The beautiful beach city of Sarasota comes alive during the holidays. From boat parades to glittering palm trees, there are many things to do and events to attend in Sarasota if you are here during the holiday season. Sarasota is transformed into a winter wonderland on the beach as the most beautiful time of the year comes near. With so many fun opportunities for the entire family, spending the holiday season in Sarasota is an unforgettable way to make memories. So dive into the holiday spirit as you immerse yourself in the following events this holiday season in Sarasota.
1. Enter a Gingerbread House Content
You get to enter your magnificent gingerbread house at this Gingerbread House People's Choice contest conducted through voting at the North Port City Hall. The Gingerbread House Contest begins on December 3, ending at the grand awards ceremony at the Poinsettia Festival. The best part is that entry to this contest is entirely free, and before leaving, don't forget to cast your vote on which magnificent house you liked the best.
2. Selby Gardens Lights in Bloom
Perhaps one of Sarasota's most iconic holiday events is Selby Gardens Lights in Bloom, running from December 10 through January 5. Each night, from 6:30-9 p.m., visit the botanical gardens for a glimpse at beautiful specimens illuminated by the holiday spirit. More than two million lights light up the night in this safe, socially distanced outdoor experience. There's also something for all ages, including touchless face painting, balloon artistry, and photo ops!
3. Small Business Saturday at The Bazaar on Apricot and Lime
Everyone knows that holidays and shopping go hand in hand. And there's no better place to indulge yourself in the holiday spirit than at The Bazaar on Apricot and Lime on Small Business Saturday. The market opens from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and you get to shop to your heart's content amidst live music, special promotions, and much more. Admission to the Bazaar is free, and you can enjoy yourself at The Bazaar on Apricot and Lime on November 26, Saturday.
4. Downtown Sarasota Christmas Tree Lighting
As the holiday season comes closer, the biggest attraction in Sarasota has always been the lighting of the downtown Sarasota Christmas tree. Come December 1, and it will be time for the biggest event of Sarasota this holiday season with the Christmas Tree Lighting at Five Points Park. The lighting ceremony is scheduled to be held at 7 p.m. amidst a live performance by Christmas carolers, adding fun and ambiance. The event is, of course, free to attend, and there will be lots of refreshments and snacks to binge on. After all, what better way to ring in the holiday season than to witness the Christmas tree lighting at Five Points Park and be treated to a visit by Santa himself! So gear up and keep yourself free on the evening of December 1.
5. Light Up Siesta Key and Village Holiday Parade
On November 26, the 27th annual Light Up Siesta Key and Village Holiday Parade will grace your calendar. This is one of the biggest celebrations in Sarasota. The family-friendly event runs from 5 to 9 p.m., so ensure to catch it during this time. The parade will start at Avenida Del Mare and Beach Road intersection, and the festivities will end at the Siesta Key Village. After the parade ends, you also enjoy taking a free photo with Santa, and the first 250 kids who line up will also leave with a holiday goodie bag filled to the brim. So get ready to kick off your holiday celebrations on November 26.
