If you’ve already read Part 1, you know what to expect: cozy evenings, zero frostbites, and lights that bounce off the bay.
Here are four more Sarasota and Manatee county events to round out December – from boats and big tops to gifts you can’t find at the mall.
Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Since 1986, a fleet of decked-out boats has lit up Sarasota Bay while thousands watch from Bayfront Park and Marina Jack. It’s free, family-friendly, and loud in the best way. Pro tip: bring folding chairs and plan to park a little farther out – this one draws a crowd.
Spectators are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy or book for local nonprofits.
Where: Marina Jack & Bayfront Park, Downtown Sarasota
When: Sat, Dec 13, 2025 (evening parade; check viewing notes)
Website: suncoastcharitiesforchildren.org/holiday-boat-parade
Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade (Bradenton/Palmetto)
Manatee County’s biggest holiday event sends illuminated vessels cruising the river as spectators line both shores.
Favorite viewing spots include the Bradenton Riverwalk, Twin Dolphin Marina, and the Palmetto side near the Green Bridge. It’s free to watch, easy to make a dinner-plus-parade night, and a solid pick if you’re staying on the Manatee side.
Where: Manatee River (Bradenton & Palmetto riverfronts)
When: Sat, Dec 13, 2025
Website: holidayboatparade.org
Lakewood Ranch Holiday Festival of the Arts
Skip generic gifts – shop the juried outdoor art market on Main Street. You’ll find paintings, ceramics, jewelry, woodwork, photography, and one-of-one pieces from regional and national artists.
Admission is free, and it’s an easy stroll with cafes and restaurants right along the route.
Where: Lakewood Ranch Main Street (Downtown LWR)
When: Sat-Sun, Dec 6-7, 2025, 10:00 am-5:00 pm
Website: paragonfestivals.com/festival/lakewood-ranch-holiday-of-the-arts
Wonderland: BELIEVE – Holiday Circus under the Big Top (UTC)
If you’re looking for a showstopper, Wonderland is it – an all-new holiday production with high-flying acts from Nik Wallenda and company under a climate-controlled Big Top at UTC. Think aerial performances, wire acts, global-holiday storytelling, and family-friendly spectacle.
Tip: Seats closer to the ring go fast; look at matinees if you want easier parking and shorter lines.
Where: Big Top at University Town Center, Sarasota
When: Nov 21, 2025 – Jan 4, 2026 (showtimes vary)
Website: wonderlandcircus.com
Bonus: Wellen Wonderland (North Port)
Downtown Wellen Park goes all-in with a multi-day program – tree lighting, choir performances, photos with Santa, a glow bike ride, golf-cart parade, and ice-skating on the lakefront. It’s an easy one – add if you’re exploring South County.
Where: Downtown Wellen Park, North Port
When: Dec 4-7, 2025
Website: wellenpark.com/events/save-the-date-wellen-wonderland
Between both parts, you’ve got eight (okay – nine with the bonus) solid ways to spend the season. If you’re visiting, connect with our vacation planning experts so we can point you to the best holiday rentals near UTC, Bayfront Park, or Main Street so you can walk or bike to several exciting events happening in the region.
