The holidays can be absolutely hectic. Shopping for gifts, traveling, visiting with family—all of it can add up to a lot of stress, but it’s still important to take some time to stop and enjoy yourself every now and then.
We may not be in the land of white Christmases, but the season is still a very special time in Miami. We do it up like no other city in the country, and it seems like there’s always something going on no matter where you look. Let’s check out a few of our personal favorite this year.
Christmas Wonderland at Tropical Park
November 17th to January 7th | Tropical Park
One of the all-time best family fun attractions in South Florida is hosting a huge Christmas festival, and you definitely don’t wanna miss it.
The laundry list of things to do for kids includes ornament making, story time with Mrs. Claus, and all kinds of sweet treats to indulge in. There are plenty of activities for all ages, like a half-mile light display, Miami-themed photo ops at HoliDade, an ice bar, and even… motorcycle stunts? Of course, all of that is in addition to all the fantastic carnival rides and games at the Magnificent Midway, featuring the largest traveling Ferris wheel on this side of the globe.
Be sure to buy tickets in advance online to save a few bucks!
Santa’s Enchanted Forest
November 9th to January 7th | 7400 Northwest 87th Avenue
Celebrating 40 years, this Christmas bonanza features over 100 games, rides, and attractions. All the usual carnival activities are there, including classics like the dunk tank and face painting. It also has some great interactive acrobatic and magic shows. And, of course, the fair food is to die for.
With so much to do, you’ll want to come again and again. Good thing they offer a season pass for unlimited visits, as well as free parking!
NightGarden
November 10th to January 7th | Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden
This otherworldly Christmas attraction near you features 12 experiences across 23 acres. Once you enter, you’ll be treated to a technicolor dreamland, which is made even better using the FairyScope augmented reality app. It’s sure to be an adventure for the whole family.
When you’ve finished, be sure to check out the food trucks and grub down on some local favorites. Pro tip: tickets are cheaper on weekdays.
Miami Children’s Museum Winter Wonderland
November 18th to January 1st | Miami Children’s Museum
We always love it when we can combine fun with learning!
The Children’s Museum has a special winter-themed exhibit running, where kiddos can interactively gain knowledge about all things related to cooler climates. There are exhibits on how snowflakes are formed, Inuit culture and lifestyle, and cold weather wildlife. It’s a great opportunity to blow a young Floridian’s mind, especially if they’ve never seen the snow in person before. Plus, there’s a sock skating rink, because let’s be honest, it’s about fun first and foremost.
Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights
December 1st and 2nd | Lincoln Road
December 15th and 16th | The Gabrial Miami South Beach
December 22nd and 23rd | The Betsy Hotel
This multimedia masterpiece is presented by the Miami Beach Classical Music Festival, and it promises to be one of the most jaw-dropping Christmas concerts near you this year.
With multiple shows per day across three weekends, there’s no excuse to miss this one. Music will be synched up to cutting-edge projection mapping technology, which superimposes captivating light displays across the exteriors of the iconic surrounding buildings for a truly unique experience.
The cherry on top: all events and showtimes are free to the public!
Snow Carnival
November 23rd to January 8th | Aventura Mall
Wanna really rock your kid’s world? Why not let them play around in 350 tons of real snow?!
There aren’t many other places in Miami where you can make snow angels, build a snowman, have a snowball fight, or go tubing down a “Mini Matterhorn.” Other winter holiday activities include encounters with reindeer and a friendly Yeti, strolls through twinkling Christmas lights, and photos with Santa’s sleigh.
This is sure to be a memorable Christmas activity near you, so be sure to buy your tickets on their website, which go for $40 for adults and $35 for kids 12 and under.
Night of Lights
December 9th to January 6th | Pinecrest Gardens
Pinecrest is one of the most renowned institutions in Miami, and they’re doing the holidays right this year. They’ve transformed their lower garden into something out of a fairytale, with thousands of dazzling lights strewn all around, providing the kind of ambiance you’d normally only see in a Disney movie.
There’ll be all kinds of events throughout the month, from kid-friendly stuff like meeting Santa and face painting, to adult fun like beer tasting and a silent disco. Be sure to check the website for the full rundown, because we’d hate for you to miss anything!
This Xmas light show near you is open Thursday through Sunday, as well as select Wednesdays. Tickets are only $23 for adults and $18 for kids.
Luminosa
November 21st to February 28th | Jungle Island
Yet another incredible light display show, and this one goes almost all winter long.
150 different artisans worked to bring this event to life. You’ll walk through multiple themed art installations, including a sunken Atlantis, an ancient dynasty, and a Latin culture-themed attraction. Make sure you bring your best camera, because the opportunity for family pictures is endless.
This shindig is open 7 days a week, and tickets start at just $29.
How Are You Spending the Holidays?
No matter where you look, there’s always something fun going on in Miami. If we missed any must-see things to do for Christmastime, hit us up on our Facebook and let us know!
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