Ah, Miami. A top winter sun destination and one of the biggest party hotspots in the country. Is there any better place to be during the holiday season? December in Miami is a great time to visit if you’re looking for a warm winter getaway with plenty of opportunities to get into the holiday spirit.
Miami has many holiday-themed events to enjoy this time of year, with ideal weather conditions for outdoor activities.
Enjoy holiday lights, live music, symphonies, and more. Here is a look at the best events for the whole family to enjoy during the Christmas season in Miami!
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Christmas and Holiday Events in Miami to Ignite Your Holiday Spirit
From a delightful rendition of the Nutcracker to a parade of boats full of lights to Santa and the Grinch, you’ll find it all in Miami. These Christmas and holiday events in Miami have something for the whole family! Here are the best holiday events to attend in Miami in December.
1. Santa’s Enchanted Forest
Santa’s Enchanted Forest is a theme park all about Christmas!
This Christmas-themed carnival runs from November – January and is an excellent place for the whole family.
Attractions include kiddie, family, and thrill rides, but that’s not all. You can also enjoy acrobatics, magic, and various shows!
And the fun doesn’t stop there, either. Santa’s Enchanted Forest attractions include Christmas karaoke, life-sized holiday displays, an epic light display, and south Florida’s tallest Christmas tree.
- November 9, 2022 – January 8, 2023
- Address: 7400 NW 87th Avenue, Miami, FL 33166
- Admission: $42.99 per adult (ages 9-64); $34.58 for children 3-8 and seniors 65+
2. NightGarden at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
NightGarden at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is a magical light spectacular. Stroll through Fairchild Botanic Gardens at night for a few hours of enchanted activities.
Also, enjoy delicious food and drink while you’re there with some of Miami’s most popular food trucks.
- November 11, 2022 – January 8, 2023
- Address: 10901 Old Cutler Road, Miami, FL 33156
- Admission: $30 per adult (ages 11+); $25 for children 10 and under; Group Bundle (min. 6 people) $27.10; children 2 and under enter free
3. Zoo Lights Miami
Experience the magic of the zoo and the holiday season combined at Zoo Lights Miami. This Zoo festival features over a million dazzling holiday lights, animal appearances, Santa, and more!
This festival at the zoo is a popular holiday event in Miami and one of the favorite things to do in Miami for families during the holiday season.
It’s a kid-friendly holiday event so bring the little ones along for arts and crafts projects, hot chocolate and cookies, riverboat rides with snowmen, letters to Santa, and, of course, an appearance by the jolly fat man himself.
Zoo Lights Miami has limited capacity and runs on select weekend nights from late November to December.
From ugly sweater and silly onesie nights to elf look-alike contests, there is a great range of themed nights, so be sure to browse the calendar before you go. You can find all the details on Zoo Lights Miami here.
- Select weekend nights November 25 – December 30, 2022
- Address: 12400 SW 152 St., Miami, FL 33177
- Admission: $20.95 per adult; $18.95 for children ages 3 – 12
4. Historic Holiday Decor at Deering Estates
What better way to celebrate Christmas in Miami than to step back in time for a traditional Christmas?
Wander the historic houses on the Deering Estate grounds, including the Richmond Cottage and Stone House Library, and explore award-winning designers’ festive holiday decor for some old-school fun.
Experience historic sights and sounds, as well as scents of the season. This year’s theme is A Jazzy Holiday, bringing back that Christmas nostalgia.
This historic holiday display takes place daily from late November to early January.
- November 25 – January 6, 2023
- Address: 16701 SW 72nd Ave, Miami, FL 33157
- Admission: $15 per adult (ages 15+); $7 for children ages 4 -14; Free for Deering Estate Foundation members and children under 4
5. Winterfest Boat Parade
It isn’t Christmas in South Florida without experiencing the Winterfest Boat Parade.
This annual holiday parade takes place in December and starts in the downtown area of Fort Lauderdale.
The parade features motorized boats of all kinds, from showboats to mega yachts decked out for the holidays in dazzling light displays.
If you’re looking for a truly Floridian holiday experience, don’t miss the Winterfest Boat Parade!
- December 10, 2022
- Address: Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park, 300 Las Olas Circle, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
- Admission: $25 per adult; $20 for children ages 10 and under
6. Pinecrest Gardens Nights of Lights
Explore the winter wonderland at Pinecrest Gardens Nights of Lights. From December 11, 2022, to January 1, 2023, this gorgeous landscape is decorated with a creative splash of holiday lights.
Explore the gardens and holiday maze, eat delicious treats, and sip a cocktail while the kids enjoy a magical Story Time with Mrs. Claus.
Check the calendar for special appearances by Santa Claus and a lineup of holiday concerts throughout the season.
- December 11, 2022 – January 1, 2023
- Address: 11000 Southwest 57th Ave., Pinecrest, FL 33156
- Admission: $20 per adult; $15 for children ages 2 – 17
7. Holiday Evening at Vizcaya Museum and Garden
If you’re looking for a holiday-themed Miami date idea, you can’t miss the Holiday Evening event at Vizcaya Museum and Garden.
The estate becomes illuminated in honor of the holiday season, and guests can experience the estate as if it were the 1920s.
Take photos with your sweetheart by the Christmas tree and take a romantic stroll through the gardens. Grab food at the on-site cafe and make an evening of it!
- December 14, 2022
- Address: 3251 South Miami Ave Miami, FL 33129
8. New World Symphony Sounds of the Seasons
Experience the Sounds of the Season at the New World Symphony. Watch the NWS Fellows all decked out for the holidays and perform your favorite carols.
Treat yourself, your family, and your friends to a holiday symphony that celebrates various cultural heritage!
Enjoy selections from The Nutcracker, The Polar Express, Hanukkah Festival Overture, Navidad Latina, and more.
This special event is one day a year in December and another one of the best Miami holiday celebrations you don’t want to miss!
- Saturday, December 17, 2022
- Address: 500 17th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139
- Admission: Subscriber discount single ticket: $32 – $60
9. Magic of Lights Homestead
Once you’ve got your musical fill at the symphony, head to Magic of Lights in Homestead for a kaleidoscope of lights.
With this Christmas event in Homestead, FL, you can drive through the gorgeous holiday light displays without fighting the crowds. Stay cozy in your car while you listen to the festive music and become enveloped in the impressive light displays.
For more info and prices, check out the Magic of Lights Homestead website.
- Admission: prices vary
- November 18, 2022 – January 1, 2023
- Address: Homestead-Miami Speedway, One Ralph Sanchez Speedway Blvd.
10. Pinto’s Farm Winterland
Pinto’s Farm is a family-owned and operated farm that holds events throughout the year, and Winterland is perfect for families who want to spend quality time away from the city.
Head out to the farm with family and friends to experience holiday treats, hot chocolate, Santa Claus, and more! Enjoy rides, activities, and holiday cheer in the countryside.
- November 25, 2022 – January 8, 2023
- Address: 14890 SW 216 St, Miami, FL 33170
- Admission: $29.95 per person; children one and under enter free
11. Winter Farm Festival at Berry Farm
If you’re looking for another outdoor activity in Miami, head to the Winter Farm Festival at Berry Farm.
Visitors enjoy holiday festivities like photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, nightly outdoor Christmas movies, a barrel train for the kids, holiday lights, snow, hayrides, music, food, and so much more!
- Address: 13720 SW 216th St, Miami, FL 33170
- Admission: $8 – $17 for adults (ages 13+); $6 – $12 for children ages 3-12
12. Miami Shores Presbyterian Church Nativity Scene
Looking for a Christmas event in Miami for the whole family? Look no further than Miami Shores Presbyterian Church’s nativity display.
You can walk through the various displays on the sanctuary lawn depicting the Christmas story with accompanying narration and music, including the Holy family, angels, shepherds, etc.
This classic holiday experience in Miami Shores is perfect for kids from 8 to 80 years old.
- Address: 602 NE 96th St., Miami Shores, FL 33138
- Admission: Free to participate
13. Bass Pro Shops Santa’s Wonderland
Bass Pros Shops holds Santa’s Wonderland, a holiday-themed event where kids can get a free photo with Santa, and families can tailgate and watch a festive parade.
You can mail your letter to Santa during your visit, attend Santa’s toy shop, and more.
Reservations are required for photos with Santa.
- December 5 – December 24, 2022
- Address: Local Bass Pro Shops
- Admission: Free to participate
14. Holidays at Brickell City Centre
At Brickell City Centre, you can experience Santa, holiday activities, and even a ski chalet!
Enjoy the Christmas decorations, write letters to Santa, get photos with Santa, complimentary gift-wrapping, surprises, and more!
While you’re there, get some Christmas shopping done, dine on sushi, steak, or vegan eats, and more!
- November 25, 2022 – January 1, 2022
- Address: 701 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33131
- Admission: Free to participate
15. New Year’s Eve at Bayfront Park
Wondering where to spend New Year’s Eve in Miami?
Bayfront Park has a free New Year’s Eve celebration! Ring in the new year at the largest dance party in Miami. Enjoy fireworks, a countdown to midnight with the big orange, and much more.
The real spectacle is midnight when fireworks light up the skyline over beautiful Biscayne Bay. This massive street party runs from around 8 pm to 12:30 am.
- December 31, 2022
- Address: 301 N Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
- Admission: Free to participate
Where to Find Holiday Lights Displays in Miami in 2022
In addition to the incredible holiday light displays at many festivals and events in December in Miami, head to these places and neighborhoods for more dazzling displays.
16. Gulfstream Park’s Symphony of Lights
With classic Christmas music from the Tran-Siberian Orchestra playing and over 250,000 twinkly lights, standing in front of this Christmas tree is the perfect place for your holiday selfie. And you can make a night of it! The open-air entertainment plaza is home to dining, shopping, a casino, and a range of regular events. You can find the full details on the Gulfstream park site.
- Dates: Every night from November 12, 2022 – December 31, 2022
- Times: Every night at the top of the hour from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
- Cost: Free
- Address: Village at Gulfstream Park, 901 S Federal Hwy, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009
17. The Enchanted Place of North Miami Neighborhood
Some of our favorite Christmas memories as a kid aren’t from expensive gifts or going to big events. It was all about the simple joy of wandering the streets and soaking in the best Christmas lights in Miami. One of the best spots to get started is Enchanted Place of North Miami (1600 NE 137th Terrace in North Miami).
Every year, the neighborhood residents collaborate to light up the block with thousand of bright lights hugging what seems like every tree branch creating a festive holiday tree canopy.
The elaborate display is lit up nightly from mid-December through Christmas Eve, from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm. You can check out the details on their Facebook page.
- Dates: Every night in early December 2022 – January 6, 2023
- Times: 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
- Address: Enchanted Place Neighborhood of North Miami at 1800 NE 137th Terrace, Miami, FL 33181
- Cost: Free to participate
18. Light Up the Night at CityPlace Doral
Who says the holidays are all about Christmas trees and houses glowing with holiday lights? In Miami, we like to mix things up. Just check out the nightly Light Up the Night holiday fountain show at City Place Doral to see what I mean.
This glowing water and light show is the perfect start to an evening or an end to your day after shopping.
- Dates: Every night from November 17, 2022 – December 31, 2022
- Times: Every night at the top of the hour from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
- Address: CityPlace Doral, 8300 36th Street, Doral, FL 33166
- Cost: Free to participate
19. Coral Gables Holiday Park
Another favorite place to see Christmas lights in Miami is Coral Gables Holiday Park at Merrick Park, 400 Biltmore Way. Visit this gorgeous spot, and be sure to bring your camera. The lights will be up until January 3, so don’t delay.
- Dates: December 2022
- Times: Open weekdays: 3 – 9 p.m. and weekends: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Entrance is free with limited capacity. See the City of Coral Gables 2022 holiday event schedule and details here.
- Address: City Hall – Merrick Park, 400 Biltmore Way, Coral Gables, FL 33134
- Cost: Free with limited capacity
20. The Wharf Riverside Holiday Village
The Wharf Riverside Holiday Village features over 500,000 lights, oversized decorations, holiday-themed cocktails, and more.
Stroll the riverfront with cozy, holiday-themed beverages, and get into the holiday spirit! You can also enjoy live music, delicious food, and more.
- Address: 114 SW N River Drive, Miami, FL 33130
- Admission: Free to attend
Miami Christmas Trees Lights & Holiday Events 2022
In addition to some of the events mentioned here, head out to these locations to get photos with Santa in Miami.
- Lincoln Road Mall Christmas Tree Lights, Alton Road to Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
- Shops at Merrick Park, 358 San Lorenzo Ave #2140, Coral Gables, FL 33146
- The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Plaza, 770 NE 125th St, North Miami, FL 33161
- Aventura Mall, 19501 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura, FL 33180
- Dolphin Mall, 11401 NW 12th St, Miami, FL 33172
- Main Street Miami Lakes at 6843 Main St, Miami Lakes, FL 33014
Where to Take Photos with Santa in Miami 2022
- Dolphin Mall at 11401 NW 12th St, Miami, FL 33172
- Aventura Mall at 19501 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura, FL 33180
- Dadeland Mall at 7535 N Kendall Drive, Miami, FL 33156
- PetSmart offering a free photo of your pet with Santa at select locations
December in Miami is an Exciting Time
If you’re planning to spend the Christmas season in Miami, you’re in for an exciting time. Enjoy the balmy Miami weather, sights, sounds, and smells of the holiday season.
There are activities perfect for a romantic evening with that special someone and plenty of festivals and events for kids and the family.
So, what will your holiday season in Miami be like? Are you going to soak in the culture at the ballet or maybe soak in the sun at the beach? Whether making wreaths or sipping cocktails, December in Miami is a magical time, and there is no better place to spend Christmas than South Florida!