At Crystal Sands Condominiums, we take pride in our stunning Siesta Key ocean view condo rentals and the unforgettable holiday experiences awaiting our guests. Every twinkling holiday light in the night sky adds a touch of magic, filling the air with warmth, joy, and celebration. If you’re in Siesta Key this season, we’ve got you covered with a guide to some of the most dazzling and enchanting holiday light displays in the area. Get ready to soak in the festive glow and make memories that shine bright!
Our luxurious 3 bedroom Siesta Key condo rentals offer you the perfect home base to explore these magical festivities with your loved ones.
St. Armands Circle
Imagine strolling in the crisp evening air, hand-in-hand with your loved ones, as Christmas carols fill the air. St. Armands Circle, based in the very heart of Sarasota, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The beautifully lit streets are adorned with festive lights, and the aroma of holiday treats wafts through the air. The highlight, of course, is the lighting of St. Armands’ magnificent 60-foot tall Christmas tree—a spectacle that brings out the true spirit of Christmas lights in Siesta Key. Each year, the Circle hosts a grand parade featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus, who delight visitors with their cheerful presence. You can enjoy an evening interacting with holiday entertainers and capturing cherished memories with a photo alongside the Claus family. The shops around St. Armands Circle also join in the festivities, offering special holiday discounts that make it an ideal place to find unique gifts. It’s highly recommended to make dinner reservations in advance, as local restaurants offer sumptuous holiday menus to round off your evening.
Downtown Sarasota’s Holiday Lights
As the holiday season unfolds, Downtown Sarasota becomes a hub of cheer and good tidings. While we may not have snow blanketing our streets, we celebrate the season with array of dazzling lights adorning the buildings downtown. One of the most striking spots is the University Town Center, where there are more than four million lights. These festive lights are crafted into mesmerizing displays ranging from towering Christmas trees to scenes depicting rowing crews, creating an awe-inspiring experience from mid-November to early January. The combination of twinkling lights, seasonal decorations, and the cheerful ambiance makes downtown Sarasota a must-visit destination during the holidays. An evening here, reminiscent of the grandeur and opulence of classic holiday films, allows you to experience the charm and elegance of seasonal celebrations that bring the community together.
Selby Gardens’ Lights in Bloom
If you think that the beauty of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is reserved for the daylight hours, think again. During the holiday season, this 15-acre paradise is transformed into a glowing dreamscape with the Lights in Bloom event. Imagine walking through tunnels of brilliant lights, surrounded by trees adorned with over two million glowing bulbs. This picturesque setting is a feast for the senses—splashes of color from illuminated flowers, dragonflies, and butterflies create an ethereal ambiance that guests of all ages will delight in. As you meander through the splendor of twinkling lights, be sure to engage in the nightly visits from Santa, various children’s activities, and food options from Michael’s on East Grill. This event offers a perfect photo opportunity, an array of activities, and entertainment that solidify the Lights in Bloom event as a cherished tradition.
The Sarasota Fairgrounds’ Balloon Glow & Laser Show
The Sarasota Fairgrounds are synonymous with fun, family, and festivity, and their Balloon Glow & Laser Show during the holiday season is a spectacle not to be missed. Prepare for an evening under the stars, surrounded by incredible hot air balloons that glow in synchrony with a stunning laser light show. It’s a sensory experience that combines music, lights, and crowd participation to create an unforgettable festive atmosphere. The Fairgrounds offer an array of activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Kids can revel in the engaging activities at the Kids Zone, which includes games, rides, bounce houses, and even train rides. For those seeking a bit of adventure, there are tethered hot air balloon rides available for purchase. It’s an opportunity to elevate your experience—quite literally—and create lasting memories as you float above the lights. Craft and retail vendors add to the charm with unique items for sale, and food vendors tempt your taste buds with delectable festival-style treats. To cap off the evening, the grand finale Balloon Glow & Laser Show around 9 pm will leave you utterly mesmerized. Remember to bring your blankets and chairs to set up your ideal viewing spot under the magical night sky.
The Siesta Key Holiday Boat Parade
There’s something uniquely magical about the glitter of holiday lights reflecting off the water, and the Siesta Key Holiday Boat Parade does just that. Established in 1986, this annual event has become a beloved tradition, attracting thousands of spectators who line the shores from Centennial Park to Bayfront Park. The parade route weaves through Sarasota Bay, offering a captivating sight as about 25 festively decorated boats sail by, their lights shimmering on the water. Imagine settling in with your family, perhaps with a cozy picnic, as you enjoy the cheerful parade of boats. Many spectators come prepared with folding chairs and coolers filled with refreshments, creating a festive and communal atmosphere. The Siesta Key Holiday Boat Parade is more than just a visual delight—it’s an experience that brings people together, ignites holiday spirit, and fills the air with anticipation and joy!
Lakewood Ranch New Year’s Eve Celebration
As the year draws to a close, Lakewood Ranch offers the perfect spot to welcome the New Year with an unforgettable celebration. The Lakewood Ranch New Year’s Eve Celebration is an epic way to ring in the next chapter, complete with live music, food, drinks, and a variety of activities that cater to both adults and kids. Live music by DJ Truth sets the festive tone, encouraging visitors to dance the night away under the starlit sky. For families, the kids’ area provides plenty of entertainment, ensuring the little ones are having just as much fun as the adults. As the clock strikes midnight, the sky is set ablaze with a spectacular live drone light show, a modern and thrilling twist on traditional fireworks. This high-tech display captivates the audience, creating a sense of awe and wonder as hundreds of illuminated drones dance across the night sky. The sense of togetherness and celebration at Lakewood Ranch’s New Year’s Eve event is the perfect way to bid farewell to one year and joyfully welcome the next.
Plan Your Next Visit!
Are you ready to explore things to do in Siesta Key this holiday season? Browse our entire selection of beachfront rentals in Siesta Key today and find the perfect match for your stay!
Book Your Siesta Key Condo Rental with Crystal Sands
As you embark on this journey of festive exploration, what could be better than having a haven of luxury to return to? Our 2 bedroom Siesta Key condo rentals at Crystal Sands provide the comfort and convenience you need for a memorable holiday getaway. Imagine waking up to the serene sound of waves crashing against the shore, stepping out onto your balcony to enjoy a breathtaking ocean view, and then heading out to experience the best holiday events Siesta Key has to offer. Book your stay with Crystal Sands today and let us be your home during this festive season. We look forward to welcoming you to our little slice of paradise and helping you create holiday memories that will last a lifetime. Happy Holidays from Crystal Sands Condominiums!
