The holiday season is one of the most magical times of year on Florida’s Gulf Coast, and Sarasota brings its own unique coastal charm to every celebration! From sparkling botanical gardens to festive boat parades and family-friendly beach runs, here are the top holiday events happening across Downtown Sarasota, Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Lido Key, St. Armands Key, and UTC Mall Area.
Downtown Sarasota Holiday Events
Lights in Bloom at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Dates: Dec. 6 – Jan. 3
Time: 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota
Walk through more than two million lights illuminating the beautiful Selby Gardens in one of Sarasota’s most beloved holiday traditions. A must-see for families, visitors, and locals alike.
Gingerbread House Decorating at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
Date: Saturday, Dec. 20
Times: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Location: The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
Create your own festive gingerbread masterpiece in a luxury holiday setting. A perfect activity for families or anyone who loves seasonal sweets.
The Nutcracker – Presented by The Sarasota Ballet
Dates & Locations:
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Dec. 12–13 at the Venice Performing Arts Center
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Dec. 21–23 at the Sarasota Opera House
Times vary by performance—be sure to check schedules when booking. Enjoy this timeless holiday classic performed by one of Florida’s premier ballet companies.
Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights – 39th Annual
Date: Saturday, Dec. 13
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Best Viewing: Bayfront Park & Marina Jack
A Sarasota staple! Watch boats of all sizes decorated with dazzling holiday lights glide across Sarasota Bay. Arrive early for the best viewing spots.
UTC (University Town Center) Holiday Events
Hanukkah Under the Big Top
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 17
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: Under the Big Top at UTC
A joyful celebration featuring music, entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
The Rink at UTC
Open Daily Through: January 4
Hours vary, including special holiday hours.
Location: The West District at UTC (next to Ford’s Garage)
Enjoy outdoor ice skating, theme nights, and appearances by your favorite movie characters. Tickets available on the UTC website.
Holiday Movies Under the Stars
Every Friday & Saturday through Jan. 3
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Outdoor theater, West District at UTC (grass lot next to Natuzzi)
Bring a blanket, enjoy a family-friendly holiday film, and relax under the night sky. First-come, first-served seating.
Holiday Night Market
Date: Thursday, Dec. 18
Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Location: The Green at UTC
Shop local vendors, enjoy festive treats, and experience a lively open-air holiday market.
Siesta Key Holiday Events
Sandy Claws Beach Run – Nearly 50 Years Strong
Date: Saturday, Dec. 13
Location: Siesta Beach Park, 948 Beach Rd., Sarasota
Times:
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1-Mile Fun Run/Walk – 8:00 AM
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5K Race – 8:20 AM
A Siesta Key tradition for almost five decades! Runners of all ages are welcome to participate in this fun, festive beachside event.
Longboat Key Holiday Events
A Christmas Concert Like No Other
Date: Friday, Dec. 12
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: St. Mary Star of the Sea
Enjoy a free, 1950s-style Big Band Christmas performance—an uplifting, nostalgic way to celebrate the season.
(Tip: Check the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce for additional charitable and community holiday events happening this month.)
