In December, the average daily temperature in Florida ranges between 60°F and 75°F. This makes for some bright and sunny days without feeling like a melting OR shivering snowman.
If you’re looking for that Christmas sparkle in Florida, you won’t be disappointed!
1. Orlando
The theme parks in Orlando put on Christmas spectaculars with no limits. From Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas nights to Universal’s Grinchmas. Disney Springs has a Christmas Tree Trail as well as nightly snowfall by the giant tree! The best hotels for the holidays in this area are Gaylord Palms, JW Marriott Bonnet Creek, or Disney’s Grand Floridian.
2. Tampa / St.Petersburg
Curtis Hixon Park has a Winter Village every year in downtown Tampa full of festive shopping and treats! Busch Gardens transforms into Christmas Town with miles of Christmas lights and Santa set up at the North Pole. Water Street and Sparkman Wharf are both covered in lights and have some of the best dining options you’ll find in Tampa.
3. Boat Parades
This is one of my favorite Florida Christmas traditions. If you’re by the water, you’re sure to see some festive boats cruise by. You can find boat parades all over the coasts from now until the Saturday before Christmas. Check out the entire lineup at the Florida Rambler.
4. St. Augustine’s Night of Lights
This attraction has been named top ten Christmas light displays in the world! Book your tickets to view the views by trolley or train until mid-January! Trolley tickets start at $73 and include Christmas cookies and warm apple cider.
5. Key West
It wouldn’t be Christmas in the keys without the twinkling lights, red ribbons, and garland adjourning the 45 lobster traps at Historic Seaport. Take a self guided tour of the many historic Inns lit with beautiful Christmas lights and decor.
6. West Palm Beach
Famous for Sandi Land during the holidays, Sandi Land is a 700 ton, 35 foot tall tree made of sand. How Florida! Take a break at The Breakers and enjoy all their festive family activities including the Candy Cane Carnival, gingerbread house decorating, and fireside s’mores.
7. Emerald Coast
The Emerald Coast is a 100-mile stretch of coastline in the Florida Panhandle. Popular destinations are Destin, Miramar Beach, or Rosemary Beach. The Village of BayTowne in Miramar offers an ice skating rink from December to February. HarborWalk Village in Destin is another festive destination with parades, ride-on trains, and holiday markets.
