Holidays with sunshine and fun: The best things to do in Miami this December

 

December is one of the best months to visit Greater Miami and Miami Beach. With art fairs and festive events a plenty, there’s excitement throughout the entire month. Enjoying the holidays under Miami’s blue skies and warm sun is the ideal place for wonderful moments. December also marks the beginning of Miami Arts, Culture and Heritage Months, when special offerings and events showcase Miami’s rich multicultural arts and culture attractions. Explore our December guide for a curated list of the finest activities and events to enjoy during the holiday season.

 

The Finest Activities and Events to Enjoy in Miami

 

1. Art Basel Miami Beach 

– December 8 to 10

As a signature event of Miami Arts, Culture and Heritage Months, Art Basel Miami Beach returns to the Miami Beach Convention Center with its annual fair dedicated to the best in international contemporary art. The satellite fairs, gallery shows, parties, and celebrity-filled events became known as Miami Art Week.

 

2. Pretty Woman: The Musical

– Until December 10

Mark your calendars for the musical Pretty Woman, an animated adaptation of the beloved romantic film starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. With an original soundtrack that includes songs by Grammy winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, the iconic love story comes to life in captivating, theatrical fashion at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County in downtown Miami.

 

3. No Vacancies, Miami Beach

– Until December 14

No Vacancies is a juried public art exhibition featuring primarily local artists, including Carlos Betancourt, Gonzalo Fuenmayor, and Haiiileen (also known as Aileen Quintana). The exhibition is on display in several hotels, including The Betsy, Esmé, Faena Hotel Miami Beach and others.

 

4. SoundScape Cinema Series 

– December 13, 20 and 27

The SoundScape Cinema series at New World Center in South Beach invites you to watch movies in a landscaped park where films are projected onto the concert hall’s monumental 7,000-square-foot projection wall. Scheduled for Wednesday evenings, the movies featured in December include “Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris,” “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,” and “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.”

 

5. Candlelight: Holiday Special Featuring ‘The Nutcracker’ and More 

– December 15 – 16

On holidays, enjoy a live, multi-sensory musical experience with a candlelight concert at the Miami Scottish Rite Temple in downtown Miami. Watch music performances like “The Nutcracker” and more, all under the glow of candlelight. Delight in the melodies of a string quartet as they present a repertoire of beloved holiday classics.

 

6. The Nutcracker® By George Balanchine 

– December 15 and 24

Immerse yourself in the enchantment of Miami City Ballet’s George Balanchine version of The Nutcracker® at the Arsht Center. With Tchaikovsky’s timeless soundtrack as a backdrop, captivating sets and a cast of over 100 dancers, it’s a tradition not to be missed.

 

7. Miami Beach Holiday Festival of Lights

Fridays and Saturdays:

December 15 – 16: The Gabriel South Beach

December 22 – 23: The Betsy South Beach

Hosted by the Miami Beach Classical Music Festival, the Holiday Festival of Lights in Miami Beach is a captivating and family-oriented event that showcases diverse international holiday traditions. Featuring projection mapping displays and live music, this enchanting celebration takes place at multiple locations throughout the city. Miami Beach. Audiences will enjoy musical performances across genres and familiar holiday characters, including Santa Claus, The Grinch and Elsa from “Frozen.”

 

8. Grass & Salt Christmas Special 

– December 16

Enjoy a farm fresh holiday meal at Tinez Farms with their memorable Grass & Salt Christmas Special. Run by husband and wife duo Jessica and Ruben Martinez—who are committed to organic and seasonal ingredients—this special five-course holiday meal features a roast pork with cassava, moros, and plantains.

 

9. Miracle in Miami 

– Until December 23

Holiday-themed pop-up bar The Miracle in Miami is back, so if you’re looking for some holiday cheer, head to Better Days in Downtown Miami for over-the-top decor, holiday-inspired cocktails, and unparalleled fun.

 

10. Miami Dolphins vs Dallas Cowboys 

– December, 24

Football fans in Miami can celebrate Christmas Eve at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. Cheer on your team in the Miami Dolphins vs. Dallas Cowboys NFL for a fun alternative to typical vacation plans.

 

11. Miccosukee Indian Arts & Crafts Festival 

– December 28 – 31

Explore Miami’s indigenous cultural legacy at the Miccosukee Indian Arts & Crafts Festival. Filled with music, art and entertainment in the heart of the Everglades Area, this holiday tradition is a local favorite where you can sample authentic native food, a crafts market, alligator demonstrations, a fashion show and more.

 

12. Holiday Season With Ballet Stars 

– December 29 – 30

During the holidays, experience a performance featuring dance luminaries from the world’s leading companies. Ballet’s Star Holiday Season at the Arsht features a stellar lineup including Natalia Osipova, Ludmila Pagliero, Christine Shevchenko, New York City Ballet and more.

 

13. Zoo Lights 

– Until December 30

Experience Zoo Miami in South Dade in a whole new light during Zoo Lights, the annual holiday tradition where the zoo stays open late with a dazzling array of more than 1 million lights. At these immersive light displays, you’ll experience animal lanterns and festive entertainment, as well as enjoy seasonal treats like cookies and hot chocolate. With a 26-foot-tall LED tree, themed nights and the chance to meet Santa Claus, Zoo Lights is a fun-filled event for the whole family. Enjoy the tour on holidays and weekends!

 

14. Capital One Orange Bowl Football Game 

– December 30

The Capital One Orange Bowl is one of Miami’s — and college football’s — most beloved New Year’s traditions, dating back to 1935. Cheer on your favorite team as two of the best teams in the country face off between the goal posts at Hard Rock Stadium.

 

15. Celebration at Bayfront Park for New Year’s Eve 

– December 31

For an iconic New Year’s celebration in Miami, Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami hosts a spectacular party with fireworks lighting up Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. You’ll enjoy cocktails, live entertainment, and a champagne toast to celebrate 2024.

 

Limousine service for events in Miami during the December holidays

In the bustling cultural scene of Miami during the December holidays, Mundi Limos presents an unparalleled tailored Limousine Service, offering a touch of luxury and sophistication to clients. As the city comes alive with various festive and artistic gatherings, Mundi Limos stands out as the premier choice for transportation, providing a fleet of meticulously maintained limousines equipped with modern amenities. Whether it’s a glamorous holiday party, an upscale art exhibition, or a high-profile musical event, Mundi Limos ensures a seamless and opulent travel experience, reflecting the vibrant and dynamic spirit of Miami’s December festivities.

Mundi Limos’ Limousine Service for Miami events in December not only prioritizes style and comfort but also emphasizes reliability and professionalism. The chauffeurs, well-versed in navigating the city’s traffic and event venues, guarantee punctual arrivals and departures, allowing clients to focus on enjoying the festivities without any transportation concerns. Book your luxury limousine service now and enjoy the magic of December events in Miami without any worries.