Fort Lauderdale Christmas Events 2026
Your guide to the best Christmas events in Fort Lauderdale and nearby
Fort Lauderdale sparkles as the holidays approach, with a calendar dotted with twinkling light displays, charming holiday markets, and spirited parades winding through local streets. The season often brings theatrical performances and community singalongs, offering a chance to gather and celebrate amidst the warm South Florida glow.
This year, you'll find spectacular celebrations like Bayfront Holiday Village in Miami, the vibrant Downtown Miami's Holiday Lighting Spectacular, and even a dazzling New Year's Eve bash at Fontainebleau Miami Beach, alongside many other local events listed below.
Browse Christmas Near Fort Lauderdale by Category
Christmas Shows
Holiday show by America's Got Talent finalist Sal "The Voice" Valentinetti
Christmas Lights
Multiple city-wide holiday light-up events
Christmas Parties
Iconic midnight anchor drop and free street festival
Christmas Markets
Festive street festival with Snow Mountain and ice skating.
Unique & Unusual Christmas Events
The Most Spectacular Show on H2O
Editor's Picks
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The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade
The Most Spectacular Show on H2O
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50th Annual Holiday Concert!
50th Annual Holiday Concert with candlelit procession
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Light Up Lauderdale (Get Lit)
Annual 'Get Lit' event launching holiday light celebration
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Handel's Messiah & Holiday Pops
Annual holiday tradition featuring Handel's Messiah and Holiday Pops
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Fort Lauderdale's Christmas Ship Holiday Lights Cruise
Largest holiday lights cruise boat in Fort Lauderdale
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Victorian Christmas Tours at Historic Stranahan House Museum
Victorian-era Christmas tours in a historic house
Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about holiday events and activities in Fort Lauderdale
- Actor Recalls Fort Lauderdale Christmas Visits Published: Sun, Sep 20, 2026
- Disney Cruise Line Offers Merrytime Christmas Cruises Published: Sat, Sep 19, 2026
Fort Lauderdale Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Christmas Events in Nearby Cities
Fort Lauderdale Christmas FAQ
What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Fort Lauderdale?
The biggest annual events include Light Up Lauderdale, Light Up the Beach, and Light Up Carter Park, which feature festive light displays, live music, and family activities throughout the holiday season.
What holiday traditions are unique to Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale celebrates with waterfront light displays along the New River, large beachfront illuminations, and community events like the Menorah Lighting Celebration, reflecting the city’s diverse cultural heritage.
Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Fort Lauderdale?
Neighborhoods near the downtown riverfront and beachfront areas, especially around Las Olas Boulevard and Esplanade Park, are known for their festive light displays and holiday decorations.
Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Fort Lauderdale?
Christmas markets and local artisan fairs are often held at community centers, parks, and outdoor plazas near Fort Lauderdale, featuring vendor stalls with crafts, gifts, and seasonal treats.
What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Fort Lauderdale?
Free activities include attending Light Up Lauderdale and Light Up the Beach events, exploring neighborhood displays, and enjoying holiday concerts and kids’ zones at public parks.
What are good picks for families with kids in Fort Lauderdale?
Family-friendly options include Light Up Lauderdale’s kids’ crafts and Santa visits, Light Up the Beach’s inflatables and slides, and the festive zones at Carter Park, all designed to engage children during the holidays.
Today's Trending Event
One of today's most-visited holiday events from across the country.
A Christmas Carol
📍 New York , NY , United States
Tony Award-winning intimate staging of A Christmas Carol.
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