What’s Happening in Florida This Weekend?

If you’re looking for something fun to do this weekend, Florida never disappoints. From lively festivals and open-air markets to art walks and food-forward events, there’s always something happening—no matter which city you’re in.

This weekend’s Florida Finds rounds up some of the best ways to enjoy your days (and nights) across the state. Whether you’re planning a laid-back afternoon or a full weekend itinerary, here’s what to check out in Orlando, Tampa, Miami, and Jacksonville.

🎄 Dazzling Nights® Orlando – Holiday Light & Experience Festival

📍 Harry P. Leu Gardens — 1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
📅 December 26 – 28, 2025
🕕 Evenings (typically 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM nightly)

What It Is:
Dazzling Nights® Orlando is a large immersive holiday light experience set inside the beautiful botanical Harry P. Leu Gardens. The grounds are transformed into a magic holiday wonderland with thousands of lights, illuminated displays, live music, interactive installations, seasonal food & drinks, and a Holiday Village market.

Highlights:

• 🌟 Candy Cane Crossing: Wander through a forest of choreographed candy-cane light displays.

• 🎶 Live Holiday Music: Seasonal music and live performances spread throughout the garden paths.

• 🍷 Holiday Village: A cozy marketplace with holiday treats, beverages, small bites, and special adult drinks.

• ✨ Interactive Zones: Playful elements like snowball fight areas with elves, twinkling light installations, and immersive zones like “The Cathedral” and illuminated meadows.

• 📸 Photo Opportunities: Perfect spots for festive photos under giant stars and light arches.

• 🧑‍🎄 Family-friendly event with options for adults and kids alike.

• 🎟 Tickets: Timed entry tickets are usually required; you can buy tickets online ahead of time.

Why It’s Great:
Perfect for families, couples, and holiday lovers — especially in the early evening when the lights are at their most vibrant.

🐾 Howl After Christmas Happy Hour

📍 Howl at the Moon Orlando — 8815 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819
📅 Saturday, December 27, 2025
🕖 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

What It Is:
A festive holiday happy hour party at the lively bar/entertainment venue Howl at the Moon — known for live music, interactive piano shows, and high-energy atmosphere. This event keeps the holiday spirit going with drinks, music, and great vibes.

Who It’s For:

• Adults (21+)

• Groups of friends looking for a post-holiday night out

• People who enjoy upbeat holiday music and festive social settings

What to Expect:

• 🍹 Festive cocktails & drink specials

• 🎵 Live music and holiday soundtracks

• 🎉 A casual, laid-back holiday party atmosphere

• 🎟 Free attendance (donations appreciated)

🎶 Phoenix5 + Yaleo Live at Boxi Park

📍 Boxi Park Lake Nona — 6877 Tavistock Lakes Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827
📅 Friday, December 26, 2025
🕕 6:30 PM onwards

What It Is:
A live music show featuring local performers Phoenix5 and Yaleo at the outdoor social hub Boxi Park in Lake Nona. Boxi Park hosts seasonal live entertainment, outdoor seating, food trucks, and a fun community vibe — especially around the holidays. 

Who:
Live music lovers and people who want a outdoor concert + food & drink experience without the big festival crowds.

Extras:

• 💃 Food & drink from Boxi’s on-site vendors

• 🎤 Outdoor stage on a spacious lawn area

• 👍 Great casual vibe for families and groups

🕯️ Other Special Things Happening This Weekend (Quick Details)

Candlelight Concerts — The Abbey

📍 The Abbey (100 S Eola Dr, Orlando, FL 32801)
📅 Sunday, Dec 28, 2025
🕡 6:30 PM – Candlelight: Tribute to Adele
📍 Later: 8:45 PM – Candlelight: Anime Soundtracks
About: Candlelight shows are live tribute concerts performed by candlelight, spotlighting popular artists and themes in an intimate concert setting.

🚶‍♂️ Bonus — Community Seasonal Celebrations

Winter Park Kwanzaa Celebration

📍 Winter Park Community Center
📅 Friday, Dec 26, 2025
🕔 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
What: A community Kwanzaa event featuring drumming, dance, food, and crafts celebrating the cultural holiday principle Umoja (Unity) — a welcoming and educational event.

🔔 Tips for Visiting These Events

• Reservations/Tickets: Many holiday events, especially Dazzling Nights, sell out — buy tickets online in advance.

• Timing: Most evening events begin around 5:30 – 6:30 PM, so plan to arrive early for parking and entry.

• Family vs. Adult-Only: If you’re traveling with kids, Dazzling Nights® is one of the best festive experiences; Howl After Christmas is adults-only.

• Weather: Florida evenings in late December can be cool; bring a light jacket if you plan to be outdoors.