Your Ultimate Guide to Holiday Events in Greater Fort Lauderdale

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As winter approaches, Greater Fort Lauderdale transforms into a tropical wonderland with a unique blend of holiday magic and a beachside twist. Check out these memorable events, perfect for marking your calendars and making the most of the holiday season!

Light Up the Beach

In early November, Fort Lauderdale’s beachfront lights up with over 50,000 holiday lights. Head to the corner of A1A and Las Olas Boulevard for a 20-feet beach snowman, live music, a kid’s zone, inflatables, slides, and more.

WONDERLAND

From November to January 1, experience a magical winter wonderland at The Loop Fort Lauderdale Beach. Check out The RINK, a 4,000-square-foot, eco-friendly ice-skating marvel by the shoreline. Enjoy themed skates, movie nights, a holiday market, dance performances, visits with Santa, and more.

Christmas on Las Olas

On the last weekend of November, join the holiday spirit at the annual Christmas event on Las Olas. Las Olas Boulevard turns into a festive wonderland with seasonal lights, activities for kids, and delicious treats to kick off the holidays.

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

The Historical Bonnet House Museum & Gardens turns into a whimsical wonderland for five nights in December. Enjoy a holiday soirée, family fun with Santa, Christmas storytelling, Gin and jazz, strolling carolers, and more.

Riptide Music Festival

Music lovers, don’t miss this music festival on Fort Lauderdale Beach for 2 days in December. With a backdrop of the sun-kissed sky and rhythmic sounds of the ocean, this festival features artists like The Black Keys, Jellyroll, Bleachers, Lovejoy, Cannons, Silversun Pickups, and more.

Namaste Indian Festival

Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of India at the beginning of December at the Pompano Beach Amphitheater. Enjoy music, dance, and food while discovering the true essence of Indian culture.

Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest® Boat Parade

The Winterfest® Boat Parade transforms Greater Fort Lauderdale’s waterways in the middle of December. Don’t miss this beloved holiday extravaganza with a “Everyone Under the Sun” themed Water Taxi.

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Florida Beach Bowl

Football fans, watch two HBCU football teams kick off in the middle of December at DRV PNK Stadium. Experience the thrill of college football in Florida’s coastal paradise.

Soulful Christmas

The African American Research Library and Cultural Center will bring holiday cheer for two days in the middle of December. Enjoy music, storytelling, and community surrounding the classic story, “The Night Before Christmas,” with a local and cultural twist.

Fort Lauderdale Orange Bowl Downtown Countdown

Ring in the New Year in downtown Fort Lauderdale on December 31. This free street festival is full of fun and excitement for families, with bounce houses, inflatables, face painting, games, contests, and live music for adults.

Holiday Bliss in Greater Fort Lauderdale

Don’t miss out on the holiday events in Greater Fort Lauderdale! With a diverse range of events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this holiday season. Whether you’re into light displays, beachfront parades, or lively music festivals, make sure to mark your calendars and join the celebrations. Plan your holiday escape and experience the magic of the season in Greater Fort Lauderdale!

**Disclaimer: There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate or sponsor links. If you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you (for which we are extremely grateful)

Also, while we do our best to highlight LGBTQ-friendly destinations and businesses, info provided is based solely on personal experience and recommendations by community partners. We hope that nobody experiences discrimination or homophobia while visiting Florida and beyond, but we make no guarantees. Please inform us if you experience discrimination or homophobia while visiting any destination so we can make updates to our recommendations.

Events are subject to change. Please check the events webpage for updates and schedules.