Florida holidays aren’t about snowdrifts and parkas. They’re about warm nights, waterfront views, and lights you can actually enjoy without freezing. If you’re in Sarasota/Bradenton for the holidays, these four picks deliver maximum cheer with minimal hassle.
Holidays at UTC
UTC turns the season into a nightly ritual: synced light shows, Friday/Saturday outdoor movies, a real ice rink (because we like a bit of winter theatre), horse-drawn carriage rides, and fireworks every Saturday at 9 pm.
The season kicks off with Santa’s Grand Arrival Parade – big energy, easy parking, and tons of dining right there, which is why locals treat it like a standing weekly plan. Check the hub for the specific movie schedule and performance times. Book skating in advance if you’re bringing a crew.
Where: University Town Center, Sarasota
When: Holiday programming runs Nov 9, 2025 – Jan 5, 2026 (Grand Arrival Nov 8; check daily schedules)
Website: mallatutc.com/pages/holidaysatutc and utcsarasota.com/holidays
Holiday Night of Lights – St. Armands Circle
The Circle knows how to flip a switch.
The community tree-lighting ceremony brings live entertainment, the countdown, and that festive “shop-and-stroll” vibe around the ring. Miss the big moment? No problem – the towering tree stays lit all season, so you can swing by for photos and dinner any night in December.
The event is free to attend; arrive early if you want a front-row view of the stage.
Where: St. Armands Circle, Lido Key
When: Fri, Dec 5, 2025, 5:30-8:00 pm
Website: starmandscircleassoc.com/events-%26-happenings
Lights in Bloom – Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Selby transforms its bayfront campus with more than two million lights, glowing pathways, and installations that feel tailor-made for holiday photos.
Expect food and beverage stations, kids’ activities, and live entertainment sprinkled through the grounds. It’s popular – plan a weekday if you want a little more elbow room, and book tickets online ahead of time. Typical hours are evening entry windows; watch for “all-inclusive” nights that bundle food and drinks.
Where: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota
When: Select nights Dec-early Jan, typically 6:30-9:00 pm (see calendar for 2025 schedule)
Website: selby.org/events/lights-in-bloom-324
Venice Christmas Boat Parade
If you want classic Florida holiday energy, watch a flotilla of decorated boats parade down the Intracoastal Waterway – close enough to hear the music and wave to crews. Bring chairs, pick a waterfront spot, and enjoy the show as it kicks off right at 6 pm. There’s a rain date the next evening, but this parade is famously reliable.
Where: Intracoastal Waterway, Venice (multiple viewing areas)
When: Sat, Dec 6, 2025, 6:00 pm (rain date next day)
Website: venicechristmasboatparade.net
That’s a strong start for your calendar. Check our Part 2 for more holiday picks across Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, and Wellen Park – boat parades, art markets, and a circus spectacular under the Big Top.
