Unwrapping holiday traditions in Fort Lauderdale
Writer: Eleana Teran
November 2024 — As the holiday season approaches, Greater Fort Lauderdale is preparing to transform into a vibrant hub of celebrations. From tree lightings and cultural festivals to enchanting performances and family traditions, the region offers an array of events to suit every interest. Known for its blend of sunny beaches and warm holiday spirit, Greater Fort Lauderdale merges tradition with tropical flair, creating unforgettable experiences for residents and visitors alike.
In the spirit of the upcoming season, Invest: highlights some of the most anticipated holiday events happening in the region.
Light Up the Holidays
Celebrate the magic of the holidays with a festive series of events taking place across Fort Lauderdale’s neighborhoods. Kick things off at Light Up the Galt on Nov. 21, 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Galt Ocean Mile. The event will include live music, an art show, and a kids zone, with a tree lighting at 6:30 p.m. Next, Light Up Sistrunk takes place on Friday, Dec. 6, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. along Sistrunk Boulevard, featuring a tree lighting, live bands, a toy giveaway, and food trucks. Light Up Carter Park follows on Friday, Dec. 13, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., with live performances, holiday crafts, train rides, and tree lighting to spread seasonal joy.
Camp STEAMology: STEMSgiving
Keep the kids busy while the holidays ramp up at the Museum of Discovery and Science, running from Nov. 25-29 (closed Thanksgiving Day). This hands-on camp invites children ages 5-10 to unleash their creativity through experiments, kitchen chemistry, and eco-friendly projects. Kids will also explore the immersive Scooby-Doo! Mansion Mayhem exhibit, where they can solve mysteries and discover secrets with the iconic Mystery Inc. crew.
Click here to learn more
Thanksgiving feasts for foodies
Food lovers, beware: Greater Fort Lauderdale has an array of delicious options to make the holiday unforgettable. Celebrate in style at MASS inside the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale, offering a special set menu from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. For an oceanside experience, DUNE by Laurent Tourondel serves a three-course prix-fixe menu with highlights like roasted turkey, Scottish salmon, and more.
Prefer to celebrate at home? Batch New Southern Kitchen and Tap offers a southern-inspired feast featuring fried turkey and a variety of classic sides. Even Keel Fish Shack delivers a cozy holiday spread with turkey roulade, confit leg, and seasonal sides. For barbecue enthusiasts, B&D Trap Barbecue provides a catering menu with smoked turkey, pulled pork, mac and cheese, and banana bread pudding, perfect for a laid-back gathering.
62nd Annual Christmas on Las Olas
Enjoy the holiday season with the 62nd Annual Christmas on Las Olas, a cherished tradition that transforms Fort Lauderdale’s iconic Las Olas Boulevard into an urban winter wonderland. On Tuesday, Dec. 3, from 5 p.m to 10 p.m., visitors can stroll the boulevard between 6th and 11th avenues, enjoying sled rides on Snow Mountain, live performances from over 30 local schools and organizations, and festive storefront displays from beloved local businesses. Presented by the Las Olas Association, this free event is a heartfelt gift to the community, uniting neighbors and visitors alike in a night of holiday cheer.
For more information, click here
Celebrate through arts and culture
Celebrate the holiday spirit by enjoying the wide variety of family-friendly arts and cultural events Greater Fort Lauderdale has to offer. Start the season with Handel’s Messiah on Dec. 7 at Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker. This Baroque masterpiece, featuring iconic songs, is a holiday favorite for music lovers of all ages. From Dec. 13-15, Narnia: The Musical at the Amaturo Theater brings C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe to life with music and drama, offering a magical experience for the whole family.
Revisit How the Grinch Stole Christmas from Dec. 18-23 at the Au-Rene Theater. This stage adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s classic tale is filled with heartwarming holiday cheer. End the season with The Nutcracker from Dec. 20-22 at Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker. Featuring Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, this enchanting ballet is the perfect way to celebrate Christmas with loved ones.
Click here to learn more
Menorah Lighting Celebration
Celebrate Hanukkah at the Menorah Lighting Celebration on Thursday, Dec. 26, at 6 p.m. at Las Olas Oceanside Park. Honor the first night of Hanukkah with the lighting of the menorah, readings of the blessings, and traditional music. Guests can also enjoy a variety of customary treats, making it a simple yet heartfelt way to celebrate this special holiday together.
For more information, click here
Kwanzaa Ujamaa
Celebrate Kwanzaa Ujamaa at Bass Park on Friday, Dec. 27, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. This free event offers Afrocentric entertainment and cultural activities for the whole family to enjoy. It’s a meaningful way to honor Kwanzaa’s principles while connecting with the community through music, art, and shared traditions.
To learn more, click here