While it might not be snowing in the Magic City, there is still plenty of holiday magic in the warm South Florida air. With so many happenings in Miami and Fort Lauderdale every December, we’ve compiled a list of the best family-friendly activities, so put on some Christmas music, relax, and peruse our list.
The Nutcracker
One of the few productions of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker in the country, the Miami City Ballet’s seasonal over-the-top performance features the music of Tchaikovsky played by a live orchestra along with intricate costume designs and magical snowfall.
Where: 1300 Biscayne Blvd (305-929-7010).
When: Dec 17–19 & 22, 7:30pm. Dec 19, 22 & 23, 2pm. Dec 20, 1 & 6:30pm. Dec 24, 1pm.
Price: $25 and up.
One of the world’s largest Christmas carnivals, Santa’s Enchanted Forest boasts more than 100 rides, shows, games, and attractions. The theme park also features multiple roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, funhouses, a paintball field, petting zoo, pony rides, and bungee jump. Nightly shows feature tigers, alligators, circus performers and more. Santa’s Enchanted Forest also features South Florida’s tallest Christmas tree.
Where: Tropical Park. 7900 SW 40th St Miami, FL 33155.
When: October 29, 2015 through January 3, 2016. 5pm to 12pm daily.
Price: Adults (ages 10-64) $30.84 Children (ages 3-9) $21.49 Seniors (ages 65+) $21.49.
Fort Lauderdale Winterfest Boat Parade
With sailboats, yachts, kayaks, gondolas, and more all decked with thousands of Christmas lights and plenty of holiday cheer, the Fort Lauderdale Winterfest Boat Parade is the perfect place to watch almost anything that floats sail down the intracoastal decked in Christmas lights. On its 42nd year, the Winterfest Boat Parade has become one of the season’s most highly anticipated events.
Where: Intracoastal Waterway from Fort Lauderdale to Pompano Beach.
When: Saturday, December 12, 2015.
Price: Free along parade route.
Deering Holiday Wonderland
Every holiday season, the Deering Estate at Cutler hosts a holiday Winter Wonderland event featuring beautifully decorated historic homes and gardens. With thousands of handmade ornaments, 900 feet of garland, and over 600 yards of ribbon, the historic estate embodies Christmas spirit. Stroll through the property at your own leisure or join a guided tour. Other annual holiday events include a tree lighting ceremony, story time, and arts and crafts with Santa.
Where: 16701 SW 72 Ave Miami FL 33157
When: December 1 through 31, 2015 (closed Christmas Day). Open 10am to 5pm.
Price: Children (ages 4 to 14) $7 Adults $12
Miami Children’s Museum
Hosting an array of holiday themed events that are both educational and festive, the Miami Children’s Museum will feature Christmas and Hanukkah story times, gingerbread house and ornament making workshops, and holiday themed puppet shows. Parents can join for their holiday cooking workshops featuring healthy holiday recipes you and the kids can make at home.
Where: 980 Macarthur Causeway Miami, FL 33132
When: December, 2015
Price: General Admission $18