Sarasota’s Holiday Boat Parade of Lights brings music, magic, and illuminated boats to the bay — a festive waterfront tradition that benefits local children.
Put on your festive gear and join the jolly crowd for Siesta Key’s annual holiday-themed bar crawl. Enjoy drink specials and merrymaking across island hotspots.
Enjoy classic and contemporary holiday music performed by the Venice Symphony in a festive concert.
Lights in Bloom® is Selby Gardens’ signature holiday light display and one of Sarasota’s most beloved seasonal traditions. During this breathtaking evening event, more than two million lights transform the gardens into a whimsical wonderland of glowing pathways, illuminated rainforest scenes, and artistic botanical displays. Stroll through the gardens and enjoy stunning light sculptures, immersive installations, and peaceful waterfront views enhanced by the glow of holiday brilliance.
Unwind midweek with Sunset Yoga on The Green, a free, all-levels class that pairs gentle movement with Sarasota’s golden hour. Each Wednesday from 6:30–7:30 PM, an experienced instructor guides you through a balanced flow—breath work, accessible poses, and feel-good stretches—so beginners feel welcome and seasoned yogis can deepen their practice. The setting is outdoors on The Green at UTC (across from The Vitamin Shoppe), where there’s room to spread out, relax, and let the day go.
Celebrate the season with one of Venice’s most magical traditions! The Venice Holiday Boat Parade of Lights features dozens of festively decorated boats gliding through the Intracoastal Waterway, dazzling spectators with holiday lights and cheer. The parade begins at 6:00 PM and is best viewed from areas near the Venice Train Depot and the Venice Avenue Bridge. Bring a chair and arrive early — this event is a local favorite! Venice Holiday Boat Parade of Lights📅 Date: December 20, 2025🕒 Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM📍 Location: Intracoastal Waterway, Downtown Venice, FL
Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland is a festive production that combines the thrill of live circus acts with the joy of holiday music. Audiences can expect a 1 hour and 40-minute performance featuring acrobats, aerialists, and other performers set to classic holiday melodies .
Stroll through downtown Venice to enjoy decorated shop windows, music, and holiday cheer. During the event, attendees can enjoy extended shopping hours, live music, festive treats, and beautifully decorated storefronts. The walk is designed to be a self-guided tour through the heart of Venice's historic downtown, allowing visitors to experience the holiday spirit at their own pace.
Gather on the sand for a peaceful candlelight service celebrating Christmas Eve on Siesta Beach.
Unwind midweek with Sunset Yoga on The Green, a free, all-levels class that pairs gentle movement with Sarasota’s golden hour. Each Wednesday from 6:30–7:30 PM, an experienced instructor guides you through a balanced flow—breath work, accessible poses, and feel-good stretches—so beginners feel welcome and seasoned yogis can deepen their practice. The setting is outdoors on The Green at UTC (across from The Vitamin Shoppe), where there’s room to spread out, relax, and let the day go.
Unwind at After Hours—a lively evening of live music and social dancing on the Marcy & Michael Klein Plaza at Sarasota Art Museum. Most nights kick off with a quick beginner-friendly lesson at 5:30 pm, followed by music and open dancing until 7:30 pm. Galleries, the Bistro, and the SHOP stay open late, so you can make a full night of it.
Ring in the new year with live music, food vendors, fireworks, and the iconic Pineapple Drop in downtown Sarasota.