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Christmas Events in the Bradenton Area
Unsure about your Christmas plans in the Bradenton Area? No worries—we’ve got you covered with a list of seasonal activities and restaurants open on Christmas day.
Manatee River Boat Parade
When: December 9th, 2023
Where: 4307 13th Street West, Palmetto, FL 34211
The grandest holiday celebration in the county is undoubtedly the Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade. A dazzling array of adorned boats will cruise along the Manatee River, vying for coveted cash prizes and the prestigious winning title. As thousands of residents and visitors gather along the riverbanks, the air will be filled with festive magic.
Palmetto Christmas in the Park
Where: 515 10th Ave. W, Palmetto FL 34221
Embrace the festive spirit on Friday, December 1, 2023, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, and Saturday, December 2, 2023, from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm, as Palmetto welcomes back Christmas in the Park at the Palmetto Historical Park & Manatee County Agricultural Museum. Explore the grounds adorned with holiday cheer, featuring activities like reindeer games and crafts. Take in the enchanting decorations within all the open buildings at this delightful and free event.
North Pole Express
When: December 6th– 21st
Where: 12210 83rd St E, Parrish, FL 34219
Hop on board! Come along with the Florida railroad museum this December for a delightful 35-minute journey from Parrish, FL to the enchanting North Pole. Upon reaching the destination, all passengers will disembark at the festive North Pole station, where Santa eagerly awaits to share moments with each child. Throughout your visit, enjoy a mix of entertainment, engaging activities, cozy campfires, and unlimited hot chocolate and cookies—all bundled up with your train ticket.
GT Bray Park
Where: 5502 33rd Ave Dr W, Bradenton, FL 34209
Mark your calendars for Friday, December 8, 2023, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. as GT Bray Park transforms into a haven of family festivities during the annual Night Before Christmas event! Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making a special appearance to capture magical moments with the children. Dive into the joy with bounce houses, a petting zoo, and a delightful train ride along our Christmas path.
Local vendors will be showcasing their holiday spirit, and the food truck lineup is ready to satisfy your dinner cravings!
Manatee Village Historic Park
Where: 1404 Manatee Ave. E, Bradenton, FL 34208
Join Manatee Village Historic Park on Saturday, December 9, 2023, from 10 AM to 3 PM for a nostalgic Florida holiday experience. Immerse yourself in the charm of “An Old Florida Christmas,” complete with delectable food, soulful music, complimentary seasonal crafts to create and take home, and a variety of vendors offering handmade treasures. Wander through the grounds adorned with Victorian and Florida pioneer-inspired decorations, and discover the festive spirit within landmarks such as the Old Cabbage Head locomotive, Junior Junction playground, museum exhibits, and the Whistle Stop Gift Shop.
Christmas On Bridge Street
When: Every Thursday
Where: 111 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Take a leisurely walk down Bridge Street, indulge in some festive shopping, gather with loved ones for delightful dinners, drinks, and live music every Thursday evening throughout December. Plus, don’t miss the chance to capture a memorable family photo with Santa!
Winter Wonderland
Where: Old Main Street Downtown Bradenton, FL 34205
Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 9, as Bradenton’s Old Main Street undergoes a magical transformation into a Winter Wonderland from 5 to 8:30 pm. This cost-free, family-friendly celebration promises a festive atmosphere with local student performances, holiday-themed activities, exciting prizes, an opportunity for local gift shopping, and of course, a visit from Santa himself!
Restaurants and Dining
Pier 22
Where: 1200 1st Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Partake in the festive celebrations at Pier 22, where a heartfelt invitation is extended to create lasting memories. Immerse yourself in the holiday ambiance at Pier 22 on Christmas Day, where a delightful Holiday Menu, skillfully curated by their talented chefs, awaits your indulgence.
Mean Deans Local Kitchen
Where: 6059 26TH St W, Bradenton, FL 34207
Mean Deans Local Kitchen is set to welcome guests on Christmas Day from 12 pm to 8 pm. Their offerings for the day will feature a specially curated limited menu comprising appetizers, soup, salads, enticing entrees, and delectable desserts.
Euphemia Haye
Where: 5540 Gulf of Mexico Dr, Longboat Key, FL 34228
Celebrate Christmas Day at Euphemia Haye, where the doors will be open from 2 pm to 8 pm. Alongside our full a la carte menu and nightly specials, indulge in their renowned Bavarian-Style Roast Goose dinner. Savor sliced roasted goose with rich giblet gravy, accompanied by a German potato dumpling and sweet & sour red cabbage for a festive culinary experience.
Grove Lakewood Ranch
Where: 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Embrace the festive season with Grove LWR as they extend warm wishes and invite you to create joyful memories. Grove will open its doors on Christmas Day from 11 am to 8 pm, offering a delightful chef-crafted Holiday Menu for you to savor.