Florida Winter Festivals and Events
November - December - January - February
As Florida’s winter rolls in with cooler breezes and vibrant holiday cheer, the Sunshine State transforms into a festive playground bursting with unique celebrations.
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From quaint coastal towns to bustling cities, Florida’s winter festivals offer something for everyone—think fresh seafood feasts, dazzling art fairs, quirky cultural events, and sparkling holiday displays.
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Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these gatherings showcase Florida’s charm, flavors, and creativity under sunny skies.
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Dive into our curated list of winter festivals, organized by date, and keep checking back for updates (or join our monthly email list!).
November Festivals and Events in Florida
Florida Seafood Festival in Apalachicola | TBD, 2026 (see website)
Celebrate Florida’s oldest maritime event at the 62nd annual Florida Seafood Festival in Apalachicola’s Battery Park.
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Feast on fresh seafood, enjoy oyster shucking and eating contests, blue crab races, a 5K Redfish Run, and live music under shady oaks by the Apalachicola River.
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This two-day festival draws thousands to honor the area’s fishing heritage.
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Stone Crab Jam in Crystal River | November 7, 2026
Get ready for a claw-some time at the 18th annual Stone Crab Jam, a lively street festival in historic downtown Crystal River!
Savor fresh stone crab claws, sip cold beer and wine, and dance to six live bands on three stages.
With craft vendors, artists, and food trucks lining the streets, this nonprofit event, presented by the Kings Bay Rotary Club Charitable Foundation, supports local charities and draws nearly 10,000 attendees.
Savor fresh stone crab claws, sip cold beer and wine, and dance to six live bands on three stages.
With craft vendors, artists, and food trucks lining the streets, this nonprofit event, presented by the Kings Bay Rotary Club Charitable Foundation, supports local charities and draws nearly 10,000 attendees.
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Learn more at the official Stone Crab Jam website here.Â
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Right Whale Festival in Fernandina Beach | November 7-8, 2026
Kick off the winter season at this free, family-friendly festival at Main Beach, celebrating the endangered North Atlantic right whale’s return to northeast Florida for calving season. Enjoy educational exhibits, live music, local food, and kid-friendly activities while learning about marine conservation. Learn more at the Right Whale Festival website.
Micanopy Fall Festival in Micanopy | Oct 31 - Nov 1, 2026
Step back in time in this charming Old Florida town near Gainesville. This festival draws 200 arts and crafts vendors, live music, and food stalls under a canopy of historic live oak trees. It’s a perfect blend of small-town vibes and creative flair. Find more details on the Micanopy Fall Festival website.
Halifax Art Festival in Daytona Beach | November 7-8, 2026
One of Florida’s oldest art festivals, founded in 1962, this event showcases hundreds of top artists along the scenic Beach Street by the Halifax River. Expect vibrant artwork, live entertainment, and a lively atmosphere. Visit the Halifax Art Festival website for more info.
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Homosassa Arts, Crafts, and Seafood Festival in Homosassa | November 8-9, 2025
Head to historic Old Homosassa for a weekend of Southern charm at this beloved festival. Dive into fresh Gulf seafood, browse eclectic arts and crafts, and enjoy live music, raffles, and a fun kids’ zone.
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Hosted by the Homosassa Civic Club, this event celebrates the riverside community’s heritage and supports local causes. Affordable admission (kids often free) makes it a family-friendly favorite.
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McIntosh 1890s Festival in McIntosh | November 14-15, 2026
Step back in time at the McIntosh 1890s Festival, held in the historic town of McIntosh near Gainesville.
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This charming event features 200 arts and crafts vendors, live music, and old-fashioned fun under a canopy of live oak trees. Celebrate Florida’s pioneer spirit with period demonstrations and local food.
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Daytona Turkey Run in Daytona Beach | November 25-29, 2026
Rev up for the 52nd annual Daytona Turkey Run, a Thanksgiving weekend tradition at Daytona International Speedway!
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This massive car show features thousands of classic cars, swap meets, car corrals, and artisan vendors. Perfect for auto enthusiasts and families, it’s one of the largest events of its kind in the Southeast, with a festive holiday vibe.
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December Festivals and Events in Florida
Santa's Christmas Tree Forest in Eustis | November - December, 2026
This small town farm comes alive in October with their pumpkin patch and family-oriented events. Then starting November, Santa’s Christmas Tree Forest comes alive with all kinds of holiday events and Christmas tree shopping!Â
Note: we drove 5 hours the past two years to visit Santa’s Christmas Tree Forest and buy our Christmas trees (and enjoy a Christmas cocktail while there because… of course!).Â
We had so much fun! It’s rich in holiday cheer and things to do, their tree selection is the best, and they have the most convenience orderly way to get your tree from the farm to the top of your car… couldn’t be done any better. Check out our blog on this and other Florida Christmas tree farms here.
Art Basel Miami Beach | (see website for dates)
A world-renowned international art fair, Art Basel draws top-tier galleries and art enthusiasts to Miami Beach. While tickets start at $65, satellite events during Miami Art Week offer accessible art experiences for all. Expect cutting-edge installations, performances, and a glamorous vibe. Learn more at the Art Basel website.
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Suwannee Nights of Lights in Live Oak | November - December, 2026
Beautiful (huge) display of holiday lights plus fun for the whole family including food, music, photo booths, more. Visit the official Suwannee Nights of Lights website here.
Nights of Lights in St. Augustine | November 21 - January 18th, 2026
Witness a dazzling display of millions of twinkling lights adorning the historic streets and buildings of St. Augustine. Hop aboard an open-air trolley for a magical nighttime tour! Find more information on the official St. Augustine Nights of Lights website here.
Winterfest Boat Parade in Ft. Lauderdale | December 12th, 2026
Witness the 51st annual holiday boat parade featuring a 12-mile succession of lighted, decorated… boats! Find more info on the official
Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade
website here.
*if you know of a festival event that should be on this list, email us and let us know info@floridabalm.com
January Festivals and Events in Florida
The King Mango Strut in Coconut Grove (Miami) | January 3th, 2027
Over 40 years ago, this parade was created as a parody. Today, more than 10k people come out to witness this craziest parade (in the universe?!?). You can show up in your craziest costume and strut in the parade, or just experience the crazy from the sidelines. Register to strut or get more information on The King Mango Strut here.
Sarasota Winter Seafood & Music Festival | (see website for 2027 dates)
Art Fest Naples | (see website for 2027 dates)
Sunshine State Book Festival in Gainesville | (see website for 2027 dates)
Author Showcase and Expo “bringing readers and writers together” with networking opportunities and workshops. Find more information on the Sunshine State Book Festival website here.
February Festivals and Events in Florida
Family fun including rides, games, food, entertainment, exhibits, contests and competitions, shopping and more!
Florida State Fair website
Bonita Springs Seafood & Music Festival | (see website for dates)
Art Fest Fort Myers | February 5-7, 2027
Miami Lakes Food & Wine Festival | (see website for date)
Everglades Seafood Festival in Everglades City | (see website for dates)
Three days of live country music, carnival rides, arts and crafts, and tons of fresh seafood! Did you know… Everglades City is the Stone Crab Capital of the World!! See more at Everglades Seafood Festival here.
Coconut Grove Arts Festival in Miami | (see website for dates)
St. Petersburg Seafood Festival | (see website for dates)
St. Petersburg Seafood Festival website
124th Annual GeorgeFest in Eustis | (see website for dates)
For 123 years, this lovely small town in Central Florida has celebrated George Washington’s Birthday! Join Eustis once again for an entire week of family fun including games, contests, food, parade, fishing tournament and more! Visit their official website GeorgeFest in Eustis for more information here.
Jupiter Seafood Festival | (see website for date)
Jupiter Seafood Festival website
Key West Art and Craft Festival | February 20-21, 2027
Key West Art and Craft Festival website
SOMI Art Fest in South Miami | (see website for date)
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