Discover the joy of the season in Daytona Beach with our detailed guide. From locals to holiday tourists, this guide is your companion for exploring Daytona Beach's festive season.
One of the highlights is the Christmas Boat Parade, where festively decorated boats illuminate the Halifax River. Meanwhile, the Magic of Lights offers an enchanting drive-through experience featuring millions of dazzling lights and holiday displays. And The Nutcracker Ballet is something you definitely don't want to miss, showcasing the timeless holiday performance by local talent. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Daytona Beach
- Christmas Boat Parade
- Magic of Lights
- The Nutcracker Ballet
- Christmas Spectacular!
- Santa Paws Parade
Daytona Beach Holiday Light Displays
Magic of Lights
What to Expect:
Drive-through holiday light experience at Daytona International Speedway
Description:
The Daytona International Speedway transforms into a dazzling holiday light extravaganza for Magic of Lights. This unique drive-through experience allows visitors to enjoy elaborate light displays from the comfort of their own vehicles. As you cruise through the speedway, animated installations and themed light tunnels surround you. The event pays homage to the venue's racing legacy with special motorsport-themed displays. Tune your car radio to a dedicated station for synchronized holiday music as you traverse the illuminated course.
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Daytona Beach Holiday Shows and Entertainment
The Nutcracker Ballet
What to Expect:
Professional ballet performance of a holiday classic
Description:
The timeless tale of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince comes to life on stage in Daytona Beach. This professional ballet production features intricate costumes, elaborate sets, and Tchaikovsky's iconic score performed live by a full orchestra. The performance showcases the talents of both local and guest dancers, bringing world-class ballet to the Florida coast. Audiences are transported to the Land of Sweets as graceful dancers pirouette and leap across the stage. The Nutcracker has been a holiday tradition in Daytona Beach for over three decades, captivating generations of theatergoers.
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Christmas Spectacular!
What to Expect:
Broadway-style holiday revue with local performers
Description:
Daytona Beach's Christmas Spectacular! brings the glitz and glamour of a Broadway show to the Florida coast. This high-energy holiday revue features elaborate dance numbers, stunning costumes, and powerful vocal performances by a cast of talented local artists. The show blends classic holiday favorites with contemporary hits, creating a dynamic and entertaining experience for all ages. Tap your toes to show-stopping musical arrangements as performers dazzle with their choreography. This production has become a beloved annual tradition, showcasing the wealth of artistic talent in the Daytona Beach area.
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Daytona Beach Other Holiday Activities
Christmas Boat Parade
What to Expect:
Illuminated boats parading along the Halifax River
Description:
Twinkling lights reflect off the Halifax River as decorated boats glide through the water in Daytona Beach's annual Christmas Boat Parade. This nautical celebration transforms the waterfront into a floating festival of lights and holiday cheer. Spectators line the shores to witness the procession of illuminated vessels, each vying for the coveted "Best in Show" title. The parade continues a tradition dating back to the 1960s, showcasing the area's rich maritime heritage. You can enjoy the spectacle from various viewing points along the river, including Riverfront Park.
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Santa Paws Parade
What to Expect:
Pet-focused holiday parade and adoption event
Description:
The Santa Paws Parade brings holiday cheer to Daytona Beach with a unique focus on our furry friends. This pet-centric event features a procession of costumed dogs, cats, and even the occasional exotic pet, all decked out in their holiday best. The parade raises awareness for local animal shelters and rescue organizations, with many participants being adoptable pets looking for forever homes. Spectators line the streets to admire the adorable display and cheer on the animal participants. After the parade, you can meet adoptable pets and learn about local animal welfare initiatives.
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Nearby Events
Christmas in the Park (Port Orange)
What to Expect:
Small-town holiday celebration in historic Port Orange
Description:
Port Orange's City Center Complex transforms into a winter wonderland for Christmas in the Park. This community-focused event brings together local artisans, food vendors, and performers to create a charming small-town holiday atmosphere. Stroll through the park to admire handcrafted decorations and twinkling lights adorning century-old oak trees. The celebration honors Port Orange's history, with displays highlighting the area's sugar mill roots. Children can participate in holiday-themed crafts while adults browse unique gifts from local makers.
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New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade (New Smyrna Beach)
What to Expect:
Beachside holiday parade with a coastal twist
Description:
New Smyrna Beach's Christmas Parade brings holiday cheer with a coastal flair. Floats adorned with seashells and palm trees roll down Flagler Avenue, blending traditional holiday elements with beachside charm. The parade features local marching bands, dance troupes, and community organizations, each adding their unique touch to the procession. Listen for the sounds of steel drums playing holiday tunes, adding a tropical twist to familiar melodies. This event has been a community staple for over 50 years, reflecting the town's close-knit spirit and rich history.
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New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade
Edgewater Holiday Festival (Edgewater)
What to Expect:
Small-town festival celebrating local artisans and performers
Description:
Edgewater's Holiday Festival transforms Hawks Park into a vibrant celebration of local talent and community spirit. This intimate event showcases the work of area artisans, offering unique, handcrafted gifts that capture the essence of coastal Florida. Live performances by local musicians and dance groups fill the air with joyful sounds. The festival pays homage to Edgewater's fishing village roots with special seafood-themed holiday treats. Visitors can try their hand at traditional crafts like wreath-making, guided by skilled local artists.
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DeLand Christmas Parade (DeLand)
What to Expect:
Historic downtown parade route lined with Victorian-era buildings
Description:
DeLand's Christmas Parade winds through the city's historic downtown, where Victorian-era architecture provides a picturesque backdrop for the holiday festivities. Floats and marching bands pass by buildings dating back to the late 1800s, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. The parade celebrates DeLand's rich cultural heritage, with many entries highlighting the city's connection to Stetson University and its founding as a citrus-growing center. Spectators line Woodland Boulevard to catch a glimpse of the colorful procession and wave to local community leaders and organizations as they pass by.
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Christmas on Canal Street (New Smyrna Beach)
What to Expect:
Month-long celebration in New Smyrna Beach's historic downtown
Description:
Christmas on Canal Street envelops New Smyrna Beach's historic downtown in a month-long celebration of holiday cheer. The event transforms the charming Canal Street Historic District with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Local shops and galleries extend their hours, offering unique gifts and artworks perfect for holiday giving. The celebration pays tribute to New Smyrna Beach's diverse cultural heritage, with special events highlighting the area's Minorcan and Spanish influences. Visitors can join guided historical walks to learn about the district's fascinating past while enjoying the holiday ambiance.