Best Holiday Light Shows in South Florida
*Colorful illuminated holiday light display in South Florida at night*
Let’s be real—when it’s 82 degrees in December, it’s not always easy to feel that classic holiday cheer. But one thing South Florida does better than almost anywhere else? Holiday lights. From immersive botanical displays to iconic boat parades, these festive shows bring all the magic—minus the frostbite.
Whether you’re visiting Miami this winter, planning a family outing, or staying at one of our SoFLA Vacations properties, here are the top holiday light shows in South Florida for 2025.
NightGarden at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden (Coral Gables)
NightGarden transforms the lush Fairchild grounds into an illuminated wonderland with glowing mazes, interactive features, and vibrant installations.
Why We Love It:
- Immersive lights & interactive experiences
- Perfect for photos, couples, and families
- A garden holiday must-see
*NightGarden at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden glowing light installation in Coral Gables*
Symphony in Lights at Gulfstream Park Village (Hallandale Beach)
This free holiday light show features a 50-foot tree, nightly music-synchronized displays, and festive entertainment—right next door to our Sunset Inn in Hallandale Beach.
Why We Love It:
- It’s free and family-friendly
- Music + lights = instant holiday joy
- Surrounded by restaurants and shops
*Gulfstream Park Symphony in Lights holiday display with giant Christmas tree*
Zoo Lights Miami (South Miami Heights)
Zoo Lights Miami features over one million twinkling lights, glowing animal displays, themed encounters, treats, and nighttime train rides through the expansive Zoo Miami.
Why We Love It:
- One million lights across the zoo
- Kid-friendly nighttime activities
- A festive twist on an iconic Miami attraction
*Zoo Lights Miami glowing animal light display at night*
Winterfest Boat Parade (Fort Lauderdale)
Known as “The Best Show on H2O,” this one-night-only illuminated parade cruises up the Intracoastal with themed yachts, decked-out boats, and thousands of spectators. The 2025 theme is “Yacht Rock of Ages” so get ready to jam out!
When: Saturday, December 13 at 5:30 PM
Why We Love It:
- Iconic Fort Lauderdale holiday tradition
- Over-the-top floating light displays
- The most Florida-style holiday celebration
*Winterfest Boat Parade illuminated boats on Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal Waterway*
Plan Your Holiday Stay
Whether you’re exploring Miami, Hallandale Beach, or the Keys, stay close to the festivities at our SoFLA Vacations properties like Sunset Inn and our brand-new oceanfront escape SeaGlass Cove.