December in Florida offers a perfect blend of mild weather, festive events, and unique attractions ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Whether you’re looking to enjoy holiday festivities, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, this list covers 25 fun and specific things to do across the Sunshine State during the holiday season.
1. Visit ZooLights at Zoo Miami
ZooLights transforms Zoo Miami into a dazzling winter wonderland every December with millions of LED lights, holiday-themed displays, and live entertainment. This event is great for families looking to enjoy wildlife alongside festive cheer, with opportunities to see animals illuminated after dark and enjoy seasonal treats.
2. Explore the Holiday Boat Parades
Florida hosts numerous holiday boat parades in December, such as the Fort Lauderdale Holiday Boat Parade and the Naples Boat Parade. These parades feature boats decorated with lights and festive decorations cruising along waterfronts, creating a magical holiday spectacle best enjoyed from the shore or on a viewing cruise.
3. Experience Christmas at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates
Located in Fort Myers, the Edison & Ford Winter Estates offer special holiday tours and decorations, including a vintage model train display and themed gardens. The historic homes are beautifully lit, providing a glimpse into early 20th-century holiday traditions combined with Florida’s unique winter setting.
4. Attend the Holiday Festival of Lights in Orlando
At Leu Gardens in Orlando, the Holiday Festival of Lights features over a million lights, festive music, and holiday-themed displays. It’s a family-friendly event with food vendors, craft stations, and opportunities to meet Santa Claus, perfect for those visiting the theme park capital who want a break from the usual attractions.
5. Take a Walk Through St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights
St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, hosts Nights of Lights, a stunning display of over three million white lights illuminating historic streets and landmarks. Visitors can enjoy walking tours, horse-drawn carriage rides, and special holiday markets, making it a unique cultural and festive experience.
6. Explore Everglades National Park
December offers cooler temperatures and fewer mosquitoes, making it an excellent time to explore Everglades National Park. Visitors can take guided airboat tours, spot wildlife like manatees and alligators, and enjoy hiking trails without the intense summer heat.
7. Visit the Sugar Sand Festival in Clearwater Beach
Held in early December, the Sugar Sand Festival celebrates Clearwater Beach’s famous white quartz sand with sand sculpting competitions, live music, and fireworks. It’s a fun event for all ages that highlights the beach’s natural beauty alongside holiday festivities.
8. Go Ice Skating at the Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando
The Dr. Phillips Center offers a seasonal outdoor ice skating rink called Winter Park Ice, open from November through January. This is a rare chance to enjoy ice skating in Florida’s warm climate and is often accompanied by holiday music and light displays.
9. Explore the Christmas Light Show at the Naples Zoo
Naples Zoo hosts a holiday light show featuring thousands of lights, animal-themed decorations, and festive music. Visitors can enjoy evening zoo tours and special animal encounters during the event, making it a unique holiday experience in Southwest Florida.
10. Tour the Historic Downtown Cocoa Village Holiday Events
Cocoa Village hosts a variety of December holiday events, including a tree lighting ceremony, holiday markets, and live performances. The charming downtown area is decorated with lights, creating a festive small-town atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls and shopping local artisans.
11. Attend the Art Festival at Art Basel Miami Beach
Art Basel Miami Beach in early December is one of the world’s premier art shows, featuring contemporary artworks from leading galleries worldwide. Visitors can explore exhibitions, attend talks, and enjoy the vibrant Miami Beach cultural scene during this internationally recognized event.
12. Explore the Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach
December is prime time for spotting manatees gathering in the warm waters near the Tampa Electric Power Plant. The Manatee Viewing Center offers educational exhibits and viewing platforms where visitors can observe these gentle giants up close in their natural habitat.
13. Enjoy Holiday-Themed Performances at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts
Located in Fort Lauderdale, the Broward Center hosts holiday concerts, ballets, and theater productions throughout December, including performances of The Nutcracker. It’s a great way to experience local culture and festive entertainment in a professional setting.
14. Visit the Christmas Village at Winter Park
The Winter Park Christmas Village features artisan vendors, holiday foods, and live entertainment set in a picturesque historic town center. The event draws locals and visitors alike, offering a cozy holiday shopping experience with plenty of festive charm.
15. Take a Holiday Airboat Tour in the Florida Everglades
Several tour operators offer special holiday-themed airboat rides through the Everglades, combining wildlife viewing with seasonal decorations and music. These tours provide a unique blend of adventure and holiday spirit in Florida’s iconic wetland ecosystem.
16. Visit the Coral Castle Museum in Homestead
Coral Castle, built from massive coral rock by a single man in the early 20th century, offers a mysterious and fascinating attraction year-round. In December, the site is often decorated for the holidays, enhancing the eerie beauty of this architectural wonder.
17. Explore the Holiday Market at the Tampa Riverwalk
The Tampa Riverwalk hosts a winter holiday market featuring local crafts, food vendors, and live music along the scenic Hillsborough River. The market is family-friendly and provides a festive atmosphere with waterfront views and seasonal activities.
18. Attend the Sanibel Island Christmas Boat Parade
Sanibel Island’s annual Christmas Boat Parade showcases festively decorated boats cruising through the island’s canals and waterways. This event is popular with locals and visitors and pairs well with exploring the island’s famous shell beaches.
19. Visit the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach
The Morikami Museum hosts a special Oshogatsu New Year’s Festival in December, featuring traditional Japanese crafts, food, and performances. This cultural event offers a peaceful and educational holiday experience in beautifully landscaped gardens.
20. Experience the Key West Holiday Festivities
Key West celebrates the holidays with events like the Lighted Boat Parade, tree lighting ceremonies, and festive street parties. The island’s laid-back vibe combined with colorful celebrations makes it a unique December destination.
21. Visit the Miami Beach Botanical Garden’s Holiday Events
Miami Beach Botanical Garden offers holiday-themed tours and decorations in a tropical garden setting. Visitors can enjoy live music, art exhibits, and seasonal workshops amid lush greenery and festive lights.
22. Explore the Winter Festival at the Central Florida Zoo
The Central Florida Zoo in Sanford hosts a Winter Festival with holiday lights, animal encounters, and seasonal activities for kids. It’s a great way to combine wildlife education with festive fun in a family-friendly environment.
23. Take a Scenic Drive Along A1A to See Holiday Decorations
Florida’s A1A coastal highway features numerous towns and neighborhoods that go all out with holiday light displays and decorations. Driving from Jacksonville Beach down to Miami offers a variety of festive sights against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.
24. Visit the Holiday Train Show at the Boca Raton Museum of Art
The museum hosts a seasonal train show featuring intricate model trains running through miniature holiday-themed landscapes. This event is ideal for families and train enthusiasts looking for indoor holiday entertainment.
25. Explore the Christmas Tree Trail at Disney Springs
Disney Springs in Orlando offers a Christmas Tree Trail showcasing elaborately decorated trees themed around Disney characters and movies. It’s a free attraction perfect for holiday photos and immersing yourself in Disney magic without needing park admission.
How to Choose
When deciding which activities to enjoy in Florida during December, consider your interests, the type of experience you want, and your location within the state. For families, events like ZooLights at Zoo Miami or the Central Florida Zoo Winter Festival offer kid-friendly fun. If you prefer cultural or artistic experiences, Art Basel Miami Beach or the Morikami Museum’s festival are excellent choices. Outdoor enthusiasts should prioritize Everglades tours or the scenic drives along coastal highways. Weather-wise, Florida’s mild December temperatures mean outdoor events are comfortable, but check specific event dates and times, as many are seasonal or weekend-only. Accessibility and cost can also influence your plans, so reviewing each event’s website for updated info helps ensure a smooth holiday trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Florida warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities in December?
Yes, Florida typically enjoys mild to warm weather in December, with average highs ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit, making outdoor activities very pleasant.
Are holiday events in Florida family-friendly?
Most holiday events in Florida, like ZooLights and boat parades, are designed to be family-friendly, offering activities and entertainment suitable for children of all ages.
Do I need to book tickets in advance for popular December events?
For popular events such as Art Basel or ZooLights, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance as they can sell out quickly during the holiday season.
What are the best areas to stay in Florida for December activities?
Popular bases include Orlando for theme parks and festivals, Miami for cultural events and beach activities, and Fort Lauderdale or Naples for holiday light displays and nature excursions.
Are there any special COVID-19 considerations for December events?
Event policies may vary, so check official event websites for the latest health and safety guidelines before attending.
Can I see holiday decorations without attending events?
Yes, many Florida cities and neighborhoods decorate extensively, especially along waterfronts and downtown areas, allowing for self-guided tours of lights and displays.
Final Thoughts
December in Florida offers a unique combination of holiday spirit, pleasant weather, and diverse activities that appeal to all types of travelers. From dazzling light displays and festive boat parades to cultural festivals and nature explorations, the Sunshine State provides countless ways to celebrate the season. Planning ahead and choosing activities that match your interests will ensure a memorable and joyful Florida holiday experience.
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