The holiday season is upon us and destinations across South Florida are embracing the magic of the moment with imaginative festivities and joyful traditions. From indulgent holiday dining and spirited soirées, these hotels and resorts are making this year’s celebrations truly remarkable.
Greater Miami & Miami Beach
In Greater Miami and Miami Beach, the holiday season comes alive with multicultural celebrations and unforgettable winter experiences. From the high-energy URGE Miami Thanksgiving Festival, a globally renowned LGBTQ+ celebration, to the electric atmosphere of the Capital One Orange Bowl’s College Football Playoff Semifinals, Miami knows how to kick off the season in style. Families can explore glowing botanical displays at A Very Merry Garden
Holiday Gatherings with the Family at The Elser Hotel
Located in the heart of Downtown Miami, The Elser Hotel is a 49-story luxury tower offering a holiday getaway like no other. With sweeping views of Biscayne Bay through floor-to-ceiling windows, the spacious two- and three-bedroom suites are perfect for families and friends to gather, featuring fully equipped kitchens ideal for holiday feasts and a luxurious private bathroom for each bedroom. Guests can enjoy festive activities, including surprise visits from Santa, ornament-making and holiday movie nights on the rooftop pool deck’s 16-foot LED screen. Just steps from Bayside Marketplace for easy shopping, The Elser delivers a Miami holiday experience with immersive views, unique amenities and holiday spirit.
Holiday Festivities at Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club
Located along the iconic Miami Beach boardwalk, Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club invites guests to embrace the holiday spirit with its Dive In Cinema series every Friday at sunset by its serene cabana pool. The hotel, adorned with coastal holiday decor, creates a festive ambiance that perfectly complements the season. This experience allows guests to enjoy classic holiday films in a peaceful, picturesque setting. Bungalow Beach Bar & Grill is also open for guests to delight in flavorful bites and drinks while viewing the films. To make Christmas Eve even sweeter, the hotel will offer a milk and cookies delivery service to guest rooms. “Holiday helpers” deliver warm cookies and milk along with a handwritten holiday card, creating a cozy, nostalgic moment to end the night. On Christmas morning, little ones are invited to a Holiday Pajama Breakfast with Santa at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Donna Mare Italian Chophouse, including a holiday-themed story time, seasonal music and complimentary photo ops with Santa himself for $55 per person. With the tranquil atmosphere and cozy charm of this beautifully restored art deco resort, it’s a fantastic way to unwind and celebrate the holidays.
Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights on Ocean Drive
This holiday season, experience a series of dazzling spectaculars of music and light as the Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lightsby the Miami Beach Classical Music Festival returns to South Beach December 13 through December 21. The festival will feature live musical performances with a full orchestra and cutting-edge projection-mapping technology where intricate lighting designs and captivating visuals will take over five of South Beach’s most iconic buildings across the 1400 block of Ocean Drive, including The Betsy. The performances (which are free and open to the public) will take place on December 13 at 6:15 p.m. and 7:15 p.m., and December 14, 20 and 21 at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Under the direction of Michael Rossi, founder and artistic director of the Miami Beach Classical Music Festival, and supported by the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority and the City of Miami Beach, this enchanting production includes special appearances from beloved holiday characters like Santa Claus, the Grinch and Elsa – and snow! Following the show, guests are encouraged to finish their night with award-winning global cuisine at The Betsy’s LT South Beach, helmed by renowned Chef Laurent Tourondel.
Poolside Cinema at The Gates Hotel South Beach
Guests visiting The Gates Hotel South Beach this holiday season will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the festive spirit with a unique Miami twist. Every Friday night in December, The Gates will transform its pool deck into an enchanting open-air cinema featuring classic holiday movies under the South Beach sky. Visitors can sip on s’mores cocktails and mocktails, indulge in buttery popcorn from the hotel’s popcorn machine, and relax on comfortable bean bag chairs while watching their favorite holiday films. Come for the movies, stay for the fun, and leave with a heart full of holiday cheer.