Florida is known as the tropics of America. While we don’t ever get a true white Christmas, that doesn’t mean that you can’t still get into the holiday spirit! No matter where in South Florida you live, the joyous events are endless. If you are on the hunt for festive activities to enjoy with your friends and family, then consider one of the following suggestions for your next holiday outing in South Florida. 

Delray Christmas Tree Lighting

On December 3rd, the biggest Christmas Tree in Florida was lit, igniting a night of festivities on the Ave! Throughout the next few weeks, various activities will be offered, such as ice skating, silent disco, mini golf, and many more. Over 60 vendors will line the streets offering a selection of goods for purchase, and if you catch an appetite, a variety of food trucks can be found on Swinton Ave. For other holiday festivities in Delray, visit https://www.delraybeachfl.gov/our-city/things-to-do/100-ft-christmas-tree.  

Holiday Fantasy of Lights

Located in Coconut Creek, this drive-thru holiday light spectacular is a one of a kind event that can be enjoyed in the comfort of your own car. Until January 4th, you can visit from 6-10pm and drive through 3 miles of animated holiday light displays. So grab some food, company – even your favorite furry friend can enjoy the car ride – and your best holiday playlist and enjoy a scenic drive like no other!  For more information, visit https://holidaylightsdrivethru.com/.

Rinkside at the Ben

Despite Florida never truly getting cold, the Ben Hotel in West Palm Beach created South Florida’s first outdoor ice skating rink. “This historical moment is an incredible feat, bringing the very first outdoor ice-skating rink to South Florida — and I am so pleased it’s happening in our City,” said West Palm Beach Mayor Keith A. James. “West Palm Beach is constantly evolving and growing as a top destination for business, travel, and living,” James continued. “I can’t wait to see residents and visitors from all over South Florida come to experience this one-of-a-kind holiday attraction right here in our Downtown area.” To check out all that the Ben has to offer, visit their website: https://www.thebenwestpalm.com/ 

Christmas Lights in The Acres

A dazzling light display with over a million sparkling lights, hosted by the Plantation Acres Baptist Church, is a great, inexpensive way to get in the holiday spirit. With a family-friendly atmosphere and free hot cocoa, reviewers say it is a “hidden gem” that can easily become “a new tradition” for your family.  Before going, make sure to download the app (search for Christmas Lights in the Acres in your app store) to purchase tickets.  

Follow @christmaslightsintheacres on Instagram to receive updates.

Gateway Market

Another family-friendly spot is the Gateway Park Night Market in Sunny Isles with a plethora of food vendor options from tacos to Korean fried chicken. The outdoor event also features games, a playground, and an outdoor art studio for kids to enjoy while parents can grab a drink and some homemade pasta. The market is open every Wednesday from 5:30-10pm. During the winter months, a light display behind the stage provides a great ambiance and many cute photo opportunities!  For more information, visit https://www.sibfl.gov/Parks-Recreation/Events/Gateway-Market. 

Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade

The 30th anniversary of the Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade is happening on December 7th, and you don’t want to miss it! A fleet of decorated boats is set to take over the Intracoastal from North Palm Beach to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse led by a Zambelli traveling fireworks display. The parade begins at 6pm and ends at roughly 8pm, so it is kid friendly and free to enjoy. Cash prizes are offered to the best decorated boats, including a fan favorite voted on by you!  “I was really impressed with the care and creativity people took when decorating their boats. This is just one of the unique ways Florida kicks off the holiday season and I really enjoyed attending this year,” stated one Yelp review.  Some viewing points for the parade include:

• North Palm Beach Country Club
• Bert Winters Park (Juno)
• Juno Park (Juno)
• Sawfish Bay Park (Jupiter)
• Lighthouse Park (Jupiter)
• Waterway Park (Jupiter)
• Riverwalk (Jupiter)
• Harborside Place (Jupiter)
• Charlie and Joe’s at Love Street (Jupiter)
• Square Grouper Tiki Bar (Jupiter)
• U-Tiki (Jupiter)
• Jetty’s (Jupiter)

(Per https://www.marinepbc.org/boat-parade/)

There is no need to be a Grinch or Scrooge this holiday season, so explore all the wonderful holiday festivities occurring in our area.