Sarasota Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Prepare for an enchanting evening as 'A Celtic Christmas' brings the warmth and spirit of the holidays to life. This special event features captivating performances that blend traditional Celtic music with beloved Christmas carols, creating a truly magical atmosphere. It's the perfect way to embrace the festive season with a...

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with The St. Petersburg Nutcracker, a magical Christmas ballet. This timeless production brings Tchaikovsky's iconic score to life with dazzling choreography and exquisite costumes. Follow Clara's enchanting journey through a world of wonder, featuring brave soldiers, mischievous mice, and the Sugar Plum Fairy. A...

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with 'Poppin' Jazz Christmas,' a delightful holiday concert presented by The Pops Orchestra Jazz Combo. This special event promises an unforgettable evening filled with the smooth sounds of Christmas jazz classics, performed under the direction of Robyn Bell. Held in the elegant Grand Ballroom...

Experience the timeless magic of The Nutcracker, brought to life by The Sarasota Ballet School and The Venice Symphony. This beloved holiday classic features Tchaikovsky's enchanting score, breathtaking sets, and stunning costumes by designer Peter Farmer. Follow Clara's magical adventures with a captivating performance by dancers from The Sarasota Ballet...

Kick off the holiday season with a magical afternoon at The Nutcracker Tea Party. This enchanting event combines beloved excerpts from the classic Nutcracker ballet, performed live by dancers, with a delightful tea party experience. Guests will enjoy a light lunch buffet, a self-serve candy bar, and whimsical 'Land of...

The North Port Chorale presents 'Home For The Holidays...The Sounds Of The Season,' a magical Christmas concert. Immerse yourself in a festive winter wonderland, brought to life with beautiful decorations and captivating choral arrangements of beloved holiday classics. This performance promises to fill you with the true spirit of the...

Step into a magical Winter Wonderland on Old Main Street in Bradenton! This festive celebration brings the joy of the holidays to life with falling snow, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, and enchanting photo opportunities. Enjoy thrilling snow slides, fun carnival games, and captivating performances by local youth groups...

Experience the magic of Wonderland Illuminate, a dazzling holiday light display that transforms Sarasota into a festive wonderland. This enchanting event features breathtaking light installations, creating a truly memorable visual spectacle for all ages.

The Bradenton Holiday Lights Festival returns in 2025 for a spectacular display of festive cheer. Drive through an immersive wonderland featuring over 100,000 lights, a dazzling light tunnel, and illuminated track surfaces. Afterward, step into the Christmas Village to meet Santa, enjoy games and rides, and admire a towering 50-foot...

Experience the magic of Christmas in Venice with their annual Boat Parade of Lights. This beloved tradition transforms the intracoastal waterway into a dazzling spectacle of festive boat decorations and holiday cheer. Join participants by decorating your own boat or find a prime viewing spot along the shore to witness...

Get ready to don your most outrageous holiday knitwear for the Sarasota Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl. This annual event invites participants to hop between various bars, enjoying special drink prices and festive entertainment. It's a perfect opportunity to showcase your holiday spirit and discover the vibrant bar scene in Sarasota.

Step into a dazzling winter wonderland for the White Christmas Celebration. Indulge in a delicious buffet dinner, dance to live music by FusionCombo, and enjoy festive drinks. Participate in exciting raffles and interactive games in a beautifully decorated, holiday-themed setting. Dress in your finest winter whites for an unforgettable night...

Celebrate Christmas Day by indulging in a delightful meal at one of Plantation's many open restaurants. From Italian feasts to Brazilian steakhouses and Japanese delicacies, find the perfect festive dining experience for your holiday gathering. Secure your table through OpenTable and enjoy a stress-free celebration.

Step back in time at An Old Florida Christmas, a festive celebration at Manatee Village Historical Park. Browse unique handmade crafts, ornaments, and gifts from a variety of vendors. Enjoy live entertainment, delicious food truck offerings, and free 'Make & Take' crafts. It's a perfect opportunity to find unique holiday...

Experience the magic of the Venice Christmas Walk, a delightful evening event in downtown Venice. Local shops extend their hours, offering a festive atmosphere with treats and live music. Stroll along avenues adorned with decorated trees and admire the warm glow of holiday storefront windows.

Experience a unique 'Black and White Christmas' event, a festive gathering designed to celebrate the holiday season with a sophisticated monochromatic theme. While specific details about activities are limited, the event promises a memorable occasion.

Experience the magic of Sarasota's 29th Annual Holiday Parade, a cherished community tradition. This vibrant event showcases creative floats, marching bands, and festive entries, all celebrating the holiday spirit. It's a spectacular display of community pride and seasonal cheer, perfect for families and residents to enjoy together.

Prepare for a magical evening as beautifully decorated boats illuminate Sarasota Bay during the annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. This cherished event, presented by Suncoast Charities for Children and Marina Jack, offers a spectacular display of festive maritime spirit. Attendees are encouraged to bring unwrapped toys or books to...

Discover a comprehensive listing of major Jewish holidays spanning four years. This calendar provides essential details for each important observance, making it easier to plan and celebrate. Share this valuable resource with friends and family to deepen your understanding and participation in Jewish traditions.

Discover the art of challah braiding with the renowned 'Challah Prince,' Idan Chabasov, in a unique community event. This hands-on workshop offers a sensory experience, blending tradition with artistic expression through braiding and storytelling. The evening also includes a communal Chanukkah candle lighting.

Get ready to usher in the holiday season at the Santa's Grand Arrival Parade! This festive community celebration marks the official start of the holidays at University Town Center. Local schools, clubs, and businesses will showcase their creativity with floats themed around 'Believe,' capturing the spirit of wonder and joy....

Join Senior Life Publications and the YMCA of Bradenton for their Annual Christmas Extravaganza. This free event for seniors features live entertainment, including a tribute to the Rat Pack, complimentary food, and exciting door prizes. Attendees can also meet Santa Claus and explore a wide array of vendors offering health,...

Experience the magic of the Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade, the region's premier holiday celebration. Witness a breathtaking procession of elaborately decorated boats as they navigate the river, competing for top honors. Thousands gather to enjoy this spectacular display of festive spirit and community tradition.

Join the City of Venice for its beloved Holiday Parade, a vibrant kickoff to the festive season and the city's Centennial Celebration. This mile-long procession features over 80 units and floats, all celebrating the 'All Aboard the Centennial' theme. Enjoy pre-parade entertainment and cheer on the Grand Marshals, the Venice-Nokomis...