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Christmas Events in the Bradenton Area
The Bradenton Area shines bright each holiday season with family-friendly events, festive parades, and dazzling lights. Mark your calendars for these magical celebrations happening across the community this year!
bridge street tree lighting & Christmas on bridge street
Trade snow for sand and celebrate the Holidays in Paradise! Gather with family and friends for an unforgettable evening of tropical holiday cheer featuring the official Christmas tree lighting, Santa Claus, live entertainment, festive shopping, delicious food, and holiday fun for all ages
Tree Lighting – Saturday, November 22, 2025 | 2:00 – 8:00 PM
Holidays in Paradise – Saturday, November 28, 2025 | 2:00 – 8:00 PM
Holidays in Paradise – Saturday, December 5, 2025 | 2:00 – 8:00 PM
Holidays in Paradise – Saturday, December 12, 2025 | 2:00 – 8:00 PM
Historic Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL
North Pole Express
All aboard for holiday magic! Join the Florida Railroad Museum for a 35-minute ride from Parrish to the North Pole, where Santa awaits each child for a memorable visit. Enjoy live entertainment, campfires, unlimited hot chocolate and cookies, plus festive activities at the North Pole station.
November 27–December 22, 2026
Florida Railroad Museum, Parrish, FL
European Holiday Market
Step into the charm of a European-style holiday market at the Bradenton Area Convention Center. Explore artisan stalls filled with handcrafted treasures, enjoy festive food and drinks, and experience live performances that capture the heart of the holidays.
December 2-6, 2025
Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd, Palmetto, FL
Palmetto’s Christmas in the Park
Celebrate “A Coastal Christmas” at Palmetto Historical Park and the Manatee County Agricultural Museum. Enjoy reindeer games, holiday crafts, and festive decorations inspired by coastal charm. Tickets are free but required for entry.
Friday, December 4, 2026, 3:00–7:30 PM
Palmetto Historical Park & Manatee County Agricultural Museum
Winter Wonderland
Downtown Bradenton’s Old Main Street transforms into a Winter Wonderland with magically falling snow, holiday music, local performances, and festive fun for all ages. Enjoy gift shopping, prizes, and a visit from Santa himself.
Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Old Main Street, Bradenton, FL
An Old Florida Christmas
Step back in time for a nostalgic celebration at Manatee Village Historical Park. “An Old Florida Christmas” features live music, food, handmade gifts from local vendors, and complimentary holiday crafts. Stroll through Victorian-inspired decorations and explore historic landmarks.
Saturday, December 12, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Manatee Village Historical Park
A Night Before Christmas at GT Bray park
Bring the family for a night of festive fun featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus (with free downloadable photos), a snow slide, foam zone, inflatables, crafts, face painting, a petting zoo, and food trucks. Admission is free with a suggested donation of a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots.
Saturday, December 12, 2026 | 4:00 – 8:00 PM
G.T. Bray Park
Manatee River Boat Parade
The grandest holiday celebration in Manatee County returns as brightly decorated boats glide down the Manatee River, competing for cash prizes and the winning title. Thousands gather along the riverbanks to enjoy the dazzling sights and sounds of the season.
Saturday, December 12, 2026
Manatee River
Winter Nights Under the Lights
Experience acres of dazzling holiday lights at Palma Sola Botanical Park. Enjoy festive treats, live music, crafts, a gift market, hayrides, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Bring a toy for the Toys for Tots drive—admission is free, donations appreciated.
December 17–20, 2026 | 6:00 – 9:00 PM
Palma Sola Botanical Park
Arts & Culture
Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, or just looking for inspiration, our area offers experiences that celebrate the vibrant spirit of our community.