Fun Holiday Activities in Bradenton and Sarasota

Hollywood may show the holiday season involves a lot of dashing through the snow. Rest assured, though, that Florida has so much holiday spirit that you won't even miss the snow! Here are some fun holiday activities that you can enjoy in Bradenton and Sarasota.

Holiday Splendor at The Ringling

The Ringling in Sarasota encompasses the State Art Museum of Florida, the Circus Museum and the home of Circus King John Ringling, the Ca’ d’Zan. Although open all year round, there are a couple of special holiday events you won’t want to miss. Holiday Splendor will certainly put you in the holiday spirit. You can tour the estate while enjoying holiday music, performances by local school groups, and food and beverages. Bring a new toy to support the U.S. Making Corps Toys for Tots, and admission is free.

Holiday Nights at Ca’ d’Zan will find the first floor of the mansion decked out with festive decorations and garlands and the Grand Court features a beautiful, 10-foot-tall Christmas tree. Check the website for dates and special extended hours.

Holly Days and Mangrove Lights

Historic Spanish Point is decorated in prime holiday style. The stately houses are beautifully decorated for the holidays. You can walk through 30 acres of gardens and trees decorated with thousands of tiny white lights. Sound magical? It is. You can enjoy it every day in December, except for Christmas Day.

37th Annual Holiday of Lights on St. Armand's Circle

This annual event takes place on December 4, 2015, and unofficially kicks off the area's holiday celebrations. You'll see a performance by the Cuban Ballet School and can join in singing carols, all leading up to a tree lighting ceremony and the arrival of Santa's sleigh.

See a Classic Story

Few tales are more associated with the holidays than Charles Dickens'  A Christmas Carol. But the event December 15-17 at the Crosley Powell Estate puts a truly new and unique spin on classic holiday stories! You'll see performances of A Christmas Carol, Clement Moore's The Night Before Christmas, and The Gentle Giant by Oscar Wilde as you move from one room to the next throughout the estate.

Burn Off Those Holiday Calories

Whether you're feeling like you've indulged in a few too many holiday sweets or just want to enjoy the novelty of being comfortable outdoors in December, maybe the 18th Annual Jingle and Jog 5K Run/Walk on December 5th will be just the thing you need. You can jingle your way to health and fun while supporting the Community Haven for Adults & Children with Disabilities.

Snow Fest Sarasota

Okay, sometimes Floridians feel a little wistful for a white Christmas. If you feel that way too, you won't want to miss Snow Fest Sarasota December 18-20. You'll find snow slides and snow falling from the sky, along with fun activities like face painting and hayrides, too.

Know of other fun holiday activities? Let us know in the comments below.