Summer sand and beaches might seem to clash with the traditional notion of winter holidays. A pine tree frosted in a fresh dusting of snow, sledding, snowmen, and snow fights – while all of this is certainly enjoyable, it’s not the only way to spend the holiday season! Anna Maria Island weather during winter months is especially agreeable: less humidity and heat, but still warm enough for the beach. Spend your winter vacation in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, escaping the usual drudgery of colder climates. 

Holiday Events

If you or your family remain unconvinced on spending winter holidays in a tropical climate, rest assured, there are plenty of festivities in keeping with holiday tradition. The winter holidays in Anna Maria Island are truly a magical time of year! 

Chamber Of Commerce Tree Lighting

The annual AMI Chamber of Commerce Tree Lighting & Holmes Beach Holiday Open House is a spectacular way to kick off the Christmas season. Shops and stores around Holmes Beach welcome the community, offering treats, holiday sales, and live music. At 6 p.m., the tree lighting happens in the Chamber of Commerce Parking lot. Come for the fun and festivities! 

Island Christmas Parade

For some proper Christmas cheer and a chance to see Santa, don’t miss the Anna Maria Privateers Island Christmas Parade. Every year, the parade begins at Coquina Beach Park in Bradenton Beach and continues all the way to City Pier Park on the northern tip of the island.

The parade is one of Anna Maria Island’s best activities for kids. Bring them to see Santa, Christmas floats, and other entertainment. 

Bradenton Beach Holiday Boat Parade

If one parade isn’t enough, the Bradenton Beach Holiday Boat Parade is another fantastic spectacle for the family. The parade route starts at Jewfish Key and heads north, past the Historic Bridge Street Pier before reaching Bradenton Beach Marina. Wander the shoreline to catch a glimpse of boats decked in Christmas lights and décor, or be part of the parade yourself on an Anna Maria Princess Paddle Wheel Boat! Call ahead for reservations. 

Christmas On Bridge St

Christmas on Bridge Street offers an afternoon and evening full of fun for the entire family. Celebrate the Christmas season with live bands, Sweet Adelines International Singers, a cornhole tournament, free Christmas ornament making activities and food tastings. There are numerous activities specifically geared towards children, who will especially enjoy the opportunity to make ornaments to decorate the Christmas tree! Bridge Street will be closed to traffic during the event.

Other AMI Christmas Festivities

Marking the winter solstice, the Robinson Preserve Light Festival provides an opportunity for mindful meditation for the entire family. After sunset, a candlelit trail will be assembled for a single night. Follow the path, taking some time during this busy season to slow down and enjoy the lights and natural beauty. Reservations will be required for a Lantern Kit. 

A Classic Christmas at Palmetto’s Historical Park includes decorated buildings, kids’ crafts and contests, Reindeers Games, and a guest appearance from Santa. Parents, bring your cameras for a photo opportunity! A snow hill will also be available for children to slide down. 

Across Anna Maria Island, you’ll find shops and galleries demonstrating a longstanding appreciation for art. This appreciation is on full display during the December Artwalk, with lights and galleries decorated for the holidays. In addition, there is live music, strolling entertainment, tasty treats, and holiday shopping – truly something for everyone!