St. Armand's
Kick the first weekend of December off by enjoying Holiday Night on St. Armands. This yearly “Holiday Night of Lights” is the place to see a grand tree lighting. Activities start around 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6. Live music, local food, and photos with Santa make this night a must.
Selby Gardens
Each winter, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens transforms its tropical grounds into a galaxy of twinkling lights. From Dec. 14-Jan. 4,Lights in Bloom boasts sensory tunnels, kid-friendly arts and crafts, and food from both Michael’s on East and the Selby House Café. Tickets are $25 for non-members, $20 for members, $7 for kids ages 5-12, and children under 5-years-old get in free!
Downtown Sarasota
The annual Sarasota Holiday Parade is taking over downtown on Saturday, Dec. 7. This year’s theme, Holidays by the Sea, is sure to be a perfect blend of classic holiday imagery and beachy Suncoast vibes. Thousands of participants line up to celebrate the season in style, strolling down Main Street starting at Washington Avenue and ending on Gulfstream Avenue. Santa always makes a special appearance, making it an especially fun family outing.
North Sarasota
The Robert L. Taylor Community Complex is hosting a free Winter Wonderland Holiday Party from 5:30-7:00 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 20. Cookie decorating, holiday games, and giveaways make this evening a wonderful place to share some joy with the whole family. Word has it that Santa will be making an appearance there, too!