8 Things to Do in Miami for Christmas

1. Visit Santa’s Enchanted Forest

One of Miami’s most beloved holiday traditions, Santa’s Enchanted Forest is a massive Christmas-themed amusement park filled with carnival rides, food stalls, and dazzling light displays. From giant Christmas trees to over-the-top shows, it’s the perfect place for kids, families, and anyone who loves classic festive fun — Miami-style.

Don’t miss:

• Live acrobat shows

• The giant holiday light maze

• Iconic fried Oreos and Latin street food

2. Stroll Through the Zoo Lights at Zoo Miami

When night falls, Zoo Miami transforms into a glowing wonderland with thousands of lights, illuminated animals, and themed photo spots. Zoo Lights is peaceful, magical, and much less crowded than Miami’s major attractions.

Why go:

• Family-friendly

• Beautiful light installations

• Hot chocolate + Christmas treats

3. Experience Christmas at Bayside Marketplace

Bayside is always lively, but at Christmas, it turns into a waterfront holiday hub. Enjoy live music, street performers, open-air shopping, and a massive 60-foot Christmas tree that lights up the marina.

Best part:
You can hop on a holiday boat cruise right from the marina, gliding around Biscayne Bay as the skyline sparkles behind you.

4. Explore the Deering Estate “Holidays at the Estate”

The Deering Estate decorates its historical mansion every December with beautifully themed Christmas rooms curated by local designers. It feels like stepping into a vintage holiday postcard — but with tropical charm.

Highlights:

• Victorian-themed holiday décor

• Nighttime holiday strolls

• Outdoor concerts under the stars

5. Ice Skate at The Wharf Miami (Yes, really!)

Even in warm Miami weather, you can experience a touch of winter magic. The Wharf Miami often brings in pop-up ice skating rinks, holiday cocktails, and festive DJs along the Miami River.

Expect:

• Seasonal drinks

• Food trucks

• A lively crowd and holiday ambience

6. Visit the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s “NightGarden”

This immersive light exhibit feels like stepping into a glowing fantasy forest. Walk through technicolor pathways, talk to the “wise tree,” enjoy laser gardens, and explore fairy-tale-themed light shows.

Why it’s a must:

• Stunning for photography

• Unique to Miami

• Perfect for date night

7. Go Holiday Shopping in Design District or Brickell City Centre

Skip the traditional malls and head for Miami’s trendiest shopping neighborhoods.

Design District: high fashion, art installations, and stylish holiday décor.
Brickell City Centre: modern, sleek, and full of Christmas events and pop-up brands.

Tip:
Stay for dinner — both districts have some of Miami’s best restaurants.

8. Celebrate Christmas on Miami Beach

Nothing says “Miami Christmas” like spending the holidays seaside. South Beach, North Beach, and Mid-Beach all host festive events, from beachfront concerts to holiday photo ops with sand sculptures instead of snow.

Perfect for:

• Relaxing Christmas Day plans

• Sunrise or sunset holiday photos

• Drinks at oceanfront bars with Christmas playlists

Final Thoughts

Christmas in Miami blends sunshine, culture, and festive sparkle — a holiday experience you can’t replicate anywhere else in the U.S. Whether you're exploring glowing botanical gardens, dancing under palm trees wrapped in lights, or enjoying a warm beach day on December 25th, Miami delivers a Christmas season that’s joyful, tropical, and completely unforgettable.