Santa Claus, gift-giving, reindeers … and fun in the sun? To everyone in the northeast, that may sound like a pretend Christmas in July. But in the Greater Fort Lauderdale area, it’s possible to get the best of both worlds—the fun and frolic of the holiday season without having to button a winter coat. So while you’re spending the holiday season in shorts and a Santa hat, here are some of Fort Lauderdale’s festive activities that are fun for everyone!
Rockin’ Boats and Holiday Floats
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the annual Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade. Included in the scheduled festivities are some that were created to draw the community together and celebrate diversity, like decorating the streets with holiday lights. The weeklong celebration concludes with the Winterfest Boat Parade, this year themed “Rockin’ Boats and Holiday Floats.” It’s estimated that more than a million onlookers gather in the streets every year to see small boats and big showboats parade down the waterways of Fort Lauderdale. It’s a great way to embrace the energy of this city and the spirit of the holiday season. www.winterfestparade.com
49th Annual Pompano Beach Boat Parade
If you enjoy the Winterfest Boat Parade, you’ll certainly have fun with it’s older cousin! December 11th marks the 49th annual Pompano Beach Boat Parade, the nation’s oldest. Starting at 6:30 PM, dozens of yachts and vessels delight spectators with enough glitter, music, lights and special effects to keep them coming back for 49 years. www.pompanobeachchamber.com
Light Up Lauderdale
Now through January 14, thousands of lights are displayed along the Riverwalk Park and other areas in downtown Fort Lauderdale. There are a variety of activities available among the lights, from yoga and pilates in the park to Sunday brunches and outdoor jazz concerts. www.goriverwalk.com/
Las Olas Boulevard
For those of you who like your holiday celebrations with a chance to shop, dine, and stroll, Las Olas Boulevard is the place to be. Las Olas has fashionable boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and sidewalk cafes and lounges that are decked to the halls in holiday décor. For everyone craving a taste of Central Park, an ice skating rink will be open to the public through January 1st. www.lasolasboulevard.com
Sounds of the Season: A Holiday Extravaganza
Enjoy your favorite holiday jingles and jams at the Broward Center for Performing Arts, where the Florida Singing Sons Boychoir, the Girl Choir of South Florida, and the Symphony of the Americas will perform the Christmas classics. The show starts at 8:15 PM on December 15th. www.symphonyoftheamericas.org/
Fort Lauderdale Christmas Pageant
Last, but certainly not least, is the Christmas Spectacular of the South. The First Baptist Church of Fort Lauderdale from now until December 18th will host its annual Fort Lauderdale Christmas Pageant. The city’s most publicized show will tell the story of Jesus and Christmas while incorporating Broadway-style acts with a choir, crew, and cast (of both people and livestock) of about 1,200 for this iconic masterpiece. There’s excitement for everyone at this show—from pyrotechnics to snow falling into the audience. Makes for a perfect Winter Wonderland. www.firstbaptistfortlauderdale.com
The Greater Fort Lauderdale area boasts more tan 34,000 lodging accommodations at a variety of hotels, luxury spa resorts, and Superior Small Lodgings reflecting a “beach chic” vibe. Visitors can enjoy 23 miles of Blue Wave certified beaches, discover over 300 miles of inland waterways that run form the Intracoastal Waterway to the Everglades, dine at thousands of restaurants and eateries and enjoy the holiday season at the perfect temperature.
Where to Sleep:
W Hotel Fort Lauderdale- This hotel has the perfect balance of style and soul. The pool deck is the place to be and be seen during happy hour- big dj party everyday. 401 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard. (954) 414-8200. www.starwoodhotels.com/whotels
B Ocean Hotel- This brand new hotel is right across from the ocean. Get a ocean front room and the view will take your breath away. 999 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard. (954) 564-1000. www.bhotelsandresorts.com
Atlantic Hotel- This ocean front hotel is great for an intimate getaway with its superb elegance and sophisticated rooms. 601 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard. (954) 567-8020. www.atlantichotelfl.com
Where to Eat:
Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar- This restaurant is it’s own party. People are literally dancing at their tables while they wait for their meals! 1313 East Las Olas Boulevard. (954) 524-9550. www.roccostacos.com
SAIA- This restaurant was voted Diner’s Choice for Best Asian Food on Opentable.com. The sushi is a must have. 999 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard. (954) 564-1000. www.bhotelsandresorts.com
Steak 954- There are almost no words to describe the deliciousness of the food here. Foie gras tacos and Kobe Steak are to die for. 401 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Bl. (954) 414-8333. www.steak954.com
Trina- Great outdoor seating right next to the ocean- very peaceful. 601 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Bl. (954) 567-8070. www.atlantichotelfl.com