The Holidays are here and it’s time to let off some steam. Whether you’re looking for outrageous ways to kick start the New Year or special memories with the family, Miami won’t disappoint. Here are some great events to schedule into your Holiday calendar this December:
Santa’s Enchanted Forest: December 1 – January 7
7900 SW 40th Street, Tropical Park
If you’re in Miami for a Christmas on the beach, you’ve got to visit this winter wonderland. It’s the largest holiday theme park in the world! Bring along the entire family to see South Florida’s tallest Christmas tree, enjoy the dazzle of a million lights and get dizzy with free rides at the carnival. You can opt for a day’s pass, or let the kid in you frolic with a season pass.
Photograph: Courtesy of Santa's Enchanted Forest
Deering Holiday Wonderland: December 1-31
16701 SW 72nd Ave, Cutler
James Deering’s historic preserve comes alive this winter with an exciting holiday line-up. The ‘Festival of Trees’ will be on all month long, complete with holiday decorations and accents. Plan an elegant date night with ‘Mistletoe & Martinis’ on December 8. Bring along the kids for ‘Story-time & photos with Santa’ on December 9 and 16. Or, simply kick back and relax with the ‘Holiday Champagne Bay Cruise’ to take off the edge from your hectic schedule.
Photograph: Courtesy of Deering Estate
The Nutcracker: December 1-31
Various venues across Miami
Let the spirit of the season truly sink in with a holiday-appropriate musical to jazz up your evenings. Catch up on different renditions of The Nutcracker around town – a dreamy ballet, Hip Hop mash-up, Russian puppet extravaganza and more. Enjoy magical evenings with the family for your dose of magic and wonder.
Art Basel Miami Beach and Miami Art Week: December 6-10
Various venues across Miami
It’s that time of year again when the art world comes to play in Miami Beach. Look out for acclaimed artists, celebrities, socialites, collectors and art lovers from across the globe to ponder over contemporary art in Miami. The Miami Beach Convention Center will be the hub of activity, playing host to local and international talent. Additionally, satellite events such as Aqua Art Miami, Pulse Art Fair, Scope Miami Beach and more will spruce up Miami Art Week with their special flair. Not to forget, it’s the parties that make Art Basel one of the most spectacular times to be in Miami.
Photograph: Courtesy of Art Basel Miami
Miami Heritage Month: December 1-31
Various venues across Miami
If you’re planning a visit to Miami for Art Basel, stay and look into Heritage Month events as well. A major highlight is the Art of Black that showcases and honors Miami’s multicultural community, with a focus on ‘Black art’ or ‘Art of the Black’. Additionally, enjoy a 10% discount on food tours and a 50% discount on walking tours during December. There’s also a whole bunch of special offers that will turn your holidays into an enriching experience.
Pinecrest Gardens Nights of Lights: December 15 – January 1
11000 Red Road, Pinecrest
Did you know that taking pictures with Santa can help fight childhood cancer? Yes, you got that right. From the 15th to Christmas Eve, you can take your kids to get clicked with Santa to benefit the Live Like Bella foundation. The event that carries through the rest of December also features plenty of mechanical rides, holiday lights, music, storytelling, pony rides and more.
Photograph: Courtesy of Pinecrest Gardens
Sounds of the Season by the City of Miami Beach: December 16
SoundScape Park, New World Symphony, South Beach
Get some harmony back in life and welcome the holidays with bliss. The New World Symphony presents the Sounds of the Season to put you in just the right mood. This festive program features a variety of music you can share with friends and family. While everyone can enjoy the outdoor WALLCAST concert, Miami Beach residents (with proof of residence) will be treated to special indoor seating.
Photograph: Courtesy of New World Symphony
Capital One Orange Bowl: December 30
Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens
College football fans take note – the Orange Bowl comes to town on the last Saturday of the year. Watch the best available ACC team to challenge the best available team in the SEC, BIG TEN or Notre Dame. It’s a game you wouldn’t want to miss, so get your tickets early for the best seats in the house.
Photograph: Courtesy of Orange Bowl
King Mango Strut at the Grove: December 31
Commodore Plaza to Coco Walk, Coconut Grove
The King Orange Bowl may have faded away, but its antithesis stayed on to make headlines each year. Pick anything that made the news during the year and strut your funny at this whacky parade. Whether you’re on the parade or just there to cheer, it’s a fun way to bid the year goodbye. Come early for the Little Miss Mango Pageant and stay back for the after-strut party and dancing.
Photograph: Courtesy of King Mango Strut
New Year’s Eve: December 31
Various venues across Miami
From luxury cruises to wild parties, Miami’s got it all to welcome the New Year on the perfect note. The Clevelander’s hosting a fireworks viewing party. Pop a Dom Perignon in style at the MO Bar + Lounge. Indulge in a Gatsby style gala dinner at the Conrad. Have fun with music and fireworks at the Gale Hotel’s Rooftop. Or, simply sail out to take in glorious views of the Bay and South Beach with a Megalux Yacht Cruise. Here’s a full list of events to help you make the right choice.
However, if you’re not in the mood for something fancy, don’t worry! You can always head out to the fireworks, ball drop and celebrations hosted by Mr. Worldwide (Pitbull) himself at Bayfront Park. Or, enjoy a street party with fireworks at the happening Ocean Drive.
So, where do you plan to spend this New Year’s Eve? Do let us know in the comments below!