with a rich, timeless sound—celebrating the music of Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, cherished Hanukkah songs, beloved Christmas carols, and more.
Nostalgic, classy, and joyfully festive, it’s the perfect way to usher in the spirit of the season with style, sentiment, and song with an 11-piece Band!
Holiday Kickoff At Boca Center

DATE/TIME: Friday, November 21; 5:30-7:30pm
Santa Claus is coming to town! Join us as we ring in the season at Holiday Kickoff on Friday, November 21, from 5:30-7:30PM. Enjoy an evening of festive fun for the whole family!
Get ready for holiday fun, including:
• Live Holiday Performances
• Santa’s Arrival & Tree Lighting
• Photos with Santa – $10 donation*
• Cookie Decorating
• Freebies and more!
*All proceeds from Santa photos will benefit the Boca Raton Rotary Annual Toy Drive.
Menorah Lighting At Boca Center

DATE/TIME: Friday, December 17; 5:00pm
PJ Library® and the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County invite families across the community to celebrate the fourth night of Chanukah at a joyful and music-filled outdoor gathering on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, beginning at 5:00 p.m. at Boca Center, 5150 Town Center Circle, Boca Raton.
This beloved annual event brings families together for an evening of storytelling, crafts, music, and a community candle lighting. Children and parents will enjoy hands-on Chanukah crafts beginning at 5:00 p.m., followed by a special PJ Library® storytime at 6:00 p.m.
At 6:15 p.m., local community rabbis will light the menorah, bringing a powerful sense of unity and tradition to the evening. Immediately after the candle lighting, families will enjoy a festive Chanukah concert featuring the Rock N’ Roll Rabbi, David Paskin. Back by popular demand, Rabbi Paskin’s interactive music and warm holiday spirit make him a favorite for children and adults alike.
Families who RSVP in advance will be entered for a chance to win exciting prizes.
The event is open to the public.
Holiday Photos With Santa Boca Town Center

DATE/TIME: November 7-December 24
The ultimate holiday tradition awaits. And Santa is making a list and checking it twice — so reserve your photos with Santa today! Santa arrives on November 7th and will be here through December 24th. Book early to ensure your spot to see Santa.
A special visit with Caring Santa

DATE/TIME: Sunday, December 7; 9-10:30am
Caring Santa® is a special, sensory-friendly experience – exclusively for children with special needs and their families. Santa will be located in the Nordstrom Court. Photos will be taken and available for purchase at this event. Reservations are required for this private event. To reserve your spot, click “Reserve your visit here!”

DATE/TIME: Sunday, November 23; 6:30-8:30pm
Bring your pets to pose with Santa! Your pets are part of the family too, so don’t miss this fun opportunity for them to see Santa too! Pet Photos will be located in Nordstrom Court. Photos will be taken and available for purchase at this event. Reservations are not required for this event. Reserve Your Visit Here for Santa Photos or Pet Photos with Santa.
Savor Boca Centennial Celebration at Mizner Park- Save $10 on Tickets with Code: BOCAMOM10

DATE/TIME: Saturday, December 6
Join Savor Our City and the City of Boca Raton as they celebrate 100 incredible years with Savor Boca — a Centennial celebration bursting with bold tastes, vibrant moments, and a shared spirit that honors our rich history and brings the community together like never before. This unforgettable celebration features two signature events on one delicious day:
- A lively photo scavenger hunt through Mizner Park, where teams of friends, families, and coworkers complete creative challenges, uncover bits of local history, and capture fun memories for the chance to earn bragging rights and win exciting prizes.
- A self-guided tasting tour featuring crave-worthy bites from 10+ local restaurants, paired with creative cocktails inspired by the flavors, trends, and spirit of each decade from the 1920s to the 2020s or a VIP guided tour with elevated tastings and full size cocktails at 4 restaurants
Santa at the Boca Raton

DATE/TIME: From December 5–21, Santa “checks in” at The Boca Raton for a special meet-and-greet, offering magical moments for families before his big night. On December 18, children are invited to Storytime with Mr. & Mrs. Claus, a cozy pajama-clad evening of classic tales, and on December 20, families can craft sweet memories during Gingerbread Decorating with the helper elves at Banyan Bunch kids club. The celebrations continue on December 27 with a Festive Under the Stars BBQ, led by international BBQ host Jack Arnold, featuring culinary delights, arts and crafts, and family fun in the warm South Florida evening air.
Holiday Fantasy Lights At Tradewinds Park

DATE/TIME: November 14-January 23
Celebrate the holidays with three miles of giant animated holiday displays and illuminated trees. Their 31st annual event is larger than ever and includes favorites from the past and exciting new creations!
Brunch with Santa at Galuppi’s in Pompano Beach

DATE/TIME: December 7, 14 and 21
Gather the family and join for a festive holiday brunch filled with delicious food, cheerful activities, and photo ops you’ll cherish all season long. Enjoy a Cookies & Milk Station, Mailbox for Letters to Santa, Hot Cocoa, and Adult Christmas Cocktails to make your visit even more magical.
This Christmas, they’re also partnering with The Lord’s Gift House to spread holiday cheer. Bring a new, unwrapped gift to help local families in need and make a difference in our community.
RESERVE YOUR TABLE HERE
Santa Arrives At The Mall At Wellington Green | South Florida Holiday Events

DATE/TIME: November 14 – December 24
Santa’s Arrival Party
- Grand Court
- Friday, November 14
- 6-7:30pm
- FREE
Santa Claus is officially in town! Children and families are invited to celebrate Santa’s official arrival to The Mall at Wellington Green with a festive bubble party, holiday treats, photo ops and more.
Santa Photos at The Ice Palace
- The Ice Palace in Grand Court
- November 14–December 24
- Hours vary
Children always look forward to a magical visit with Santa Claus at The Mall at Wellington Green. Get snapped with Santa at The Ice Palace and tell him what you’re wishing for this year.
Holiday Book Signing with Boca Raton Author

DATE/TIME: December 6, 13 and 16
This heartwarming story follows Spike, a lovable pug who discovers the magic of community and celebration during a vibrant holiday parade. Spike’s holiday parade takes place at Mizner Park – a perfect connection to Boca Moms and Boca’s Holiday Parade!
It’s a joyful, art-inspired read that’s perfect for Boca families looking to add something meaningful to their holiday traditions. The book is a top seller and reached #7 in its category last year on Amazon! Book signings at Barnes & Noble in Delray Beach on December 6th and 16th.
Christkindlmarkt at the American German Club

DATE/TIME: December 13 & 14
Experience the wonder of a traditional German Christmas Market, beautifully decorated for the holiday season! Warm up with Glühwein, sip German bier, and enjoy authentic German food while the air fills with the joyful sounds of local school choirs, bands, and dances from their very own Volkstanzgruppe. Please bring non-perishable food items and toys to the event! Your donations will help support local families in need.
Usher In The Holiday Season At CityPlace in West Palm Beach

DATE/TIME: Saturday, November 8; 5-9pm
Unwrap a world of wonder illuminated by nightly snowfalls, enchanting light shows by The Wishing Tree, and the joy of Santa’s Workshop presented by Bank of America, along with cherished traditions and new festive experiences to discover all season long.
- Holiday Kickoff Schedule 5-8pm
- Santa’s Workshop Presented by Bank of America 5-9pm
- Live Entertainment by Mister Trombone, Ballet Palm Beach and more 6:30pm
- First Snowfall and The Wishing Tree Lighting Restaurant reservations recommended.
- Parking Hibiscus Garage: $10 before 4pm, $20 after 4pm Valet: $15 before 4pm, $25 after 4pm Okeechobee Blvd East (in front of Anushka)
West Palm Beach Holiday In Paradise and the Sandi Tree

DATE/TIME: December 4-31
Clematis by Night Holiday Tree Lighting featuring Sound Society (Party) on the NewDay USA Stage | Thursday, Dec. 4, from 6 – 10 p.m. | FREE on the Great Lawn (100 N. Clematis Street)
The celebration will feature music by Sound Society (party band) and include FREE and special entertainment, photos with Santa, and much more. A holiday shopping boutique featuring local artisans will occur in the Lake Pavilion. Of note: music, activities, and the boutique takes place until 9 p.m.; Sandi shows and rides on Ferris continue until 10 p.m.
Winter in Paradise | Saturday, Dec. 6, from 5 – 9 p.m. | FREE at Heart and Soul Park (825 N. Rosemary Avenue)
This community celebration is a festive evening filled with holiday cheer in the heart of West Palm Beach’s Historic Northwest District. Attendees will enjoy a special holiday lighting ceremony, West Palm Beach Fire Rescue firing up the grill (while supplies last), and a variety of family-friendly activities, including arts and crafts, roller skating, and a holiday firetruck with snow! The event also includes live entertainment by N2Nation: The Sounds of Motown & More, plus a vibrant performance by Miami Generation Junkanoo, and more.
Sandi and Santa’s Annual Pancake Breakfast | Sunday, Dec. 7 | Two seatings will be available at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. | Tickets are $18 per person, plus taxes and fees and are available at wpb.org/holiday or onEventbrite | Lake Pavilion (101 S. Flagler Drive)
Enjoy a holiday-themed pancake breakfast steps from Sandi and with private access to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Ticket price also includes the only daytime ride on Ferris.
Clematis by Night featuring Phoenix5 (Soul/Funk/Rock/Reggae) on the NewDay USA Stage | Thursday, Dec. 11 from 6 – 9 p.m. | FREE on the Great Lawn
Friday, December 12 from 6 – 9 p.m. | Nights in Northwood Village | Northwood Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33407 –
Celebrate the season in Northwood Village with dazzling holiday lights, one-of-a-kind holiday gifts from local artisans, and festive live entertainment. This is a FREE event, so attendees are encouraged to bring their friends, family, and neighbors for this vibrant holiday celebration.
Soul in the City at Sunset Lounge featuring Valerie Tyson | Wednesday, Dec. 17, from 7 – 9 p.m. | Sunset Lounge, 609 8th Street, West Palm Beach For tickets and info, visit wpb.org/jazz
Renowned for her powerhouse stage presence and vocal versatility, Valerie Tyson is one of South Florida’s most sought-after vocalists. Her performances span jazz, soul, and R&B, captivating audiences with every note.
Clematis by Night featuring ReaXtion Band (Party) on the NewDay USA Stage | Thursday, Dec. 18, from 6 – 9 p.m. | Free on the Great Lawn
A local party band, ReaXtion is known for playing the hits that make everyone dance.
Aloha Islanders Tropical Holiday Spectacular on the NewDay USA Stage | Sunday, Dec. 21, from 4 – 7 p.m. | FREE on the Great Lawn
The annual vibrant, high-energy, and authentic Polynesian show is popular with guests of all ages and is consistently the most popular Sunday on the Waterfront show annually. The Islanders take the audience on a journey through Polynesia using pulsating drums, beautiful hula dancers, and exciting Samoan fire knife dancers to make guests feel truly transported. The event will also feature the annual conch-blowing contest.
NO Clematis by Night | Thursday, Dec. 25
Sandi’s Seasonal Grand Finale | Wednesday, Dec. 31, from 8 p.m. – midnight | Live music by On the Roxx, followed by DJ Reflex on the NewDay USA Stage | FREE
From 8 p.m. to midnight, the Great Lawn will transform into a rocking New Year’s Eve celebration. There will be a live music performance by rock band On the Roxx, followed by DJ Reflex spinning top hits. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. At midnight, the City, in partnership with the Downtown Development Authority, will ignite a short but explosive grand-finale-style fireworks display over the Intracoastal Waterway. The fireworks are sponsored by the Downtown Development Authority.
Ilumina At Mounts Botanical Garden in West Palm Beach

DATE/TIME: November 12 – January 11
ILUMINA: A Tropical Garden Lantern Festival transforms our lush landscape into a glowing paradise filled with more than 500 handcrafted silk lanterns, inspired by the plants, animals, and vibrant spirit of the tropics. As you stroll through illuminated pathways, you’ll encounter towering chameleons, radiant flamingos, shimmering butterflies, luminous orchids, and the festival’s breathtaking centerpiece—a 195-foot dragon rising from the Garden’s lake, a masterpiece of color and light that will leave you in awe.
Each lantern is a work of art, created by artisans who blend centuries-old traditions with contemporary creativity. The result is a multisensory experience that connects people of all ages with the beauty and wonder of the natural world.
Lights 4 Hope Drive Thru Light Show at Okeeheelee Park

DATE/TIME: November 21 – December 28
Lights 4 Hope, Inc presents its 8th Annual Holiday Drive Thru Light Show at Okeeheelee Park. This is a drive-thru light show containing over 2 miles of animated and musical holiday light displays at Okeeheelee Park.
Proceeds from this event benefit our Mission which is to help local children and families suffering with life-altering diseases and diagnoses year-round.
Santa’s Enchanted Garden At The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach Gardens

DATE/TIME: November 7 – December 24
To begin the festivities, Santa will make his grand entrance during Santa’s Arrival Parade on Friday, November 7 at 6 p.m. Escorted by a jolly cast of characters and the Palm Beach Gardens High School Marching Band, Santa will spread holiday cheer on his way to Santa’s Enchanted Garden in the Grand Court. Guests can make magical memories and take photos with Santa from November 8 to December 24, during mall hours. On the weekends, don’t miss out on Santa’s Stilt Walking Elves in the Grand Court from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Photo reservations with Santa are encouraged and walk-ups are welcomed.
The Gardens Kids’ Corner Holiday Shop, a kids-only shopping zone, will be open on the upper level of Grand Court from November 7 to December 24. A cheerful team of Santa’s helpers will be available to watch children as they shop with one shiny coin from Santa’s golden bank to surprise their friends and family with gifts. Additional coins are available to purchase at three for $5. All proceeds from the shop will benefit The Arc of Palm Beach County.

Santa Story Time! Williams Sonoma Hosting Breakfast and Cookie Decorating Event for Children With Special Needs
The community is invited to join Williams Sonoma on Sunday, December 7 at 8:30 a.m., for “Santa’s Special Event for Those With Special Needs.” Children with special needs and their families can enjoy a delicious breakfast courtesy of Brio Italian Grille, a heartwarming Santa story time, and hands-on cookie decorating. Tickets are $30 per person, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
This festive morning event is designed to bring holiday joy and inclusivity to the special needs community. Proceeds from the event ensure that no family ever receives a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food while their child is cared for at St. Jude.
Space is limited. For reservations, call Randi Kirshner, William Sonoma’s general manager, at 561-799-2425.
Lion Country Safari’s “Lantern & Lights Safari Nights”

DATE/TIME: November 1 – January 18
Lantern & Lights Safari Nights features more than 60 larger-than-life illuminated displays inspired by wildlife from across the world. Guests can stroll through a glowing landscape filled with interactive installations, including moonlight glow swings and illuminated seesaws and tunnels in an event designed to engage visitors of all ages.
The festival also offers festive holiday cocktails, a special “wild eats” food menu, and will provide numerous opportunities for memorable photos among the glowing displays. To celebrate the season, Santa Claus will make special appearances on December 19 and 20, adding a traditional holiday highlight to the family-friendly experience!
Zoo Lights at The Palm Beach Zoo

DATE/TIME: November 1 – January 4
Thousands of lights and handcrafted sculptures from some of Zimbabwe’s Shona tribe will greet guests along the Zoo’s pathways, creating a unique, festive atmosphere.
Los Trompos By Famous Mexican Creators Esrawe + Cadena

DATE/TIME: Kravis Family Plaza November 20 – January 2, 2026
By special arrangement with Creos, the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is thrilled to bring the large-scale interactive travelling art exhibition, Los Trompos to West Palm Beach. Created by Esrawe + Cadena and powered by Creos, Los Trompos will be on display at the Kravis Center from November 20 to January 2, 2026 and will be operational daily from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on the Kravis Family Plaza. Los Trompos is free to the public and reservations are not required.
Boynton Beach South Florida Holiday Events 2025

Holiday Tree Lighting
- Date: Friday, December 5, 2025
- Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Location: Centennial Park & Amphitheater, 120 East Ocean Ave.
- Highlights: Holiday music, food vendors, children’s activities, a holiday gift market, and a visit from Santa. The tree lighting ceremony begins at 6:20 PM.
Holiday Parade
- Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
- Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Location: Federal Hwy & Ocean Ave, Boynton Beach
- Highlights: Hosted by the City of Boynton Beach, this all-ages event includes live music and car displays.
Holiday Boat Parade
- Date: Friday, December 12, 2025
- Time: 6:00 PM
- Location: Boynton Harbor Marina, 735 Casa Loma Blvd.
5th Annual Holiday Artisan Festival in Lake Worth

DATE/TIME: December 6; 10am
The Holiday Artisan Festival offers a full day of holiday cheer, featuring a curated indoor market showcasing local artisan vendors with unique, handcrafted gifts perfect for holiday giving. While exploring the holiday market, attendees can enjoy freshly brewed coffee from Common Grounds and treats from a Pop Up Baker.
There’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained! Kids are invited to color Christmas Cards and holiday crafts at the Elf Craft Station, or enjoy activities in the Kids’ Game Zone outside. And we’ve heard Santa might be making some appearances throughout the day!
Adding to the magic, the event will feature live holiday performances and spontaneous pop-up entertainment throughout the day, creating a joyful backdrop for the season’s festivities.
Entry is FREE. Limited Parking on Property, Street parking is available!
Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade | South Florida Holiday Events Guide

DATE/TIME: December 6; 6pm
Get ready for an unforgettable night of festive cheer and dazzling boats during the 31st Annual Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade! Watch up to 80 boats light up the Intracoastal Waterway from North Palm Beach to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse.
Jingle & Mingle Holiday Bar

Jingle & Mingle Programming (Wednesdays as well as Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Available through January 3!)
· Paint & Sip: Holiday Wine Glass Edition (Tuesday, December 2 at 6:00PM): Paint wine glasses alongside artist Sonia Giusto. The evening includes seasonal drinks, light bites, and a relaxed, festive atmosphere at the Jingle & Mingle Holiday Bar. To register, click here.
· A Toast to the Season Cocktail Class (Tuesday, December 16 at 6:00PM): Join mixologist Hauk Cornell for a hands-on cocktail experience that’s all about shaking things up and having fun. Craft winter-inspired drinks, enjoy a few sips along the way, and toast to good times at Jingle & Mingle To register, click here.
· Ugly Sweater Trivia (Friday, December 19 at 6:00PM): Hosted by Good as Gold Events, this trivia showdown features music, prizes, and a contest for the ugliest sweater. To learn more, click here.
Breakfast With Santa At the Galleria Mall

DATE/TIME: December 6; 9am
Galleria Fort Lauderdale will welcome families for Breakfast with Santa, its cherished holiday tradition. This festive event invites guests to enjoy a morning filled with holiday cheer, interactive fun, and magical moments with Santa Claus.
Guests will be treated to a family meal, arts and crafts, entertainment, and a photo opportunity with Santa. This annual event also marks the launch of Santa’s stay at Galleria Fort Lauderdale where families can take keepsake portraits for a nominal fee throughout the season.
Hard Rock The Holidays at Hard Rock Hotel, Ft. Lauderdale

DATE/TIME: November 29 – January 3
The Iconic Guitar Hotel will transform into a magical winter wonderland featuring more than two million lights, themed displays, festive eats and immersive experiences for the entire family to enjoy over the course of 35 days.
December at MODS

DATE/TIME:
Winter Wonderlab Science Weekends in December
Saturdays: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Sundays: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Kick off winter MODS-style with dazzling lights, hands-on STEM experiments and the fan-favorite Winter Nitro Show. Guests can explore how Florida’s climate shapes our seasons, meet resident animal ambassadors and take part in snowflake engineering and winter-themed sensory play. Every weekend transforms the Museum into a sparkling world of science and seasonal wonder. Included with Museum admission. Visit mods.org/winterwonderlab for more information.
Save Our Seas Distinguished Speaker Series
Dec. 4 and Dec. 18 • 6 p.m.
Dive into two free virtual talks, sponsored by the Save Our Seas Foundation, featuring leading ocean conservation experts. On Dec. 4, Sophie Prendergast of the University of the Azores discusses endangered devil rays, and on Dec. 18, Pelayo Salinas of the Charles Darwin Foundation explores shark ecology in the Galápagos. To register, please visit mods.org/saveourseas.
Beach Cleanup
Dec. 6 • 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. • Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park
Join MODS for a morning of coastal conservation, sponsored by The Extra Catch. Entrance fees will be waived for volunteers. Suitable for ages 8 and up (volunteers 16 and under require an adult chaperone). Bring water and sunscreen and wear closed-toe shoes. Supplies provided. To register, please visit mods.org/deccleanup.
A PAW Patrol™ Christmas – Holiday Special
Dec. 6 and Dec. 13 • 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. (10 a.m. screening)
Get ready for a paw-liday celebration with the heroic pups of Adventure Bay, sponsored by Truist. Families can wear festive pajamas or holiday sweaters and enjoy early Museum access, winter science fun, a tropical “snowball” challenge, holiday crafts and hot chocolate topped with liquid nitrogen-frozen marshmallows. A fur-tastic screening of the PAW Patrol™ Christmas Holiday Special follows in the AutoNation® IMAX® Theater.
Additionally on Dec. 13 from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m., enjoy a special Touch-A-Truck and Pet-A-Pup meet-and-greet with community first responders and their K-9 partners.
Cost: Members $38 per person | Non-members $48 per person (includes early admission, activities and film). To register, please visit mods.org/holidaypaws.
Baby’s First Winter and Baby’s First New Year’s
Dec. 9 and Dec. 31 • 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Make your baby’s first holiday season unforgettable with themed stories, hands-on early STEM play and adorable photo moments, sponsored by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. Enjoy sensory-rich experiences and parenting tips for a memorable day of discovery. Included with Museum admission. To register, please visit mods.org/series/babys-first.
Sensory-Friendly Sunday Mornings
Dec. 28 • 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Optional IMAX® film at 12:30 p.m.
Families can enjoy a FREE sensory-friendly morning at MODS, sponsored by ABA Centers of Florida and Fifth Third Bank, with adjusted lighting, lowered sound and sensory-based activities. Guests may also enjoy a gentle-screening of Arctic: Our Frozen Planet in the AutoNation® IMAX® Theater. To register, please visit mods.org/ArcticSensorySunday.
Christmas Wonderland At Tropical Park Miami | South Florida Holiday Events Guide

DATE/TIME: November 13 – January 4
Now in its third year, Christmas Wonderland transforms more than 14 acres of Tropical Park into the largest holiday attraction in the U.S., featuring six immersive holiday worlds, 50+ rides, dazzling light shows, and nonstop holiday entertainment for all ages.
This year’s edition blends holiday nostalgia with Miami’s tropical flair — from HoliDade, a celebration of our neighborhoods and culture, to Sweet Street presented by Amanda Demanda, a candy-colored wonderland filled with family photo ops and community spirit. Families can visit Santa’s Village, experience “snow” in Arctic Delight, and end their night beneath the glow of the Light Up the Night synchronized light spectacular.
Beyond the lights and décor, guests can enjoy:
✨ The Magnificent Midway — 50+ unlimited carnival rides, including the 150-ft Eye in the Sky Ferris wheel
🎆 Firework Fridays — new weekly fireworks display every Friday at 10 p.m.
🎅 Santa’s Sky Shot — Santa’s stunt double launches across the midway in a live “human cannonball” show
🎡 Sleigh and Sway Spectacular — a reindeer-themed aerial performance
🐾 Home for the Holidays adoption program with Miami-Dade Animal Services
🍴 World’s Largest Noche Buena — celebrating Miami’s holiday traditions with food, music, and family
Hoffman’s Chocolate’s Winter Wonderland at Flamingo Gardens

DATE/TIME: November 22 – December 23
- Thousands of colorful and twinkling lights and luminous displays throughout the gardens
- A 35-foot Christmas tree, presented by Florida Blue, sparkling with festive brilliance
- Free photos with Santa in Santa’s Village presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, on select nights through December 23
- A mouthwatering experience at Hoffman’s Chocolates Pop-up Shop and The Sweet Ride ice cream truck.
- Toasty s’mores and seasonal bites from Flamingo Gardens’ Flamingo Pond Café
- Nightly live musical performances and so much more!
iTHINK Community Foundation kicks off Jingle Bells at the Branches

DATE/TIME: All November/December
This cherished tradition features activities, treats, wrapped age-appropriate gifts, and a special visit from Santa Claus.
Community members are invited to share in the spirit of the season by donating online at ithinkfi.org/community/foundation, purchasing a paper bell, or dropping off an unwrapped toy for a boy or girl aged 4–5 at any iTHINK Financial branch.
100% of donations go directly toward creating holiday joy for local children served by the following organizations: Highland Elementary in Lake Worth Beach, West Riviera Elementary in West Palm Beach, Oriole Elementary in Ft. Lauderdale, Robert C. Markham Elementary in Pompano Beach, and Westgate Elementary in West Palm Beach.
Holiday Jazz at the Fairchild Garden

DATE/TIME: Tuesday, December 9th
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is bringing a sophisticated twist to Miami’s holiday season with Holiday Jazz in the Garden, a one-night-only evening of smooth jazz, glowing lights, and festive outdoor celebration on Tuesday, December 9, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Set beneath Fairchild’s illuminated holiday canopy, the Garden transforms into a serene, music-filled escape where guests can wander shimmering pathways, listen to live jazz under the stars, and browse a seasonal artisan market. It’s a beautifully atmospheric holiday experience perfect for couples, music lovers, and anyone looking to enjoy the magic of December in Miami’s tropical outdoors.
This year’s event features:
Live Jazz Sets by Mitch Franco & Trio – A soulful, classic sound with a modern twist
Featured Violinist Between Sets – Elegant, holiday-inspired melodies drifting through the Garden
The Garden Market – Local artisans with handcrafted gifts, seasonal treasures, and one-of-a-kind holiday finds
Festive Food & Drinks – Seasonal bites and beverages available for purchase
Premium Options to Elevate the Night:
• Premium Seating for Two ($105) – Reserved table + admission for two
• Charcuterie Board for Two ($85 add-on) – Curated cheeses and meats
• Holiday Cocktail Flight ($35 add-on) – Three festive cocktails
• Blanket Rental ($5) – Get cozy under the holiday lights
“A Very Merry Garden,” taking place December 1, 2025 through January 4, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Families are invited to experience Santa visits, festive storytelling, hands-on holiday fun, and cozy treats all surrounded by 83 acres of lush garden beauty.
Throughout December, Fairchild transforms into a warm and whimsical holiday escape where guests can round up Santa’s playful reindeer, send letters straight to the North Pole, decorate gingerbread cookies, and enjoy storytime with Mrs. Claus over a cup of hot cocoa. It’s a uniquely South Florida twist on holiday traditions, perfect for families looking to create memorable moments without leaving Miami.
This year’s celebration includes:
Reindeer Round-Up – A Garden-wide adventure to help Santa find his reindeer
Santa’s Post Office – Kids write and send official letters to the North Pole
Storytime with Mrs. Claus – Heartwarming holiday tales + hot cocoa
Gingerbread Decorating Station (for purchase) – Craft your own holiday treats
Hot Cocoa Bar (for purchase) – Marshmallows, candy canes, peppermint & more
Meet Santa – Special appearances for photos and holiday wishes
Lake Worth Beach Holiday Parade

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