By Alejandra Zamora
It’s that time of year again! The holiday season is the time where you reflect on the past year and spend quality time with loved ones. Thanks to our phenomenal weather and tropical, beachy atmosphere, there’s so many happenings that you can enjoy with family and friends in the South Florida area. From holiday-centered events to routine festivals and activities, it can be a lot to navigate all at once, so we are highlighting some of the best things to do in December and January.
Where: FLA Live Arena (formerly the BB&T Center) in Sunrise
When: December 17, 8 p.m.
What: Seeing a live orchestra playing well-known songs doesn’t have to be boring; if anyone knows how to do it right, it’s the Trans-Siberian Orchestra! Now, you have the chance to see them live and in-person on their 25 year celebration tour! Come out for an upbeat and exciting Christmassy night as the world-famous group plays some of their signature songs from their iconic holiday album. Click here for tickets.
Where: Hialeah Park in Hialeah
When: Now through January 2, 2022
What: If you’ve got thrill-seeking kids in your family (or, maybe you’re a thrill-seeking adult yourself!), a visit to Santa’s Enchanted Forest is the ultimate Christmas amusement park destination! Holiday displays, interactive games, themed shows, and an array of rides can be found in the enchanted forest. Bring the whole family, and don’t forget to grab a picture with Santa while you’re there, too! Learn more and purchase tickets here.
Where: FAU Stadium in Boca Raton
When: December 18 at 11 a.m.
What: One of Boca’s biggest sports events is back in our very own FAU Stadium! Come out to see Western Kentucky versus Appalachian State play in the 30,000-seat stadium that’s the only one in the country to have views of the Atlantic Ocean! Perfect for families and sports-fanatics, more about this annual event can be found here.
Where: Boca Raton’s Intracoastal Waterways with viewing at Red Reef Park
When: December 18, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
What: After spending the morning at the Boca Raton Bowl, you can keep the festivities going by heading east to the ocean for the Boca Raton Holiday Boat Parade! Marvel at spectacularly decorated yachts and boats of all shapes and sizes with the whole family! Learn more here.
Where: Multiple downtown Delray Beach locations
When: December 31
What: If you want an eventful yet low-key New Year’s Eve celebration, look no further than many downtown Delray Beach bars and restaurants! You can take your pick from one of many parties (or, head to a few!), including Deck 84, Lionfish, Rosewater Rooftop, and more! For the full list and information on how to attend, click here.
Where: Throughout Broward County
When: January 10-16, 2022
What: Calling all South Florida foodies! The Greater Fort Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival is the city’s culinary event of the year. With a multitude of talented local chefs and events at various locations around the city, you won’t want to miss this week-long festivity, especially if you’ve been looking to try out new food places in town! Click here for more info and a full event schedule.
Where: Seminole Hard Rock & Casino in Hollywood
When: January 14 & 15, 2022
What: Kick off 2022 with a good laugh by having a night out with friends at the Miami Comedy Festival! With household names like Mike Epps and Gary Owen, this feel-good event will commence on a Friday night and again the next night, so you have two opportunities to see some good stand-up shows. Click here for more information.
Where: Downtown Delray Beach
When: January 15 & 16, 2022
What: For the 33rd year in a row, one mile of Atlantic Avenue will be closed down so multiple art vendors can set up shop. Browse or shop for art pieces for your home or as gifts for loved ones at this FREE event! Learn more here.