Botanical Gardens Transform into Holiday Wonderland December 5-28 with Nightly Entertainment and Special Events
Pinecrest Gardens transforms into an illuminated wonderland this December as its annual Nights of Lights festival returns for select evenings from Friday, December 5, through Sunday, December 28, 2025. Thousands of lights will wind through the gardens’ pathways, casting a warm glow across the botanical landscape and creating an after-dark holiday experience for visitors of all ages.
The festival takes place on select December evenings, with most nights running from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. and select Sundays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Pinecrest Gardens, 11000 Red Road, Pinecrest, 33156. Tickets are available at pinecrestgardens.org/nol and at the door, though advance purchase is recommended.
Guests can enjoy holiday traditions each night, including the East Coast H O Exhibitors Society train display, Santa visits and photos, story time sessions, and carolers. The Jolly Craft Corner is available with an add-on ticket. The accessible playground remains open during evening hours, and holiday vendors, treats, and signature drinks are available throughout the gardens. Each evening also includes a dynamic and ever-changing schedule of entertainment:
Live Performances: The Banyan Bowl amphitheater hosts a rotating schedule of free holiday concerts, included with Nights of Lights tickets, throughout the festival.
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Opening night features Maria Verdeja School of the Arts performing “The Legend of Frosty,” followed by performances from the Alhambra Orchestra, Greater Miami Youth Symphony, Greater Miami Symphonic Band, Dance Empire, and the vibrant sounds of Mariachis Voces de America.
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The festival closes with live music by singer-songwriter Vic Kingsley on December 28.
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Select evenings feature special ticketed performances, including a performance by Chino Núñez presenting Parranda Navideña (a traditional Puerto Rican holiday celebration) on December 13. The Grammy-nominated Núñez has performed with icons of Latin music, including Tito Puente and Celia Cruz, and his energetic storytelling and band-accompanied performances will make for the perfect holiday celebration. Guests will also be able to purchase Puerto Rican holiday treats, such as arroz con leche and pasteles.
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Other select evenings include an intimate Candlelight concert featuring Christmas Carols on Strings (December 19), and A Jazzy Holiday with vocalist Christina Alexander, pianist Shawn Sutta, and their quintet (December 20), featuring her signature blend of R&B, funk, soul, jazz, and blues.
Special Programming and Family Activities: Select nights also feature unique experiences that vary each evening. Highlights include appearances by The Grinch and a screening of The Polar Express. Visitors are encouraged to wear Dr. Seuss costumes during The Grinch appearances.
Get tickets and see the full calendar.
“Pinecrest Gardens serves as a year-round hub for arts, culture, and nature, and the holiday season brings something extra special to our botanical gardens,” said Cristina Blanco, executive director of Pinecrest Gardens. “Nights of Lights allows families to experience the gardens in a completely different way, with evening hours that showcase the beauty of our landscape under thousands of lights.”
She added, “Just as we always aim to do at Pinecrest Gardens, we designed this festival to be accessible and welcoming, with complimentary parking, easy pathways, and a range of activities that appeal to people of all ages,” added Blanco, executive director of Pinecrest Gardens.
All tickets are non-refundable and valid only for the selected date. The event takes place rain or shine. Complimentary parking is provided. No pets or outside food and beverages are permitted. All performances and activities are subject to change. Pinecrest Gardens members receive a discount with a valid membership card and photo ID.