The holiday season is here, and South Florida is brimming with festive cheer! Whether you’re looking for cozy traditions, unique shopping experiences, or dazzling seasonal spectacles, this guide has you covered.
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Embrace the festive glow of the season with Fairchild Botanical Garden’s iconic Night at the Garden event through Jan. This beloved Miami tradition transforms the lush grounds into a mesmerizing neon-lit wonderland, complete with holographic sculptures, secret ponds, and whimsical fairy worlds. Perfect for all ages, the event invites you to explore immersive trails, dance under disco lights, and chat with Archie, the talking tree. With dazzling displays and delicious treats from some of Miami’s most popular foodtrucks, it’s a magical evening you won’t want to miss. 10901 Old Cutler Rd, Coral Gables
Get swept away by seasonal cheer on Dec. 1 as Coconut Grove comes alive with holiday cheer! This enchanting evening features live entertainment, including performances by a Barbershop Quartet, local bands, and circus acts that promise to captivate all ages. Families can savor seasonal treats like hot cocoa from local favorites and snap memorable photos with Santa Claus. The highlight of the night arrives at 7 p.m. with the grand lighting of the majestic Christmas tree, a moment that officially kicks off the holiday season in Coconut Grove. Free and open to all, the festivities run until 9 p.m.—a perfect way to celebrate the season. 3444 Main Hwy, Miami
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This holiday season, the magic returns to the Adrienne Arsht Center with George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. From Dec. 13-24, over 100 talented performers from the Miami City Ballet will enchant audiences with dazzling choreography set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, performed live by an orchestra. With twice-daily shows, this timeless tale of dancing rats, twirling snowflakes, and a journey to the Land of Sweets is a holiday tradition you’ll want to experience again and again. 1300 Biscayne Blvd, Miami
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Embrace the season’s festive spirit at Downtown Miami’s Holiday Village, brought to life by Magic City Flea. Weekends from Nov. 16 to Dec. 29, this vibrant market hosts over 60 local vendors offering handcrafted treasures and holiday delights. Experience Flagler Street’s first-ever outdoor ice skating rink, enjoy Santa sightings, and explore a lineup of family-friendly activities like toy drives, bounce houses, and face painting. The festivities begin on November 15 with a dazzling tree and menorah-lighting ceremony, complete with a free performance by the Miami Symphony Orchestra—an enchanting start to the holiday season. 200 E Flagler St Miami
SEE ALSO: The 8 Best Holiday Lights Displays In Miami
Zoo Miami transforms into a luminous holiday escape during Zoo Lights Miami on weekends from Nov. 29 to Dec. 30. Stroll through a dazzling display of over one million animal-shaped lights while sipping hot chocolate, enjoying carolers, and snapping photos with Santa, the Grinch, or even an elf. Each weekend brings a unique theme—don’t miss Galactic Night or Merry Meadow from Dec. 20-23, featuring rides, a human snow globe photo op, and a gaming trailer. Opening Night kicks off Nov. 29 with a 26-foot LED tree lighting, stilt walkers, and yuletide entertainment—a wild way to start the season! Check its website for special themed nights and come dressed to match the festive fun! 12400 SW 152 St., Miami
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CityPlace Doral is ushering in the holidays with its “Light Up the Night” installation, running from Nov. 28 to Dec. 31. Stroll beneath a canopy of illuminated blue and white snowflakes and marvel at the choreographed light show featuring the Christmas tree, palm trees, and a vibrant waterfall display set to festive tunes. Don’t miss the seven-foot topiary balsam deer, perfect for a photo-worthy holiday moment. On Dec. 7, the festivities peak at Winter Kiddos Land, a family-friendly celebration packed with live entertainment, train rides, storytime, Santa’s workshop, and more. At 6 p.m., join City of Doral Mayor Christi Fraga and special holiday characters for the enchanting tree-lighting ceremony. 8300 NW 36th St, Doral
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Step into a holiday wonderland at The Berry Farm’s 5th Annual Winter Festival on select nights through Jan. 5. Towering evergreens adorned with sparkling lights set the scene for a magical escape filled with seasonal delights, accompanied by snow flurries and holiday movies on the lawn. Capture cherished moments with Santa, savor holiday-inspired treats, and revel in timeless traditions like hayrides and playful adventures on shaded bounce floors and jumbo playgrounds. As dusk falls, the Berry Bright Winter Nights exhibit transforms the farm into a radiant spectacle of lights, creating an unforgettable ambiance for all ages. 13720 SW 216th St, Miami
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Experience the magic of the season at Christmas Wonderland in Tropical Park through Jan. 5, where holiday nostalgia meets high-energy thrills. Back for its second year, this dazzling spectacle boasts over five million lights, immersive Candyland-inspired installations, and North America’s largest traveling Ferris wheel. Unlimited rides and endless photo ops with giant lollipops and twinkling gumdrops make it a must-visit destination for all ages. Savor culinary delights and festive boozy coquitos from local vendors while soaking in the holiday cheer. Complimentary parking and online ticket discounts add to the merriment—book now to save! 7900 SW 40th St, Miami
Photography by: Photo courtesy of Getty Images; courtesy of brands
