Discover Florida Festivals 2025: A Year of Vibrant Celebrations

Florida’s 2025 festival calendar is packed with exciting events that showcase the state’s cultural diversity, culinary delights, and artistic flair. From lively music festivals and colorful parades to food extravaganzas and holiday celebrations, there’s something for everyone.

Learn more: Full List of Festivals in the US for 2025: Music, Food, Art, Film, Street and More

Overview of Florida Festivals in 2025

Florida’s Cultural Mosaic in 2025. Image: KnowInsiders

Florida’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant communities come alive through its festivals, which take place year-round across the state. Whether you’re dancing to the beats of electronic music at Ultra Music Festival in Miami, savoring global flavors at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, or enjoying the spectacle of boats adorned with dazzling lights at the Winterfest Boat Parade, there’s a festival for every interest.

From January’s historic Gasparilla Pirate Festival in Tampa to December’s holiday-themed celebrations in Fort Lauderdale, Florida’s festivals offer a blend of music, art, food, and culture. Each event highlights the state’s sunny charm, making Florida a premier destination for festival-goers.

Top Florida Festivals by Month (2025)

January

Gasparilla Pirate Festival

• Date: January 25, 2025
• Location: Tampa, FL
• Significance: This historic pirate-themed festival transforms Tampa into a lively celebration, featuring a mock pirate invasion and vibrant parades.
• Activities: Parades, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly events.
• Tickets: Free to attend; reserved seating available for purchase.
• Transportation: Accessible via public transit; parking is limited.

February

Florida State Fair

• Date: February 6–17, 2025
• Location: Tampa, FL
• Significance: A beloved annual event showcasing Florida's agricultural heritage, entertainment, and cuisine.
• Activities: Rides, games, agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, and unique food vendors.
• Tickets: Available on the official website; discounts for early purchases.
• Transportation: Parking available on-site; limited public transit options.

Miami International Boat Show

• Date: February 13–17, 2025
• Location: Miami, FL
• Significance: A premier event for boating enthusiasts, showcasing cutting-edge marine innovations.
• Activities: Boat exhibitions, seminars, and on-water activities.
• Tickets: Available online and at the venue; VIP packages offered.
• Transportation: Shuttle services provided; parking is limited.

March

Ultra Music Festival

• Date: March 28–30, 2025
• Location: Miami, FL
• Significance: One of the world’s most iconic electronic music festivals, attracting top DJs and fans globally.
• Activities: Live performances by international DJs, immersive stage designs, and interactive experiences.
• Tickets: Available on the official website; early bird pricing available.
• Transportation: Public transit recommended; parking is scarce.

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Florida Strawberry Festival

• Date: February 27 – March 9, 2025
• Location: Plant City, FL
• Significance: Celebrating its 90th year, this festival highlights Florida’s agricultural heritage and love for strawberries.
• Activities: Concerts, rides, agricultural displays, and strawberry-themed foods.
• Tickets: Available on the official website; discounts for early purchases.
• Transportation: Parking available on-site; limited public transit options.

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April

Tortuga Music Festival

• Date: April 4–6, 2025
• Location: Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, FL
• Significance: A celebration of country music and ocean conservation, featuring top artists and beach vibes.
• Activities: Live performances, beach activities, and conservation awareness programs.
• Tickets: Available on the official website; VIP packages offered.
• Transportation: Shuttle services provided; parking is limited.

Florida Groves Fest

• Date: April 12–13, 2025
• Location: Orlando, FL
• Significance: A festival celebrating music, art, and cannabis culture in a creative and vibrant atmosphere.
• Activities: Live music, art installations, and educational seminars.
• Tickets: Available on the official website; early bird pricing available.
• Transportation: Public transit recommended; parking is limited.

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May

Welcome to Rockville

• Date: May 15–18, 2025
• Location: Daytona Beach, FL
• Significance: America’s largest rock festival, featuring over 150 bands and a celebration of rock culture.
• Activities: Live performances, food vendors, and interactive experiences.
• Tickets: Available on the official website; VIP packages offered.
• Transportation: Shuttle services provided; parking is limited.

June

SunFest

• Date: June 5–8, 2025
• Location: West Palm Beach, FL
• Significance: Florida's largest waterfront music and art festival, drawing visitors from across the state.
• Activities: Live music, art installations, and food vendors.
• Tickets: Available on the official website; discounts for early purchases.
• Transportation: Public transit recommended; parking is limited.

July

Key Lime Festival

• Date: July 3–7, 2025
• Location: Key West, FL
• Significance: A tribute to Key West’s citrus heritage, featuring culinary competitions and tastings.
• Activities: Pie-eating contests, cooking classes, and tastings.
• Tickets: Available on the official website; some events are free.
• Transportation: Public transit recommended; parking is limited.

Everglades Festival Wonderland. Image: KnowInsiders

August

1. Miami Spice Restaurant Month

• Date: August 1–31, 2025
• Location: Miami, Florida
• Significance: A month-long culinary event celebrating Miami’s world-class dining scene.
• Activities: Participating restaurants offer prix-fixe menus, showcasing local flavors and international cuisine.
• Tickets: No admission fee; meals are priced at special festival rates.
• Transportation: Accessible via public transit; parking available at participating restaurants.

2. Tampa Theatre Summer Classics Movie Series

• Date: Every Sunday in August 2025
• Location: Tampa, Florida
• Significance: Celebrates classic films in a historic setting.
• Activities: Screenings of iconic movies with live organ performances before each film.
• Tickets: Available online and at the box office.
• Transportation: Parking available near the Tampa Theatre; public transit options also available.

September

1. Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

• Date: September 1–November 16, 2025
• Location: Epcot, Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida
• Significance: A premier culinary event featuring flavors from around the world.
• Activities: Global food and wine tastings, culinary demonstrations, and live entertainment.
• Tickets: Requires theme park admission; food and drink samples available for purchase.
• Transportation: Accessible via Disney transportation; parking available at Epcot.

2. Pensacola Seafood Festival

• Date: September 27–29, 2025
• Location: Pensacola, Florida
• Significance: Celebrates the Gulf Coast’s fresh seafood and local culture.
• Activities: Fresh seafood tastings, cooking demonstrations, and live music.
• Tickets: Free admission; food and drinks available for purchase.
• Transportation: Parking available near the festival grounds.

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October

1. Fantasy Fest

• Date: October 18–27, 2025
• Location: Key West, Florida
• Significance: A wild and colorful celebration of creativity and self-expression.
• Activities: Parades, costume contests, and themed parties throughout the island.
• Tickets: Free for most events; some parties may require tickets.
• Transportation: Limited parking; shuttle and bike rentals recommended.

2. Oktoberfest at Cape Coral

• Date: October 4–6 & October 11–13, 2025
• Location: Cape Coral, Florida
• Significance: A traditional German festival with a Floridian twist.
• Activities: Authentic German food, beer, live polka music, and family-friendly activities.
• Tickets: Available online and at the gate.
• Transportation: Parking available on-site; carpooling encouraged.

November

1. Florida Seafood Festival

• Date: November 1–2, 2025
• Location: Apalachicola, Florida
• Significance: The state’s oldest seafood festival, celebrating the Gulf Coast’s rich seafood heritage.
• Activities: Oyster shucking contests, fresh seafood tastings, and live music.
• Tickets: General admission available at the gate.
• Transportation: Parking available near the festival; carpooling recommended.

2. Downtown Jacksonville Art Walk

• Date: November 6, 2025
• Location: Jacksonville, Florida
• Significance: Highlights local artists and performers in Jacksonville’s vibrant downtown.
• Activities: Art exhibitions, live music, and food trucks.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Public transit options available; parking near downtown.

December

1. Night of Lights

• Date: December 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026
• Location: St. Augustine, Florida
• Significance: One of the nation’s best holiday light displays, celebrating the history and charm of St. Augustine.
• Activities: Guided tours, trolley rides, and millions of sparkling lights illuminating the city.
• Tickets: Free admission for self-guided tours; trolley rides available for purchase.
• Transportation: Parking available in designated areas; trolley services recommended for getting around.

2. Holiday Boat Parade

• Date: December 9, 2025
• Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Significance: Known as the “Greatest Show on H2O,” this boat parade celebrates the holiday season in true Floridian style.
• Activities: Parade of decorated boats along the Intracoastal Waterway, live music, and waterfront viewing parties.
• Tickets: Free viewing along the waterway; VIP viewing areas may require tickets.
• Transportation: Parking available near viewing spots; rideshares recommended.

3. Key West Holiday Fest

• Date: December 1–31, 2025
• Location: Key West, Florida
• Significance: A month-long celebration of the holiday season with tropical flair.
• Activities: Holiday parades, boat tours, tree lighting ceremonies, and festive parties.
• Tickets: Many events are free; some require ticket purchases.
• Transportation: Limited parking; bike rentals and shuttle services recommended.

4. Christmas in the Park

• Date: December 13, 2025
• Location: Winter Park, Florida
• Significance: A beloved tradition featuring live holiday music and beautiful Tiffany glass displays.
• Activities: Choir performances, food vendors, and holiday-themed activities.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Parking available near the park; public transit options also available.

5. Snowfest Sarasota

• Date: December 20, 2025
• Location: Sarasota, Florida
• Significance: A unique winter festival bringing snow to sunny Florida.
• Activities: Snow slides, winter games, live entertainment, and holiday crafts.
• Tickets: Available online and at the event; early purchase recommended.
• Transportation: Parking available on-site.

Conclusion

December in Florida transforms the Sunshine State into a holiday wonderland with events like Night of Lights in St. Augustine and the Holiday Boat Parade in Fort Lauderdale. Whether you're exploring festive lights, enjoying tropical holiday celebrations, or playing in artificial snow, Florida offers a magical way to end the year.

FAQs About December Festivals in Florida

1. What are the top holiday events in Florida?

• Night of Lights in St. Augustine and the Holiday Boat Parade in Fort Lauderdale are must-see holiday events.

2. Are there family-friendly holiday festivals in Florida?

• Absolutely! Events like Snowfest Sarasota and Christmas in the Park are perfect for families.

3. What should I wear to December festivals in Florida?

• Light layers are recommended, as Florida’s December weather is mild but can be cooler in the evenings.

4. Do holiday events in Florida require tickets?

• Many events are free, such as Christmas in the Park, while others, like Snowfest Sarasota, require tickets.

5. Can I enjoy winter-themed activities in Florida?

• Yes, events like Snowfest Sarasota bring winter fun, including snow slides and games, to Florida’s sunny climate.

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