Deck the Halls at the Ca’ d’Zan
Thursday, Nov. 29 through Thursday, Jan. 3
You can enter the Ca’ d’Zan at 5 p.m. every Thursday into the new year to check out the decorated halls of the first floor. Enjoy a self-guided tour surrounded by twinkling lights and festive hues to get into the holiday spirit. A full schedule can be found online!
Venice Christmas Boat Parade
Saturday, Dec. 1
The Venice Christmas Boat Parade has Saint Nicholas and his reindeer cruising along the waters just north of the Albee Road Bridge. Dozens of decorated boats will also compete in a competition for the best decorated vessel.
23rd Annual Sarasota Holiday Parade
Saturday, Dec. 1
7 p.m. on Main Street in downtown Sarasota is the 23rd Annual Sarasota Holiday Parade. From high school marching bands to local businesses, everyone will be decked out in their Christmas best in the parade from U.S. 301 all the way to Gulfstream Avenue. The finale will feature Santa Claus himself, making an appearance in Sarasota before he’s back on his merry way.
Venice Christmas Walk
Thursday, Dec. 6
What a beautiful sight, as Downtown Venice gets transformed into a merry village of lights, music and a huge Christmas tree. Starting at 5 p.m., stores will be open late with specials and discounts for the savvy shopper. Stay for the promise of live music and refreshments for a spontaneous holiday party.
Holiday Night of Lights on St. Armands Circle
Friday, Dec. 7
Enjoy a magical evening, as Carolers, Santa Claus and a 55-foot Christmas tree ring in the holidays! It can only mean one thing, Christmas on St. Armands Circle. Enjoy dinner at a rooftop bar, or stop by some of the sales at participating stores. If you’re lucky, there’ll even be a chance for children to sit on Santa’s lap and tell him their Christmas wishes.
Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Saturday, Dec. 8
Beauty, fun and the holidays. Currently in its 33rd year, the Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights begins at 6 p.m. Grab a good seat at either Marina Jack or Bayfront Park in order to view the array of beautifully decorated boats passing by. Stay long enough hear the group of judges announce the best decorated boat at the end of the parade.
Victorian Nights at the Sarasota Ballet
Friday, Dec. 14 through Saturday, Dec. 15
Tradition at it's best. Breathtaking performances bring the music of a full orchestra together with talented dancers. Occurring at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 14 and at both 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. the next day on Dec. 15, this ballet offering features the work of Sir Frederick Ashton and George Balanchine. Tickets are available online.
Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Sunday, Dec. 16
Reliving the best of the holidays and creating new memories. This holiday classic comes to life on the stage at the Van Wezel Performing with music, elaborate costumes and intricate scenery. It’s a production guaranteed to touch even Ebenezer Scrooge himself. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office at (941) 953-3368.
Lights in Bloom at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Thursday, Dec. 20 through Sunday, Jan. 6
Beauty abounds. Taking place from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Lights in Bloom will feature 1 million lights that will transform the gardens into sensory light tunnels. Santa Claus and his elves will stop by, and children will test their toy making skills with arts and crafts events.
Moscow Ballet: Great Russian Nutcracker
Friday, Dec. 21
One night only, is this inspiring evening. The classic Nutcracker is back in Sarasota for one day only at the Van Wezel, with shows at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Watch snow maidens and nesting dolls on the stage. The holiday classic is perfect for all ages and the perfect experience right before Christmas Eve.
Lakewood Ranch’s Christmas on Main
Saturday, Dec. 23
Fun for the whole family. From 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., gather around downtown Lakewood Ranch for food, fun and games. With Santa Claus and a candlelight service, Lakewood Ranch celebrates Christmas with plenty of cheer.
The Mall at UTC Presents Holidays on the Green
Happening Now... through Sunday, Jan. 6
Enjoy:
- Ice Skating (on REAL ice) presented by the Tampa Bay Lightning
- Snow Tubing (yes with REAL snow)
- Movies on The Lawn every Friday & Saturday at 7 pm
- Live Entertainment and Nightly Music Performances
- and much more!
Rental Rates:
- Ice Skating - $13 for 90 minutes (includes skates if needed)
- Snow Tubing - $13 for 90 minutes (includes snow tube)
- Ice Skating & Snow Tubing Combo - $20 for 90 minutes of each