The Holidays in Miami
Dec 17, 2015In South Florida, we do the holidays a little differently than any other corner of the country. Just because we don’t have snow doesn’t mean we’re not festive. As a Miami Roofer, we see everyone’s holiday decorations from a bird’s-eye view, and we know the holiday spirit is alive and well here in Miami.
There are a ton of family-friendly holiday events in Miami, too. We take our spouses and kids out to enjoy one-of-a-kind seasonal events every year, and we’re always finding new things to do.
From our families to yours, here are some of our most-anticipated Miami holiday events.
Coral Gables Winter Wonderland
From the beginning of December until Christmas Eve, Miracle Mile and Merrick Park become a true winter wonderland. The tree lighting ceremony is always something special, but don’t worry if you miss it– you can see that spectacular tree all December long.
We really enjoy the massive amount of holiday lights in Merrick Park, and Santa himself is there for the kids from Thursday to Sunday.
Downtown Coral Gables is also something special during the holidays. This year, Coral Gables is teaming up with the Miami International University of Art & Design for a holiday storefront contest. Come enjoy the festive work of some of our top art and design students, along with their local business partners.
Walking around and soaking up the holiday atmosphere is completely free, but Miracle Mile and Coral Gables as a whole are full of great food and shopping.
Holiday Theater
The Actors’ Playhouse in Coral Gables puts on a great holiday-related show, but we want to spotlight two in particular.
The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge – This play runs from December 2nd-27th at the Actor’s Playhouse. Essentially, it takes place after the classic, A Christmas Carol, and sees Scrooge suing the Christmas Ghosts. It’s a very clever reinvention and reimagining of the classic, and it has some very modern humor. This is a good play for the family, and people of all ages should enjoy many laughs and surprises.
The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe – A musical version of CS Lewis’ classic novel. If you grew up on these books, if you’ve read them to your children, or if you just enjoyed the films, this play is a timeless holiday treat. It’s specifically targeted for young audiences, but anyone who’s read the books will be delighted with a wave of nostalgia. The play runs until December 19th.
Snow at Dolphin Mall
There’s only one place in Miami where snow is guaranteed– Dolphin Mall. Almost every day from Thanksgiving to late December, Dolphin Mall presents their Magical Snowfall show. If you don’t get to see snow regularly, or if your kids have never seen snow in person, it’s a great time and a holiday tradition.
Holiday Boat Parade
The Holiday Boat Parade is an important Miami holiday tradition. The Miami Outboard Club collects toys and raises money to help less fortunate children every year with this event, and the parade itself is so fun that it’s become a local tradition.
On December 19th, you’ll see dozens of boats, and have the opportunity to enjoy great food and drinks. Kids will be treated to a bounce house, a DJ, and a fireworks show. You’ll probably enjoy the DJ and the fireworks show too, though.
Santa’s Enchanted Forest
If you’ve never experienced Santa’s Enchanted Forest, this is the year to go. It’s the world’s largest holiday theme park, and it’s right in our back yard. It has rides for everyone– from gentle rides for the kids to thrilling rides for adults and teenagers.
There are tons of lights and trees, as well as traditional carnival food and games. Santa’s Enchanted Forest makes Christmastime into a party for the entire family. It lasts until January 3rd.
Zoo Lights
Each winter, Zoo Miami comes alive at night with more than half a million bright, animal shaped lights and dazzling tree lights. If you’ve never seen animated giraffe lights, Zoo Lights gives you the perfect chance.
Exploring the zoo at night is a treat all by itself, but the lights turn it into a piece of holiday magic. Kids love animals and Christmas lights, and you have plenty of opportunities between now and December 30th to enjoy a unique holiday experience.
Kids can ride the carousel and have their photos taken with Santa, as well as indulge in cookies and hot chocolate.
When you’re a Miami roofer, you try to experience all that Miami has to offer. Even though we don’t have snow, we know how to do the holidays right. We encourage you all to get out there and enjoy what our great city has to offer.
Happy holidays, from our family to yours.
Integrity, Trust, Pride, and Peace of Mind,
~Frank Istueta