Florida’s Best December Festivals to Kick Off the Holidays in Style
December in Florida means sunshine, warm breezes, and some of the most exciting holiday celebrations in the country. From glittering boat parades to world-class art fairs, the Sunshine State knows how to blend festive cheer with its unique tropical vibe.
Whether you’re a local looking for something special or a visitor escaping the cold, these festivals offer unforgettable ways to celebrate the season.
1. Miami Art Week (Miami)
Art lovers and culture seekers mark their calendars for this electric week when Miami transforms into an international art playground. Running December 1–7, 2025, the city explodes with creativity as Art Basel brings together galleries, collectors, and curious visitors from around the globe.
Wynwood’s streets become open-air galleries with live murals and pop-up installations. The Design District showcases cutting-edge exhibits while parties and performances fill every corner.
You don’t need a million-dollar budget to enjoy the spectacle—just wander through neighborhoods and soak up Florida’s flashiest cultural takeover. The energy alone makes it worth experiencing, even if you’re just window-shopping for masterpieces.
2. EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays (Orlando)
Imagine tasting holiday treats from around the world without leaving Central Florida. From November 28 through December 30, 2025, EPCOT becomes a global celebration where each pavilion shares its unique seasonal traditions.
Seasonal food kitchens serve everything from German stollen to Mexican tamales. The Candlelight Processional features celebrity narrators telling the Christmas story with a live orchestra and choir.
Storytellers share holiday tales from their cultures while festive decorations fill every corner. It’s the perfect blend of Disney magic and international flavor, all under Florida’s sunny skies. Families can eat, explore, and experience holidays they’ve never celebrated before in one incredible park.
3. Nights of Lights (St. Augustine)
St. Augustine becomes pure enchantment when millions of twinkling white lights drape across America’s oldest city. Running from November 15, 2025, through January 11, 2026, December offers peak magic as the historic district glows like a fairytale.
Cobblestone streets lined with Spanish colonial architecture create the perfect backdrop for this dazzling display. Horse-drawn carriages clip-clop past illuminated buildings while couples stroll hand-in-hand through the romantic glow.
Local shops stay open late, and restaurants offer cozy spots to warm up between walks. This isn’t just one of Florida’s best light displays—it ranks among the most atmospheric holiday experiences anywhere in America.
4. Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade (Fort Lauderdale)
Fort Lauderdale earns its nickname “Venice of America” with style during this spectacular floating celebration on December 13, 2025. Dubbed the “Best Show on H2O,” this parade features dozens of yachts and boats decked out in elaborate holiday themes and dazzling lights.
Massive crowds gather along the Intracoastal Waterway to watch the illuminated vessels glide past. Fireworks punctuate the night sky while music and cheers echo across the water.
It’s quintessentially South Florida—glamorous, festive, and slightly over-the-top in the best possible way. Arrive early to claim your viewing spot, or book a waterfront restaurant reservation for dinner with a show.
5. Mount Dora Christmas Walk (Mount Dora)
Small-town charm takes center stage on December 5, 2025, when this quaint Central Florida gem hosts its beloved holiday street party. Downtown Mount Dora transforms into a scene straight from a Hallmark movie, complete with twinkling lights and festive decorations everywhere you look.
Local shops throw open their doors for extended evening hours while carolers stroll the sidewalks spreading cheer. Santa makes appearances throughout the evening, and the whole community comes together in celebration.
The cozy, walkable downtown makes it easy to browse boutiques, grab hot cocoa, and enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere. It’s an easy night trip from Orlando that feels worlds away from theme parks and tourist crowds. Pure, authentic Florida holiday magic.
6. Holidays at Universal Orlando (Orlando)
Universal goes all-out for the season with a multi-week celebration running November 21, 2025, through January 4, 2026. Both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure get the full holiday treatment with themed entertainment that puts Florida’s unique spin on winter traditions.
Grinchmas brings Whoville to life with the iconic green grouch himself meeting guests. The Wizarding World of Wizards transforms into a snowy wonderland with special projections on Hogwarts castle.
Mannheim Steamroller performs holiday concerts while seasonal treats and decorations fill the parks. Unlike a single-day festival, this gives you weeks to experience the magic on your schedule. It’s theme park thrills mixed with serious holiday spirit—no snow required.
