Florida doesn't get enough credit as one of the best places to celebrate Christmas. Most people go here during the holiday season to escape the winter cold and that's fine, but the US state offers a lot more than that! Celebrating Christmas in Florida lets you enjoy the holidays in some of the best theme parks, for example. Disney World, in particular, holds an annual Christmas celebration that's second to none! If you go to
Miami, you can have some fun at Santa's Enchanted Forest too. A world of bright lights and thrilling rides await you and the entire family here!
Visit Florida's Many Christmas Towns
Yes, you read that right!
Florida actually has more than a handful of Christmas towns. Among the most famous is St. Augustine, beloved for its annual Nights of Lights. Since the town is steeped in tradition and still evokes some old-world charms, the place looks absolutely glorious when lit up for the holidays. Come nightfall, the town looks like a Christmas card come to life! Another notable Floridian Christmas town is Penascola. The city's Winterfest Trolley Tours offers a vintage holiday vibe that you barely even see in the country's snowy cities.
Spend The Day at Disney World
Naturally, no list of the best ways to celebrate Christmas in Florida is complete without mentioning
Disney World. As the world's most beloved theme park, its annual Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a definite must-see. Starting as early as late November, the holiday spirit already starts lingering throughout the park. Wreaths are hung practically everywhere, Cinderella's Castle sparkles extra brightly come nightfall, and your favorite Disney characters walk around in their finest
gay apparel. You also can't forget about the famous yearly Christmas parade. You may have seen it broadcast on TV before, but seeing it in person is something else!
Have Fun at a Theme Park
Orlando, Florida holds the title of the theme park capital of the world. Beyond Disney World, there's also Universal Studios, Six Flags, Sea World, and more. All of these amazing places host their respective holiday celebrations. They have parties, festivals, and parades, all to put smiles on everyone's faces during the most wonderful time of the year. And even if you don't want to get into all that, you can still go on their amazing rides and attractions. Imagine spending Christmas Day going on one roller coaster after another! Now that's a holiday!
Discover Santa's Enchanted Forest in Miami
If you
move to Miami, you'd still feel like you're going to an eternal theme park. Even more so during the holidays, when the already-busy city gets even livelier with all the festivities. One that you truly can't miss is Santa's Enchanted Forest. This annual Christmas fair has bright lights, thrilling rides, fun games, cool concerts, and more. Of course, you can't forget about Santa Clause too. The big bearded man himself will be in the fair all season long, meeting kids who'd want to whisper what they want for Christmas in this ear.
Go Shopping at Christkindlmarkt in Lake Worth
There's no denying that
Europe's Christmas Markets are absolutely magical, but the cold—and expensive airfare!—might be bit too much for your holiday plans. So what's the next best thing? Christkindlmarkt in Lake Worth. Designed to look and feel like the same holiday fairs in European old towns, the market is exceptionally charming. There are unique holiday delicacies, adorable knick-knacks, and all sorts of amazing finds. And the best part? No snow! You can shop till you drop without the risk of getting hypothermia. What more could you ask for?
See The Sand Tree at West Palm Beach
Christmas trees are arguably a dime a dozen. Practically every household has one and while
the world's most famous Christmas trees are undeniably breathtaking, there's still a sense of once you've seen one, you've seen them all. But if you truly want to see a unique Christmas tree; or rather a version of it, look no further than the famous Sand Tree on West Palm Beach. Yes, you read that right! It's a sand castle fashioned into a Christmas tree. It might not sound that impressive at first, but when you see just how tall and majestic this work of art is, you'll easily admit that it's quite the sight to see.
Source: Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade Facebook Page
Watch The Winterfest Boat Parade
The annual Winterfest Boat Parade is a Floridian Christmas event you truly shouldn't miss. Various cities throughout Florida participate in this event, churning out decorated boats, each brighter and more colorful than the next. This holiday regalia is unlike anything seen anywhere else in the world, even the more refined yachts in the Mediterranean and beyond. Some boats feature beloved cartoon characters, holiday staples, and amazing works of art. The great thing about it too is that it's a season-long event, which means you have more than enough chances to catch it when you're already in Florida.
Surf with Santas on Cocoa Beach
What is Santa Claus doing when he's not leaving gifts in people's homes on Christmas Eve? Florida suggests that he might be surfing the waves on Cocoa Beach. As absurd as that might sound, the real sight is much more enjoyable! On the morning of December 24, hours before the iconic jolly figure is set to ride his sleigh all over the world, local surfers dress up like him and put on a surf show unlike any other. In their red suits and white beards, it's a weird but fun show you won't ever forget!
You'd be surprised at how much there is to see and do when you spend Christmas in Florida. The popular American destination has a lot of holiday cheer to offer beyond its famous warm weather and breathtaking beaches.
