Christmas Lights in Miami 2024-2025

Even though Miami residents never have Christmas-like weather, they are still earnest about the holidays. Miami has plenty of light displays, and you can stroll through them without the risk of freezing. You can find the festive lights everywhere, from Aventura Mall ​and Dolphin Mall ​to CocoWalk ​and Lincoln Road Mall. ​Miami Christmas lights are usually switched on after Thanksgiving.

Zoo Lights at Zoo Miami (November 29–December 30, 2024, select nights)

ZooLights at Zoo Miami is a holiday spectacle that transforms the zoo into a luminous wonderland with millions of sparkling lights and animal-shaped displays. Opening on November 29, 2024, the event begins with a festive tree-lighting ceremony at 7 p.m., featuring a breathtaking 26-foot LED holiday tree, yuletide carolers, stilt walkers, and special appearances by Santa, elves, and even the Grinch. Families can enjoy themed nights, take photos with Santa (through December 23), meet zoo animals, and explore holiday crafts, letters to Santa, and Snowman's River Boat Rides. Holiday treats like hot chocolate and cookies, as well as gift shopping, complete this enchanting experience for all ages.

Tickets & Hours

ZooLights at Zoo Miami runs from 6:30 pm to 10 pm on select dates: November 29 and 30; December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29, and 30. Tickets are priced at $19.95 to $21.95 for adults and $17.95 to $19.95 for children aged 3 to 12, offering families a festive night filled with dazzling lights and holiday cheer.

Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Merrick Park (November 22, 2024)

The Shops at Merrick Park in Coral Gables also showcases a stunning holiday display, with its annual lighting ceremony drawing crowds each year. This event is a major attraction, featuring performances by famous musicians and bands. Aventura Mall is renowned for its impressive 60-foot (18.3-meter) installation of candy canes, teddy bears, and gifts, all designed by the acclaimed Stephen Stefanou. In Coconut Grove, CocoWalk adds to the festive spirit with a large Christmas tree, live music, and appearances by Santa Claus, making it a favorite holiday spot for families.

NightGarden at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden (November 15, 2024–January 12, 2025)

Visitors to Miami's Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden can experience a magical transformation during NightGarden, where the 23-acre garden becomes an illuminated fairyland. The display features vibrant technicolor flowers, unique sculptures, and stunning lighting effects enhanced by outdoor holograms, motion-sensing technology, projection mapping, and music. Using the app, guests can immerse themselves in an augmented-reality adventure. Highlights include rainbow-colored pathways, a talking wise old tree, and a fun Fairy Quest. With delicious food and drinks from Miami’s popular food trucks, this enchanting light show is perfect for all ages.

Tickets & Hours

NightGarden at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden welcomes visitors from 6 pm to 10:30 pm, with an estimated visit duration of 60 to 90 minutes. Tickets are priced at $32 to $45 for adults (ages 11 and up) and $26 to $40 for children (ages 4 to 10). Additionally, senior tickets range from $30 to $35, offering an enchanting evening experience amidst stunning botanical displays.