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While Florida might be famous for its sunny beaches and tropical weather, the Sunshine State also offers a twinkling spectacle of Christmas towns that bring the holiday cheer in a unique, Floridian way. Imagine strolling through palm-lined streets adorned with twinkling lights, enjoying holiday boat parades on the water, and getting into the festive spirit while lounging by the beach.
This holiday season, if you're dreaming of a warm Christmas with a touch of Southern charm, here are the best Christmas towns in Florida for a magical holiday season!
(For more information about Florida, check out our guides for best beaches, weekend getaways, and best places to visit.)
Also check out our Christmas city guides:
Are there any Christmas towns in Florida?
Absolutely! Florida is home to some of the most charming Christmas towns in the US. From the historic streets of St. Augustine to the vibrant holiday displays of Miami, there are plenty of magical spots to get into the holiday spirit. Whether you’re looking for a festive beachside celebration or a cozy small-town Christmas, Florida has a Christmas town that’s perfect for you.
Where is the best place to spend Christmas in Florida?
It’s hard to pick just one, but if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable Christmas in Florida, St. Augustine tops the list. Picture historic architecture draped in lights, horse-drawn carriage rides, and the famous Nights of Lights celebration that turns the entire city into a glowing wonderland.
Is Christmas a good time to visit Florida?
Christmas is a fantastic time to visit Florida! The state’s warm weather and festive spirit make it a unique holiday destination. With plenty of sunshine, and mild temperatures across the state Christmas in Florida is a tropical winter getaway.
What is the weather like in Florida at Christmas?
The weather in Florida during Christmas is typically mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to 70s. It’s perfect for outdoor activities, whether you’re enjoying a holiday parade, strolling through Christmas markets, or even spending a day at the beach. So, while you may not have a white Christmas, you’ll certainly have a warm and festive one!
Will it snow in December in Florida?
Snow in Florida during December? It’s unlikely, but that doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on the holiday magic! Instead of snow, Florida offers palm trees decked out in lights, festive boat parades, and unique holiday traditions that make Christmas in the Sunshine State a memorable experience. If you’re dreaming of snow, you might want to consider a visit to one of the many holiday-themed events that create winter wonderlands with artificial snow and ice skating rinks.
9 Magical Christmas Towns in Florida
1. Christmas in St. Augustine, Florida
Must see: Nights of Lights
Where to stay: Casa Monica Resort & Spa | ★★★★☆
St. Augustine is the ultimate Christmas town in Florida, offering a holiday experience steeped in history and charm. During the holiday season, the city’s Spanish colonial architecture is illuminated by millions of tiny white lights as part of the Nights of Lights celebration, one of the most beautiful holiday displays in the country. Wander through the historic district, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, and enjoy festive events like the Holiday Regatta of Lights and the annual Christmas Parade. With its rich history and enchanting atmosphere, St. Augustine is a must-visit for a magical Christmas in Florida. WaterColor Inn
2. Christmas in Mount Dora, Florida
Must see: Christmas Walk and Light Up Mount Dora
Where to stay: Lakeside Inn | ★★★★☆
Nestled in Central Florida, Mount Dora is the quintessential small town that feels like stepping into a Hallmark Christmas movie. The holiday season kicks off with the annual Light Up Mount Dora event, featuring over two million twinkling lights, fireworks, a 40-foot Christmas tree, and a visit from Santa. Stroll through the charming downtown area, enjoy carolers and live entertainment, and take in the stunning lakeside views. With its cozy atmosphere and festive spirit, Mount Dora is one of the best Christmas places in Florida.
3. Christmas in Orlando, Florida
Must see: Disney’s Christmas at Magic Kingdom
Where to stay: Four Seasons Resort Orlando | ★★★★★
Orlando is a magical place to celebrate Christmas, especially with the iconic holiday festivities at Walt Disney World. From Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party to the stunning decorations throughout the parks, Disney creates an unforgettable holiday experience. Beyond the theme parks, Orlando also offers festive events like the Leu Gardens’ Holiday Lights and the Orlando Christmas Parade. Whether you’re exploring the parks or enjoying local holiday attractions, Orlando is a must for spending Christmas in Florida.
4. Christmas in Key West, Florida
Must see: Holiday Fest and Lighted Boat Parade
Where to stay: The Marquesa Hotel | ★★★★☆
For a tropical twist on Christmas, Key West is the perfect beach escape Christmas town in Florida. The island comes alive with the month-long Key West Holiday Fest, featuring the beloved Lighted Boat Parade where festively decorated boats cruise through the harbor. Stroll down Duval Street to soak in the holiday lights, take the Walk of Lights from Lazy Way Lane to the Ferry Terminal. With its laid-back vibe and unique holiday traditions, Key West offers a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience that’s as festive as it is unforgettable.
5. Christmas in Miami, Florida
Must see: Santa’s Enchanted Forest
Where to stay: The Biltmore Hotel Miami Coral Gables | ★★★★★
Christmas in Miami offers a vibrant and multicultural holiday experience that’s truly unique. While it may not be the most traditional Christmas town in Florida, it’s home to Santa’s Enchanted Forest, the world’s largest holiday theme park, featuring over 100 rides, shows, and festive attractions, including Christmas karaoke and a towering tree. Miami also dazzles with beautifully decorated Art Deco buildings, the Bayfront Holiday Village, and a host of festive events like the Miami City Ballet's performance of The Nutcracker and Zoo Miami’s Zoo Lights. For a sunny and festive Christmas in Florida, Miami is the place to be.
6. Christmas in Pensacola, Florida
Must see: Winterfest and Christmas Parade
Where to stay: The Pensacola Beach Resort | ★★★★☆
Pensacola transforms into a coastal winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a perfect blend of festive cheer and seaside charm. As one of the top Christmas towns in Florida, the month-long Winterfest celebration lights up the downtown area with over half a million twinkling lights. Hop on a holiday trolley tour to see the lights, meet Santa, and catch the lively Pensacola Christmas Parade featuring festive floats and holiday characters. While there’s no snow, the holiday spirit is strong, with events like the Grinch trolley tours and boat parades making it feel like a stop at the North Pole—minus the chill. For those seeking the best places to go for Christmas in Florida, Pensacola is a must-visit destination.
7. Christmas in Naples, Florida
Must see: Christmas on Third Street South
Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Naples | ★★★★★
Naples offers a luxurious Christmas experience with elegant holiday decorations and festive events that make it one of the best Christmas towns in Florida. The heart of the festivities is Third Street South, where twinkling lights, holiday music, and beautifully decorated shops create a magical atmosphere. Don’t miss the Christmas tree lighting and the annual boat parade, where you can enjoy festive lights from the water. For a unique holiday treat, visit the Trees & Teas Festival at The Naples Players, featuring artist-designed trees and holiday teas to sample. Naples truly captures the magic of Florida for Christmas, with the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus on a vintage fire engine, snowfalls, live music, and extended shopping hours.
8. Christmas in Boca Raton, Florida
Must see: Holiday Boat Parade and Boca Raton Festival of Trees
Where to stay: Boca Raton Resort & Club, A Waldorf Astoria Resort | ★★★★★
Boca Raton shines during the holiday season with its annual Holiday Boat Parade and Festival of Trees. The city’s holiday events feature beautifully decorated homes, festive lights, and community celebrations. The Festival of Trees showcases beautifully decorated Christmas trees from around the world, while the boat parade lights up the waterways with holiday cheer. Boca Raton’s warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a festive Christmas in Florida.
9. Christmas in Christmas, Florida
Must see: Send your letters to the North Pole
Where to stay: Take a day trip from Orlando to visit this Christmas town in Florida
Christmas, Florida, may not be the most festive spot in the state, but it’s definitely one of the most unique Christmas towns in Florida. This tiny town, halfway between Orlando and Titusville, offers a quirky holiday experience with streets named after Santa’s reindeer and the world's largest alligator-shaped building. A must-do for visitors is stopping by the small red-brick post office, where you can postmark your holiday cards with a special Christmas seal and drop off letters to Santa. With permanent holiday displays and a Santa statue, Christmas, Florida, is a charming detour and one of the best places for Christmas in Florida if you’re looking to add a unique twist to your holiday season.
Want to explore more Christmas towns across the US?
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