This holiday season, Fort Lauderdale, FL, transforms into a festive paradise brimming with delightful events and activities. The Winterfest Boat Parade lights up the Intracoastal Waterway with a stunning array of decorated vessels, creating a spectacle that's hard to miss. Meanwhile, Christmas on Las Olas brings real snow to Las Olas Boulevard, offering a winter wonderland experience in tropical South Florida. For those who love a good light show, the Holiday Fantasy of Lights at Tradewinds Park features over three million lights in a mesmerizing drive-through display.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, Fort Lauderdale's diverse holiday events promise joyous experiences and unforgettable memories. With a selection of activities ranging from boat parades and snow-filled streets to dazzling light exhibits, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city during the Christmas season.
Please contact us if you have suggestions or corrections!
Got questions? Like to help? Check out our Fort Lauderdale Holiday discussion here!
The Top Christmas Events in Fort Lauderdale
- Winterfest Boat Parade
- Christmas on Las Olas
- Santa's Enchanted Forest
- Light Up Lauderdale
- Christmas Pageant
- The Polar Express Train Ride
Fort Lauderdale Holiday Light Displays
Light Up Lauderdale
What to Expect:
Illumination of the city's iconic buildings
Description:
Light Up Lauderdale bathes the city's skyline in a warm glow, transforming downtown into a radiant holiday tableau. This event kicks off the season by illuminating Fort Lauderdale's most recognizable buildings and landmarks. Visitors can embark on a self-guided tour to admire the creative light displays adorning local businesses and public spaces. The tradition began in the early 2000s as part of the city's efforts to revitalize its downtown area. Today, it serves as a testament to Fort Lauderdale's vibrant community spirit and artistic flair.
Website:
Fort Lauderdale Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Winterfest Boat Parade
What to Expect:
Largest one-day spectator event in Florida
Description:
The Fort Lauderdale Winterfest Boat Parade illuminates the Intracoastal Waterway with a dazzling flotilla of decorated vessels. This nautical spectacle, dubbed the "Greatest Show on H2O," has been a beloved tradition since 1971. Spectators line the shores to witness elaborate floating displays, from small boats to mega yachts, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. You can reserve a spot at a waterfront restaurant for prime viewing. The parade's route spans 12 miles, making it one of the longest boat parades in the country.
Website:
Christmas Pageant
What to Expect:
One of the largest Christmas productions in the U.S.
Description:
The Fort Lauderdale Christmas Pageant unfolds as a grand spectacle of music, dance, and drama at First Baptist Church. This lavish production involves hundreds of performers, elaborate sets, and stunning costumes. The pageant retells the nativity story alongside secular holiday favorites, creating a unique blend of sacred and popular traditions. Attendees can marvel at the live animals that are part of the performance, including camels and sheep. Since its inception in 1984, this event has grown to become one of the largest Christmas productions in the country.
Website:
The Polar Express Train Ride
What to Expect:
Immersive experience based on the popular children's book
Description:
The Polar Express Train Ride whisks passengers away on a journey to the North Pole, recreating the beloved children's story. This immersive experience takes place aboard a real train, complete with hot chocolate service and a reading of the classic tale. Costumed characters interact with guests, bringing the story to life. The train's whistle echoes through the night as it makes its way to a special "North Pole" destination. This event, which began in the 2010s, has quickly become a cherished holiday tradition for families in the Fort Lauderdale area.
Website:
Fort Lauderdale Other Holiday Activities
Christmas on Las Olas
What to Expect:
Snow falls on Las Olas Boulevard
Description:
Las Olas Boulevard transforms into a winter wonderland for one night, complete with real snow flurries in tropical South Florida. This annual event brings a taste of northern winter to Fort Lauderdale, delighting locals and visitors alike. Stroll down the historic street, lined with boutiques and restaurants, as carolers serenade passersby. Children can build sandcastles on "Fort Lauderdale Beach," a sandy area created specially for the occasion. The event dates back to 1962, making it one of the longest-running holiday celebrations in the area.
Website:
Santa's Enchanted Forest
What to Expect:
World's largest holiday theme park
Description:
Santa's Enchanted Forest bursts with holiday cheer, boasting over 100 rides, shows, and attractions. This expansive park dazzles with millions of lights, creating a luminous landscape visible for miles. Thrill-seekers can enjoy carnival rides, while others may prefer to explore the numerous holiday displays. The aroma of freshly made churros wafts through the air, tempting visitors with seasonal treats. Since its inception in 1983, this holiday spectacle has grown to become a South Florida institution, drawing crowds from across the region.
Website:
Nearby Events
Holiday Fantasy of Lights (Coconut Creek)
What to Expect:
Drive-through light display in Tradewinds Park
Description:
Tradewinds Park sparkles with over three million lights during the Holiday Fantasy of Lights. This drive-through extravaganza stretches for three miles, featuring elaborate light sculptures and animated displays. Visitors can tune their car radios to a special station for synchronized holiday music. The event began in 1993 and has since become a cherished tradition for many South Florida families. Keep an eye out for the towering light tunnel, a highlight of the journey through this illuminated landscape.
Website:
Symphony of Lights (Hallandale Beach)
What to Expect:
Synchronized light and music show
Description:
The Symphony of Lights orchestrates a mesmerizing display of color and sound at Gulfstream Park. This nightly spectacle features a 50-foot Christmas tree adorned with thousands of lights that dance in harmony with holiday tunes. The show incorporates cutting-edge technology to create a seamless blend of light and music. Visitors can wander through the Village at Gulfstream Park, enjoying the ambiance and holiday decorations. This modern take on holiday lights began in 2014 and has quickly become a must-see attraction in the area.
Website:
Downtown Delray Beach Holiday Market (Delray Beach)
What to Expect:
Open-air market with local artisans and vendors
Description:
The Downtown Delray Beach Holiday Market transforms the city's historic district into a bustling bazaar of holiday cheer. Local artisans and vendors line the streets, offering unique gifts, handcrafted items, and seasonal treats. The market captures the essence of Delray Beach's vibrant arts scene, showcasing the talents of area craftspeople. Visitors can sample locally made holiday confections while browsing the diverse array of goods. This event, which began in the early 2000s, has become an integral part of Delray Beach's efforts to support small businesses and promote community engagement during the holiday season.
Website:
Downtown Delray Beach Holiday Market
Boca Raton Holiday Boat Parade (Boca Raton)
What to Expect:
Parade route through narrow canals and waterways
Description:
The Boca Raton Holiday Boat Parade navigates through the city's intricate network of canals and waterways, bringing holiday cheer to waterfront neighborhoods. This intimate parade allows spectators to get up close to the beautifully decorated vessels as they glide by. The event showcases Boca Raton's unique geography, with boats maneuvering through narrow passages and under low bridges. Viewers can find prime spots along the Intracoastal Waterway or at Spanish River Park. The parade, which began in the 1970s, reflects Boca Raton's strong boating culture and community spirit.
Website:
Boca Raton Holiday Boat Parade
Snowfest (Pembroke Pines)
What to Expect:
Real snow in tropical South Florida
Description:
Snowfest blankets a portion of Fort Lauderdale in genuine snow, creating a surreal winter scene in the heart of the tropics. This annual event transforms a local park into a snowy playground, complete with sledding hills and areas for snowball fights. Children and adults alike revel in the novelty of experiencing snow in a place where the temperature rarely dips below 60°F. The event also features ice skating, carnival rides, and holiday-themed activities. Snowfest began in the 1980s as a way to bring a taste of northern winter to South Florida residents and visitors.
Website:
Miracle at Gulfstream Park (Hallandale Beach)
What to Expect:
Holiday celebration at a horse racing track
Description:
Miracle at Gulfstream Park combines the excitement of horse racing with holiday festivities. This unique event transforms the racetrack into a winter celebration, complete with light displays, holiday markets, and special racing events. Visitors can watch thoroughbreds thunder down the track while enjoying seasonal treats and activities. The park's iconic bronze Pegasus statue serves as a centerpiece, adorned with holiday lights. This event, which began in recent years, showcases Gulfstream Park's versatility as both a racing venue and a community gathering place.
Website:
Pompano Beach Holiday Boat Parade (Pompano Beach)
What to Expect:
Parade route includes both the Intracoastal Waterway and inland canals
Description:
The Pompano Beach Holiday Boat Parade illuminates both the Intracoastal Waterway and inland canals, bringing holiday cheer to a wide swath of the city. This unique route allows the parade to reach more spectators, including those in waterfront homes along smaller waterways. Decorated vessels of all sizes participate, from small skiffs to luxury yachts. Viewers can gather at Alsdorf Park or find a spot along the parade route to enjoy the floating spectacle. The event, which dates back to the 1960s, reflects Pompano Beach's strong maritime heritage and community spirit.
Website:
Pompano Beach Holiday Boat Parade
Coral Springs Holiday Parade (Coral Springs)
What to Expect:
Largest holiday parade in Broward County
Description:
The Coral Springs Holiday Parade marches through the heart of the city, showcasing the community's diverse talents and holiday spirit. As the largest holiday parade in Broward County, this event features an impressive array of floats, marching bands, and performers. Local schools, businesses, and organizations contribute to the spectacle, creating a true community celebration. Spectators line Sample Road to catch a glimpse of the colorful procession. The parade, which began in the 1980s, has grown alongside the city of Coral Springs, reflecting its development from a small town to a thriving suburb.
Website:
Davie Christmas Parade (Davie)
What to Expect:
Western-themed holiday parade
Description:
The Davie Christmas Parade gallops into town with a unique western flair, reflecting the community's equestrian heritage. This event features horse-drawn carriages, mounted riders, and western-themed floats alongside traditional holiday elements. The parade route winds through Davie's historic downtown, passing by the iconic Bergeron Rodeo Grounds. Spectators can don cowboy hats and boots to get into the spirit of this distinctive celebration. The parade, which began in the 1970s, serves as a reminder of Davie's roots as a rural, western-style town in the midst of urban South Florida.
Website:
Miramar’s Holiday Magic (Miramar)
What to Expect:
Multicultural holiday celebration
Description:
Miramar's Holiday Magic embraces the city's diverse population with a multicultural celebration of the season. This event showcases holiday traditions from around the world, featuring performances, food, and displays representing various cultures. Visitors can explore a global village set up in Miramar Regional Park, learning about different holiday customs. The celebration culminates in a tree-lighting ceremony that unites the community. This event, which began in the early 2000s, reflects Miramar's commitment to inclusivity and cultural diversity during the holiday season.
Website:
North Miami Winter Wonderland (North Miami)
What to Expect:
Eco-friendly holiday celebration
Description:
North Miami's Winter Wonderland transforms Griffing Park into an environmentally conscious holiday celebration. This event emphasizes sustainability, featuring energy-efficient LED light displays and eco-friendly activities. Visitors can participate in green-themed crafts and learn about environmentally responsible holiday practices. The centerpiece is a unique "tree" constructed from recycled materials, showcasing creativity and environmental stewardship. This event, which began in recent years, aligns with North Miami's commitment to sustainability and serves as a model for eco-friendly holiday celebrations in South Florida.
Website:
Parkland Winter Wonderland (Parkland)
What to Expect:
Community-focused holiday celebration in a park setting
Description:
Parkland's Winter Wonderland transforms Pine Trails Park into a holiday haven, emphasizing community togetherness. This event features activities for all ages, from ice skating on a synthetic rink to holiday-themed games and crafts. Local school choirs and bands perform throughout the celebration, showcasing the talents of Parkland's youth. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the park's walking trails, adorned with twinkling lights. The event, which began in the 2010s, reflects Parkland's strong sense of community and family-oriented values, providing a space for neighbors to come together and celebrate the season.