The holiday season is here and it’s time for celebrating, getting together with family and friends, and enjoying the many events we are blessed to have in our area.
From lighted boat parades along the Intracoastal Waterway, to Santa sightings and photo opportunities, light shows, live music, musicals, and tree-lightings that include the 700-ton tree named Sandi, there is so much to do throughout Palm Beach County.
So get out and enjoy this amazing time of year when the skies are clear, the temperatures are cool enough to wear sleeves, yet mild enough to wear sandals —and there are literally dozens of incredible holiday events to enjoy.
Here are 29 of them listed from north to south:
Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum’s ‘Holiday Extravaganza: Grinchmas Edition’
This festival will feature fun-filled games and crafts for children, a curated selection of local artists and vendors offering gifts and crafts, multiple food trucks serving savory to sweet goodness, a screening of “The Grinch,” a toy drive and much more.
The event is noon to 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17, on 500 Captain Armour’s Way, Jupiter. Adults $15, ages 6 to 18 $10, under 6 free. Information: jupiterlighthouse.org.
Jupiter Tequesta Christmas Parade
Though there was concern the parade might not happen this year because of the bridge construction on U.S. 1, an alternative route was created by Maj. Don Hennessy of the Jupiter Police Department and the 47th Annual Jupiter Tequesta Christmas Parade is officially on! There will be floats, people, music and more, with a viewing stand near Promenade Way.
The event will begin at 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10. The parade will proceed down Central Boulevard, past Main Street and University Boulevard, then turn onto Frederick Small Road and conclude at the Jupiter Skate Park. The event is free. Information: jtaa.org/holidayparade.
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There’s Snow Place Like Jupiter at Abacoa Community Park
This event will feature 32 tons of real snow for throwing, making snow angels and building snowmen. There will also be a DJ, bounce houses, food vendors and a chance to meet/make your requests known to Santa Claus and his lovely wife, Mrs. Claus.
The event is 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, at 1501 Frederick Small Road, Jupiter. Free. Information: jupiter.fl.us.
Palm Beach Gardens Annual Tree Lighting
This annual event will feature a visit from Santa Claus, multiple food trucks and live music by the band Wonderama. Santa arrives at 5:45 p.m. and the tree will be lit immediately afterwards.
The event is 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, in Gardens North County District Park, 5101 117th Court N., Palm Beach Gardens. The event is free. Information: pbgfl.com.
Musicthon at The Gardens Mall
Held in the Nordstrom Court, this holiday musical extravaganza in its 34th year is provided by the Palm Beach Music Teachers Association and features festive performances from students in the Palm Beach County Schools music programs. The event is open to the public and benefits Make-A-Wish Foundation.
The event is 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at 3101 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens. The event is free. Information: thegardensmall.com.
Santa Claus at The Gardens Mall
The “Big Guy” will be onsite in Santa’s Enchanted Garden in the Grand Court through Dec. 24 (after that, he’s got plans involving some reindeer, a sleigh capable of faster-than-light speed and a massive bag of toys) and available for pics and for those wishing to make their requests known. Though reservations are encouraged, walk ups are also welcome. On the weekends from 1 to 4 p.m. Santa will be joined by stilt walkers. (Please be advised when making requests that Santa already knows whether you really have been naughty or nice.)
Santa will be at The Gardens Mall through Dec. 24, at 3101 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens. Information: thegardensmall.com.
Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade and Toy Drive
The parade and toy drive, which benefits Toys for Tots and Little Smiles, will kick off the holiday season for the 29th time. Small boats, sailboats, and mega yachts will be adorned with millions of holiday lights and illuminate the waterways.
There will be a $500 cash prize for Best Boat of the Parade as well as $500 for Fan Favorite boat. They are judged on lights, enthusiasm and themed décor. The procession will be led by a traveling Zambellifireworks display as it moves the Intracoastal Waterway from North Palm Beach to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse.
The event is 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, on the Intracoastal Waterway from North Palm Beach to the Jupiter Lighthouse. Information: marinepbc.org.
Tanger Outlets Santa’s Holiday Celebration
Have a jolly good time at this celebration and discover all that is merry and bright with a festive afternoon including selfies with Santa, a holiday craft station, live music, sweet treats, snowfalls, photo moments, giveaways, and more. The event will take place between Columbia and Forever 21.
The event is 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at 1751 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd., West Palm Beach. The event is free. Information: tanger.com/palmbeach.
Flagler Museum Christmas Tree Lighting Festivities
With special music being played on the Odell organ and Steinway grand piano, the holiday season begins at Whitehall. The 16-foot-tall Christmas tree in the Grand Hall will be lit, refreshments will be served, a special choir will sing and even Santa Claus will make an appearance. The tree will be lit by Henry Flagler’s youngest descendants.
The event is noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, at One Whitehall Way, Palm Beach. Free with museum admission. Information: flaglermuseum.us.
Holiday in Paradise starring Sandi tree, West Palm Beach
Forget a few days of holiday festivities; downtown West Palm Beach will be going for a full month! Starting from the moment Sandi, the world’s only 700-ton holiday sand tree, is lit on Nov. 30, there will be synchronized nightly music and light shows from 6 to 10 p.m. The shows will be on the quarter hour except during special events.
The monthlong celebration will also include a holiday-themed Screen on the Green movie on Dec. 8, with the double feature of “The Muppet Christmas Carol” and “Muppet Treasure Island”; the Sandi and Santa Annual Pancake Breakfast on Dec. 16; Sunday on the Waterfront featuring the Aloha Islanders on Dec. 17, and much more.
West Palm Beach Holiday in Paradise will run from Nov. 30 to Dec. 31, at 100 N. Clematis St., West Palm Beach. The event is free. Information: wpb.org.
Holidays at The Square
Running through Dec. 31, The Square will feature one holiday happening after another including snow falling three times each night, Santa meet-and-greet opportunities at ‘The Workshop,’ Culture & Conversation Panel Series discussions about “A Christmas Carol,” musical performances, Kwanzaa Dance & Drums performances and much more.
The events take place through Dec. 31, at 700 S. Rosemary Ave., West Palm Beach. The event is free. Information: thesquarewestpalm.com
Antique Row Holiday Stroll
Enjoy a late afternoon of sipping, shopping and giving along West Palm Beach’s historic Antique Row. There will shops staying open late, hors d’oeuvres, a local choir group singing carols and a chance to give back. The event will host a toy drive for Toys for Tots. Please bring a new unwrapped toy for donation and help spread some joy this season.
The event is 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2. 3079 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach Information: instagram.com
Winter Wonderland Laser Lights & Bites
Sing and dance along to holiday favorite songs while also enjoying mini golf, outdoor exhibits, winter-themed crafts, performances by the Palm Beach Symphony (Dec. 15), a “Nutcracker” dance performance by Precision Dance Conservatory (Dec. 22) and, yes, a holiday-themed, outdoor laser light show. Fire the lasers!
In addition, FPL SolarNow will have a dazzling holiday lights display along the Science Trail. There will also be food trucks and a DIY S’mores station. Food trucks will change week to week, but will include EOS Tacos and Tina’s Treats on Dec. 1, Bustle & Brew and Taco Time on Dec. 8, Bustle & Brew and Tacos Vera Cruz on Dec. 15 and Gimme Grillin’ and Tina’s Treats on Dec. 22.
The event is 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 1, 8, 15 and 22, at 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach. Adults $22, seniors $20, children $18, adult members $15, member children free. Information: coxsciencecenter.org/Winter-Wonderland.
Zoo Lights at the Palm Beach Zoo
Now in its fifth year, the hugely popular event is back and bigger than ever. Spread out over the zoo’s 23 acres, the event will once again transform the facility into a cascading canopy of twinkling lights and animal sculptures with a show-stopping centerpiece. That structure is a 24-foot tall animated, RGB tree featuring choreographed lights in the middle of Fountain Plaza. Presented by FPL SolarNow, the event will use solar energy as well as environmentally-friendly lights.
The event is 5:30 to 9 p.m. on select nights through Jan. 7, at 1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach. Prices vary depending on time and date. Adults range from $20 to $26; children from $15 to $21. Discount of $5 for zoo members. Information: palmbeachzoo.org/zoolights.
Tropical Holiday Trees at Mounts Botanical Garden
The garden will be embracing the holiday season with several trees designed by the Mounts horticulture team and installed with hundreds of colorful bromeliads, orchids, and other tropical botanicals.
The trees will be on display through Dec. 31. 531 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach. Included with regular admission. Information: mounts.org
Lights 4 Hope 6th Annual Holiday Drive-Through Light Show
This event features over two miles of spectacular holiday lights that can be viewed from the comfort of your vehicle. There are dancing lights, talking props, synchronized light displays and more. The production raises money for local families that have children suffering from terminal illness or a life-altering physical change.
The event is 6 to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 6 to 9 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 30, at 7715 Forest Hill Blvd., West Palm Beach. $20 per car. Information: lights4hope.org.
Winterfest, Wellington
Held at the Wellington Amphitheater, this event will feature music icon, philanthropist, home renovator and actor Vanilla Ice. Offerings will include delicious food vendors, multiple lounges for adults, a snow globe photo booth, music and dance performances, a retail and holiday shopping area, a visit from Santa and much more.
The event will be 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, at 12100 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. The event is free. Information: wellingtonfl.gov.
The Wellington Holiday Parade
Announced by the Central Palm Beach County Chamber, Hispanic Chamber of Palm Beach County and the village of Wellington, and presented by Wellington Regional Medical Center, this year’s parade theme is “Holidays Around the World.”
This is the 39th year of the event and visitors can expect to see floats and decorated vehicles that will travel along Forest Hill Boulevard. The parade finishes at Wellington’s newly completed amphitheater grounds, where there will be arts and crafts, vendor booths, family-friendly fun and more.
The event begins at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, at Forest Hill Boulevard, Wellington. The event is free. Information: cpbchamber.chambermaster.com/events.
The Mall at Wellington Green presents Paws ‘n Claus
Held at The Ice Palace at the Grand Court, this event allows animal lovers to bring their furry family member to pose with Santa. Each pet will receive a yummy gift for their participation. Guests can purchase photos at regular pricing.
The event is 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at 10300 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. The event is free. Reservations required. Information: shopwellingtongreen.com.
Lake Worth Beach Holiday Parade
Enjoy an evening of holiday fun as this year’s theme “Holidays in Hollywood” mixes the glamour of Tinseltown and holiday movies. Participants will dress up as their favorite characters with floats done up to match in cinematic style. Downtown Lake Worth Beach will be transformed into a cinematic wonderland.
The event is 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at 414 Lake Ave., Lake Worth Beach. The event is free. Information: lakeworthbeachfl.gov.
The Christkindlmarkt at the American German Club of the Palm Beaches
Experience an authentic German outdoor Christmas market and delight in traditional Christmas cakes, cookies, brats, Glühwein (mulled wine), and Christmas carols. Enjoy the old-world charm at the American German Club while indulging in German delicacies and sweet holiday treats. There will also be holiday crafts, activities, carnival rides, local school bands, folk dancers, a Children’s Lantern Parade, and a tree lighting ceremony with Santa & The Christkind.
The event is noon to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9 and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, at 5111 Lantana Road, Lake Worth Beach. $10. Information: americangermanclub.org.
Boynton Beach Holiday Boat Parade
Held in partnership with the town of Hypoluxo, town of Lantana and the city of Delray Beach, this annual parade will feature dozens of boats decked out in dazzling lights, holiday décor, costumed captains and crews.
Though there are many restaurants and parks from which to see the festive flotilla, the official watch location is the Boynton Harbor Marina at 735 Casa Loma Blvd.
Activities at the marina will include music, a special visit from Santa, with food and beverages available at Two Georges. Guests are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots.
The event is 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, at Ocean Avenue Bridge in Lantana to C-15 Canal in Delray Beach. Information: boyntonbeachcra.com.
Boynton Beach Winter Nights & Magic Nights
Enjoy an enchanted night of music, food trucks, a holiday market and the lighting of the city’s huge holiday tree. There will performances by the Boynton Beach Community High School choir & drumline, Young Singers of the Palm Beaches and more. Food trucks will include HipPops, Chick-fil-A, Gimme Grillin, Bustle & Brew, Kane’s Cones, Palm Beach Cider Donuts, Sobol Boynton Beach, Taco’s Veracruz and That’s Amore. There will also be a dozen other vendors.
The event is 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, at 120 E. Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach. The event is free. Information: boynton-beach.org.
Boynton Beach Holiday Parade
The city’s 52nd Annual Holiday Parade will feature award-winning marching bands, local school, dance and cheer squads and much more.
The event is 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, in downtown Boynton Beach on Federal Highway between Boynton Beach Boulevard and Woolbright Road. The event is free. Information: boynton-beach.org.
‘Holidays around the World’ by the Boynton Beach Gold Coast Band
Presented by The Boynton Beach Gold Coast Band and held at the Boynton Beach High School Auditorium, this concert will be directed by conductor Barbara Rubenstein. The performance will visit: “France with “Patapan,” “Italy with “Gesu Bambino,” Russia and Germany with “Themes from the Nutcracker Suite,” and more. Vocalist Donna Singer will highlight the English custom with “Sweet Mistletoe.”
The show is 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, at 4975 Park Ridge Blvd., Boynton Beach. $10. Information: goldcoastband.com.
Delray Beach Tree Lighting and Yuletide Street Fair
Celebrate 30 years of Delray’s massive 100-foot tree with a lighting ceremony, food trucks, musical performances on three stages, LED games, and 60 vendors lining Atlantic Avenue, Old School Square and Pineapple Grove.
The event is 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 28, at 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach. The event is free. Information: delraybeachfl.gov.
Delray Beach Holiday Parade
Featuring dazzling floats plus plenty of festive cheer, this annual tradition will bring Atlantic Avenue to life with holiday magic.
The event is 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, on Atlantic Avenue from A1A to Fifth Avenue, Delray Beach. The event is free. Information: downtowndelraybeach.com.
Yuletide Trot 5K
This 5K and fun run and walk through downtown Boca Raton is set up by a partnership between Changing Lives and Semper Fi Service Dogs. The event welcomes individuals of all ages and their leashed, four-legged companions. Festive attire is encouraged with prizes for the best dressed.
Changing Lives is a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of needy people in our area. Semper Fi Service Dogs, founded by veterans, rescues dogs, commits to their care and rehabilitation and trains them as service dogs for veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI) and MST.
The event is 6:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at 625 NE Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton. 5K $35, 5K run or walk with dog $40, one-mile walk $20, kids dash $5. Information: changinglives.me/yuletide-trot.
Boca Raton Holiday Boat Parade
This lineup of lighted, aquatic magic will begin at the C-15 canal and work its way south along the Intracoastal Waterway to the Hillsboro Boulevard Bridge. Red Reef Park, Wildflower Park and Silver Palm Park are designated public viewing areas. There will be awards of $1,000 each for the best decorated boats in the Under 25-foot class, the 26- to 34-foot class and the over 35-foot class.
The event is 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, on the Intracoastal Waterway from the C-15 canal to the Hillsboro Boulevard Bridge, Boca Raton The event is free. Information: myboca.us.
Boca Holiday Festival at Mizner Park Amphitheater
The spirit of the season will come alive during this two-day holiday fun fest with carnival rides, live shows featuring characters from Disney’s “Frozen,” a Polar Express train ride, local food favorites, an ice skating rink, a life-size snow globe, a chance to meet up with Santa and more.
The event is 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9 and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, at 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. Adults and children 3 and older, $15 per day. Admission with unlimited rides, $38. Children 2 and younger get in for free. Information: bocaholidayfestival.com.
Boca Raton’s Holiday Street Parade
This year’s theme will be “Holidays on the Silver Screen” and will feature decorated floats along with dancing, lighting and music. Federal Highway in Boca Raton will be transformed into a festive holiday affair.
The event is 7:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 6, on Federal Highway from Southeast Fifth Street to Mizner Park Amphitheater, Boca Raton. The event is free. Information: myboca.us/1465/Holiday-Street-Parade.
Eddie Ritz is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at eritz@pbpost.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today.