25 Christmas Things to Do in Miami, Florida, in 2026

Looking for Christmas things to do in Miami, Florida, in 2026? From spectacular holiday light displays and festive gardens to Santa visits, Christmas markets and seasonal attractions, Miami offers plenty of ways for families to celebrate the holidays.

Walk through a glowing tropical garden, explore the holiday village at Tropical Park, see Zoo Miami after dark or take the kids to meet Santa. You can also plan a festive family day trip to LEGOLAND® Florida Resort in Winter Haven for Christmas Bricktacular, where holiday entertainment and LEGO® activities join the Resort's rides and attractions.

Here are 25 Christmas events, attractions and seasonal activities to consider for your 2026 holiday plans. Some experiences operate on select dates, so check the organizer's latest schedule before visiting.

1. Celebrate Christmas at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

Make Christmas Bricktacular part of your family's holiday plans with a visit to LEGOLAND® Florida Resort in Winter Haven. This seasonal celebration combines the Resort's LEGO® rides and attractions with holiday decorations, festive entertainment, character experiences and interactive building activities.

Christmas Bricktacular takes place on select dates from November 21, 2026, through January 3, 2027. New for 2026 are a festive drone show featuring LEGO® Santa on select nights, the Resort's first-ever Rap Battle Show and an interactive festive light trail with LEGO® brick-building activities.

Families can also enjoy seasonal treats, holiday decorations and festive LEGO® experiences throughout the Theme Park. Christmas Bricktacular is included with general Theme Park admission on event dates, so a separate event ticket is not required. Eligible Annual Passholders can attend, although blockout dates may apply to some pass types.

Winter Haven is a longer drive from Miami, making this an option for families planning a full-day outing or a Central Florida holiday trip.

Plan your visit: Explore the LEGOLAND® Christmas Bricktacular guide for event dates, new experiences and visit-planning information.

2. Explore Christmas Wonderland at Tropical Park

Christmas Wonderland transforms Tropical Park into a large-scale holiday attraction with illuminated displays, themed areas, rides, festive food and seasonal entertainment.

The 2026–2027 event is scheduled to open November 12 and run through January 4, with some date-specific exceptions. Its advertised attractions include a half-mile Tinsel Trail, millions of lights, carnival rides and a Christmas market.

This is an option for families who want to spend an evening exploring multiple holiday attractions in one location. Review the event calendar for opening hours, ticket options and any scheduled closures before you go.

Location: Tropical Park, Miami.

3. See Zoo Lights Miami at Zoo Miami

Zoo Lights Miami brings holiday lights and seasonal entertainment to Zoo Miami after dark. The 2026 experience features more than one million lights, a 26-foot LED holiday tree, festive music, themed photo locations and appearances by Santa on select nights.

The event is scheduled for November 27 and 28; December 4, 5, 11, 12, 18–23 and 26–30, 2026. Opening night includes a tree-lighting ceremony, and additional experiences may be available for an extra fee.

Animal viewing is not the primary focus of Zoo Lights, as some animals may be resting during evening hours. 

4. Discover NightGarden at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

NightGarden turns Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden into an illuminated nighttime experience with colorful light displays, projection effects and interactive elements.

The 2026–2027 season is listed for select evenings from November 7 through January 11. Its garden setting offers a different way to experience holiday lights, with pathways and illuminated installations creating a destination for families and visitors of different ages.

5. Walk Through Nights of Lights at Pinecrest Gardens

Pinecrest Gardens hosts Nights of Lights, a seasonal celebration featuring illuminated garden paths, festive entertainment, holiday vendors and family-friendly activities.

The 2026 event is scheduled for select evenings from December 4 through December 27, generally from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Some nights feature Santa or the Grinch, live performances, story time and activities for younger visitors.

6. See the Christmas Tree at Bayfront Park

Bayfront Park is a downtown Miami destination to watch for seasonal decorations and Christmas programming along Biscayne Bay.

A large Christmas tree has featured in Miami's holiday celebrations in past years, making the waterfront an option to consider when planning a downtown holiday outing. However, families should confirm the 2026 tree display, lighting schedule and associated activities through current city announcements before visiting.

Pair a confirmed holiday event with a walk around the waterfront or a meal at a nearby restaurant.

7. Take Photos With Santa at Dolphin Mall

Dolphin Mall is a convenient place to combine holiday shopping with a Santa photo experience. The seasonal setup has been listed for November 22 through December 24, 2026, with options advertised for English- and Spanish-speaking Santa visits and designated pet-photo nights.

Photo packages, reservation requirements and available times can vary. Check the mall's current holiday information before visiting, particularly if you have a preferred date or want to bring a pet.

Location: 11401 NW 12th Street, Miami.

8. Visit Santa at Brickell City Centre

Add a Santa photo to a holiday shopping trip at Brickell City Centre. The downtown shopping destination is an option for families looking to combine seasonal photos with time in the city.

Check the current Santa schedule and booking information before visiting. Walk-in availability, operating hours and photo packages can change as Christmas approaches.

Location: 701 South Miami Avenue, Miami.

9. Meet Santa at The Falls

The Falls offers an outdoor shopping setting with landscaped walkways, stores and dining options. During the holiday season, Santa photo experiences can give families another way to mark the countdown to Christmas.

Santa's seasonal arrival and photo schedule should be confirmed with the shopping center before your visit. Consider combining the experience with holiday shopping or a family meal nearby.

Location: 8888 SW 136th Street, Miami.

10. Plan a Santa Visit at Aventura Mall

Aventura Mall is another option for families hoping to take holiday photos with Santa. Its range of shops and dining options also makes it easy to combine a seasonal visit with Christmas shopping.

Check the current Santa booking page for availability, photo packages and any special sessions. Early reservations can be useful during busy holiday periods.

Location: 19501 Biscayne Boulevard, Aventura.

11. See Santa at Dadeland Mall

Dadeland Mall is worth checking for seasonal Santa photos and holiday shopping. Families can look for current photo packages and available times, then plan a shopping trip around their reservation.

Confirm the 2026 schedule directly with the mall or its Santa photography provider. Details such as opening hours, pricing and reservation requirements may change during the season.

Location: 7535 North Kendall Drive, Miami.

12. Experience Santa's Circus at Jungle Island

Santa's Circus at Jungle Island has been promoted as a family holiday experience combining circus-style entertainment, festive decorations and opportunities to meet Santa.

Before including it in your itinerary, verify the 2026 event dates, showtimes, ticket options and character experiences with the attraction. This is particularly important for seasonal productions, which can change from one year to the next.

Location: Jungle Island, Watson Island, Miami.

13. Attend Tides & Tidings: Holiday by the Bay at Deering Estate

Deering Estate hosts Tides & Tidings: Holiday by the Bay on December 5, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event includes a holiday market, seasonal treats, crafts, lawn games and family-friendly activities in a historic waterfront setting.

The day's schedule also includes Story-Time & Photos with Santa from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Santa photos cost extra, and purchasing a photo is required to meet Santa. Reservations and additional details are being announced by the organizer.

General admission is listed at $18 for adults and $10 for children ages 4–14, plus tax. Members and children under 4 receive free general admission.

Location: 16701 SW 72nd Avenue, Palmetto Bay.

14. Browse a Christmas Market

Holiday markets are a chance to find gifts, seasonal decorations, crafts and treats while supporting local makers and businesses.

Deering Estate's Tides & Tidings event includes a holiday market, while Christmas Wonderland at Tropical Park advertises a Christmas market as part of its larger attraction. Check each event's schedule for vendor hours, admission requirements and any special activities.

If you plan to visit more than one market, compare dates first so you can build an itinerary around the events that interest your family most.

15. Enjoy a Holiday Evening in Downtown Miami

Downtown Miami offers a mix of waterfront views, shopping, restaurants and seasonal programming during the holiday season. Check local event listings for tree-lighting ceremonies, public celebrations, live entertainment and other Christmas activities.

Bayfront Park and the surrounding downtown area can be useful starting points, but individual events and decorations may have separate dates. Confirm what's scheduled before setting out.

16. Explore Miami's Holiday Garden Displays

Miami's botanical gardens offer an alternative to traditional indoor holiday attractions. NightGarden at Fairchild and Nights of Lights at Pinecrest Gardens are two seasonal experiences to consider for illuminated pathways and outdoor displays.

Both events run on select evenings, so check the official calendars and allow enough time to explore the gardens. Wear comfortable shoes and review accessibility information if anyone in your group has specific mobility needs.

17. Take a Christmas Lights Drive

A holiday lights drive can be an easy way to enjoy seasonal decorations without planning an entire evening around a ticketed attraction.

Look for current local recommendations for decorated homes and neighborhood displays in Miami and surrounding communities. Because residential decorations change each year, confirm that a display is operating before driving to a specific street.

When viewing neighborhood lights, follow posted traffic guidance, keep driveways clear and respect residents' privacy.

18. Choose a Family-Friendly Holiday Show

Seasonal theatre productions, concerts and live performances can add something different to your Christmas plans. Look for family-friendly shows at Miami-area theatres and cultural venues throughout November and December.

Schedules vary by venue and production. Check the official event calendar for show dates, age recommendations, ticket prices and performance times before booking.

19. Make Time for a Festive Family Meal

Plan a holiday meal or seasonal treat while exploring Miami's Christmas events. Restaurants, bakeries and cafés may offer festive desserts, specialty drinks or limited-time menus during November and December.

If you're planning a special brunch or dinner, check the menu and reservation requirements in advance. Restaurants near major attractions may be particularly busy on popular event nights.

20. Shop for Christmas Trees at Santa's Garden in Biscayne

Santa's Garden in the Biscayne area is one seasonal option for families looking for a fresh Christmas tree in Miami.

The location has been listed at 5051 Biscayne Boulevard. Tree varieties, prices, inventory and opening hours can change throughout the season, so confirm current information before visiting.

If you're choosing a fresh tree, measure your space at home and consider how you'll transport it before making a purchase.

21. Visit Santa's Garden on West Flagler Street

Santa's Garden also has a listed location at 7600 West Flagler Street. Seasonal tree lots can be a convenient stop for families who want to choose a real tree and bring it home the same day.

Check current opening hours and stock before traveling. Ask about available tree sizes, delivery options and any additional services if you need help getting your tree home.

22. Shop for Christmas Trees at Santa's Tree Farm

Santa's Tree Farm in Palmetto Bay has been listed as a source for fresh Christmas trees, wreaths and other seasonal decorations. The business has advertised services such as tree delivery and setup, although availability can vary.

Confirm the current location details, product selection and service options before visiting. If you're interested in a larger tree or a particular variety, contact the business in advance.

Listed location: 7500 SW 152nd Street, Palmetto Bay.

23. Support a Local Cause at Firefighters Christmas Trees

Firefighters Christmas Trees in Coral Gables is a seasonal tree-lot option associated with local community causes. Choosing a tree here may be a way to combine a holiday tradition with community support.

Check the current operating dates, tree availability and details about the beneficiary before making plans. Seasonal charitable lots may have limited stock or opening periods.

Listed location: 5501 Granada Boulevard, Coral Gables.

24. Find Christmas Trees at Jack's Christmas Trees

Jack's Christmas Trees has been listed among Miami-area seasonal tree sellers, with a location in Miami Gardens and potential seasonal pop-up sites.

Availability and locations can vary from year to year, so check current business updates before visiting. Ask about tree sizes, varieties, prices and payment options if you have a particular tree in mind.

Listed location: 17701 NW 57th Avenue, Miami Gardens.

25. Browse Holiday Decorations at The Christmas Palace or Chan's Christmas Store

If you prefer an artificial tree or want to add to your holiday decorations, specialty Christmas stores can offer a wider selection of styles than a seasonal tree lot.

The Christmas Palace in Hialeah Gardens has been listed as a holiday showroom for artificial trees and festive decorations. Chan's Christmas Store, also known as CSF Miami, has been listed for artificial trees, home décor and floral arrangements.

Confirm current business hours, product availability and seasonal inventory before visiting.

Listed locations:

• The Christmas Palace: 9820 NW 77th Avenue, Hialeah Gardens.

• Chan's Christmas Store / CSF Miami: 5302 NW 72nd Avenue, Miami.

Tips for Planning Christmas Activities in Miami

Check event dates first. Several major light displays operate on select nights rather than every day. Confirm dates and opening hours before buying tickets or traveling.

Book Santa photos in advance. Shopping-center photo experiences may require reservations or have limited availability, especially on weekends and close to Christmas Eve.

Allow time for traffic and parking. Miami travel times can vary significantly, particularly around major shopping centers and popular seasonal attractions.

Review ticket inclusions. Some events include most activities with admission but charge extra for photos, crafts, rides or other add-ons.

Have a backup plan. Outdoor gardens, markets and light displays may be affected by weather. Check event updates before leaving home.

Plan Your Christmas Season in Miami

From illuminated gardens and holiday markets to Santa photos and Christmas tree shopping, Miami offers a wide range of seasonal activities for families. Choose events that match your interests, confirm their dates and build a schedule that leaves time to enjoy each stop.

For a longer holiday outing beyond Miami, consider a family trip to LEGOLAND® Florida Resort in Winter Haven. Christmas Bricktacular combines LEGO® rides and attractions with festive entertainment, holiday decorations and interactive activities on select dates.

Review the LEGOLAND® Christmas Bricktacular event information to plan your visit.