HOLIDAY EVENTS IN FORT LAUDERDALE: CHRISTMAS LIGHTS, MARKETS, AND SEA ROCKET WATER ADVENTURES
Holiday Boat Parade in Fort Lauderdale. Credit: TripAdvisor
The holiday season is in full swing and Fort Lauderdale is sparkling with festive fun. From dazzling light displays to lively markets, boat parades and cruises, Sea Rocket invites you to celebrate the season like a local. Here’s your go‑to guide for the best events from now through New Year’s.
Light Up the Beach at Las Olas Oceanside Park
Experience this beachfront lighting ceremony on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, from 5:30–8:30 pm at Las Olas Oceanside Park. Enjoy the start of the beginning of the holiday season with this event featuring a kids’ zone, live music, and more. It’s one of Fort Lauderdale’s most beloved holiday events that offers family-friendly fun and stunning ocean views!
Light up the beach flyer. Credit: City of Fort Lauderdale Parks & Recreation.
Marina Village Christmas Lighting
Kick off the holiday season at the Marina Village Christmas Lighting on Thursday, November 21, 2025, at 7:00 pm at Marina Village in Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy a festive evening by the water with dazzling light displays, live music, delicious local food vendors, and fun activities for all ages.
It’s the perfect way to welcome the most wonderful time of the year surrounded by holiday cheer, waterfront views, and the warm Fort Lauderdale community spirit.
Marina Village entry way in Fort Lauderdale. Credit: Visit Lauderdale
Sea Rocket Christmas Light Tours on the Water
Starting November 28 through December 31, celebrate the holidays aboard Sea Rocket’s Christmas Light Tours. Cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway and enjoy waterfront holiday lights from a unique vantage point. Families, couples, and anyone looking for festive ambiance will love this one! Reserve your spot early – spots fill up fast. Book here!
Sea Rocket Christmas Lights Tour Flyer
Holiday Markets and Local Events in Ft. Lauderdale
If you’re looking for festive shopping, local artisan finds, and a vibrant market vibe, Fort Lauderdale delivers! Get into the spirit of the season with these fun holiday markets.
- THE MKT at Las Olas Oceanside Park: Every Saturday (9 am–5 pm) and Sunday (10 am–5 pm) year‑round at Las Olas Oceanside Park. Browse organic produce, handmade gifts, live music and more.
- Sunny Side Up Market: Held every 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month in the MASS District, 12 pm–4 pm; the December 14 “Holiday Market” edition is especially festive.
- Flamingo Flea Market: Recurring pop-up markets featuring handmade and vintage goods, plus live music. Events rotate between popular locations, including Marina Village and Fort Lauderdale Beach.
These markets pair perfectly with a Sea Rocket Holiday Lights Cruise, Parasailing Tour, or even a Sunset Cruise! Check out how you can add adventure to your day filled with shopping and dining here!
Credit: Sunny Side Up Market’s Instagram Page
The Winterfest Boat Parade – Sea Rocket Joins the Celebration!
Mark you calendar for Saturday, December 13, 2025, when the annual Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade returns with a 12‑mile route of decorated boats along Fort Lauderdale’s waterways. Sea Rocket is excited to be participating in the parade as the event is one of South Florida’s most anticipated holiday traditions. Whether you join us on board or view from shore, this is a holiday event you don’t want to miss!
Winterfest Boat Parade flyer. Credit: Winterfest Boat Parade
Sea Rocket New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise in Ft. Lauderdale
Ring in 2026 aboard the Sea Rocket with our New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruises! Choose between our lively public fireworks cruise featuring festive music, drinks, and front-row views to the Fort Lauderdale skyline – or upgrade to the private 12 passenger charter for an exclusive celebration for your group. Both options promise a cruise along the intracoastal or open waters while enjoying the festive city vibes and fireworks display to welcome the New Year!
Fireworks over the Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal. Credit: Discover South Florida Sunsentinel
Why Choose Sea Rocket for Your Holiday Adventures
The holidays aren’t just about lights, they’re about experiencing them! With Sea Rocket’s Christmas Light Tours, our participation in the Winterfest Boat Parade, and NYE Fireworks Cruises, you’ll enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s holiday magic from the best place possible – on the water!
Avoid crowded shore events and take in the twinkling skyline from your seat on the boat deck! By day, you can explore the city with our Speed Boat Cruises, Parasailing Tours, or hit the town for shopping and dining. By night, set sail under the stars with our special holiday adventures like our Holiday Lights Cruise. No matter what you choose, Sea Rocket helps you have an unforgettable holiday experience in Fort Lauderdale!
Sea Rocket Cruising in Fort Lauderdale
Holiday Planning Tips for Visitors and Locals
Make the most of your time in Fort Lauderdale with these quick tips:
- Reserve early: Light tours and cruises fill fast!
- Dress smart: Even in South Florida, evening breezes on the water can feel cool. Bring a light jacket!
- Arrive early for land events: Light Up the Beach, Light Up the Galt, and the Parade Viewing Areas tend to fill up. Give yourself plenty of time to find parking or use a ride share.
- Have your camera ready: From markets to lights reflecting on water, you’ll want to capture these moments!
- Build your itinerary: For example: morning market → afternoon break → evening Light Up event → book Sea Rocket tour the next night.