Planning a trip to South Florida this December? If you’re heading to the 2025 Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade, one of the biggest holiday events in Fort Lauderdale, you’re in for a magical weekend. The parade lights up the waterways on Saturday, December 13, 2025, with dazzling yachts, music, and holiday cheer. But Winterfest isn’t just about the parade, it’s the perfect time to explore everything Fort Lauderdale Beach has to offer.
Here are the top things to do in Fort Lauderdale Beach during Winterfest 2025 to make the most of your stay.
1. Walk the Iconic Fort Lauderdale Beach Promenade
Start your visit with a relaxing stroll along the Fort Lauderdale Beach Promenade. With its palm-lined paths, ocean views, and inviting cafes, it’s the ultimate place to soak up Florida sunshine before the Winterfest celebrations begin. Rent a bike, grab a coffee, and enjoy the buzz of the beachfront.
2. Relax and Play at Fort Lauderdale Beach
December temperatures hover around the mid-70s, perfect beach weather! Spend a few hours swimming, sunbathing, or trying a water sport like paddleboarding or jet skiing. Fort Lauderdale’s wide sandy beach makes it easy to unwind before the big Winterfest weekend.
3. Shop, Dine, and Explore Las Olas Boulevard
Just minutes from the beach, Las Olas Boulevard is Fort Lauderdale’s stylish hub for dining and shopping. Browse local boutiques, sip cocktails at rooftop bars, and sample fresh seafood or gourmet cuisine at top-rated restaurants like Steelpan at the Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach, known for its Caribbean-inspired coastal dishes, or MAASS at the Four Seasons, the city’s first Michelin-starred restaurant offering refined, oceanfront dining. During Winterfest week, Las Olas glows with festive decorations and holiday energy.
4. Experience the Winterfest Happenings
The fun doesn’t stop at the parade! Leading up to December 13, Fort Lauderdale hosts Winterfest Family Fun Day, VIP viewing parties, and dockside celebrations. Check the official schedule at WinterfestParade.com for all the 2025 events.
5. Cruise the Canals on the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi
Nicknamed the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale is best seen by water. Hop aboard the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi to explore the Intracoastal Waterway and New River, the same route the Winterfest Boat Parade follows. You’ll get postcard-worthy views of waterfront mansions and mega-yachts decked out in holiday lights.
6. Enjoy Waterfront Dining with a Parade View
Make your Winterfest night extra special with dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Many venues along the Intracoastal, including Bo’s Beach and Lona Cocina and Tequileria offer Winterfest viewing parties with themed menus and live entertainment. Be sure to reserve early, tables with a parade view go fast.
7. Explore Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Need a break from the festivities? Head to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, a hidden oasis across from A1A. Enjoy hiking trails, kayak rentals, and shaded picnic spots just steps from the beach. It’s a quiet, scenic escape right in the heart of the city.
8. Experience Fort Lauderdale Nightlife After the Parade
When the Winterfest Boat Parade fireworks fade, the night is just beginning. Dance and mingle at local favorites like Rock Bar or unwind with a craft cocktail and ocean views at MAASS inside the Four Seasons.
Bonus Winterfest 2025 Tips
- Parade start time: Around 6:30 p.m., arrive early for the best views.
- Top viewing spots: Las Olas Intracoastal Bridge, Birch State Park, or ticketed areas along the New River.
- Getting around: Parking fills up quickly, consider rideshare or public transit.
- What to wear: Light layers, it can cool off near the water after sunset.
With its mix of holiday lights, tropical weather, and oceanfront charm, Winterfest 2025 is the ultimate South Florida celebration. Whether you’re catching the Fort Lauderdale Boat Parade, exploring Las Olas, dining at Steelpan or MAASS, or lounging on the beach, you’ll find endless things to do in Fort Lauderdale Beach this December. Plan your Winterfest weekend now and discover why this waterfront city is one of the best winter vacation destinations in Florida.