‘Tis the season for holiday lights, ugly Christmas sweaters, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus atop a sleigh led by their trusty Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer, and holiday parades galore.
Yes, even in “snow less” Florida. Though the Sunshine State competes with Hawaii for most tropical locale during a holiday season, Floridians rival New Yorkers and others up North for their versions of a Winter Wonderland.
In Florida, it’s perfectly acceptable to wear a (holiday-themed) T-shirt and shorts and possibly sweat, depending on the humidity, while watching a Christmas parade.
Boat parades are quite the draw, too.
Below is a roundup of 2025 Christmas parades and 2025 holiday boat parades in Florida, by date and in alphabetical order from various Florida cities and small towns, from the entertainment writers and editors of USA TODAY Network-Florida newspapers.
Happy holidays!
Holiday parade in Jacksonville, Florida, on Friday, Nov. 28, 2025
Springfield Holiday Tree Lighting and Lantern Parade will be at 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, 2025, at Sesquicentennial Park, 1527 N. Main St., Jacksonville, Florida. Event is free. A festival with vendors and food trucks starts at 5 p.m., leading to the 6:30 p.m. lantern parade. Visit sparcouncil.org.
Christmas boat parade in Jacksonville, Florida, on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025
Jacksonville Light Boat Parade will be at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025, on the St. Johns River in downtown Jacksonville. Event is free. The traditional start of Jacksonville’s holiday season features boats, from small vessels to grand yachts, lit up for the holidays parading up and down the St. Johns River in Duval County, Florida. Visit events.jacksonville.gov.
Christmas parade in Eagle Lake, Florida, on Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025
TheEagle Lake Christmas parade will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, starting at Eagle Lake Ball Park, 350 Cooley Road, Eagle Lake, Florida, and ending at Eagle Lake Elementary school, 400 Crystal Beach Road, Eagle Lake, Florida, in Polk County. Eagle Lake is about 7 miles from Legoland Florida, the Lego-themed theme park, in Winter Haven.
Christmas parade in Melbourne, Florida, on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025
The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office will host its annual holiday parade and toy drive, the Reverse Christmas parade, from 5 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025, in downtown Melbourne. The parade, featuring law enforcement agencies from across the county, kicks off near Hell’ n Blazes on East New Haven Avenue and rolls through the heart of downtown Melbourne in Brevard County, Florida. Melbourne is about an hour’s drive from the Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort theme parks. Visit downtownmelbourne.com.
Christmas parade in Lakeland, Florida, on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025
The Junior League of Greater Lakeland’s 44th annual Christmas Parade with the theme, “Rocking Around Lakeland” will begin at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025. The start will be signaled by fireworks over Lake Mirror in Lakeland, Florida. For Christmas parade viewing purposes, the parade starts at RP Funding Center, travels east along Lemon Street, turns north on Tennessee Avenue, turns east on Main Street, north on Kentucky Avenue, then turns east on Lake Mirror Drive, south on Lake Avenue, before heading west on Orange Street. Lakeland is in Polk County, Florida, about 40 miles from the Orlando theme parks.
Christmas parade in Auburndale and Winter Haven, Florida, on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025
The city of Auburndale and the city of Winter Haven present the annual Havendale Christmas Parade at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, 2025. “Havendale” is Winter Haven and Auburndale combined (like “Bennifer,” an old reference to Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez). Both cities are in Polk County, in the Central Florida area. The 2025 Havendale Christmas parade starts at Spring Haven Senior Living, 1225 Havendale Blvd. SW, Winter Haven, Florida, and ends at the Publix grocery shopping plaza, 606 Havendale Blvd., Auburndale, Florida.
Christmas parade in Plant City, Florida, on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025
Plant City will host its annual Christmas Parade at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, 2025. There’s a new route this year that starts at Collins and Ball Street, heads north to Reynolds Street, then west on Reynolds to Wheeler Street, turns south on Drane Street to the end of the route. Plant City, Florida, is in Hillsborough County near the Tampa area.
Christmas parade in Stuart, Florida, on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025
The Stuart Christmas Parade will start at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, 2025. The parade route will be Ocean Boulevard from Monterey Road to Georgia Avenue. The city of Stuart is in Martin County, which is part of the Treasure Coast (along with Indian River County and St. Lucie County) on the East Coast of Florida. Visit stuartchristmasparade.com.
Holiday parade in Wildwood, Florida, on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025
The Wildwood Winter Fest and Parade kicks off with a holiday parade with floats, followed by ceremonial tree lighting, a “real snow” slide, photos with Santa Claus, crafts, train rides, vendors, food trucks and a toy giveaway. The parade kicks off at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, with the tree-lighting ceremony at 7:30 p.m. The parade will follow its traditional route near Wildwood Middle High School, 700 Huey St., Wildwood, Florida. The tree-lighting and festivities will be in the courtyard at nearby Wildwood City Hall, 100 N. Main St., Wildwood, Florida. Wildwood is in Sumter County, between Orlando and Tampa. Visit wildwood-fl.gov/parksrec/page/community-events.
Christmas parade in Dunnellon, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Dunnellon Christmas Parade will be at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, at Dunnellon Middle School, 21005 Chestnut St., Dunnellon, Florida, in Marion County. Visit https://www.facebook.com/dunnellonchristmasparade.
Christmas parade in Bushnell, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
Light Up Bushnell and the Bushnell Christmas parade festivities will start at 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The parade begins at 5:30 p.m. on Main Street, followed by festivities at Marge A. Thies Plaza Park, 117 E. Joe P. Strickland Jr. Ave., Bushnell, Florida. Light Up Bushnell with Santa in the Park is the city’s traditional Christmas celebration. See the lighting of the Bushnell Christmas Tree, meet Santa Claus and his elves, enjoy festive music, and sip on delicious hot cocoa while the park glows with holiday magic. Bushnell, Florida, is in Sumter County. Visit cityofbushnellfl.com.
Christmas parade in Clermont, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Christmas of Champions Parade in Clermont, Florida, will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The parade follows a route through downtown Clermont starting at Waterfront Park, 330 3rd St., Clermont, Florida, in Lake County. Visit clermontfl.gov.
Christmas boat parade in Clermont, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Lake Minneola Lighted Boat Christmas Parade returns! See boats with festive lights parade on Lake Minneola at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. Spectators can view the lighted vessels from Waterfront Park, 100 Third St., Clermont, Florida. Visit clermontfl.gov.
Christmas parade in Fernandina Beach, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Lighted Christmas Parade will be at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, in Fernandina Beach, Florida. Event is free and kicks off the season with an illuminated procession in downtown Fernandina Beach on South 3rd Street between Centre Street and Ash Street, according to Amelia Island online. Fernandina Beach is in Nassau County, Florida. Visit fbfl.us.
Christmas parade in Frostproof, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The city of Frostproof, Florida, will host its 33rd annual Christmas in the Country Christmas parade starting at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The parade runs along Scenic Highway, from 3rd Street West north to F Street West in Frostproof in Polk County, Florida.
Holiday parade in Gainesville, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
A Very GNV Holiday Parade will be from noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The Gainesville holiday season kickoff parade will be held along University Avenue from West Sixth Street to 620 E. University Ave., Gainesville, Florida, in Alachua County. The event will lead into a holiday dance party and lights celebration. Visit gainesvillefl.gov/Community-Pages/Community/Holiday-Parade.
Christmas parade in Green Cove Springs, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Christmas on Walnut Street Parade and Festival will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, in Green Cove Springs, Florida. Event is free. The annual festival kicks off with a parade, followed by a day of vendors and live music at Spring Park, 106 St. Johns Ave., Green Cove Springs, Florida, in Clay County. A tree lighting will be at 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. Visit exploreclay.com.
Christmas parade in Haines City, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The city of Haines City will host its annual Christmas parade at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The parade route will start at Hinson Avenue and Lake Elsie Drive, then follow the west-bound lanes of Hinson Avenue to 6th Street, where it makes a right turn and go back to Lake Eva Park in Haines City, Florida. The city’s annual holiday festival “Glitter, Glisten and Snow” will immediately follow the Christmas parade at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at Lake Eva Park, 555 Ledwith Ave., Haines City, Florida. Take pictures with Santa Claus while enjoying a rare snowfall in Central Florida.
Christmas parade in Hobe Sound, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Hobe Sound Christmas Parade will start at 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The parade route will be Dixie Highway from Venus Street to Bridge Road, turning on Hercules Avenue to end at J.V. Reed Park in Hobe Sound, Florida. Hobe Sound is in Martin County, which is part of the Treasure Coast (along with Indian River County and St. Lucie County) on the East Coast of Florida. Visit hobesound.org/christmas-parade.
Christmas parade in Indiantown, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Indiantown Christmas Parade will start at 5:45 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The parade route will be Indian Mound Drive and Warfield Boulevard from Big Mound Park to Post Family Park in Indiantown, Florida. The Indiantown village is in Martin County, which is part of the Treasure Coast (along with Indian River County and St. Lucie County) on the East Coast of Florida. Visit indiantownchamber.com.
Christmas parade in Lady Lake, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
Lady Lake’s annual Christmas Parade has the theme, “Santa’s Toy Workshop,” bringing the North Pole to life with festive floats and cheerful music at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The parade route runs along North Old Dixie Highway. Text LLChristmas to 38276 for updates throughout the season. Residents should be aware of the following road closures for the duration of the event: Clay Avenue and West Lady Lake Boulevard will be closed to through traffic beginning at 9 a.m. Also, County Road 466 between Rolling Acres Road and U.S. 27/441 will close at 9:45 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6. Lady Lake is a small town in Lake County, Florida. Visit ladylakefl.gov.
Christmas parade in Leesburg, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
Leesburg’s annual Christmas Festival and Parade kicks off with a festival at 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, and offers a full day of activities in historic downtown Leesburg. Bring the family to enjoy live music from the Holiday Revue and whirl around a complimentary ice skating rink. Other highlights include opportunities for photos and meet-and-greets with Santa Claus, browsing local merchandise vendors for holiday shopping, and sampling food trucks and seasonal treats. The Grinch and Elf on the Shelf are scheduled to pop in. The festivities culminate with the 58th annual Leesburg Christmas Parade, which begins at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, on Main Street in Leesburg. Leesburg also is known as the “Lakefront City” in Lake County, Florida. Visit leesburgflorida.gov.
Holiday lights parade in Mascotte, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
A holiday lights parade will be from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, along Sunset Avenue in Mascotte, Florida. Call 352-557-8888 or email community@cityofmascotte.com. Mascotte is about 4 miles from Groveland, Florida, in Lake County.
Bible on Parade in Melbourne, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
Jesus is the Key Church will host its annual event, “The Bible on Parade,” in which costumed characters present banners, floats, music and drama, at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, at the Melbourne Auditorium, 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd., Melbourne, Florida. Every child receives a gift at the celebration following the parade. Pizza, cookies and drinks will be served. Admission is free. Call 321-773-1489 or visit jitk.org.
Holiday parade on Merritt Island, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Merritt Island holiday parade will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The parade will travel from Grove Boulevard at Merritt Island High School, 100 Mustang Way, Merritt Island, Florida, in Brevard County, and head south on Courtenay Parkway to Edgewood Jr./Sr. High School on Merritt Avenue. The 2025 Merritt Island holiday parade theme is “Rockin’ Around the Holidays.” Radio morning show host Mindy from “Mindy and Co.” on Lite Rock 99.3-FM will emcee the parade. Call 321-633-1874 or visit brevardfl.gov.
Christmas parade in Mount Dora, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Mount Dora Christmas Parade will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, making merry on Donnelly Street. Mount Dora is in Central Florida in Lake County. Visit ci.mount-dora.fl.us/1461/Holiday-Events.
Christmas boat parade in Mount Dora, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
Rusty Anchor hosts the 25th annual holiday boat parade in Mount Dora, the Lighted Boat Parade on Lake Dora, after sunset at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. Boats will launch from the Grantham Point Lighthouse. The parade route will starting on Main Street at Sinclair Avenue, heading south to Ruby Street, where the parade route turns eastbound on Ruby Street, continuing east to Saint Clair Abrams, turning north to Main Street, then continuing westbound on Main Street, ending at Sinclair Avenue. This year’s theme is “Florida Christmas,” and prizes will be awarded for the best-decorated vessels. Best places to view include Grantham Point, 311 S. Tremain St., Mount Dora, Florida, and Elizabeth Evans Park, 100 N. Donnelly St., Mount Dora, Florida. Before the boat parade, gather for live holiday performances of holiday favorites from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Bring a blanket and lawn chair to Donnelly Park in downtown Mount Dora. Visit ci.mount-dora.fl.us/1461/Holiday-Events or check out updates on the Facebook event page.
Holiday parade in North Port, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Poinsettia Parade, featuring the theme “Once Upon a North Port Holiday” this year, will be at 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The holiday parade route will travel down Sumter Boulevard, ending at the City Center Front Green, 4970 City Hall Blvd., North Port, Florida. The Poinsettia Festival will be before and after the parade, from 3 to 7 p.m., featuring a craft workshop, food and merchandise vendors, live entertainment, community groups, an opportunity to meet Santa Claus and his elves, and a kids zone. Event is free. Call 941-429-7275 or visit northportfl.gov.
Holiday light parade in Palm Bay, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The city of Palm Bay will host a light parade at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The 3-mile parade will leave the Eastern Florida State College campus and head north on San Filippo Drive. It will then move west on Malabar Road and end at Minton Road, in front of Palm Beach City Hall, 120 Malabar Road, Palm Bay, Florida, in Brevard County. Dozens of brightly lit floats, high school marching bands, cheer squads, motorized vehicles, and more will delight the crowd and usher in the holiday season. Event is free. Call 321-952-3443 or visit palmbayflorida.org.
Holiday boat parade in Palm Beach, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The annual Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade and Toy Drive, in its 31st year, will travel along the intracoastal waterway from North Palm Beach, Florida, to the Jupiter Lighthouse at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The procession will be led by a Zambelli traveling fireworks display. The boats will be judged on lights, enthusiasm and themed decor. Viewing locations include the North Palm Beach Country Club, Bert Winters Park, Juno Park, Sawfish Park, Lighthouse Park, Waterway Park, Riverwalk, Harbourside Place, Charlie and Joe’s at Love Street, Square Grouper Tiki Bar, U-Tiki, and Jetty’s. Also, a “toy fleet” of boats from Tow Boat, Sea Tow, and other volunteers traveling along the parade route will make dockside pickups during the parade. Just wave a flashlight when you see a boat with a flashing amber beacon and/or Toys for Tots signage. Uniformed Marines and volunteers will pull right up to your dock to collect donations. Event is free. Visit marinepbc.org/boat-parade.
Christmas parade in Panama City, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The city of Panama City will host its Christmas parade at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, at the intersection of Harrison Avenue and 13th Street and continue south to Sixth Street in Panama City, Florida. The event will feature a procession of floats, vehicles and parade walkers decorated by community businesses and organizations. Panama City, in the Florida Panhandle, is in Bay County. Visit the city of Panama City’s Facebook page.
Parade in Port St. Lucie, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Port St. Lucie Parade of Lights will start at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The parade route will be MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Event Center, 9221 S.E. Event Center Place, Port St. Lucie, Florida. Port St. Lucie is in St. Lucie County, which is part of the Treasure Coast (along with Indian River County and Martin County) on the East Coast of Florida. Visit cityofpsl.com.
Holiday parade in Sarasota, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The 29th annual Sarasota Holiday Parade in downtown Sarasota, beginning at Main Street and U.S. 301 and ending at J.D. Hamel Park in Sarasota, Florida, will be at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The event will feature the theme “Celebrate Sarasota” for the 2025 holiday season. Sarasota is in Sarasota County, Florida, on the West Coast. Visit sarasotaholidayparade.com.
Christmas parade in Sebastian, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Sebastian Christmas Parade will start at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The parade route will be Indian River Drive from Main Street to Riverview Park in Sebastian, Florida. The city of Sebastian, close to Melbourne Beach, is on the end of Brevard County (or Space Coast) and located in Indian River County, which is part of the Treasure Coast (along with Martin County and St. Lucie County) on the East Coast of Florida. Visit cityofsebastian.org.
Christmas parade in St. Augustine, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The St. Augustine Christmas Parade will be at 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, starting at the Mission of Nombre de Dios, 101 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine, Florida. Event is free. The 2025 St. Augustine Christmas Parade will mark the 68th year for Santa Claus to arrive in one of Northeast Florida’s largest annual parades. St. Augustine is in Flagler County. Visit visitstaugustine.com.
Christmas boat parade in Stuart, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Martin County Christmas Boat Parade will start at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The parade route will be on the St. Lucie River from Manatee Pocket to Flagler Park in downtown Stuart, Florida. Best viewing spots? Stuart Riverwalk, Sandsprit Park, Stuart Causeway and Pirate’s Cove Marina. The city of Stuart is in Martin County, which is part of the Treasure Coast (along with Indian River County and St. Lucie County) on the East Coast of Florida. Visit miatc.org.
Christmas boat parade in Venice, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Venice Christmas Boat Parade, visible from the Intracoastal Waterway, will start above Albee Road Bridge heading south and turning around before Circus Bridge in Venice, Florida, at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. Venice is on the Southwest Florida coast near Bradenton. Call 941-718-8644 or visit venicechristmasboatparade.net.
Christmas parade in Vero Beach, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Vero Beach Christmas Parade starts at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The parade route will be Ocean Drive and Silver Palm Drive from Flamevine Lane to Live Oak Road in Vero Beach, Florida. The city of Vero Beach is in Indian River County, which is part of the Treasure Coast (along with Martin County and St. Lucie County) on the East Coast of Florida. Visit verobeachchristmasparade.org.
Holiday boat parade in Winter Haven, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
Winter Haven officials present a sparkling holiday tradition on the water with the annual Winter Haven Boat Parade featuring festively decorated boats in Lake May at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The parade route brings boats through Lake Howard and Lake Shipp ending about 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6.
Christmas parade in Tavares, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
The Tavares Christmas Parade and Celebration down Main Street will start at 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, followed by a celebration in Wooton Park and Tavares Square with live entertainment, Santa Claus, movies and a mock snowstorm with a version of ice skating.
Christmas parade in Belleview, Florida, on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025
The Belleview Christmas Parade will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. It will start at Lake Lillian and Robinson Road and end at 110th Street in Belleview, Florida, in Marion County. Visit belleviewchristmasparade.com.
Christmas parade in Fort Pierce, Florida, on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025
The Fort Pierce Christmas Parade: Sights and Sounds on Second Street will start at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. The parade route will be Second Street from Tickle Tummy Hill to Orange Avenue, turning east to Indian River Drive, turning north to River Walk Center. The city of Fort Pierce is in St. Lucie County, which is part of the Treasure Coast (along with Martin County and Indian River County) on the East Coast of Florida. Visit mainstreetfortpierce.org.
Holiday boat parade in Leesburg, Florida, on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025
The Light Up Venetian Gardens and Boat Parade will be from 5 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. The annual lighted park and boats tradition returns to scenic Venetian Gardens, where families can enjoy free holiday music, food trucks and hay rides, which are free, too, at Venetian Gardens, 109 W. Dixie Ave., Leesburg, Florida. Email specialevents@leesburg.gov.
Christmas parade in Bartow, Florida, on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025
Join Main Street Bartow for its annual Magical Illumination Christmas Parade at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, 2025. The route travels along Broadway and Main Street in Bartow, Florida, in Polk County.
Holiday boat parade in Cocoa, Florida, on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025
Head to Cocoa Village (the downtown area of Cocoa, Florida, in Brevard County) to watch the Cocoa Village holiday boat parade from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, 2025. This parade begins where Barton Avenue meets the Indian River in Rockledge, heads north up the intracoastal waterway to the Cocoa Basin, loops in for viewing at the Cocoa Riverfront Park, 401 Riveredge Blvd., Cocoa, Florida, and continues north under the bridge up the coast to Magnolia Point. Awards are given for “best decorated under 30 feet,” “best decorated over 30 feet,” “best decorated over 40 feet,” “best sailboat,” the Margaret Livermore Award, and Captain Ed Lanni Award. Visit visitcocoavillage.com.
Christmas parade in Hastings, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
The Hastings Hometown Christmas Parade and Holiday Market will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, in downtown Hastings, Florida, in St. Johns County. Event is free. The parade starts at the W.E. Harris Community Center, 400 Harris St., St. Augustine, and moves down Main Street, followed by a holiday marketplace. Visit visitstaugustine.com.
Golf cart Christmas parade in Lake Hamilton, Florida, on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025
Lake Hamilton invites all to join them for the first-ever Lake Hamilton Golf Cart Christmas Parade followed by a tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, at 100 W. Smith Ave., Lake Hamilton, Florida, in Polk County. Staging of the golf carts will be at 5:15 p.m. at the empty lot of the nearby Post Office. The event will feature fun activities including hot cocoa, cookies, movies and a visit from Santa Claus. Visit townoflakehamilton.com.
Christmas parade in Alachua, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
The Alachua Christmas Parade — this year with the theme “Charlie Brown” — will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, in downtown Alachua, 13801 Main St., Alachua, Florida. The parade route will be along Main Street. According to the event website, “the parade features dozens of parade floats, entertainers, local school organizations and more.” Visit alachuachamber.com/christmas-on-main.
Christmas parade on Anna Maria Island, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
The Anna Maria Island Privateers will host the annual Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas Parade at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025. The parade will leave from Coquina Beach’s south boat ramp and end at Anna Maria’s City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria Island, Florida, in Manatee County on the West Coast. Immediately after the parade, Santa Claus will hand out gifts to kids at Holmes Beach Field. There also will be free hot dogs and drinks for kids. Visit annamariaislandprivateers.org.
Holiday boat parade in Bradenton, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
The annual Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade will feature a fleet of decked-out vessels touring up the Manatee River, competing for the winning title and cash prizes, at sundown, with roll call at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025. Public viewing areas include the Green Bridge Fishing Pier, 101 8th Ave. West, Palmetto, Florida, with VIP viewing parties at Riverhouse and Pier 22. Visit holidayboatparade.org.
Holiday parade in Cocoa and Rockledge, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
The Cocoa-Rockledge holiday parade will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, starting at Rockledge High School, 220 Rockledge Ave., Rockledge, Florida, and ending at Lee Wenner Park, 300 Riveredge Blvd., Cocoa, Florida, in Brevard County. This year, the theme is “Rockin’ Around the Holidays.” Radio morning show host Mindy from “Mindy and Co.” on Lite Rock 99.3-FM will emcee. Call 321-633-1874 or visit brevardfl.gov or facebook.com/BrevardParks/events.
Holiday boat parade in Cocoa Beach, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
The Cocoa Beach boat parade will start at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, at Marker 101 near Centennial Park. Recommended viewing areas include State Road 520 and Banana River Road, the end of South Banana River Road, and Cove Park, 540 McNabb Parkway, Cocoa Beach, Florida, in Brevard County. Visit cocoabeachrotary.org or facebook.com/CocoaBeachChristmasBoatParade.
Christmas parade in Davenport, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
The city of Davenport will host its annual Christmas Parade and Winterfest from 4 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, at the Tom Fellows Community Center, 207 North Blvd. West, Davenport, Florida. The parade begins at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, with the overall event featuring vendors, fireworks, a snow slide and a visit from Santa Claus.
Christmas parade in Fort Meade, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
The Fort Meade Chamber of Commerce presents the annual Christmas Parade at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, with this year’s theme being “Here we go a caroling …” The parade lines up at Monument Park, Southeast 2nd St., Fort Meade, Florida, with family-friendly activities to follow.
Christmas parade in Groveland, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
Celebrate the holiday season with the residents of Groveland at its 34th annual Christmas Parade at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025. This year’s theme, “Christmas around the World and Peace on Earth,” invites the community to enjoy a festive morning filled with colorful floats, marching bands, holiday cheer, and fun for all ages. Location will be Lake David Park, 243 S. Lake Ave, Groveland, Florida. Visit groveland-fl.gov.
Christmas parade in Lake Wales, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
Watch the annual Lake Wales Christmas Parade, presented by Rotary on the Ridge, at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025. The parade route starts at Polk Avenue Elementary School, 110 E. Polk Ave., Lake Wales, Florida. Traveling up First Avenue to Central Avenue, it will move toward Lakeshore Boulevard before ending at Orange Avenue.
Christmas parade in Middleburg, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
The Middleburg Christmas Festival and Parade will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, at the Clay County Outdoor Adventure Park, 3829 Sergeant Bradley Crose Road, Middleburg, Florida. Event is free. The festival will have vendors and live entertainment, followed by the holiday parade at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13. Visit exploreclay.com.
Christmas parade in Mulberry, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
Mulberry’s annual 2025 Christmas Parade, with the theme “All Creatures Great and Small” will be at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025. Celebrate the holiday season with floats, costumes and lights. The route starts on NE 9th Street, Mulberry, Florida, in Polk County, then turns on NE 17th Avenue, to NE 1st Street, North on Dr. MLK Jr. Avenue, then west on NE 5th Street ending at Highway 37.
Christmas parade in Ocala, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
The Ocala Christmas Parade will be at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, with grand marshal Bernadette Castro. The parade begins on East Silver Springs Boulevard at Southeast 25th Avenue and heads west to Northeast Eighth Avenue in the Tuscawilla Park area, 829 N.E. Sanchez Ave., Ocala, Florida. Visit ocalachristmasparade.org.
Holiday boat parade in Palm Beach, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
The Boat Parade of the Palm Beaches in Florida, featuring about 50 decorated vessels and costumed captains and crews, will be at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025. The parade begins north of the Blue Heron Bridge with a six-minute fireworks display and travels south along the east side of the intracoastal waterway before cutting across to the west side near Rybovich Safe Harbor and then heading back north to North Palm Beach. Excellent spots for viewing include Osprey Park, Brian H. Chappell Park, Bicentennial Park, Kelsey Park and the Sailfish Marina, which will host a VIP viewing party from 4 to 8 p.m. with a DJ, photo booth and buffet dinner. Visit sailfishmarina.com/boat-parade-of-the-greater-palm-beaches.
Holiday boat parade in Panama City, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
The 39th annual Boat Parade of Lights will be at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, with boats departing from the St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club, 218 Bunkers Cove Road, Panama City, Florida. The holiday boat parade will follow the shoreline past downtown Panama City, the Panama City Marina, West Beach Drive, the St. Andrews Marina, and Historic St. Andrews before ending at the Hathaway Bridge. Panama City, in the Florida Panhandle, is in Bay County. Visit destinationpanamacity.com/annual-event/boat-parade-of-lights.
Lighted boat parade in St. Augustine, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
The Regatta of Lights will be at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, on the St. Augustine bayfront. Event is free. In addition to the few million lights in the historic district of Florida’s oldest city, St. Augustine is throwing a lighted boat parade to celebrate the season. Visit visitstaugustine.com.
Holiday boat parade in Sarasota, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
The Holiday Boat Parade of Lights on Sarasota Bay, the 39th annual event, will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025. It features a fleet of boats decorated for the holidays, with the best viewing from Marina Jack and Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Drive, Sarasota, Florida. The event benefits Suncoast Charities for Children. Event is free, with donations of unwrapped toys or new children’s books encouraged. Visit suncoastcharitiesforchildren.org.
Christmas boat parade in Fort Pierce, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025
The St. Lucie County Christmas Boat Parade will be at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025. The parade route will be Fort Pierce City Marina, 1 Avenue A, Fort Pierce, Florida, to under the South Bridge, out Fort Pierce Inlet toward Jetty Park, then it ends back in turning basin. Best viewing spots include Museum Pointe Park, Causeway Island Park and Jetty Park (Summerlin Dock closed). The city of Fort Pierce is in St. Lucie County, which is part of the Treasure Coast (along with Martin County and Indian River County) on the East Coast of Florida.
Christmas boat parade in Vero Beach, Florida, on Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025
The Vero Beach Christmas Boat Parade will be at 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025. The parade route will be in the Indian River Lagoon from north of Barber Bridge around Fritz Island, passing Vero Beach City Marina, 3611 Rio Vista Blvd., Vero Beach, Florida, and continuing south past Farley Island before turning east toward Quail Valley River Club and looping back, then heading south to Vero Isles channel before turning west toward shore and making a final northbound pass, ending just past Royal Palm Pointe. Best viewing spots include Vero Beach City Marina, Royal Palm Pointe, Riverside Park, Cole Coppola Memorial Fishing Pier and A.W. Young Park. The city of Vero Beach is in Indian River County, which is part of the Treasure Coast (along with Martin County and St. Lucie County) on the East Coast of Florida.
Holiday bike parade in Cocoa, Florida, on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025
The Holiday Bike Parade in Cocoa Village will be at Riverfront Park, 401 Riveredge Blvd., Cocoa, Florida, from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, 2025. This unique experience features holiday music and refreshments. Admission is free with a donation that benefits charity. Visit visitcocoavillage.com.
Holiday boat parade in Lantana, Florida, on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025
The Hive Waterfront Restaurant and Tiki Bar, 2412 Floral Road, Lantana, Florida, presents its 11th holiday boat parade, featuring 50 to 60 boats and fireworks, from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, 2025. The decorated and illuminated boats will travel north along the east side of the lake, under the bridge at Lantana Road, continue north under the bridge at Sixth Avenue and then follow the shore around before returning south along the west side of the lake. Viewing spots include Lake Osborne Drive from Lantana Road to Lake Worth Road and in John Prince Park. Food vendors will be parked along Lake Osborne Drive from Lantana Road to Lake Worth Road. A Little Smiles Toy Donation hub will be at the Hive. There will be prizes for the best decorated boats along with an afterparty at the Hive. Event is free. Visit facebook.com/events/s/11th-annual-lake-osborne.
Christmas parade in Newberry, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025
Join the downtown Newberry community for the Newberry Christmas Parade, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, in Newberry, Florida, in Alachua County. Gather along Newberry Main Street for floats, festive music and seasonal holiday cheer for all ages. Visit facebook.com/NewberryMainStreet.
Christmas parade in Port St. John, Florida, on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025
The Port St. John Christmas parade will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025. The parade route will be east along Fay Boulevard from Waterloo Avenue to Carole Avenue in Port St. John, Florida, in Brevard County on the East Coast. The theme of this year’s parade theme is “A Winter Wonderland.” Visit portstjohncommunityfoundation.com.
Christmas Day parade in Sarasota, Florida, on Dec. 25, 2025
The Pinecraft Christmas Day Parade will be held on Dec. 25, 2025. Though more specific details typically aren’t revealed until closer to the event date, this Christmas Day parade through the Amish and Mennonite community of Pinecraft is one of the most popular annual winter holiday events in the Sarasota County-Manatee County area. The Pinecraft neighborhood is in Sarasota on the West Coast of Florida.
(This story has been updated with new information.)
Sangalang is a lead digital producer for USA TODAY Network. Follow her on Twitter or Instagram at @byjensangalang. Support local journalism. Consider subscribing to a Florida newspaper.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Tis the season for Christmas, holiday parades in Florida. Here’s a list
Reporting by Jennifer Sangalang, Laurie K. Blandford, Julie Garisto, Alan Festo, Jimmy Geurts, Samantha Gholar, Christina LaFortune, Jim Ross, DeonTay Smith, Tom Szaroleta, Sara-Megan Walsh and Eddie Ritz, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida / Palm Beach Post
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
