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Your ultimate Christmas travel guide to Miami

Christmas in Miami brings a unique blend of tropical warmth and festive sparkle. Palm trees are strung with lights, art deco streets glow with decorations, and the city buzzes with holiday events, outdoor concerts, and vibrant markets. This guide covers everything you need to plan an unforgettable Christmas in Miami.

Top things to do for Christmas in Miami

1. Stroll through Bayfront Park Christmas Market

Bayfront Park transforms into a festive wonderland with a towering Christmas tree, artisan stalls, and live music. Enjoy local treats, shop for gifts, and soak up the holiday atmosphere in downtown Miami.

Where to go:

Bayfront Park | Find on Maps

2. Watch the Miami Holiday Boat Parade

Experience the magic of the Miami Outboard Club Holiday Boat Parade, where boats decked out in lights and decorations cruise Biscayne Bay. The event includes fireworks and family activities along the waterfront.

Where to go:

Miami Outboard Club | Find on Maps

3. Explore Zoo Miami’s Zoo Lights

Zoo Miami hosts Zoo Lights, an immersive holiday event featuring over a million twinkling lights, themed displays, and appearances by Santa. It’s a festive favorite for families and animal lovers.

Where to go:

Zoo Miami | Find on Maps

4. Experience South Beach holiday events

South Beach comes alive with open-air concerts, art deco light installations, and festive pop-up bars along Ocean Drive. The area’s iconic pastel buildings provide a colorful backdrop for holiday photos.

Where to go:

Zoo Miami | Find on Maps

5. Visit Santa’s Enchanted Forest

Santa’s Enchanted Forest, located at Tropical Park, is billed as the world’s largest holiday theme park, featuring rides, games, food stalls, and millions of lights. It’s a Miami holiday tradition for locals and visitors alike.

Where to go:

Tropical Park | Find on Maps

6. Enjoy holiday concerts at Adrienne Arsht Center

Catch a seasonal performance at the Adrienne Arsht Center, from classical concerts to family-friendly holiday shows. The venue’s festive décor adds to the experience.

Where to go:

Adrienne Arsht Center | Find on Maps

7. Take a holiday lights cruise

Book a boat tour to see Miami’s skyline and waterfront homes illuminated for the holidays. Many cruises offer themed drinks and music for a festive evening on the water.

8. Relax on Miami Beach

Swap snow for sand and spend Christmas Day on Miami Beach. Many beachfront restaurants offer special holiday menus, and the lively boardwalk is perfect for a sunny stroll.

Where to go:

Miami Beach | Find on Maps

Your perfect Christmas itinerary

Day 1: Festive markets and waterfront magic (December 24)

Morning:

Start your day with breakfast at Big Pink in South Beach, then stroll along Ocean Drive to admire art deco buildings decked out for the holidays. Snap photos at Lummus Park, where palm trees are wrapped in lights.

Afternoon:

Head to Bayfront Park Christmas Market for lunch from local food trucks and browse artisan stalls for last-minute gifts. Enjoy live music and the festive atmosphere in downtown Miami.

Evening:

Make your way to the Miami Outboard Club Holiday Boat Parade. Find a spot along Biscayne Bay to watch the illuminated boats and fireworks. End the night with dinner at The Wharf Miami, offering waterfront views and holiday specials.

Day 2: Christmas Day in the sun (December 25)

Morning:

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at The Front Porch Café on Ocean Drive. Take a walk or rent bikes along the Miami Beach Boardwalk, soaking up the warm December sun.

Afternoon:

Visit Zoo Miami for the Zoo Lights event, where you can see animals and festive displays. Alternatively, families can head to Santa’s Enchanted Forest for rides and games.

Evening:

Dine at Smith & Wollensky in South Pointe Park, known for its holiday menu and views of the water. Cap off your Christmas with a holiday lights cruise, taking in the city’s skyline and decorated mansions from the bay.

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Frequently asked questions about spending Christmas in Miami

Is Christmas a good time to visit Miami?

Yes, Christmas is a fantastic time to visit Miami. The city offers festive events, outdoor markets, and warm weather, making it ideal for a holiday getaway.

What is the weather like at Christmas in Miami?

Miami enjoys mild, sunny weather in December, with temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C). It’s perfect for outdoor activities and beach days.

Are attractions and restaurants open on Christmas Day?

Many major attractions and restaurants remain open on Christmas Day, though some may have limited hours. It’s best to check ahead and make reservations where possible.

Where can I see Christmas lights in Miami?

You’ll find impressive light displays at Zoo Miami’s Zoo Lights, Santa’s Enchanted Forest, and throughout neighborhoods like Coral Gables and Coconut Grove.

Are there Christmas markets in Miami?

Yes, Bayfront Park hosts a popular Christmas market with food, crafts, and entertainment. Smaller markets and pop-ups can be found across the city.

Can I swim in the ocean during Christmas in Miami?

Absolutely. The ocean is warm enough for swimming in December, and Miami Beach is a popular spot for holiday sunbathing and water sports.

What are some family-friendly Christmas activities in Miami?

Families can enjoy Zoo Lights at Zoo Miami, Santa’s Enchanted Forest, and holiday boat parades. Many attractions offer special events for children during the season.

Do I need to book tickets for holiday events in advance?

It’s recommended to book tickets for popular events like Zoo Lights, Santa’s Enchanted Forest, and holiday cruises in advance, as they can sell out quickly.