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Southwest Florida transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a dazzling array of events to get you into the festive spirit! From twinkling light displays to jolly parades and unique local traditions, there’s something for everyone. Get ready to mark your calendars with these must-attend holiday happenings across the region.
Sarasota: Cultural Gems & Coastal Lights
Lights in Bloom® at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
- Location: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL 34236
- Details: Experience the gardens transformed with over two million dazzling lights, illuminating the tropical plants and historic buildings. This highly-ranked holiday lights display features illuminated walkways, live entertainment, children’s activities, and food for purchase.
- Dates: Select nights throughout December (check the Selby Gardens website for exact dates and ticket information).
Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
- Location: Sarasota Bayfront, with prime viewing spots at Bayfront Park, Marina Jack, and Bird Key Park.
- Details: Watch a spectacular parade of boats, each decked out in thousands of holiday lights and creative decorations, as they cruise along the Bay. Attendees are often encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy or book for donation to local nonprofits.
- Dates: Typically a Saturday in mid-December (e.g., December 13th).
Holidays at UTC (University Town Center)
- Location: University Town Center, 195 University Town Center Dr, Sarasota, FL 34243
- Details: UTC offers an entire season of festivities, including:
- The Rink at UTC: An outdoor, real-ice skating rink.
- Santa’s Grand Arrival Parade: A celebratory kickoff with a parade, light show, and fireworks.
- Nightly Light Shows: Coordinated light and music displays.
- Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: Enjoy a festive ride around the beautifully decorated complex.
- Dates: Festivities generally run from mid-November through early January.
Holiday Splendor at The Ringling
- Location: The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
- Details: A festive evening featuring the historic grounds and buildings decorated for the season. Local school groups provide musical entertainment in the Museum of Art Courtyard. Admission is often free with the donation of an unwrapped toy per person for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program.
- Dates: Typically held on an early December evening.
Bradenton: Old Florida Charm & Community Spirit
Winter Wonderland on Old Main Street
- Location: Old Main Street, Downtown Bradenton, FL 34205
- Details: This popular, free family event brings winter fun to the Sunshine State! Features include: meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus, a thrilling snow slide, a free winter carnival with games, a vendor marketplace for holiday shopping, and performances by local youth groups.
- Dates: Typically a Saturday in early December (e.g., December 6th).
Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade
- Location: Manatee River, viewable from various spots including the Bradenton Riverwalk and waterfront restaurants.
- Details: A dazzling procession of illuminated boats traveling along the Manatee River. Gather along the river to cheer on the creatively decorated vessels.
- Dates: Typically a Saturday in mid-December (e.g., December 13th).
A Night Before Christmas
- Location: G.T. Bray Park, 5502 33rd Ave Dr W, Bradenton, FL 34209
- Details: A free, fun-filled evening perfect for families. Features include professional photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus (free to download), a snow slide, a foam zone, inflatables, face painting, and a “Shop Local” Vendor Marketplace. A suggested donation of a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots is requested.
- Dates: Typically a Saturday in early to mid-December (e.g., December 13th).
European Holiday Market
- Location: Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd, Palmetto, FL 34221
- Details: This unique market blends European tradition with Gulf Coast flair, offering a curated shopping experience with artisan vendors, culinary delights, and interactive attractions.
- Dates: Typically runs for multiple days in early December (e.g., December 4th – 7th).
Naples: A Dazzling Display of Lights and Charm
Night Lights in the Garden at Naples Botanical Garden
- Location: Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples, FL 34112
- Details: Experience the garden transformed into a magical realm with thousands of twinkling lights. Stroll through beautifully illuminated pathways, enjoy live entertainment, and savor festive food and drinks. This enchanting event is perfect for families and couples alike.
- Dates: Select evenings throughout December. Check their website for specific dates and ticket information.
Christmas on 3rd Street South
- Location: 3rd Street South, Naples, FL
- Details: Kick off the holiday season with the annual tree lighting ceremony, live music, and beautifully decorated storefronts. Enjoy festive shopping, delicious dining, and a visit from Santa Claus himself! The street is adorned with stunning lights and decorations, creating a classic holiday atmosphere.
- Dates: Typically held in late November, with decorations remaining throughout December.
Naples Bay Christmas Boat Parade
- Location: Naples Bay, visible from various waterfront locations like the Naples City Dock, Tin City, and Bayfront.
- Details: Watch a spectacular parade of boats, each adorned with thousands of holiday lights and creative decorations, as they cruise along Naples Bay. This beloved tradition is a true visual feast.
- Dates: Early December (check local listings for exact date and time).
Fort Myers: Historical Charm Meets Holiday Cheer
Edison and Ford Holiday Nights
- Location: Edison & Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901
- Details: Step back in time and experience the historic homes and gardens of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford beautifully decorated with traditional holiday lights and ornaments. Enjoy live music, carolers, and special tours. It’s a magical glimpse into holidays of yesteryear.
- Dates: Late November through December.
Holiday Stroll at Fishermen’s Village
- Location: Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 (Just north of Fort Myers)
- Details: Fishermen’s Village transforms into a festive wonderland with millions of lights, elaborate decorations, and holiday-themed entertainment. Enjoy shopping, dining, and breathtaking waterfront views while soaking in the holiday spirit.
- Dates: Throughout December.
Cape Coral: Parades and Community Festivities
Holiday Festival of Lights
- Location: Cape Coral Parkway, Cape Coral, FL
- Details: One of the largest holiday festivals in the area, featuring a dazzling parade, live entertainment on multiple stages, a snow slide, kids’ activities, and a spectacular tree lighting ceremony.
- Dates: Early December (check city website for exact date).
Cape Coral Christmas Boat Parade
- Location: Various canals throughout Cape Coral, with prime viewing at many waterfront restaurants and public viewing areas.
- Details: Similar to Naples, Cape Coral hosts its own fantastic boat parade, showcasing uniquely decorated vessels twinkling with lights.
- Dates: Mid-December (check local listings for exact date and time).
Sanibel & Captiva Islands: Island-Style Holidays
Luminary Festival
- Location: Throughout Sanibel and Captiva Islands
- Details: Experience the islands come alive with thousands of luminaries (candles in bags) lining streets and pathways, creating a warm and inviting glow. Many businesses offer special holiday treats, sales, and entertainment. It’s a truly unique island tradition.
- Dates: Early December (usually two separate evenings for Sanibel and Captiva).
Beyond the Main Events: More Holiday Joy!
Look out for local craft fairs, school holiday concerts, church bazaars, and smaller community tree lighting ceremonies throughout Lehigh Acres, Estero, and Bonita Springs. Many local parks also feature impressive light displays.
No matter where you are in Southwest Florida, the holiday season promises an abundance of cheer, sparkling lights, and unforgettable memories. Grab your loved ones, bundle up (it gets chilly sometimes!), and immerse yourself in the festive magic!
