Uncover the Best Things to Do in Miami in December
Ivy Solis, the Social Media and Community Associate at Breathe…
Key Highlights
- Embrace the holiday spirit with enchanting events like the Downtown Miami Holiday Village and Fort Lauderdale’s Winterfest Boat Parade.
- Immerse yourself in art and culture at Art Basel Miami Beach, Faena Art Week, and vibrant Wynwood installations.
- Experience the magic of live performances from the Nutcracker ballet to the sizzling Carmen: Genesis of Fire Cabaret Show.
- Indulge in December’s delightful weather with outdoor ice skating, strolls through luminous gardens, and bike rides.
- Delight your taste buds at the Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival, featuring celebrity chefs and delectable treats.
Miami in December is full of sunshine, celebrations, and amazing events. As the holiday season arrives, the city becomes a lively place with bright lights, great art, and exciting nightlife. Whether you want fun for your family or want to feel Miami’s lively energy, December has many activities that will make your visit special.
Top Things to Experience in Miami This December
From bright holiday lights to amazing art shows, Miami in December offers a lot for everyone. You can join the city’s cultural events at Art Basel or enjoy the beauty of The Nutcracker ballet. The nightlife is exciting too, with lively concerts at Elrow Hallucinarium or the fun of the 100 elephants.
If you like outdoor activities, the nice weather in December is great for exploring Biscayne Bay on a boat. You can also bike on scenic trails or skate at outdoor ice rinks. Don’t miss the chance and dive right in.
Downtown Miami Holiday Village
📅December 1, 2024
📍Julia & Henry’s
Join the fun at the Downtown Miami Holiday Village. This festive spot turns the heart of the city into a joyful celebration. This December, you can skate on a synthetic ice rink with the beautiful city skyline in the background, perfect for taking pictures.
The Holiday Village has more than just skating. You will find great vendors serving delicious holiday treats and festive drinks. It’s a great place to enjoy the holiday spirit, treat yourself, or just soak in the lively energy around you.
Bring your family and friends to the Downtown Miami Holiday Village. Enjoy the warmth of the season while making wonderful memories under the twinkling lights and joyful fun.
NightGarden
📅December 7, 2024
📍Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Step into a magical world this December at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s NightGarden. This event lights up the trees and flowers, turning the garden into a stunning wonderland. Stroll through beautiful light displays that each have their own story. They shine an enchanting glow over the garden’s natural beauty.
As night falls, NightGarden bursts into life with a mix of lights, projections, and amazing sounds. You will see fun creatures, walk through sparkling tunnels, and enjoy the festive atmosphere that takes you to a magical place.
This December, visit NightGarden in Miami for a special and unforgettable experience. It will delight people of all ages. This bright journey through nature is surely a way to make lasting memories.
ARTLANTA EXPERIENCE
📅December 6, 2024 – December 7, 2024
📍 7551 W 4th Ave
Get ready for a deep dive into modern art at the ARTLANTA EXPERIENCE. It’s a big part of Miami Art Week and takes place in the lively 4th Avenue Hialeah. This December, you will see the energy of Wynwood’s art scene come to life on the streets. The whole neighborhood will turn into an outdoor gallery full of bright colors and interesting ideas.
ARTLANTA EXPERIENCE goes beyond just being in a gallery. It includes murals, installations, and interactive displays that connect art and people in new ways. You can enjoy amazing works by both new and well-known artists. Each one shares a special take on modern art and culture.
Don’t miss your chance to feel the artistic vibe of Miami during art week. ARTLANTA EXPERIENCE shows off Miami’s creativity and is a must-see for anyone who loves art or is just curious about it.
Downtown Doral World of Nutcracker
📅December 2, 2024
📍The Doral Yard
Step into a fun world of sugar plum fairies and toy soldiers at the Downtown Doral World of Nutcracker. It is a holiday season tradition in Miami. This December, let the beautiful music and dancing of Tchaikovsky’s famous work take you to a magical place.
Downtown Doral’s version of this classic ballet features skilled dancers, beautiful costumes, and eye-catching stage design. This makes it a memorable experience for people of all ages. Enjoy this classic story once again and let the holiday spirit fill your heart.
The Downtown Doral World of Nutcracker is more than just a show. It is a celebration of holiday traditions, artistic talent, and storytelling. Make sure to include it in your plans for December in Miami. Create special memories with your loved ones.
Carmen: Genesis of Fire Cabaret Show
📅December 12, 2024
📍Faena Theater
Ignite your senses this December with Carmen: Genesis of Fire Cabaret Show. This is a hot event that lights up Miami’s nightlife. It is more than just a show. It blends dance, music, and storytelling, inspired by the fiery spirit of Bizet’s Carmen.
You will be amazed by skilled dancers, stunning costumes, and a heartfelt performance. It will take your breath away. The close setting makes the show even more engaging, letting you feel Carmen’s world full of love, jealousy, and freedom.
For a memorable night of live entertainment, choose Carmen: Genesis of Fire Cabaret Show. Let the music move you and the story capture your heart. Experience the passion that will spark your spirit right in vibrant Miami.
Elrow Hallucinarium
Get ready to enjoy Miami’s nightlife in a whole new way with Elrow Hallucinarium. This amazing event will change the city into a fun place full of music, art, and exciting experiences. This December, dive into a world where creativity is limitless, confetti falls from the sky, and energetic beats keep the party going.
Elrow is famous for its wild themes and stunning stage designs. Top DJs will take you on an exciting journey through house, techno, and more. This is not just a concert; it is an experience where reality and fantasy mix, and the celebration continues all night.
If you want a night filled with fun and great energy, Elrow Hallucinarium is the place to be. Get ready to dance, meet new people, and make amazing memories in a burst of sound and color.
Faena Art Week
📅December 7, 2024
📍Faena Hotel
Beyond the excitement of Art Basel, you can enjoy the unique events of Faena Art Week. This special celebration of art and culture happens in the heart of Miami Beach. This December, get ready to enter a world where art breaks barriers. It will spark conversations and create connections.
Faena Art Week turns the Faena Hotel into an outdoor museum. You will find exciting installations, lively performances, and engaging experiences that will thrill your senses. Meet new artists, connect with famous creatives, and see how powerful art can be in many forms.
This December, let Faena Art Week show you the latest in Miami’s art scene. With hands-on exhibits and amazing performances, this week-long celebration will be a time of discovery and inspiration.
Lightfall by Studio Lemercier
📅December 1, 2024 – December 30, 2024
📍Superblue Miami
Get ready to be amazed by Lightfall. It’s an incredible show of light and sound changing Miami’s Superblue into a unique art event. This December, see the talented team at Studio Lemercier as they light up the night with their wonderful display.
Lightfall goes beyond regular light displays. It uses new technology to create a mix of colors, patterns, and movement. The way light interacts with the buildings creates a stunning show that will delight your senses and leave you speechless.
In the center of Miami, Lightfall is more than just an art piece. It shows how art can change public spaces. Don’t miss out on this chance to enjoy a special blend of art, technology, and city design this December.
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker
📅December 13, 2024 – December 24, 2024
📍 Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County
Experience the magic of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. This classic ballet is back in Miami this December. It enchants everyone with its beautiful story and graceful performance. The music by Tchaikovsky and the skills of Miami City Ballet take you to a wonderful world.
Join Clara on her magical journey. It all starts on a snowy Christmas Eve. Along the way, she meets fun characters like the Sugar Plum Fairy and the brave Nutcracker Prince. Watch amazing dance moves, colorful costumes, and beautiful set designs that make this holiday event so special.
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker is a beloved show for all ages. It reminds us of the joy of the holiday season. Make sure to get your tickets early and enjoy a lovely ballet experience in Miami this December.
Fort Lauderdale’s bright Winterfest Boat Parade
📅December 14, 2024
📍Las Olas Blvd. Bridge
Just a short drive from Miami, Fort Lauderdale has a beautiful Winterfest Boat Parade that lights up the waterways. It has become a favorite tradition during the holiday season. This December, you can see many boats, all brightly decorated, sailing along the Intracoastal Waterway. They bring holiday joy and delight everyone watching.
Each boat showcases stunning lights and creative themes. They all tell their own special story and show the festive feeling of this time of year. Bring your family and friends, find a spot along the route, and enjoy this wonderful tradition in South Florida.
The Winterfest Boat Parade shows the magic of the holiday season in Florida. It is an experience for everyone, no matter their age, and it helps create happy memories.
100 magnificent Indian elephants
📅December 2, 2024 – December 8, 2024
📍Miami beach between 36th & 37th Street
Get ready to be amazed by “The Great Elephant Migration.” This art display will be in Miami beach this December. The exhibition showcases 100 stunning Indian elephants. Each one is carefully made by local artisans from Southern India.
These life-size elephant sculptures are not just beautiful; they share an important message. They highlight the need for conservation and protecting endangered animals. This installation aims to inform people about the struggles of Asian elephants and their essential role in nature.
Come to Miami beach this December to see these wonderful creatures. They are created with bright colors and fine details. “The Great Elephant Migration” reminds us of the beauty and vulnerability of our natural world.
Garden Bros Nuclear Circus
📅December 1, 2024
📍Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition Inc.
Roll up, roll up! The Garden Bros Nuclear Circus is coming to Miami this December. Get ready for an exciting show filled with acrobatics, fun, and entertainment for the whole family. You will see amazing aerial acts, funny clowns, and skilled performers from all over the world.
Feel the magic of the circus, updated for today’s crowd. Garden Bros Nuclear Circus brings a fresh take on classic acts. Enjoy stunning light shows, lively music, and a lively atmosphere that everyone will love.
Make great memories with your family this December at the Garden Bros Nuclear Circus. It’s a fun time filled with skill, art, and entertainment, perfect for a special outing during your Miami trip.
NDA Miami 2024
📅December 3, 2024 – December 7, 2024
📍Ice Palace Films Studios
As December brings the thrill of a new year, don’t forget to mark your Miami events calendar for NDA Miami 2024. This is a top New Year’s Eve celebration that promises to be an amazing way to start the year. People from all over the world will gather for this much-anticipated event.
Get ready to dance all night to famous DJs playing lively beats. This will create an exciting experience that shows off Miami’s lively nightlife. NDA Miami 2024 is the best place to say goodbye to the past year and welcome the new one with lots of energy.
Celebrate the new year in style and feel the magic of Miami’s nightlife at its best. NDA Miami 2024 proves that this city is a place for great celebrations and offers an experience that will keep you energized well into the new year.
Art Basel Miami Beach
📅 December 6, 2024 – December 8, 2024
📍Miami Beach Convention Center
Join the exciting art scene at Art Basel Miami Beach. This important contemporary art fair changes the Miami Beach Convention Center into a hub of culture every December. Many art lovers, collectors, and artists come together from all over the world to enjoy modern and contemporary art.
You can see amazing paintings, sculptures, installations, and new multimedia works from both well-known and up-and-coming artists at Art Basel Miami Beach. This event gives you a great chance to talk to gallerists, learn about new trends in the art market, and grow your knowledge of the global art scene.
Besides the main exhibits, Art Basel Miami Beach adds a creative spark to the city. It inspires extra fairs, pop-up shows, and special events around Miami. Don’t miss this chance to be part of the art world’s biggest event.
Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival
📅December 12, 2024 – December 15, 2024
📍Palm Beach County Convention Center
Indulge in a culinary journey at the Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival, a delectable December tradition showcasing the talents of renowned celebrity chefs, award-winning restaurants, and passionate food artisans. This festival is a paradise for foodies, offering a diverse menu of events that tantalize the taste buds and celebrate culinary excellence.
Enjoy intimate wine tastings, gourmet dinners crafted by culinary masters, and interactive cooking demonstrations that unveil the secrets behind exquisite dishes. The festival offers a unique opportunity to mingle with celebrity chefs, learn their techniques, and discover new flavors.
Conclusion
Miami in December is full of exciting events. You can enjoy the Downtown Miami Holiday Village, which has a magical feel. Don’t miss out on the artistic charm of Art Basel Miami Beach. The NightGarden gives you a fun, nighttime experience.
You can also enjoy the culture with George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. Whether you want art, entertainment, or tasty food, Miami’s December schedule has something for everyone. Explore what the city offers and make special memories in the warm air. Plan your trip and enjoy the magic of Miami this holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Weather Like in Miami in December?
December in Miami is wonderful. It signals the start of Florida’s high season. You can expect sunny days with average temperatures around 75°F (24°C). The humidity is low, and there is little rain. This weather is perfect for enjoying everything Miami has to offer.
Are There Any Must-See Holiday Events in Miami?
Absolutely! Besides Art Basel, Miami shines with holiday events. You can enjoy the magical Winterfest Boat Parade in nearby Fort Lauderdale. There’s also the Downtown Miami Holiday Village. Plus, you will find many beautiful light displays all around the city.
How to Navigate Miami During the Holiday Season?
Traffic might be busier in December. However, Miami has many ways to get around. You can use public transport, like the Metrorail and Metrobus. Walking around neighborhoods is a great choice too. If you prefer, you can also use ride-sharing services. These options can help you move around the city more easily.
Best Areas to Stay in Miami for Holiday Activities
For the best access to holiday fun, think about staying in South Beach. It has a vibrant atmosphere. Downtown Miami is great for its central spot and the ice rink. Coconut Grove offers a cozy holiday vibe with special events.
Are there any outdoor activities that are particularly enjoyable in Miami during December?
December has great weather for fun outside. You can take boat tours on Biscayne Bay. You can also explore the Everglades National Park. If you like, stroll through Fairchild’s bright NightGarden. Another option is to bike on the scenic trails by the coast.
Are there any special holiday-themed activities or experiences to enjoy in Miami in December?
Miami gets into the holiday mood with a lot of joy. You can see Santa, watch amazing Christmas tree lightings all over the city, enjoy fun holiday bars, or go to holiday shows and concerts.
Ivy Solis, the Social Media and Community Associate at Breathe Miami, is a Miamian who's deeply rooted in the city's vibrant culture. Growing up in the Magic City, she was always on the move, playing soccer on the sandy beaches and exploring every hidden corner. Beyond her professional dedication, Ivy is an artist at heart, with a passion for pottery and ceramics that allows her to express her creativity. Ivy's commitment to promoting health and wellness shines through as she searches for and vets new experiences to share with the Breathe Miami community.