Best Places To See 2023 Christmas Lights In Florida: A Festive Guide

Florida is home to some of the most festive and dazzling light displays in the country. From the beaches to the theme parks, there are plenty of places to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy the twinkling lights.

Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, there are so many magical displays to see. From St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights to the dazzling lights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you’ll find something for everyone. So grab your hot cocoa and get ready to be amazed by the best Christmas lights in Florida!

Iconic Christmas Light Displays in Florida

Florida is great for summer but it also has a lot to do during Christmas. With mesmerizing light displays all over the state. Here are some of the most iconic Christmas light displays in Florida that you don’t want to miss.

Nights of Lights in St. Augustine

Nights of Lights in St. Augustine is one of the most famous Christmas light displays in the state. The historic district of St. Augustine is transformed into a winter wonderland with millions of white lights adorning the buildings, trees, and streets. You can take a carriage ride, a trolley tour, or just stroll around the Plaza de la Constitución and the Bridge of Lions to enjoy the magical atmosphere.

Santa’s Enchanted Forest in Miami

Santa’s Enchanted Forest in Miami is the largest Christmas theme park in the world. It features over 100 rides, shows, games, and attractions, as well as millions of dazzling lights and decorations. You can meet Santa Claus, watch a circus, ride a roller coaster, or just enjoy the festive spirit with your family and friends.

If you are from our of town, Miami has a lot of great places to stay during Christmas.

Magic Kingdom’s Holiday Magic

Magic Kingdom’s Holiday Magic at Walt Disney World Resort is a must-see for any Disney fan. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland with thousands of lights, wreaths, garlands, and ornaments. You can watch the Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, the Frozen Holiday Wish castle lighting show, or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, which features a special fireworks display.

Enchant St. Petersburg

Enchant St. Petersburg is a magical Christmas light maze at Tropicana Field. It features over 2.5 million lights, a Christmas market, an ice-skating trail, and a giant Christmas tree. You can explore the maze, take a photo with Santa, or enjoy some hot cocoa and snacks.

Holiday Lights in Largo Central Park

Holiday Lights in Largo Central Park is a charming Christmas light display in Pinellas County. It features thousands of lights, decorations, and animated figures, as well as a train ride, a snow hill, and a carousel. You can walk around the park, take a train ride, or enjoy some live entertainment on select nights.

Lights in Bloom at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Lights in Bloom at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota is a unique Christmas light display. It features thousands of lights, flowers, and plants, as well as live music, food, and drinks. You can stroll around the gardens, take a selfie with some giant ornaments, or enjoy some holiday cheer.

Dazzling Jax

Dazzling Jax is a spectacular Christmas light display in Jacksonville. It features over 1.5 million lights, synchronized to music, as well as a holiday village, a train ride, and a carousel. You can drive through the display, take a train ride, or enjoy some hot cocoa and snacks.

Curtis Family Lights

Curtis Family Lights is a dazzling Christmas light display in Plant City. It features over 70,000 lights, synchronized to music, as well as a Christmas tree, a snowman, and a gingerbread house. You can park your car, tune your radio to the station, and enjoy the show from the comfort of your car.

Treasure Island’s Holiday Lighted Boat Parade

Treasure Island’s Holiday Lighted Boat Parade is a festive Christmas light display on the water. It features dozens of boats, decorated with lights and holiday themes, sailing along the Intracoastal Waterway. You can watch the parade from the beach, a restaurant, or a boat.

Enander’s Winter Wonderland

Enander’s Winter Wonderland is a magical Christmas light display in Davie. It features over 200,000 lights, synchronized to music, as well as a Christmas tree, a nativity scene, and a snowman. You can park your car, tune your radio to the station, and enjoy the show from the comfort of your car.

Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade

Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade is another festive Christmas light display on the water. It features dozens of boats, decorated with lights and holiday themes, sailing along the Manatee River. You can watch the parade from the riverfront, a park, or a restaurant.

Holiday Events and Festivals

In addition to the many beautiful Christmas Lights, there are also plenty of events and festivals to attend that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

Pensacola Winterfest

Pensacola Winterfest is a month-long celebration of the holiday season, and it is one of the best holiday events in Florida. There are plenty of activities for the whole family, including trolley tours, visits with Santa Claus, and more. The highlight of the event is the Elf Parade, which takes place on the first Saturday of December. The parade features over 50 elves and is a fun and festive way to kick off the holiday season.

Dickens on Centre Festival in Amelia Island

The Dickens on Centre Festival in Amelia Island is a family-friendly event that is perfect for anyone who loves the classic holiday tale, A Christmas Carol. The festival features a variety of activities, including live entertainment, street vendors, and more. The highlight of the event is the Victorian-inspired street festival, which takes place on the first weekend in December. The festival features live performances, costumed characters, and more.

Mount Dora Christmas Walk

The Mount Dora Christmas Walk is a family-friendly event that takes place in Donnelly Park. The event features live entertainment, food vendors, and more. The highlight of the event is the lighting of the town’s Christmas tree, which is a beautiful sight to see. The event takes place on the second Friday in December and is a great way to kick off the holiday season.

Holiday Fantasy of Lights in Fort Lauderdale

The Holiday Fantasy of Lights in Fort Lauderdale is a drive-through event that features over three miles of holiday light displays. The event takes place at Tradewinds Park and is perfect for families who want to enjoy the holiday lights from the comfort of their own car. The event features a variety of light displays, including a 12 Days of Christmas display, a Winter Wonderland display, and more.

Florida’s Unique Holiday Experiences

Boat Parades and Nautical Celebrations

Florida is home to some of the most stunning waterways in the world, and during the holiday season, these waterways come alive with boat parades and nautical celebrations. The Holiday Boat Parade in Fort Lauderdale is a must-see event, featuring over 100 boats decked out in holiday lights. You can also experience the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade in Fort Lauderdale, which is known for its spectacular display of lights and entertainment.

Historic Downtown Tours and Trolley Rides

If you’re looking for a more traditional holiday experience, then a historic downtown tour or trolley ride is the way to go. Take a guided tour of St. Augustine’s historic downtown and see the city come alive with twinkling lights and festive decorations. You can also hop on a trolley ride in Pensacola and enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday season.

Enchanting Holiday Markets and Boutiques

Florida is home to some of the most enchanting holiday markets and boutiques in the country. From the charming boutiques in Winter Park to the bustling Christmas markets in Miami, there is something for everyone to enjoy. You can also check out the holiday markets in St. Augustine, which offer a unique blend of local crafts, food, and entertainment.

No matter what your holiday style is, Florida has something to offer. So why not pack your bags and head down south for a holiday experience you’ll never forget?

Practical Tips for Enjoying Christmas Lights in Florida

Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your Christmas lights experience.

Best Time to Visit Light Displays

The Christmas season in Florida usually starts in November and lasts until early January. Many light displays run throughout the season, but some have specific dates and times. Check the event website or call ahead to confirm the hours of operation and any special events taking place. Additionally, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds.

Transportation and Parking Advice

With many people visiting light displays, parking can be a challenge. Consider taking a trolley or shuttle service to the event. Many cities offer trolley tours that take you to multiple light displays, which can be a great way to see more in one night. If you do drive, arrive early to secure a parking spot. Some events offer free parking, while others charge a fee. Check the event website for parking information.

Accessibility and Family-Friendly Amenities

Many light displays are family-friendly and offer amenities such as restrooms, food and drink vendors, and gift shops. If you have young children, consider bringing a stroller or wagon to make the walk more manageable. Additionally, some events offer wheelchair and stroller rentals. Check the event website for accessibility information.