Best festivals, holiday events in Palm Beach County for 2025-26 season

Maybe you’re a lifelong resident of Palm Beach County and know about “season” and all the amazing events that take place from November through May. It’s also possible, however, that you’re new to the area and are thinking “Ok, I made it to paradise, now what?”

Whether you’re a newbie or a lifer here’s ‘what’… In addition to beautiful beaches and parks, no snow or sleet, high temps in the 70s and low 80s and oodles of sunshine, there will be food festivals, music festivals, holiday festivals, environmental events, arts and crafts shows, boat shows, professional golf and tennis tournaments and just about everything you could want in between.

The real fact is it’s actually pretty tough to find a weekend from November to May where there isn’t a major event happening.

Here are over two dozen outdoor events throughout the area to get you out and about:

Winter Wonderland, The Ben Hotel in downtown West Palm Beach

Back for its second season, this event will feature an even bigger ice skating rink than last year that will measure an impressive 50 by 66 feet. Not a ‘sort of ice-skating experience’ this rink features real ice powered by Ice America’s advanced refrigeration system. The wildly-popular attraction saw 30,000 skaters take to the ice last year.

In addition, Winter Wonderland will also feature Live Music Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m. with local favorites like Girlfriend Material, Santa Claus Sundays with photo ops, Ugly Sweater Day, Make-Your-Ornament Workshops and much more. An additional highlight this year will be the Holiday Tree Forest, a grove of decorated trees created in collaboration with local nonprofit organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County.

The attraction will run 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Nov. 1 to Jan. 4. 251 N. Narcissus, Ave., West Palm Beach. Entry complimentary, skating sessions require ticket purchase that includes a 90-minute session. Adults $25, ages 4 to 11 $10. Information: thebenevents.com

Galbani Feast of Little Italy, Jupiter

Celebrating their 24th year, this year’s Galbani Feast of Little Italy will once again offer three days celebrating Italian culture through food, wine, music, games and more. A few of the musical acts slated to appear this year include the Atlantic City Boys “A Tribute to Frankie Valli,” Franco Corso, Vincent & Emily Ricciardi and Anthony Nunziata “Bocelli & Beyond.” There will be complimentary wine and cooking demonstrations on the La Cucina Galbani Cooking Stage, rides and the Aperol Spritz Piazza where guests can indulge in fantastic cocktails.

The event will be 4 to 10 p.m. Nov. 7; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Nov. 8 and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Nov. 9. Abacoa, 1267 Main St., Jupiter. Free. Information: feastoflittleitaly.com

LagoonFest 2025, West Palm Beach

Celebrating their 12th anniversary this year, LagoonFest once again honors the amazing Lake Worth Lagoon. Highlighting the beauty and importance of this 20-mile-long urban estuary that stretches from North Palm Beach to Boynton Beach, there will be wildlife presentations, hands-on environmental exhibits, and unique experiences like scientist-guided cruises aboard Aqua Adventures. The Kids Zone will offer face painting, lawn games, artful crafts, and interactive displays that entertain and educate. Visitors can also pick up a free Lake Worth Lagoon calendar featuring photography by local professionals. In addition, the event is just steps away from the award-winning West Palm Beach GreenMarket with 150 vendors offering up one delicious treat after another.

The event is 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1. Flagler Drive between Clematis and Fern Streets, West Palm Beach. Free. Information: thepalmbeaches.com/lagoonfest

Art + Craft + Design Creative Market, Armory Art Center

Spend the weekend shopping for unique, handmade art and gifts (the holidays are nearly here), strolling the galleries, learning about the center’s studios and watching live art demonstrations. The ninth annual festival, this market will host nearly 5,000 visitors inside and outside the historic center located in Howard Park and at the intersection of the historic neighborhoods Grandview Heights and Flamingo Park. The Armory Art Center is only a short distance from both Tri-Rail and Brightline Stations as well as Palm Beach International Airport.

The event is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8 and Sunday, Nov. 9. 811 Park Place, West Palm Beach. Free. Information: armoryart.org/event/armory-art-center-art-craft-design

Juno Beach Craft Festival on the Ocean

The Juno Beach Craft Festival will mark its 23rd anniversary this year. Set along picturesque A1A within sight of the Atlantic Ocean, the two-day event will feature handmade crafts for every budget in mediums including leather, glass, photography and more. There will be beautiful views and plenty of delicious food and beverages for sale. Parking is available at nearby Loggerhead Park or along A1A just north of the park.

The event is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9. 14200 US 1, Juno Beach. Free. Information: artfestival.com/festivals/juno-beach-craft

Zoo Lights at Palm Beach Zoo

The stars at night might be big and bright deep in the heart of Texas, but they’ve got nothing on this South Florida tradition. Presented by Florida Power & Light’s FPL SolarNow and featuring thousands of energy-efficient LED lights, Zoo Lights will include a 24-foot animated holiday tree, twinkling pathways waiting to be strolled, dazzling light shows choreographed to holiday favorites and much more. There will be food and beverages available. There are even 21-and-older nights with seasonal cocktails and holiday-inspired bites for that perfect date night.

The event is 5:30 to 9 p.m. on select nights from Nov. 21 to Jan. 4. 1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach. Information: palmbeachzoo.org/zoo-lights-2025

Holiday in Paradise, West Palm Beach

2024 Sandi Tree is world’s only 35-foot tall, 700-ton holiday tree

Sandi, the world’s only 35-foot tall, 700-ton holiday tree is lit.

Packed with multiple events, Holiday in Paradise is West Palm Beach’s month-long celebration of the season. Kicking things off will be the Clematis by Night Holiday Tree Lighting on Thursday, Dec. 4 where Sandi, West Palm Beach’s massive holiday sand sculpture, will be lit for the first time. Two days later on Dec. 6 enjoy the Rhythm and Lights event at Heart and Soul Park featuring dazzling decorations, local musicians, food vendors and a market with local artisans. Next up will be Sandi and Santa’s Annual Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, Dec. 7 where guests can enjoy gourmet pancakes with … you guessed it Sandi and Santa. Then on Dec. 12 hit the streets of Northwood for Nights in Northwood Village and find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts from local artisans, stunning holiday lights and festive live entertainment.

The good times keep on rolling on Saturday, Dec. 13 with a DJ and drone show. Next, the holidays go full tropical with a visit from the Aloha Islanders Tropical Polynesian Show on Sunday, Dec. 21 for this annual high-energy, and authentic Polynesian show. Finally, when you think you just can’t handle one more day of holiday fun, go out with a bang during Sandi’s Season Finale on Wednesday, Dec. 31 and welcome the New Year with extended light and music shows.

The events are Dec. 4, 6, 7, 12, 13, 21 and 31. Various locations including the waterfront at 100 N. Clematis St.; Heart & Soul Park, 825 N. Rosemary Ave.; and Historic Northwood Village, 24th St., West Palm Beach. All shows are free except pancake breakfast. Information: wpb.org

Winterfest with Vanilla Ice, National Polo Center

Bigger, bolder and cooler than ever, Winterfest is moving to the National Polo Center where it will feature stadium seating, multiple live music acts, the Vanilla Ice Car Show, food and beverages, VIP hospitality boxes and much more. There will even be parking onsite.

The event will be held 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5. 3667 120th Ave. S., Wellington. Information: wellingtonchamber.com; facebook.com

Palm Beach Food and Wine Festival

The four-day annual Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival will feature a “who’s who” of famous culinary faces including Maneet Chauhan, Robert Irvine, Daniel Boulud, Karen Akunowicz, Stephanie Izard, Tim Lipman, Leah Cohen, Julien Gremaud and many more. This year’s events will be held at various locations from the kick-off party at The Belgrove, to tastings at Oceano in Lake Worth Beach, Pink Steak in West Palm Beach, The Park in West Palm Beach, PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens and more.

The event kicks off at noon Friday, Dec. 11 and runs through Dec. 14. Various locations throughout Palm Beach County. See website for ticket prices. Information: pbfoodwinefest.com

Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade and Toy Drive

The Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade and Toy Drive is presented by Lessing’s Hospitality Group. The premier event of the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County will once again feature dozens of boats decorated with holiday themes traveling along the Intracoastal Waterway from North Palm Beach to the Jupiter Lighthouse. The procession will be led by a Zambelli traveling fireworks display.

Though definitely in the spirit of the season, these boats are also decorated with the hopes of winning one of the awards, bragging rights and a share of over $10,000 in cash and prizes. Judging is based on three factors: lights, enthusiasm and themed decor. Spectators will see lights, dancing Santas, elves and much more.

Top viewing location along the route include the North Palm Beach Country Club, Bert Winters Park, Juno Park, Sawfish Park, Lighthouse Park, Waterway Park, Riverwalk, Harbourside Place, Charlie and Joe’s at Love Street, Square Grouper Tiki Bar, U-Tiki, and Jetty’s.

The event kicks off 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6. The parade starts off in North Palm Beach and works its way north to the Jupiter Lighthouse. Free. Information: marinepbc.org/boat-parade

Boynton Beach Holiday Boat Parade

Put on by the Boynton Beach CRA in partnership with the town of Hypoluxo, town of Lantana, and city of Delray Beach, the Boynton Beach Holiday Boat Parade will feature dozens privately-owned and commercial vessels all decked out with dazzling lights, holiday décor, and costumed captains and crews.

Though the festive flotilla’s official watch location is the Boynton Harbor Marina, there are plenty of other great locations to watch the show. Some of these include the Old Key Lime House in Lantana; Banana Boat, Two Georges and Prime Catch in Boynton Beach; and Deck 84 in Delray Beach. Parks including Intracoastal Park, Jaycee Park and Harvey E. Oyer Jr. Park in Boynton Beach and Veterans Park and Knowles Park in Delray Beach are also excellent for viewing.

Each year, the BBCRA partners with Marine Industries and Sea Tow to collect new, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots. There will be boats traveling with the parade that will stop at individual docks along the parade route to collect toys. Simply waive a flashlight and a boat will come directly to you for pick-up. There will also be donation boxes at the Boynton Harbor Marina, Banana Boat, Prime Catch, and Two Georges.

Feeling festive and want to enter your own boat in the parade? Click here.

The event takes place at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12. The parade route runs from the Ocean Avenue Bridge in Lantana south to the C-15 Canal in Delray Beach. Free. Information: boyntonbeachcra.com

Boat Parade of the Greater Palm Beaches

This inaugural event, presented by the Sailfish Marina, will feature festively decorated boats, twinkling lights, a spectacular fireworks show and a special appearance by Santa Claus aboard the KVJ Show Grand Marshal Boat. The event benefits The Little Smiles Annual Holiday Toy Drive that collects thousands of new, unwrapped toys for local children in need.

The event is 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13. 98 Lake Drive, Palm Beach Shores. Free. Information: sailfishmarina.com/boat-parade-of-the-greater-palm-beaches

2026 South Florida Fair, West Palm Beach

This year’s fair theme will be “Party with the Pirates” and it will feature 17 days of swashbuckling good times. Set sail on an amazing voyage and unleash your inner pirate with activities, entertainment, fair food and attractions all inspired by wild adventures on the high seas. Costumed actors portraying famous pirates, including Blackbeard and Anne Bonny, will interact with fairgoers.

Returning fair favorites will include daily ice skating shows titled “Legends of the Frozen Cove,” comedy hypnotist Brad Matchett, Ag-venture Land, Moo-ternity area, daily parades, ‘Taste the Treasure Fair Foodie Tour,’ Top Talent Showdown, Drumline Competition, Classic Rock Tribute Band Competition, Miss South Florida Fair & Miss Palm Beach County Scholarship Competition, bike nights, live concerts, livestock shows, a wild variety of decadently-delicious and unique foods, 200 carnival rides and much more.

The fair will run from Jan. 16 to Feb. 1. 9067 Southern Blvd., West Palm Beach. See website for exact times and ticket prices. Information: southfloridafair.com/p/south-florida-fair

Art Palm Beach, Palm Beach County Convention Center

With fantastic momentum following their third event last year, this year’s show promises to be a broader and even more highly curated show. As the one of the premiere mid-winter contemporary art fairs in The Palm Beaches, the show will provide an opportunity for collectors to explore and acquire the best of a vast selection of global contemporary and modern art in the cultural hub of South Florida.

The event will run from Jan. 28 to Feb. 1. 650 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach. Opening night (Wednesday, Jan. 28) tickets $162.94; one-day tickets $44.96. Information: artpalmbeach.com

The Palm Beach Show, Palm Beach County Convention Center

Known as one of the most luxurious and sophisticated showcases of its kind in the United States, the 23rd Annual Palm Beach Show will return for Presidents’ Day weekend. The event is still the area’s only high-end showcase offering items spanning every genre and juxtaposing many periods and movements. The show bills itself as “the most prestigious cultural event of the season.”

The event will be held 4 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12 (Opening Night Preview Party) and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Feb. 13 to 17. 650 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach. Information: palmbeachshow.com

Delray Beach Open, Delray Beach Tennis Center

More than a week long, the Delray Beach Open will feature world-class tennis including singles, doubles, Pro-Am, a Legend Clinic and even player Meet & Greet opportunites. Top players including Taylor Fritz, Casper Ruud and local resident Tommy Paul have committed to play. There will also be fun food and dining experiences within the event. Some of these include Valentine’s & Volleys (yes, it overlaps Valentine’s Day); Burgers, Bourbon & Brew and more.

The event runs Feb. 13 to 22. 201 W. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach. See website for times, ticket prices. Information: delraybeachopen.com

The Palm Tree Music Festival, downtown West Palm Beach

The Palm Tree Music Festival is a 4-year-old rotating musical event featuring prominent EDM and house music acts that will make its West Palm Beach waterfront debut in February. It has previously been held in wealthy locales including Aspen, Colorado; Saint-Tropez, France; and The Hamptons in New York. The West Palm Beach event will be headlined by Kygo and superstar DJ Calvin Harris. It will also include New York-based electronic music duo Sofi Tukker and the German DJ Bunt.

The event will be 4 to 11 p.m. Feb. 14. Flagler Drive and Clematis Street, West Palm Beach. Ticket prices TBA (recent Palm Tree Music Festival event, single-day general admission tickets sold for $270, plus fees.) Information: palmtreemusicfestival.com

ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival, Palm Beach Gardens

Celebrating over four decades, this longtime outdoor arts event has grown from a small, local art show to a nationally recognized fine arts festival attracting tens of thousands of art lovers and collectors. Showcasing a juried exhibition of outstanding fine art, ArtiGras was recently named one of the top 70 fine art festivals in the country. This year’s show will feature gallery-quality art from 300 artists, along with a Youth Art Competition, ArtiKids Kids Zone, live entertainment and much more.

The event will be held 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14 and Sunday, Feb. 15. Gardens North County District Park, 5101 117th Court N., Palm Beach Gardens. Information: artigras.org

Bacon & Bourbon Festival, Wellington

Held at the Wellington Amphitheater this year, this celebration of that sacred, salty, sweet meat known as bacon (Able to break even the most ardent vegetarians.), along with bourbon, that most wonderful of American spirits, will once again feature delicious bacon-forward and bacon-infused dishes and over 40 premium bourbons and whiskeys. New for this year will be the “Hog Wild Speakeasy,” which will feature a poker tournament as a fundraiser for our military veterans.

The event is 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14 and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 15. 12100 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. Free. Information: instagram.com

Lake Worth Beach Street Painting Festival, downtown Lake Worth Beach

Watch as over 600 artists take to the streets and transform their allotted squares of asphalt into gallery-worthy, beautiful works of art. There will be live music on multiple stages, a festival food court and bistro, along with all of downtown’s restaurants, bars and pubs to try.

Video of 2025 Lake Worth Street Painting Festival in Florida

Thousands attend the 2025 Lake Worth Street Painting Festival where artists turn the streets into works of art in Lake Worth Beach, Florida.

The event will be held Saturday, Feb. 21 and Sunday, Feb. 22. Lake and Lucerne Avenues, Lake Worth Beach. Free. Information: spf.lakeworthbeachfl.gov

Cognizant Classic, PGA National Resort

Drawing some of the best players on the PGA Tour, this iconic tournament returns in February. The 2025 event was won by Joe Highsmith who had an impressive pair of seven under 64s to take the victory. Other previous winners include Rickie Fowler, Padraig Harrington, Rory McIlroy, Justin Thomas, Sungjae Im and Sepp Straka.

The Cognizant Classic runs from Feb. 25 to March 1. 400 Avenue of the Champions, Palm Beach Gardens. Information: thecognizantclassic.com

Festival of the Arts BOCA

This multi-day festival kicks off on Feb. 27 for its 20th season and will once again feature a mix of musical brilliance, thought-provoking ideas, and artistic innovation. Anchored by this year’s theme “Legends, Luminaries & the Unexpected,” there will be a performance by festival favorite Postmodern Jukebox, who will transform today’s chart-toppers into vintage jazz; a screening of “Jurassic Park” on a massive LED screen, set to a live orchestra; “From Swan Lake to the Stones: A Night of Ballet” that mixes classical ballet and contemporary choreography with some of today’s most renowned dancers from around the world, a performance by pianist Conrad Tao, authors & ideas and much more. All performances take place at Mizner Park Amphitheater.

The festival runs from Feb. 27 to March 8. 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. See website for tickets and times for each event. Information: festivalboca.org

South Florida Garlic Fest, Delray Beach

Returning its roots in Delray Beach after an extended stay in Wellington, “The Best Stinkin’ Party” is back and more than ready to once-again infuse this city with garlicky goodness. Held at Old School Square, the event will include multiple live music acts (with a yet-unnamed national act), games, beverages and pretty much everything you can add garlic to (and some things that most people would ordinarily not).

The event is 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28 and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, March 1. 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach. Saturday is $15 until 6 p.m. and then tickets go to $20, Sunday $15 all day. Information: garlicfestfl.com

ArtFest by the Sea, Juno Beach

Going strong for well over three decades, this event will feature 300 exceptional artists and craft artisans from 30 states, displaying an incredible array of diverse mediums, from sculpture and jewelry to woodwork, paintings, wearable art, and much more. This pet-friendly event will also feature a green market with live plants, handmade soaps, and delightful treats. Attendees can park for free and take the shuttle from the FPL Lot at 700 Universe Blvd., just off of US 1.

The event is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 7 and Sunday, March 8. 14200 US 1, Juno Beach. Free. Information: artfestival.com

Jupiter Irish Fest, Abacoa Town Center

Celebrating the Emerald Isle, the two-day Jupiter Irish Fest will feature food, drink, dancing, live music and more. Enjoy Irish cuisine including traditional dishes like Guinness stew, colcannon and shepherd’s pie as well as modern favorites to satisfy all cravings. Pair those with Smithwick’s, Harp or Guinness or maybe Jameson or Cairlinn Bay for the perfect combination. The event, now in its seventh season, is the creation of Dublin-born, local Tequesta Fire Captain David McGovern.

The event is 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. March 14 and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. March 15. Abacoa Town Center, 1267 Main St., Jupiter. Free. Information: jupiteririshfest.com

Palm Beach International Boat Show, West Palm Beach

Bird’s eye view of the Palm Beach International Boat Show mega yachts

The Palm Beach International Boat Show will feature 45 yachts measuring 150 feet or longer and 200 super yachts surpassing 80 feet in length

Owned by the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County and produced by Informa Markets, the 2026 Palm Beach International Boat Show will showcase over 1,000 boats along with more than 600 exhibiting brands. The event draws in over 60,000 attendees each year with an impressive $1.05 billion economic impact.

The event will be held Wednesday, March 25 to Sunday, March 29. Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach. Information: pbboatshow.com/en/home

Delray Affair, downtown Delray Beach

The 64th running of the wildly popular event, known as the “Greatest Show under the Sun,” will cover an impressive seven blocks of beautiful downtown Delray Beach. Attendees will once again be enchanted by a melting pot of creativity as over 500 artisans and crafters put their works out for sale. Don’t miss the chance to discover a treasure trove of masterpieces that will ignite your senses and transport you to a world of wonder.

The event will be 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, April 10 and Saturday, April 11; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 12. Downtown Delray Beach. Free. Information: delrayaffair.com

Cajun Crawfish & Music Festival, Abacoa Town Center

Celebrating Louisiana cuisine and culture, this event will feature authentic Cajun dishes including gumbo, crawfish etouffée, po’ boys, muffuletta, shrimp and grits, beignets and more, plus all the crawfish you can handle courtesy of Cajun master boiler, Louisiana John and his family. Wash it all down with classic drinks like Hurricanes, Grenades and event emcee Virginia Sinicki’s Virginia Champagne Hurricane.

The event is 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. April 11 and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. April 1. Abacoa Town Center, 1267 Main St., Jupiter. $5. Information: cajuncrawfishmusicfestival.com

Galbani Festa Italiana, Wellington Amphitheater

Now in its second year, Galbani Festa Italiana will once again showcase Italian culture through food, wine, music, games and much more. There will be cooking and wine demonstrations, delicious cocktails and much more.

The event is 4 to 10 p.m. Friday, April 17; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, April 18; and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, April 19. 12100 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. Free. Information: wellingtonfestaitaliana.com

Black Gold Jubilee, Torry Island Campground, Belle Glade

This annual event celebrating the end of the harvest will feature live music including headliner Confederate Railroad, along with Clearwater: A Tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival and Bee Gees Now. There will also be the mainstreet parade with marching bands, floats, antique cars and more. The Harvest Queen Pageant will celebrate its 62nd anniversary this year. There will also be the Black Gold Jubilee 5K & 10K race along the Herbert Hoover Dike.

The event is April 18. Torry Island Campground, 5000 W. Canal St., Belle Glade. Free. Information: blackgoldjubilee.org

Dance. All. Day. Fest, CityPlace

In partnership with CityPlace, the Dance. All. Day. Fest encourages movement, creativity and fun for all ages with community dance classes led by local teaching artists, pop-up performances by some of South Florida’s most talented artists and companies, family workshops, a DJ for social dancing, and more.

The event is Saturday, May 2. 700 S. Rosemary Ave., West Palm Beach. Free. Information: naturalmovers.org/dancealldayfest

Eddie Ritz is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at [email protected]. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today.