hollywood fl christmas events
What's going on in Broward county, Hollywood
If your idea of a perfect holiday includes sand instead of snow, then Hollywood FL Christmas events are exactly what you’ve been waiting for. This charming beach town in Broward County brings together the warmth of Florida sunshine with classic holiday traditions.

Families, couples, and snowbirds alike love how Hollywood turns into a coastal Christmas getaway every December. From boat parades to beachfront fireworks, every event offers a reason to stay outside, enjoy the ocean breeze, and celebrate the season Florida-style.

Soon, Casiola homes will launch in Broward County, giving travelers the perfect home base near the beach, parks, and festive attractions. Until then, here’s your guide to the best Hollywood FL Christmas events for 2025.

Quick guide: Top Hollywood FL Christmas events

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  • Candy Cane Parade – Holiday floats and music along the Broadwalk.
  • ArtsPark at Young Circle – Free concerts, movies, and community festivities.
  • Hollywood Beach Light Displays – Palm-lined paths glowing with festive décor.
  • New Year’s Eve Fireworks – Celebration on the sand with ocean views.
  • Holiday Boat Parades & Street Fairs – Waterfront fun and local shopping.

Each one offers something different, from classic family favorites to coastal surprises that make Christmas events so memorable. Here’s a closer look at each event!

1. Candy Cane Parade on Hollywood Beach Broadwalk

The Candy Cane Parade is one of the oldest and most beloved Hollywood FL Christmas events, dating back to the 1950s. Each December, the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk fills with families, floats, and music as the parade makes its way along the waterfront.

Expect marching bands, dancers, and creative floats decked out in red and white lights. Santa usually makes his grand entrance at the end, greeting children and waving from his sleigh. The ocean backdrop and salty air make this celebration uniquely Florida.

Best viewing spots:

  • Near Charnow Park, where you’ll have open views of the floats
  • At the Hollywood Bandshell, where live music continues after the parade
  • Close to Johnson Street, where you can grab dinner before or after the show

Insider tip: Parking fills up quickly. Arrive at least an hour early or use the Sun Shuttle from downtown to skip traffic and walk right to the Broadwalk.

The Candy Cane Parade sets the tone for the season, reminding visitors that the best Hollywood FL Christmas events are full of warmth, color, and ocean breezes.

2. ArtsPark at Young Circle – Holiday concerts and festivities

Located in the heart of downtown, ArtsPark at Young Circle hosts some of the most festive Hollywood FL Christmas events each year. The 10-acre park transforms into a hub of family-friendly activities, complete with live holiday music, craft fairs, and community performances.

Local bands and school choirs fill the air with classic carols and Latin holiday rhythms. Families can visit Santa’s photo area, shop from pop-up vendors, and enjoy outdoor movies on select nights.

What to expect:

  • Free holiday concerts throughout December
  • Food trucks and sweet treats for kids
  • Art installations and seasonal craft tents

Photo tip: The ArtsPark Christmas tree, set against the skyline, is one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Hollywood. Capture it at dusk when the lights begin to glow.

3. Hollywood Beach light displays

If twinkling lights and ocean views sound like the ideal mix, you’ll love the Hollywood Beach light displays. Throughout December, the Broadwalk glows with colorful lights strung between palm trees and illuminated displays shaped like seashells, dolphins, and holiday stars. Many restaurants and resorts join in the fun by decorating their patios and balconies, turning the coastline into a glowing promenade. Families can stroll or rent bikes to take in all the sights while enjoying the ocean breeze.

Must-see spots:

  • Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort, which is decorated with massive trees and themed displays
  • Charnow Park, featuring family photo backdrops and seasonal projections
  • Bandshell Plaza, where holiday music often plays in the evenings

Bring a camera and a cup of cocoa because few Hollywood FL Christmas events capture the city’s beachy personality quite like this one.

4. New Year’s Eve fireworks on the sand

Ringing in the new year takes on a special sparkle with New Year’s Eve fireworks on Hollywood Beach. Locals and travelers gather along the shoreline to count down to midnight with live music, food vendors, and a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the ocean sky.

Families can bring blankets and picnic dinners, while couples enjoy drinks at beachfront bars like The Taco Spot or Landshark Bar & Grill before the show begins. The atmosphere is lively but laid-back, perfect for those who prefer celebration without Miami’s crowds.

Tips for the best experience:

  • Arrive early for parking, or stay nearby so you can walk to the beach
  • Bring a flashlight or phone light for navigating after dark
  • Dress in layers — evenings can feel cool with the ocean breeze

Watching the fireworks reflect across the waves is a moment that perfectly sums up the magic of Hollywood FL Christmas events. It’s festive, easygoing, and full of community spirit.

5. Holiday boat parades and street fairs

South Florida knows how to celebrate on the water, and Hollywood joins the tradition with its own holiday boat parades and local street fairs. Boats decorated with lights, music, and inflatable Santas cruise the Intracoastal Waterway, turning the canals into floating parades.

If you miss the main parade, you can often spot smaller holiday cruises on weekends throughout December. Restaurants like GG’s Waterfront or Billy’s Stone Crab offer perfect viewing spots to enjoy dinner with a light show right outside your window.

Beyond the water, downtown Hollywood hosts street fairs and holiday markets, where local artisans sell handmade crafts, jewelry, and ornaments. You’ll find food trucks, live entertainment, and plenty of free activities for kids.

Pro tip: These Hollywood FL Christmas events are often free to attend, though some vendors charge small fees for crafts or rides. Bring cash for convenience and plan to stay for the evening performances.

Fun extras during the holidays

  • Rent bikes or surreys to explore the Broadwalk at sunset.
  • Stop for holiday ice cream at Surf N’ Spray Creamery.
  • Visit the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project for colorful photos.
  • Pick up beachy souvenirs or ornaments at local shops along Johnson Street.

Tips for visiting Hollywood FL during the holidays

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The holidays in Hollywood are full of sunshine, and with a little planning, you can experience all the best events without stress.

Parking:

  • Public garages near the Broadwalk fill fast. Arrive early or consider paying for parking at Johnson Street or Taylor Street.
  • Use the Sun Shuttle, a low-cost trolley service that runs between downtown and the beach.

Best photo spots:

  • The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, especially at sunset
  • The ArtsPark Christmas tree at Young Circle
  • The Bandshell stage during concerts and parades

Free vs. paid entry:

  • Most Hollywood FL Christmas events are free, including the Candy Cane Parade, fireworks, and beach lights.
  • Some activities, like ice skating pop-ups or holiday cruises, may have a small admission fee.

Family-friendly extras:

  • Bring beach chairs or blankets for outdoor concerts.
  • Pack snacks, sunscreen, and water for longer events.
  • Take advantage of nearby playgrounds at Charnow Park and ArtsPark to let kids play between activities.

With everything so close together, exploring Hollywood FL Christmas events is easy, walkable, and filled with moments worth remembering.

Dining near Hollywood Christmas events

After a night of lights, parades, and music, nothing beats a relaxing meal by the beach. Fortunately, there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants near Hollywood FL Christmas events that make dining both fun and easy.

  • GG’s Waterfront – Overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, GG’s serves fresh seafood, steaks, and American favorites. The views are stunning at sunset, making it a great pick for families after an evening stroll.
  • Landshark Bar & Grill – Located inside Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort, this lively beachside spot is known for burgers, fish tacos, and tropical drinks.
  • Taco Beach Shack – A colorful, open-air restaurant just steps from the Broadwalk, offering tacos, nachos, and live music in a laid-back setting.
  • Latitudes Restaurant & Bar – Found inside the Hollywood Beach Marriott, Latitudes offers indoor and outdoor dining with ocean views and a versatile menu that suits all ages.
  • Ocean Alley Restaurant – A long-time local favorite on the Broadwalk serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. The casual vibe and friendly staff make it perfect for families enjoying Christmas events nearby.

From oceanfront tacos to seafood with a view, these restaurants give every family a taste of Hollywood’s sunny holiday spirit.

Plan your stay with Casiola Broward County

The holidays are better by the beach, and soon you’ll have a place to call home in Hollywood, Florida. Casiola homes are coming soon to Broward County, bringing comfort, space, and modern design to your next holiday getaway. Whether you’re watching the parade, catching fireworks, or relaxing after a day of exploring, you’ll love having a stylish retreat where the sand and sea are just minutes away.

Casiola homes are coming to Broward County, stay tuned! Get ready to make Hollywood your new favorite holiday destination.

FAQ

Some of the most popular Hollywood FL Christmas events include the Candy Cane Parade on the Broadwalk, holiday concerts at ArtsPark at Young Circle, beachfront light displays, the New Year’s Eve fireworks on Hollywood Beach, and the Holiday Boat Parades along the Intracoastal Waterway. Each one combines festive fun with Florida’s signature coastal charm.

Absolutely! Most events are free and designed for families, from kid-friendly parades and outdoor concerts to beach light strolls and fireworks. Many attractions are stroller-friendly, and nearby parks like Charnow Park and ArtsPark have playgrounds, rest areas, and open lawns for kids to play.

The holiday season in Hollywood typically runs from late November through early January, with most events taking place in December. Early December is great for catching the Candy Cane Parade and the tree lighting at ArtsPark, while the New Year’s Eve fireworks make the perfect grand finale to your trip.

Casiola Broward County vacation homes are coming soon, offering spacious, modern rentals near Hollywood Beach and downtown attractions. Perfect for families or groups, these homes will feature fully equipped kitchens, private spaces, and easy access to parades, fireworks, and beachfront festivities, all with the comfort of a home-away-from-home experience.

Casiola team

Written by the Casiola team
Vacation rental & destination experts

Casiola is an award-winning vacation rental management company operating in Aruba, Broward County, FL, Costa del Sol, Houston, TX, Miami. FL, Orlando,FL and Tampa Bay, FL. With over a decade of experience, our team combines professional property management expertise with authentic local knowledge to create trusted travel guides and guest tips.

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