December is one of our favorite times of the year. The weather finally cools down, the kids get a break from school, and families get a chance to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy the season. And because we’re parents too, we know how overwhelming it can feel trying to figure out what to do, what’s worth driving to, and what’s actually kid-friendly.

So we put this guide together — with real parent insight and tips that make planning easier and outings smoother.

From holiday activities to beach days to indoor options for rainy weather, here’s everything we recommend in November and December.

Our Top 10 Holiday Activities for Kids in South Florida

When it comes to holiday fun, we know families want events that are exciting for the kids, enjoyable for parents, and easy enough to pull off during a busy season. That’s why we handpicked our top 10 holiday activites happening across South Florida this year — the ones that consistently deliver memorable moments, beautiful lights, big smiles, and stress-free family time.

Whether you’re looking for something magical, educational, outdoorsy, or budget-friendly, these parent-approved favorites are perfect for creating new traditions and making the most of the holiday season together.

1. Hoffman’s Chocolate Winter Wonderland @ Flamingo Gardens

A festive holiday experience where Flamingo Gardens transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland inspired by Hoffman’s Chocolates. Kids can enjoy a 40ft Chritmas tree, snowfall, Santa village, dazzling light displays, holiday décor, treats, and special seasonal activities throughout the gardens.

It’s calm, beautiful, and perfect for families who want a magical holiday vibe without the overwhelm. The lights, the gardens, and the chocolate tie-ins make it a fun and memorable outing for kids of all ages.

Where: Flamingo Gardens at 3750 S Flamingo Rd., Davie, FL 33330

When: Nov 22 – Dec 30

Cost: Child $17, Adults $24

Parent Tip: Go early before the paths get crowded, and bring a stroller for little ones.

2. Winterfest Boat Parade – Fort Lauderdale

A South Florida classic and one of the biggest holiday boat parades in the country. Boats cruise down the Intracoastal covered in lights, displays, music, and decorations. 

It’s festive, free (if you watch from public areas), and magical for both kids and adults.

Popular Viewing Area:
Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park
300 Las Olas Cir., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
(954) 767-0686

Parent Tip: Arrive early — sidewalks fill fast and parking gets tight.

3. NightGarden at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden – Coral Gables

A magical nighttime experience with glowing pathways, interactive lights, talking trees, and special effects. 

It feels like stepping inside a storybook. Stunning but calm — great for all ages.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Rd., Coral Gables, FL 33156
(305) 667-1651

Parent Tip: There’s a lot of walking. Wear comfy shoes.

4. Art Basel Miami Beach

Art Basel week isn’t just for adults — the public art installations, outdoor exhibits, and hands-on workshops make it surprisingly family-friendly. 

Fun, educational, and gives kids a chance to see incredible art up close.

Miami Beach Convention Center
1901 Convention Center Dr., Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 673-7311

Parent Tip: Go early in the day. Afternoons get crowded.

5. Luminosa Festival of Lights – Miami

A jaw-dropping Chinese lantern festival featuring massive glowing sculptures, themed displays, and family-friendly entertainment. 

It’s visually stunning — great for photos and a unique holiday experience.

Where: Jungle Island at 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, FL 33132

Cost: Starts at $17

Parent Tip: Go right at opening for the prettiest golden-hour lighting.

6. Sand in Paradise – West Palm Beach

A massive sand-sculpted Christmas tree right by the beach.

Family fun. It’s free, quick, and makes for great holiday photos with the kids.

Where: Near Las Olas Oceanside Park
3000 E Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
(954) 828-8000

Parent Tip: Pair this with ice cream or a beach stop — easy, low-stress outing.

7. Zoo Lights at Zoo Miami

Zoo Miami transforms into a glowing nighttime jungle with holiday music, themed nights, treats, and more.

It’s one of the calmer holiday events — great for younger kids and stroller-friendly.

Zoo Miami
12400 SW 152nd St., Miami, FL 33177
(305) 251-0400

Parent Tip: Glow sticks = instant kid excitement.

8. Holiday Fantasy of Lights – Drive-Through at Tradewinds Park

A relaxing drive-through experience with massive animated light displays.

Perfect for sensory-sensitive kids, toddlers, or families looking for something easy and crowd-free.

Tradewinds Park
3600 W Sample Rd., Coconut Creek, FL 33073
(954) 357-8870

Parent Tip: Put on holiday music in the car to make it extra special.

9. Miami City Ballet Presents The Nutcracker

A beautiful holiday classic with vibrant costumes and magical sets.

It’s perfect for older kids and teens, and makes a memorable family tradition.

Main Venue
Adrienne Arsht Center
1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, FL 33132
(305) 929-7010

Parent Tip: Theaters get chilly — bring a light sweater.

10. Christmas Wonderland at Tropical Park

Christmas Wonderland transforms Tropical Park into a festive holiday village filled with colorful light displays, themed attractions, family-friendly activities, and seasonal treats. It’s a lively, high-energy holiday experience that kids love for its bright lights, music, and interactive fun.

Tropical Park
7900 SW 40th St., Miami, FL 33155
(866) 404-6010

Parent Tip: Go on a weekday if you can — weekends get crowded, and parking fills up fast.

Outdoor December Adventures in South Florida

December gives us some of the best weather of the entire year, which means it’s the perfect time to get outside and explore. From beaches to botanical gardens to holiday markets, these outdoor activities are must-dos for families. They’re fun, refreshing, and give the kids a chance to burn energy while we all enjoy the cooler temperatures and festive atmosphere.

Whether you want something peaceful, adventurous, or holiday-themed, these outdoor picks make December in South Florida one of the easiest months to plan family time.

Broward County Outdoor December Adventures

Flamingo Gardens Holiday Lights

Beautiful lights, wildlife, and stunning gardens.

Butterfly World

A peaceful outing for younger kids.

Las Olas Oceanside Holiday Market

Great for food, music, and browsing.

Pompano Holiday Boat Parade

A smaller, calmer alternative to Winterfest.

Where: Miraggio Italian Grill, 3100 B, E Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach, FL, 33062

When Dec 12, 2025 @ 7pm-930pm

The Holiday House

A warm, family-run home display with incredible lights, themed displays, and plenty of charm.

It’s free, local, and perfect for a quick nighttime outing.

798 NE 38 St., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334

Miami-Dade Outdoor December Adventures

Bayfront Holiday Village

Outdoor vendors, Santa visits, music, and lights.

Vizcaya Holiday Evenings

A stunning historic home decorated for the holidays.

Where: 3251 South Miami Ave., Miami Fl. 33129

When: Dec 17th @ 6pm-9pm

Cost: $15

Crandon Park or South Pointe Beach

Yes — the beach is still perfect in December.

Palm Beach County Outdoor December Adventures

Sandi Tree 

A 35-foot holiday tree made entirely of sand.

Manatee Lagoon

Free, gentle, and educational — great for all ages.

Fun Depot Holiday Events

Arcades, mini rides, and seasonal fun.

Indoor and Rainy-Day Activities in South Florida

Museum of Discovery and Science – Fort Lauderdale

401 SW Second Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312

Hands-on exhibits, IMAX, and activities kids love.

Frost Museum of Science – Miami

Planetarium, aquarium, STEM activities.

Miami Children’s Museum

Great for toddlers and early elementary.

Ice Skating (Pines Ice Arena or Palm Beach Skate Zone)

A fun seasonal activity for kids of all ages.

Free or Low-Cost Things To Do With Kids in South Florida During the Holidays

Holiday fun doesn’t have to be expensive. South Florida is full of free and budget-friendly events that still feel festive and memorable for kids. From light displays and beach days to community festivals and seasonal activities, these affordable options make it easy to enjoy the holidays without stretching your budget.

Free Light Displays

• The Holiday House
• Mizner Park Holiday Lights
• Gulfstream Park Symphony of Lights

Free Outdoor Fun

• Sand sculptures
• Beach days
• Neighborhood tree-lightings

Free Community Events

• Library programs
• Town festivals
• Outdoor movie nights

What Parents Should Know About Holiday Activites in South Florida

Holiday activities in South Florida are a little different from what most people picture this time of year. With semi cool weather, big outdoor events, and crowds that build quickly, a little planning goes a long way.

Parents should know that many popular events require early arrival, some activities sell out fast, and December evenings can get cooler than expected. Whether you’re heading to a light show, festival, or beach event, having the right expectations — and a few essentials packed — makes the experience smoother and much more enjoyable for the whole family.

The Weather

November and December are the best months to be outside in South Florida. With comfortable highs in the 70s and 80s and cooler, breezy evenings, it’s that perfect in-between weather — not too hot, not too cold. It’s a refreshing change, and honestly, most of us Floridians absolutely love this time of year.

Thnkgs Parents Should Consider

• Light jackets or hoodies
• Sunscreen (still needed!)
• Bug spray for evening events
• Comfortable shoes

What To Pack

• Water bottles
• Snacks (always!)
• Stroller or wagon
• Portable fan for little ones
• Phone charger
• Wipes
• A small blanket or light jacket for night events

Budget-Friendly Tips For Parents in South Florida During the Holidays

Some holiday events can get a little pricey, so we made sure to include plenty of free and low-cost options too. December is full of community activities that are fun, festive, and easy on the budget.

Side Note: We always recommend checking directly with the event beforehand to confirm whether there’s an entry fee and what the current cost is.

Things To Do With Kids in South Florida During the Holidays By Age Group

Every age enjoys the holidays differently, so we’ve grouped our favorite South Florida activities based on what kids typically love at each stage. Whether you’ve got a stroller rider, an energetic grade-schooler, or a teen who appreciates a little more excitement, these age-specific picks make it easy to find the perfect holiday outing for your family.

Babies & Toddlers (0–3)

• Drive-through lights
• Butterfly World
• Sand Tree photos

Kids (4–8)

• Zoo Lights
• Wonderland Miami (replaced Santa’s Enchanted Forest)
• Holiday markets

Tweens & Teens

• Wynwood lights
• Ice skating
• Art Basel youth sections

South Florida Tips for December Family Outings

Over the years, we’ve learned a few little tricks that make holiday outings smoother and more enjoyable for everyone. From timing your arrival to packing the small essentials that save the day, these parent-tested tips help you avoid the stress, beat the crowds, and make the most of every adventure with your family.

• Go early whenever possible.
• Bring glow sticks for visibility at night events.
• Always check parking before you go.
• Keep backup snacks (always).
• Weekdays = fewer crowds.

Final Thoughts

December goes by fast — and even though life feels busy, it’s also a beautiful chance to slow down and enjoy time with our kids. We hope this guide makes planning your family outings easier and inspires you to try something new this season.

If your family checks out any of these events, be sure to share your photos with us.

We love seeing our students out in the community making memories.