Festive Things to Do in Miami During the Holidays
Miami doesn’t do holidays like anywhere else, with no snow but plenty of sparkle. Palm trees are wrapped in lights, boat parades glide through warm waters, and holiday markets serve empanadas alongside cocoa. Embracing its tropical vibe, the city offers unique holiday cheer. Here are ten Festive Things To Do in Miami, each with its own flavor and rhythm.
Festive Things to Do in Miami During the Holidays
1. Zoo Lights at Zoo Miami
The zoo becomes a nighttime spectacle with over a million lights, from glowing flamingos to shimmering tigers. With music, food, and interactive displays, it’s a top Festive Thing To Do for families and wildlife lovers.
- Location: 12400 SW 152nd St, Miami, FL 33177
- Dates: November 21, 2025 – December 30, 2025 | 6:30 PM – 10 PM
- Website: https://www.zoomiami.org/zoo-lights-2025
2. NightGarden at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
This isn’t your average light display. Fairchild’s NightGarden uses projection mapping, augmented reality, and soundscapes to turn the garden into an otherworldly experience. Think holographic flowers, glowing vines, and interactive zones where your movements trigger light patterns. It’s modern, immersive, and perfect for date nights or curious minds.
- Location: 10901 Old Cutler Rd, Coral Gables, FL 33156
- Dates: November 7 – January 11, 2026
- Website: fairchildgarden.org
3. Miami Wonderland at Tropical Park
Spread across 40 acres, this holiday park is packed with rides, live shows, and themed zones like Toyland and Winterland. There’s a giant snow globe for photos, a 100-foot light tunnel, and nightly tree lightings. It’s designed for families but has enough energy to keep teens and adults entertained.
- Location: 7900 SW 40th St, Miami, FL 33155
- Dates: November 13, 2025 – January 4, 2026
- Website: miamiwonderland.com
4. Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights
South Beach transforms with projection mapping displays, festive pop-ups, and live music. The event includes performances, snow effects, and plenty of food along Ocean Drive.
- Location: Multiple venues, Miami Beach
- Dates: Dec 13–14, 20-21, 2025
- Website: https://www.miamimusicfestival.com/
5. Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade
Dozens of yachts, each covered in lights and themed decor, sail from PortMiami to Bayfront Park. The route passes Millionaire’s Row, where waterfront homes add to the glow. Spectators line the shore, book restaurant tables, or charter boats for a front-row view. It’s Miami’s version of a holiday parade—on water, with music blasting from every deck.
- Location: Biscayne Bay, starting at Government Cut
- Date: December 13, 2025
- Website: https://winterfestparade.com/
6. Deering Estate Holiday Magic
Immerse in Miami’s historic side with curated Christmas trees, designer décor, and guided evening strolls at the estate. Enjoy seasonal concerts, moonlit canoe tours, and holiday storytelling for kids.
- Location: 16701 SW 72nd Ave, Miami, FL 33157
- Dates: Throughout December
- Website: deeringestate.org
7. Julia & Henry’s Holiday Village
Set on Flagler Street, this market brings together over 60 local vendors selling handmade gifts, jewelry, and seasonal treats. There’s an outdoor rink, cocktail bars, and a toy drive for kids in need. It’s community-focused, with live music and a relaxed pace—great for mindful shopping and supporting small businesses.
- Location: 200 E Flagler St, Miami, FL 33131
- Website: https://www.instagram.com/juliaandhenrys/?hl=en
8. Luminosa at Jungle Island
This light festival features over 100 handcrafted displays, including a 360-degree light dome, a silk-light tunnel, and a candyland-themed playground. The park’s tropical setting makes the lights feel even more vibrant. It’s especially popular with younger kids and families looking for a low-pressure, interactive outing.
- Location: 11185 Jungle Island Way, Miami, FL 33132
- Dates: November 14, 2025 – March 7, 2026
- Website: jungleisland.com
9. Miami City Ballet’s The Nutcracker
The Adrienne Arsht Center hosts this annual production, blending Tchaikovsky’s classic score with Miami’s multicultural energy. The costumes, choreography, and set design reflect the city’s Latin and Caribbean influences. It’s a polished, elegant night out—perfect for families or couples who want something more refined.
- Location: 1300 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
- Dates: December 12–28, 2025
- Website: miamicityballet.org
10. Art Deco Weekend – Holiday Edition
Ocean Drive gets a seasonal refresh during this festival, with pastel buildings dressed in wreaths and vintage-style decorations. Guided tours, classic car parades, and live music highlight the 1930s Art Deco era. It’s a nostalgic, photo-friendly event that celebrates Miami’s architectural roots without the glitz.
- Location: Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
- Website: artdecoweekend.com
The holidays in Miami aren’t about tradition; they’re about reinvention. The city takes the familiar and gives it a tropical twist, whether it’s ice skating under palm trees or watching a fleet of glowing boats sail past downtown. There’s no single way to celebrate, but there’s no shortage of Festive Things To Do. With a little planning, your holiday season can be just as bright as the city’s skyline, just without the winter coat.
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