Best Holiday Light Shows in South Florida
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 transforms the lush Fairchild grounds into an illuminated wonderland with glowing mazes, interactive features, and vibrant installations. It’s just minutes from The Avenue, our boutique hotel in Coral Gables.
Why We Love It:
- Immersive lights & interactive experiences
- Perfect for photos, couples, and families
- A garden holiday must-see
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
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
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
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 The Avenue, Sunset Inn, and our brand-new oceanfront escape SeaGlass Cove.