Florida has welcomed 40.6 million visitors since January 2024, and more are to come to attend the Christmas celebrations!
Have you considered why Florida is the top hotspot for Christmas in the U.S.?
Christmas in Florida brings a unique twist to the holiday season that blends traditional festivities with tropical vibes.
You can get many Church services here, like Christmas Eve and Day Masses, at the heart of the season, often featuring beautiful candlelight services.
Families gather for gift exchanges on Christmas morning after baking batches of delicious Christmas cookies.
Holiday meals also offer a mix of the familiar—turkey and ham—with a Florida spin, featuring fresh seafood like shrimp and crab.
Santa Claus is ordinary in malls and Christmas villages, while cheerful carolers fill neighborhoods with festive tunes.
Nativity scenes come alive in some communities with live performances, and the streets light up with holiday parades, complete with floats and a grand appearance by Santa.
Christmas markets burst with festive foods, crafts, and unique gifts.
Florida-specific traditions? Holiday boat parades take the spotlight as festively lit boats glide along waterways.
And for an authentic Florida Christmas, nothing beats a beach picnic under the sun, with palm trees dressed in glowing lights. It’s a holiday season where tropical meets tradition!
Are you feeling attracted by Florida’s charming things? The real fun is yet to be discovered; keep digging because you’ll find many exciting things below!
1) Enjoy Christmas with Naples
If you’re looking to get into the festive spirit in Naples for Christmas 2024, I have collected a list of exciting events that will light up your holiday season this year.
Magic of Lights at Collier Fairgrounds
From November 17 to December 31, 2024, Collier Fairgrounds will be transformed into a magical drive-through wonderland that will feature over 2 million dazzling LED lights.
Look out for beloved scenes like Winter Wonderland, 12 Days of Christmas, and a 32-foot-tall animated Waving Christmas Barbie!
There’s also an interactive augmented reality feature this year. Tickets will start at $23 per vehicle which is going to make this destination a fun and budget-friendly family hotspot of Florida.
Christmas at Palm Cottage
Head to the historic Palm Cottage between December 3 and 31 for a traditional, nostalgic vibe. The cottage is beautifully decorated with period-appropriate holiday decor, offering a warm glimpse into Naples’ past.
If you think about going with guided tours, it will cost you around $20, but Naples Historical Society members receive discounts. This charming event is perfect for history buffs and those looking for a cozy, vintage Christmas experience.
Third Street South Christmas Tree Lighting & Snowfall
Kick off the holiday season with the annual tree lighting on Third Street South in early December.
This free event features live music, sparkling lights, and even artificial snow falling to create that winter wonderland vibe right in Naples. It’s an ideal event for the whole family; no passes are required, and it’s free.
2) Plan your holidays in Orlando
Orlando in Christmas 2024 is a magical blend of festive lights, family fun, and unforgettable experiences. Want to know what you’ll get here? Join me!
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Walt Disney World
From November 9 to December 22, 2024, Magic Kingdom will host Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. This after-hours event is brimming with holiday parades, fireworks, and snow on Main Street!
You can meet beloved Disney characters decked out in festive attire. The event requires a separate ticket starting at $159, making it a premium experience, but the magic is worth it for Disney fans.
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration
Running from November 8, 2024, to January 2, 2025, SeaWorld turns into a winter wonderland with millions of twinkling lights, holiday shows like “O Wondrous Night,” and an enchanting Sea of Trees light display on the water.
You’ll even get to meet Rudolph and Santa Claus! Entry is included with your park admission, which makes it a more budget-friendly option compared to other premium holiday events.
Grinchmas at Universal Studios Orlando
From November 22 to December 31, 2024, Universal’s Islands of Adventure transforms for Grinchmas.
Enjoy the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, a live retelling of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” featuring music, laughs, and, of course, the Grinch himself.
The event is included with regular park admission, making it a fun, family-friendly option in Florida’s list of must-visit places.
Whether you’re looking for high-energy thrills or peaceful holiday magic, Orlando’s Christmas events offer something for everyone!
3) Explore the City of Lights, Miami
Miami is brimming with exciting things, along with Christmas cheer in 2024! Here is a quick glimpse of the top events you won’t want to miss this holiday season!
Nights of Lights at Pinecrest Gardens
From December 9–16, Pinecrest Gardens transforms into a sparkling wonderland.
Thousands of twinkling lights will guide you through this scenic park and create a magical atmosphere perfect for families.
There are no entry passes required—just show up at the most iconic site in Florida for Christmas! The event is free and budget-friendly, making it an excellent option for holiday fun.
Christmas Day Dinner at Baia Beach Club
For an indulgent experience to have in Florida for Christmas, head to Baia Beach Club on December 25th from 5-10 PM.
Enjoy a luxurious Christmas meal featuring festive dishes like roasted turkey or smoked pork shank, with desserts like red velvet cheesecake.
With prices ranging from $38 to $42 for main courses, it’s a bit of a splurge, but the beautiful waterfront views make it well worth it.
Miami Santa Bar Crawl
If you’re in the mood for festive nightlife, don’t miss the Santa Bar Crawl on December 9th. Dress up in your best Santa outfit and enjoy 5 complimentary drinks at five participating bars in Wynwood.
This lively event requires a pass, but it’s a budget-friendly option for anyone looking to celebrate the season with friends.
However, each event offers a unique slice of Miami’s Christmas festivities, from free family fun to elegant dinners and festive pub crawls!
Remember to choose your clothes wisely because Christmas in Miami can be cold and dry, but don’t worry, it does not snow in Miami, so you don’t have to wear extra layers.
Once you’re done with all the Christmas festivities, hit the road for an epic trip from Miami to Orlando and make your holidays even more unforgettable!
4) Wave your Christmas with St. Augustine
St. Augustine is a magical place to spend Christmas with famous Florida landmarks that draw visitors from all over. Catch Up on these events and have a blast this holiday!
Nights of Lights (Nov 23, 2024 – Jan 31, 2025):
St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights is one of the top holiday lighting displays in the world.
The event kicks off with Light-Up Night on November 23rd while featuring concerts and the illumination of over three million lights across the city.
Walk through the historic streets and admire the glowing Plaza de la Constitución. It’s completely free and budget-friendly, with no passes required.
Holiday Regatta of Lights (Dec 14, 2024):
This stunning boat parade in Matanzas Bay showcases beautifully lit vessels of all sizes.
It’s a festive, family-friendly, free event, with plenty of spots along the bayfront to catch the views. No passes are required, which makes it a fantastic budget option.
Villa Zorayda’s Candlelight Tours (select dates in Dec 2024):
Experience the lavishly decorated Villa Zorayda Museum on these special candlelight tours.
As a more intimate and immersive holiday experience, tickets are $25 for adults, so it’s a bit more on the mid-range side but includes refreshments with reservations.
Whether enjoying a free walk through dazzling lights or a candlelit tour, St. Augustine has something for every budget!
5) Sing Jingle Bells with Tallahassee
Are you planning your Christmas in Tallahassee? You have made a good choice because Christmas preparations are at their peak these days!
Winter Festival – Celebration of Lights (December 7, 2024)
This free event is the heart of Christmas in Tallahassee. You’ll be dazzled by over 50,000 attendees enjoying the live entertainment on four stages, a children’s area, holiday movies, and the Capital Health Plan Jingle Bell Run.
Don’t miss the Nighttime Holiday Parade at 7:15 PM and the Lighting Ceremony at 6:00 PM. Along with the activities to enjoy in Florida for Christmas food vendors arts and crafts, make this a festive treat for all!
Southwood Christmas Lights
For a mesmerizing light show synchronized with music on 88.7 FM, head to Southwood. The neighborhood pulls out all the stops with dazzling displays, some even featured on national TV!
This is a must-visit spot for families, and best of all, it’s free! Pack some cocoa, crank up the car radio, and enjoy the holiday spirit.
Tallahassee Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”
Get into the festive spirit with a magical performance of The Nutcracker by the Tallahassee Ballet.
It’s an enchanting event for all ages, with tickets required. This will transport you to a world of sugar plum fairies and magical adventures which makes it worth the expense.
Enjoy your holiday season with these festive and fun events in Tallahassee!
Best Hotels To Stay In Florida During Christmas
- The Breakers Palm Beach
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- The Ritz-Carlton, Naples
- Loews Miami Beach Hotel
- The Biltmore Hotel, Miami Coral Gables
- Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World® Resort
Conclusion
Christmas in Florida is a vibrant mix of tradition and tropical charm. From candlelight services and gift exchanges to palm tree decorations and seafood feasts, the holiday spirit shines brightly.
Unique touches like holiday boat parades and beach celebrations under sunny skies make Florida’s festivities unforgettable.
It’s a season where the warmth of family, festive lights, and coastal vibes blend perfectly to offer a Christmas experience like no other!