Celebrate the Holidays and New Year’s Eve at One of These 8 Events in Florida

Whittling down the best places for New Year’s in a major city can be difficult. I can't tell you how many times I've been presented with countless parties and holiday events living in Florida and not knowing where to start. Sure, there are some years when I prefer to stay at home and watch the ball drop from the comfort of my couch, champagne flute in hand. But other years, I want to get out and explore, and that's when finding the best Florida parties on New Year's Eve comes into play. If you're on the hunt this year for a rocking good time in Florida, check out these New Year's Eve recommendations courtesy of Fever and start your planning early.

1. Fairchild's Night at the Garden - Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

As far as the best holiday events in Miami go, this one is always top-tier. Taking place on select nights through January 12, 2025, Fairchild's Night at the Garden is a tradition that every year gets better and better. Back for its sixth season, guests are able to peacefully stroll through one of Miami's most beloved botanic gardens, and enjoy light effects, holographic technology, music, projection mapping, and so much more. Tickets are selling fast - you do not want to miss this one!

2. Luminosa: A World of Enchantment - Jungle Island

Another exciting family adventure in Miami, Florida, this year is Luminosa: A World of Enchantment, presented by Jungle Island. Stroll through this one-of-a-kind light festival, illuminating the lush jungle for all to see. With over one million LED lights, guests can explore giant authentic lanterns throughout the property, which equates to over a mile in illuminated trails! With food and drinks available for purchase, this all-encompassing event is great for all ages for a memorable New Year's celebration. I've personally been to Jungle Island after-hours before, and let me tell you, it's a whole new world once the sun sets.

3. Harry P Leu Gardens Dazzling Nights - Harry P Leu Gardens

What if the best New Year’s Eve parties in Miami weren't a club or a loud bar but instead an evening of strolling through thousands of dazzling lights in a stunning botanical garden? Dazzling Nights at Orlando's Leu Gardens offers a million lights, all illuminating a landscape transformed into a winter wonderland. Walk through the glow of the forests and a garden of stained glass with over 800 flickering candles, and enjoy a 50-foot-tall Christmas tree!

We have a few other holiday mentions that we would be remiss not to include. Just because these events don't extend all the way through New Year's doesn't mean they should be ignored!

4. Frosty and Flirty: A Christmas Extravaganza by Nocturna - The Moon Miami

Leaving the kids at home for the evening? If so, check out Frosty and Flirty: A Christmas Extravaganza by Nocturn, taking place on select nights at The Moon Miami. Picture a laugh-out-loud experience including comedy, burlesque, acrobatics, and so much more, all in one sitting. With unexpected twists on holiday classics, this variety show is an experience that'll give you an untraditional approach to Christmas. Ready for a few jaw-dropping performances?

5. A Very Sinatra Christmas Special - Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay

For me, Frank Sinatra is synonymous with the holidays. I remember gathering around the Christmas tree and opening presents with my family while Sinatra softly crooned holiday hits in the background. What better way to welcome in the holidays than with Florida's best jazz vocalists singing a catalog of Sinatra's hits? Purchase a ticket to A Very Sinatra Christmas Special and enjoy not only views from Marriott Biscayne Bay but also an incredible experience outdoors under the stars. A full bar and light bites are available for purchase during your event.

6. 90-Minute Christmas Carol Trolley in Sarasota - Discover Sarasota Tours

Happen to be celebrating in the Sarasota area for the holidays? Climb aboard the 90-Minute Christmas Trolley in Sarasota, for a uniquely festive adventure ages three and up. The trolley tour visits some of the best dazzling light displays in Sarasota, all the while singing Christmas carols and enjoying live holiday entertainment. Enjoy sipping on complimentary drinks and even tackle some last-minute holiday shopping at the Trolley Cottage Gift Shop!

7. Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights - 1440 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach

Experience the magic of the Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights as Ocean Drive transforms into a holiday wonderland. Enjoy live orchestral performances of timeless classics, dazzling projection mapping across five iconic buildings, and interactive moments with beloved characters like Elsa, the Grinch, and Santa. Snow effects, sparkling lights, and festive surprises create a captivating atmosphere. Presented by the Miami Beach Classical Music Festival, this event offers an unforgettable holiday experience.

8. Henry B. Plant Museum: Victorian Christmas Stroll - Henry B. Plant Museum

The Henry B. Plant Museum puts on a holiday adventure each year that offers an entirely different way to enjoy this slice of history. All tickets include admission to the Henry B. Plant Museum’s Victorian Christmas Stroll, access to all exhibitions, an audio tour (English or Spanish), and free on-site parking. Highlights include exploring over 40,000 twinkling lights, vintage fashions, antique toys, and ornate decorations while discovering Tampa's rich history in this festive, immersive experience.

What do you think about these exciting holiday events in Florida? Share with your favorite travel buddy and start planning today!