It’s the most wonderful time of the year! And what better way to experience that than by exploring the many fun and festive things going on in Miami this year? From fun holiday pop-up bars to the most magical light shows, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the holidays in the city!
From $33
One of the many spectacular light shows you’ll find around Miami this time of year is Fairchild’s NightGarden. This unmissable celebration of light takes over the 23-acre botanic gardens, transforming it into an enchanting wonderland filled with technicolor flowers, rainbow-colored pathways, motion sensing technology and outdoor holograms. Click here to grab tickets!
Seasonal pop-ups are endless in the city every year, and we love having the opportunity to indulge in themed cocktails that capture the flavors of the season. From Miracle Bar takeovers at The Dead Flamingo and Carousel Club to Cookies & Coquito at The Commodore, check out the full list of holiday bars here.
Glide into the season at one of these enchanting outdoor ice rinks
The city may not have snow, but it sure does have ice rinks. And in a surprising twist, there’s a couple of outdoor rinks with real ice this year! You have the unique opportunity to partake in this lovely winter pastime while the sunshine kisses your face, thanks to this new cool technology keeping the ice completely frozen — even in 90-degree weather!
In West Palm Beach, The Ben’s Winter Wonderland is back for its second year, with a holiday market, winter tree forest and real outdoor ice skating, of course! Homestead’s Losner Park has also welcomed an outdoor ice skating rink alongside food vendors, night markets and more.
If there’s one thing Miami does a LOT of when the holidays are in full swing, it’s lights. Whether it’s festive displays, the lighting of a giant tree or a street lined with merry and bright twinkling lights, they’re difficult to avoid. We’ve gathered the most anticipated holiday lights returning in full force, from Pinecrest Gardens’ Nights of Lights and Zoo Miami’s Zoo Lights to The Enchanted Place of North Miami. See the full list here.
From $30
Step into Miami’s most exquisite spaces to experience some of the most treasured holiday classics! Whether it’s jazz numbers like “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” by Ella Fitzgerald or classical renditions of seasonal hits, you’ll be able to enjoy several special concerts this season, including:
From $29
Looking for a magical art experience this holiday season? Head to Superblue, a massive experiential art center featuring some of the city’s most breathtaking installations. Highlights include a stunning floral waterfall and 3,000 suspended lights that flicker to your heartbeat. It’s an unforgettable adventure for all ages, so get your tickets today!
From $40
This December, take in stunning rooftop views and sip cocktails with A Very Sinatra Christmas Special at Marriott Biscayne Bay. Sway to classics like “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “White Christmas,” and “Let It Snow.” These festive shows are the perfect blend of nostalgia and seasonal cheer, making them the ideal choice for a classy night out.
Catch a show of Miami City Ballet’s The Nutcracker
From $45
One of the most coveted Christmas shows, the Miami City Ballet’s production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, is returning to spread holiday magic across the 305! This year, the spectacular experience will run from December 12 to 28 at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts.
From $80
Millions of lights, fireworks, world-class ice skaters, and more collide at SeaWorld Orlando this holiday season. Now taking place on select dates through January 5, 2026, the Christmas Celebration is lighting up the theme park with beloved shows, friendly characters, and plenty of holiday cheer. Snag tickets here to experience the magic!
Nicknamed the “Best Show on H2O,” the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade has been illuminating the waterways for 53 years and it only gets bigger and brighter! Featuring beautifully decorated and over-the-top boats, this year’s parade makes its dazzling return on December 13. Learn more here!
Go gift shopping at one of South Florida’s many festive holiday markets
Now’s the time to pick up a unique gift for your loved ones (or yourself) and support some of the city’s most talented makers and small businesses at the following holiday markets:
- Downtown Miami Holiday Village on Flagler Street
- The Everturn Market Winter Edition at CocoWalk (Dec. 14)
- The Ben: Winter Wonderland Holiday Market
Catch a free Christmas flick on the water
Everyone has their favorite Christmas movie, and if you ask us, one of the very best is “The Muppet Christmas Carol!” On December 18th, Pérez Art Museum Miami is hosting a free screening of the beloved 1992 holiday classic as part of its Floating Films Series, in partnership with Ballyhoo Media. You’ll get to watch the film from a 60-foot floating screen and can even bring along your own blanket or a lawn chair!
Cirque du Soleil is returning to the city this February 2026, with a spectacular new production, LUZIA. This incredible new show draws inspiration from the vibrant places, unique characters and dynamic sounds of both classical and contemporary Mexico. Get ready for breathtaking flips and twists from the renowned performers by grabbing tickets here!
Don’t miss The Nutcracker’s untold story, The Mouse King
From $40
A cherished South Florida holiday tradition, The Mouse King returns for its twelfth year at the Mandelstam Theater, offering a fresh, family-favorite musical twist on the classic tale told from the perspective of the mice. Created by Sesame Street veteran Noel MacNeal and award-winning composer Jim Camacho, this one-hour production features a vibrant cast of young local performers, professional actors and spectacular puppetry.
Spend a perfect festive night out at Downtown Doral’s Merry & Bright Festival
From $18
Downtown Doral’s popular holiday festival is back with all-new experiences for the entire family. Pocket Park will be completely transformed into a festive Winter Wonderland, featuring live performances, character meet-and-greets and Santa photo sessions. Beyond the park, explore the entire Downtown area to find free seasonal photo ops, charming festive decor and special holiday menu items offered by their retailers and restaurants.