Manatee County is full of holiday cheer and fun events. There’s something for everyone, from holiday markets to family activities and more. Whether you’re shopping for gifts or just enjoying the magic of the season, these events will help make your holidays special.
We’ll continually update this all season long.
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Outdoor Holiday Market
Sunday, December 1st from 10 AM to 1 PM
The Vintage Collective: 800 8th Ave W, Ste 7 Palmetto, FL 34221
The Vintage Collective invites the community to its first-ever Outdoor Holiday Market!
This festive gathering will be filled with holiday cheer and offer a fun experience for everyone. Best of all, there’s no entrance fee!
Enjoy a free hot cocoa bar, complimentary popcorn, and a holiday craft table where you can create something special. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Don’t forget to stop by The Vintage Collective, where you can enjoy a special 20% off during the event.
European Holiday Market
December 4th to December 8th
Bradenton Area Convention Center: 1 Haben Blvd Palmetto, FL 34221
Held at the Bradenton Area Convention Center and the Yard at the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, the European Holiday Market brings the charm of Europe’s holiday markets to life with artisan stalls, holiday-themed food and drink, and fun activities for the whole family.
Stroll around and explore curated European-inspired vendors, enjoy festive treats, and participate in interactive activities that capture the spirit of European holiday celebrations. Along with unique shopping opportunities, the market will also feature live performances. With a blend of European tradition and Florida charm, this market is perfect for those looking to find unique gifts and enjoy the magic of the season. Visit their website for more information, and be sure to purchase your tickets ahead of time for the best pricing.
Sip & Shop at the Wellness Center of Ellenton
Friday, December 6th and Saturday, December 7th from 10 AM to 4 PM
The Wellness Center of Ellenton: 7018 US HWY 301N Ellenton, FL 34222
Looking for a great gift this holiday season? The Wellness Center of Ellenton is hosting a special Sip & Shop event offering the opportunity to get your holiday shopping done early.
Guests can find affordable gift bags for teachers, caregivers, coworkers, friends, and more. Whether you prefer premade gift bags or wish to create custom gifts, there are plenty of options to choose from. Prices start at just $8.00, making it easy to find something thoughtful and budget-friendly.
With a fun, relaxed atmosphere, this event is great for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit while checking off their shopping list. For more information or any questions, you can call 941-803-7487.
Bradenton Holiday Lights Festival
December 6th to January 4th
Freedom Factory: 21050 E State Road 64, 34212
The Bradenton Holiday Lights Festival at Freedom Factory brings the season of joy to life with a spectacular display of holiday lights and activities for all ages.
Visitors start with a magical drive-through experience, where over 100,000 twinkling lights and dozens of holiday set pieces illuminate the path. From a dazzling light tunnel to the thrill of driving on the track itself, guests are surrounded by synchronized lights and music.
After the drive, the fun continues as guests step into the Christmas Village, a festive wonderland with activities for all ages. Visitors can admire the towering 50-foot Christmas tree, take photos with Santa, and enjoy carnival-style games and rides. The village has holiday sounds and sights, including a giant Jumbotron showing Christmas classics, food and drink vendors, and lively holiday music.
With four different light shows playing throughout the evening, the Bradenton Holiday Lights Festival is set to become a new holiday favorite. Learn more and check the schedule here.
Palmetto’s Christmas in the Park
Friday, December 6th from 3 PM to 7 PM and Saturday, December 7th from 2 PM to 7 PM
Palmetto Historical Park: 515 10th Ave W Palmetto, FL 34221
Palmetto’s Christmas in the Park is back, bringing festive fun for the whole family! This joyful event takes place at the Palmetto Historical Park and Manatee County Agricultural Museum. Families can enjoy festive crafts, reindeer games, and beautiful holiday decorations. Admission is free, but tickets are required, so make your reservations early to join the fun!
There are two ways to reserve your tickets. For event-only tickets, reserve online starting Saturday, November 16th, at 8 AM. To attend the event and meet Santa, call 941-742-GIFT (4438) on the same day and time. Santa visits are scheduled every five minutes for groups of up to ten people. If you book a Santa reservation, you’re also automatically signed up for event entry!
A Night Before Christmas
Saturday, December 7th from 4 PM to 8 PM
GT Bray Park: 5502 33rd Ave Dr. W, Bradenton, FL 34209
Join the holiday excitement at the annual A Night Before Christmas, hosted by Outdoor Lighting Perspectives at G.T. Bray Park!
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for free professional photos with children, families can also take part in activities such as inflatables, face painting, crafts, a petting zoo, snow slides, and a foam zone. A DJ will keep the atmosphere upbeat, and guests can browse the “Shop Local” Vendor Marketplace or enjoy treats from the food and dessert trucks.
While the event is free, guests are encouraged to donate a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots. Bring your family and get into the holiday spirit at this fun-filled event!
The Nutcracker Tea Party
Sunday, December 8th from 1 PM to 3:30 PM
The Center of Anna Maria Island: 407 Magnolia Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216
The Nutcracker Tea Party is a wonderful way to start the holiday season. This event mixes the magic of “The Nutcracker” ballet with a fun tea party for families to enjoy together.
Guests can watch dancers from the Dance Theatre of Bradenton perform beautiful scenes from the ballet. A light lunch buffet is available, with tasty finger foods, sweet treats, and a candy bar.
The room is decorated like the enchanting “Land of the Sweets,” adding to the holiday cheer. Kids will love the chance to get a “ballet bun” hairstyle at the Sugar Plum Salon, making them feel like part of the show. Get your tickets now and enjoy the festive fun.
Winter Nights Under the Lights
Wednesday, December 11th to Sunday, December 15th from 6 PM to 9 PM
Palma Sola Botanical Park: 9800 17th Ave NW Bradenton, FL 34209
Palma Sola Botanical Park invites you to come and experience Winter Nights Under the Lights, a festive event filled with holiday cheer!
Stroll through acres of beautiful holiday lights while enjoying live music, a visit from Santa, and a bustling gift market. Warm up with hot cocoa and cider from the food trucks and participate in family-friendly activities like a tree decorating contest and children’s crafts.
Donations are welcomed to support the park, and a Toys for Tots collection will also be in place. This event offers a magical night for the whole family.
Winter Wonderland Celebration
Saturday, December 14th from 6 PM to 9:30 PM
Old Main Street, Bradenton, Florida
Step into the magic of the Winter Wonderland Celebration by Realize Bradenton, where holiday cheer fills the air!
Families can meet Santa for a picture and share their holiday wishes while snow falls around them, creating a festive atmosphere. Local youth groups will perform on the Winter Wonderland Main Stage, and visitors can take beautiful photos with holiday-themed decorations. Roaming performers will entertain the crowds in the streets, adding to the fun.
Kids can win prizes at the free winter carnival by playing games like snowball toss and ice fishing. There will also be free make-and-take activities for children to create gifts for friends and family. Guests can shop local vendors for unique holiday gifts, along with delicious food and drinks. Don’t miss this wonderful celebration!
Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade
Saturday, December 14th from 7 PM to 11 PM
Bradenton Yacht Club: 4307 13th Street West
The Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade is the most anticipated holiday event in the county, inviting thousands of spectators to the river.
With boats lit up in brilliant holiday displays, the parade creates a magical experience for all. VIP viewing parties will be hosted at Bradenton Yacht Club, Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant, and Pier 22, while public viewing areas are available at the Green Bridge and Palmetto Pier.
19th Annual Community Holiday Shoebox Drive & Reception
Saturday, December 14th from 4 PM to 6 PM
Lakewood Ranch Elks Lodge: 4602 Lena Rd., Bradenton, FL 34211
Meals on Wheels PLUS invites everyone to the 19th Annual Holiday Shoebox Collection, a meaningful holiday event that brings joy to local seniors.
Held at the Lakewood Ranch Elks Lodge, this special gathering encourages guests to bring a wrapped shoebox filled with small gifts for seniors, or a $20 donation. Once inside, you’ll enjoy lite bites, entertainment, a cash bar, and holiday shopping. LEARN MORE about the Shoebox Program and what types of gifts to buy.
This year, the goal is to collect 1,000 shoeboxes, which volunteers and staff will deliver to seniors across Manatee County. These boxes are often the only holiday gift many seniors receive, especially this year as many face loneliness and isolation. By joining the Holiday Shoebox Collection, guests can help brighten the holidays for seniors and spread kindness and cheer throughout the community.
Winterfest at North River Ranch
Saturday, December 14th from 11 AM to 2 PM
11602 Longmeadow Avenue, Parrish, FL 34219
Mark your calendar for the 2nd annual Winterfest at North River Ranch on Saturday, December 14th. This festive event is packed with family-friendly activities.
Enjoy playing in real snow, snapping photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and shopping for unique holiday gifts from local vendors. Kids and adults will love the Tampa Bay Lightning hockey rink, face painting, and holiday crafts. Don’t forget to RSVP to secure your FREE Entry Ticket, Parking Pass, and NRR Family Fun Pack, while supplies last!
Winterfest is also a time for giving. Guests are invited to bring unwrapped gifts for children aged 5-12 to support Step Up Suncoast. For every gift you donate, you’ll receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win amazing prizes.
Holiday Harmony
Saturday, December 14th from 11 AM to 12 PM
Dance Alliance of Bradenton: 862 62nd Street, Cir. E. #103, Bradenton, Florida
Celebrate a peaceful holiday season with Holiday Harmony at Dance Alliance of Bradenton. This workshop will teach you how to use crystals like Amethyst, Rose Quartz, Citrine, and Black Tourmaline to stay calm and balanced during the busy Christmas season.
You’ll learn easy rituals and tips to create a joyful atmosphere in your home, reduce stress, and stay emotionally well throughout the holidays.
You’ll also learn to set intentions, create a peaceful space, and use crystals to invite happiness. This workshop is for all levels and offers simple tools to reduce stress and enjoy the holidays with clarity and peace. RSVP by calling (941) 201-5608 or email info@danceallianceofbradenton.com and discover how crystal healing can make your season calm and joyful.
Holiday Fun Land
Friday, December 20th at 5 PM, Saturday, December 21st at 1 PM,
And Sunday, December 22nd at 12 PM
Sutton Park: 1036 6th Street West, Palmetto, FL 34221
Celebrate the holidays at Holiday Fun Land in Sutton Park, where families can meet Santa and enjoy a festive day out — completely free!
The park will be full of holiday cheer, and live entertainment to get everyone in the holiday mood, along with a variety of vendors offering unique gifts and treats.
Guests can marvel at a giant 30-foot snowman, take a ride on the holiday train, and join in an exciting Elf Scavenger Hunt. With so much to see and do, Holiday Fun Land is a great place to celebrate the season together!
The Nutcracker Ballet
Saturday, December 21st from 7 PM to 9:30 PM and Sunday, December 22nd from 2 PM to 4:30 PM
Davis Theater at Manatee High School: 902 33rd Street Court West, Bradenton, FL 34205
The holiday magic returns with Bradenton’s tradition, The Nutcracker, performed by the talented dancers of the Dance Theatre of Bradenton. Under the guidance of artistic director Allison Norton, this classic ballet brings audiences into Clara’s dream world, complete with marching soldiers, dancing dolls, and graceful snowflakes.
This timeless holiday story, performed at the Davis Center for Performing Arts at Manatee High School, is a treat for all ages — from young children to adults. Get your tickets here and step into a magical world this holiday season.
Christmas Eve at Pier 22
Tuesday, December 24th from 11:30 AM to 9 PM
Pier 22: 1200 1st Ave W.Bradenton, FL 34205
Pier 22 invites everyone to celebrate Christmas Eve with delicious food and warm company. The restaurant is open on December 24th from 11:30 am to 9 pm and is currently taking reservations.
Their special Holiday Menu is packed with festive flavors that will make your evening extraordinary. The cozy setting, paired with friendly service, creates a great atmosphere for sharing laughter and love with family and friends. Book your table now.
Christmas Day at Pier 22
Wednesday, December 25th from 11 AM to 8 PM
Pier 22: 1200 1st Ave W.Bradenton, FL 34205
Celebrate Christmas Day with Pier 22 and make the season brighter with festive flavors and warm moments. From 11 AM to 8 PM, the restaurant offers a chef-created Holiday Menu that captures the magic of the day. It’s a wonderful way to make the day extra special.
New Year’s Eve at Pier 22
Tuesday, December 31st from 11:30 AM to 12 AM
Pier 22: 1200 1st Ave W.Bradenton, FL 34205
Ring in the New Year at Pier 22 with an awesome celebration! Open from 11:30 AM to midnight, the restaurant offers a special Holiday Menu to make your evening festive and delicious. Guests can enjoy live DJ entertainment on the terrace, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for welcoming 2024.
At the stroke of midnight, raise a glass with a complimentary champagne toast to celebrate the start of a New Year. Whether you dine, dance, or both, Pier 22 is the ultimate destination to welcome the new year in style. Book your table now and enjoy the party!
Speakeasy New Year’s Eve Party
Tuesday, December 31st from 8 AM to 12 AM
Pier 22: 1200 1st Ave W.Bradenton, FL 34205
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style at the Speakeasy Dinner Party in the PIER 22 Ballroom! This glamorous event, from 8 PM to 12:30 AM, features a delicious dinner buffet, a premium open bar, and an exciting balloon drop at midnight. Dance to the beats of a live DJ, strike a pose at the photo booth, and step into 2025 surrounded by vintage elegance.
This speakeasy-themed celebration offers shared table seating, ensuring a comfortable and social dining experience. Guests are encouraged to dress in vintage or elegant evening attire to fully embrace the theme. Tickets are $200 plus tax and gratuity, with options for reserving full tables or joining existing ones. Celebrate and make your New Year’s Eve truly magical at Pier 22!
