Snowbird Local Event Calendar

2025 Fall Snowbird Local Event Calendar

Check out our updated local event calendar for Canadian snowbirds, highlighting some of the best events for snowbirds taking place in select snowbird destinations this spring, including California, Florida, Arizona, Texas, Hawaii, Nevada, South Carolina, Nassau, St. Maarten, Portugal and Spain.

The calendar is currently updated in October, December and February.

Snowbird Local Events Calendar

Arizona

Where:
Mesa, Arizona
When:
-

Merry Main Street

Merry Main Street - Mesa

Celebrate the holiday season in Downtown Mesa! Enjoy the Winter Wonderland Ice Skating Rink, visits with Santa, Jack Frost's Food Truck Forest, the Mesa Santa Express and special events throughout the holiday season.

Where:
Phoenix
When:
-

Cactus League Spring Training

Spring Training is a favourite pastime

Cactus League Spring Training descends on the Greater Phoenix area February 19 to March 23, 2026. For baseball lovers, it doesn’t get much better than this: sunny weather, affordable tickets and unparalleled proximity to the best players in the game. Fifteen major league teams play more than 200 games across Greater Phoenix during the month, with no two ballparks more than a 45-minute drive from each other. Find everything you need to know about Spring Training Baseball in Arizona, including Cactus League Teams, Cactus League Schedule, and more.

Where:
Scottsdale
When:
-

Holiday Lights at McCormick Stillman Railroad Park

Holiday Lights at McCormick Stillman Railroad Park

Join us for an enchanting winter journey aboard the Paradise & Pacific Railroad, where a mesmerizing holiday spectacle awaits you. Behold a magical world adorned with dazzling lights and captivating displays, creating a breathtaking winter wonderland. To fully immerse yourself in the festivities, take a delightful ride on the cherished Charros Carousel or savor the warmth of a comforting cup of hot cocoa from the charming Hartley's General Store.
To ensure an intimate and unforgettable experience, we are offering limited capacity, one-and-a-half-hour time slots at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

California

Where:
Palm Desert
When:
-

Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival by Agua Caliente Casinos

Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival by Agua Caliente Casinos

The Gardens on El Paseo will turn into a food and wine wonderland. With over 40 local restaurants, sizzling food demos with chefs like the Emmy Award winner Carla Hall, 60 premium and sparkling wines, and distinctive dinner experiences, Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival is one of the most luxurious food festivals in Greater Palm Springs.

Where:
Palm Springs, California
When:
-

Palm Springs International Film Festival

Palm Springs International Film Festival

Palm Springs has long been renowned as the playground of the stars, so it is no surprise that one of the most iconic film festivals in the world has found its home right here. Held annually in January, the Palm Springs International Film Festival celebrates some of the best international films from each respective year.

Florida

Where:
Amelia Island, Florida
When:
-

Amelia Island Concours Week

Car enthusiasts from around the world gather on Amelia Island to take part in Amelia Island Concours Week featuring stunning displays of vintage cars, luxury vehicles, and rare models highlighting the rich history and craftsmanship of the automotive industry. From meticulously restored classics to cutting-edge supercars, this event celebrates the beauty and innovation of automotive design throughout the years.

Where:
Amelia Island, Florida
When:
-

Fish to Fork

Fish to Fork

With sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and beautiful tree canopies as a backdrop, the weekend will offer an unmatched foodie experience, with true dock-to-dish specialties in a fun and interactive atmosphere. The resort will welcome renowned chefs from around the country to showcase their fishing and culinary skills, leading up to a final chef showdown on Saturday night with a live vote from event guests!

Where:
Daytona Beach
When:
-

Magic of Lights

Magic of Lights

From Nov. 21 through Jan. 3, Daytona International Speedway is transformed into a winter wonderland with the return of Magic of Lights, which features a spectacular drive-through light display and enchanting Reindeer Rest Stop. This year Magic of Lights features the brand-new Reindeer Rest Stop, The Longest Light Tunnel in Florida, mesmerizing light displays, holiday favorites, and brand new uplighting. Experience the wonder of Magic of Lights' most treasured holiday scenes from the warmth and comfort of your vehicle.

Where:
Daytona Beach
When:
-

64th Rolex 24 At Daytona

64th Rolex 24 At Daytona

The 64th anniversary Rolex 24 At Daytona at Daytona International Speedway is a world-famous sports car endurance race that provides an unmatched fan experience featuring thrilling racing, food and beverage offerings, and non-stop entertainment.

With legendary manufacturers, star-studded driver lineups, and an endurance test unlike any other, the Rolex 24 At DAYTONA remains one of the most prestigious races in motorsports and is the season-opening event to the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season.

Where:
Daytona Beach
When:

68th DAYTONA 500 NASCAR Cup series race

The 68th DAYTONA 500, the most prestigious event on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule and known the world over as "The Great American Race," will be held on Sunday, Feb. 15 at the world renowned Daytona International Speedway. The DAYTONA 500 delivers an electric atmosphere as drivers battle for glory and an opportunity to cement their name in history as a DAYTONA 500 Champion.

Where:
Fort Myers - Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods
When:
-

Fort Myers Seafood and Music Festival, downtown Fort Myers

Fort Myers Seafood and Music Festival, downtown Fort Myers

Join us for the 5th Annual Fort Myers Seafood & Music Festival held on the waterfront in historic downtown Fort Myers, FL on January 30th – February 1st, 2026. The event is produced by Paragon Festivals in partnership with the Fort Myers River District Alliance. Festivities begin Friday evening 4pm-10pm and continue Saturday 11am-10pm and Sunday 11am-6pm. General admission is FREE.

Where:
Fort Myers Beach
When:
-

Edison and Ford Winter Estates Holiday Nights, Fort Myers 50th anniversary

Edison and Ford Winter Estates Holiday Nights, Fort Myers 50th anniversary

The historic winter homes, acres of botanic gardens, museum, laboratory, Garden Shoppe (Garden Center) and Museum Store are open from 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. daily (except Thanksgiving and Christmas). The last admission is at 4:30p.m. There is no charge for parking and we have parking for buses and recreational vehicles.

Where:
Greater Fort Lauderdale/ Visit Lauderdale
When:
-

Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival

Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival

: Indulge in some of Greater Fort Lauderdale’s best bites and sips during the fifth annual Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival. This week-long celebration showcases renowned and emerging chefs, restaurateurs, mixologists, and local hotspots, with a portion of all proceeds benefiting Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. The Grand Tasting, scheduled for January 13th, offers unlimited food and beverage tastings, cooking demonstrations, and live music on the beach.

Where:
Panama City Beach
When:

New Year's Eve Beach Ball Drop

New Year's Eve Beach Ball Drop

Panama City Beach may be best known for fun in the sun, but one of Northwest Florida’s most exciting annual events happens after dark: The New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop! Help us ring in 2026, Real. Fun. Beach. style. Named the “Best New Year’s Eve Drop” by USA TODAY 10Best, the celebration promises fun for all ages with live music, fireworks, and exciting new additions that extend beyond Pier Park, offering attendees more space to spread out and enjoy the festivities.

Where:
Panama City Beach
When:
-

Panama City Beach Mardi Gras and Music Festival

Panama City Beach Mardi Gras and Music Festival

Combine the excitement of an authentic Mardi Gras celebration with the spectacular views of our emerald green water and sugar-white sand, and you're in for a real treat at the Panama City Beach Mardi Gras and Music Festival on January 30-31. In conjunction with the Krewe of Dominique Youx's great Mardi Gras at the Beach parade, the festival features entertainment for the whole family.

Where:
Panama City Beach
When:

WInter Resident Grand Finale

The Winter Residence Grand Finale is a farewell/appreciation event to all of our Winter Residents for choosing Panama City Beach as your home away from home. This will wrap up all the Winter Resident activities with a bang and entertainment you will never forget. The Grand Finale will be Friday, February 20, from 4-9pm.

Where:
Pensacola
When:

Pensacola Beach Polar Bear Plunge

Pensacola Beach Polar Bear Plunge

Polar Bear Plunge - Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, Noon - 3 p.m.

Kick off 2026 with a splash! The annual Polar Bear Plunge, hosted by Paradise Inn/Bar & Grill, invites daring participants to take a refreshing dip in the Santa Rosa Sound.

Registration opens at noon, with a $15 cash fee per person that includes a commemorative t-shirt. Kids & adults sizes available.

A $10 donation option is available for participants who’d like to join without a shirt.

Proceeds benefit the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce, so come out, make a splash, and support a great cause!

Where:
Pensacola
When:

Snowbird Beach Bash on Pensacola Beach

The Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Santa Rosa Island Authority will host the 11th Annual Snowbird Beach Bash on Thursday, Jan. 22 , 2026 from 9 to 11am at Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church.This event is a great way for seasonal tourists and vacationers to meet, mingle and learn more about what’s happening on Pensacola Beach.

Where:
Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach
When:
-

Origami in the Garden at Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens

Origami in the Garden at Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens

Step into a world where paper takes flight and metal becomes poetry. Origami in the Garden is a globally celebrated outdoor sculpture exhibition that transforms the ancient art of paper folding into awe-inspiring, large scale metal sculptures. Presented by renowned Santa Fe artists Jennifer and Kevin Box, along with their collaborators Te Jui Fu, Robert J. Lang, Michael G. LaFosse and Beth Johnson, this exhibit gracefully weaves together artistic expression, mythological storytelling, and the natural beauty of our botanical landscape.

Where:
Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach
When:
-

Origami In The Gardens

Origami In The Gardens

Experience Whimsy Unfolding!
Step into a world where paper takes flight—and metal becomes poetry. Origami in the Garden is a globally celebrated outdoor sculpture exhibition that transforms the ancient art of paper folding into awe-inspiring, large scale metal sculptures. Presented by renowned Santa Fe artists Jennifer and Kevin Box, along with their collaborators Te Jui Fu, Robert J. Lang, Michael G. LaFosse and Beth Johnson, this exhibit gracefully weaves together artistic expression, mythological storytelling, and the natural beauty of our botanical landscape.

Where:
Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach
When:
-

Lighting of the Village and Festival of Lights at Fishermen's Village

Lighting of the Village and Festival of Lights at Fishermen's Village

Don’t miss the moment over one million holiday lights blaze to life at Fishermen’s Village: November 15 at 6:15 pm!
Visitors of all ages will enjoy strolling past storefronts, listening to beautiful traditional holiday music, eating amazing food, and exploring thousands of holiday themed decorations and fully decked out Village trees.
Daily viewing continues throughout the month of December, seven days a week! Special guests include Santa and the Grinch alongside tons of live holiday entertainment.

Where:
Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach
When:
-

MLB Spring Training

MLB Spring Training

Charlotte Sports Park is the Spring Training home to the MLB baseball team, Tampa Bay Rays. Here in Southwest Florida, Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach is the perfect location to see all your favorite teams that train nearby. Come see the Toronto Blue Jays play.

Where:
Sarasota, FL
When:
-

Sarasota Polo

Polo is a community sport like no other. The Sarasota Polo Club is one of the largest, most dedicated and enthusiastic polo communities in the world. We look forward to welcoming you during the 2026 Season of Sarasota Polo!

Where:
Sarasota, FL
When:
-

28th Annual Thunder By The Bay Music & Motors Festival

The 28th Annual Thunder By the Bay Music & Motors Festival hits the Sarasota Fairgrounds February 13–15, 2026 — it’s bigger and more powerful than ever. This high-octane weekend includes featured headliners Night Ranger, 38 Special and Montgomery Gentry featuring Eddie Montgomery, plus custom bike and car shows, a biker rodeo, charity rides, vendors, food, drinks, on-site camping and more. All proceeds benefit Suncoast Charities for Children, supporting children, teens and adults with special needs across Southwest Florida.

Where:
Visit Sarasota County
When:

Sarasota International Dragon Boat Festival

Sarasota International Dragon Boat Festival

Get ready for a thrilling day of paddling, passion, and community spirit at the Sarasota International Dragon Boat Festival! Set against the stunning backdrop of Nathan Benderson Park, this premier event brings together fierce competition and festival fun in one unforgettable experience.

Beyond the races, the festival grounds offer entertainment for all ages. Fans and families can cheer from the shoreline, explore the dynamic Health and Wellness Village for fitness and lifestyle inspiration, or simply soak in the festive atmosphere.

Nassau

Where:
Atlantis Paradise Island
When:
-

Junkanoo

Junkanoo

Beneath the exhilarating energy, this unique spectacle of color and celebration features these breathtaking costumes that flood the streets, attracting large crowds of Bahamians and global visitors who parade to the unique sounds of pulsating drums, bells, horns, and whistles.

Leading up to the festival, Bahamians from across the islands work together to create these spectacular costumes, adorned with vibrant colors, feathers, and sparkling embellishments. The result is a sea of sights and sounds that dazzle all who attend. Every Tuesday and Friday weekly at 9pm in Marina Village.

Where:
Costa, Bahia Mar
When:
-

Sunday Brunch at Costa

Sunday Brunch at Costa

Indulge in a luxurious Sunday brunch experience in Nassau, featuring a specially curated menu by Chef Juan Meza. Enjoy a delectable selection of Mexican-inspired dishes and free flowing beverages, skillfully prepared to combine the rich flavors of The Bahamas and Mexico, for a truly unforgettable dining affair that promises to satisfy your palate and leave you with cherished moments. 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 pm every Sunday at Bahia Mar.

Where:
Nassau & Paradise Island
When:
-

Celebrate the Festive Season at Baha Mar

Baha Mar Holiday Events

Make the season brighter at Baha Mar, as you celebrate with those closest to you. From cheer-filled kid’s activities, to special arts and culture experiences at The Current, wildlife adventures, interactive culinary experiences and the New Year’s Eve Spectacular with Grammy Award winner Sean Paul—there is something for the entire family!

Nevada

Where:
Genoa, Nevada
When:
-

Genoa Western Heritage Days

Genoa Heritage Days Horse parade

Step back into the Old West in Nevada’s oldest town. Genoa Western Heritage Days features cowboy music, poetry, historic reenactors, artisan vendors, a Western fine art show, horse parade, progressive dinner, and evening concerts with Dave Stamey and Trinity Seely. A family friendly festival perfect for Canadian snowbirds enjoying spring sunshine in the Carson Valley.

Where:
Mesquite, Nevada
When:
-

Mesquite Motor Mania

Mesquite Motor Mania

Car enthusiasts, start your engines! Mesquite Motor Mania roars into town with over 900 classic cars, hot rods, street rods, and special interest vehicles. Expect burn out competitions, slow drags, show and shine contests, vendors, and more, all free to spectators. With cash prizes, trophies, and thousands of visitors, this high octane weekend is one of Nevada’s most anticipated classic car events.

Portugal

Where:
Lisbon
When:
-

Christmas Lights | Lisbon

Christmas Lights

In Christmas it's time to discover Lisbon with your eyes raised and be dazzled by the creativity that the city has to offer.

Where:
Lisbon
When:
-

New Year's Eve Lisboa 25/26

New Year's Eve Lisboa 25/26

Lisbon once again celebrates New Year's Eve at Terreiro do Paço – the heart of the city and, as usual, presenting a great party. At midnight, a fireworks display will cover the sky along the Tagus with spectacular colours to the sound of original soundtracks.The party continues into the early hours, rocked by different rhythms and musical styles for an event full of unique moments.

Where:
Lisbon
When:
-

Carnaval de Loures '26

Carnaval de Loures '26

The biggest event in Lisbon takes to the streets for another great year of carnival. As tradition dictates, the festivities will commence with the Ball and Coronation of Kings. Carnaval lasts for several weeks with multiple street parties, dancing, music and a Brazilian influence.

South Carolina

Where:
Myrtle Beach
When:
-

Myrtle Beach Golf Passport for Snowbirds

Myrtle Beach is great for golf

Loads of Savings at the Links and Beyond for Snowbirds! For the low fee of $52USD with a Canadian postal code and by using promo code CANADA when our chasing online. This exclusive passport can help you save at over 70 golf courses when you play. with 3 Day advance online tee times or 2 Day advance call-in tee times. After you play, your benefits kick in with discounts for dining, shopping, and experiencing the Grand Strand!

Where:
Myrtle Beach
When:
-

First Friday Art Walk

Friday Art Walk features art, entertainment and restaurants

Make plans to join us each month for our F1rst Friday Art Walk, held throughout downtown Myrtle Beach from 5-8PM. Local businesses will host artists, live performances and musicians throughout the downtown area. Plus, downtown restaurants will feature dining specials throughout the night.

Spain

Where:
Leon, Spain
When:
-

International Festival “Live the Magic”

In December, magic envelops the entire city of León, delighting children and adults alike. The “Vive la Magia” International Festival brings together some of the best magicians and illusionists in the world.

On the one hand, there are the Gala shows held at the Auditorio Ciudad de León; and on the other, magic travels through numerous points of the city with multiple exhibitions on the street and in cultural spaces.

After its premiere in León, the International Magic Gala can be seen in other cities: Burgos, Salamanca, Soria, Oviedo and San Sebastián.

Where:
Spain
When:
-

The Al Ándalus Train expands its route

40th Anniversary Expanded Train Route

The Al Ándalus Train, a jewel of luxury rail tourism, is celebrating its 40th anniversary by launching an expanded route that will travel across Spain’s monumental heartland. From 2026 onwards, this iconic train will stop off in Madrid, Castile-La Mancha and Extremadura, inviting travellers to explore fresh landscapes steeped in history, art and gastronomy. For the first time, the capital will serve as either the starting point or the final destination of a journey that seamlessly blends past and present into a timelessly elegant experience.

St. Maarten

Where:
St. Maarten
When:
-

Heineken Regatta

Heineken Regatta

The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta will celebrate it's 46th edition this March This world-renowned event attracts over 20,000 spectators and participants from around the globe. Enjoy four days of world-class racing in a high-energy atmosphere, best experienced on a bot charter. At night, the Regatta Village comes alive with food, cold beer, and live music from local and international artists and DJs.

Texas

Where:
Corpus Christi
When:

Barefoot Mardi Gras

Barefoot Mardi Gras Crawl

Barefoot Mardi Gras. A Unique Coastal Celebration. Embrace the spirit of the Gulf Coast at the Barefoot Mardi Gras, a vibrant and laid-back twist on the traditional Mardi Gras celebration! Set along the beautiful beaches of Corpus Christi, this annual event brings the parade energy of Mardi Gras to the shore, where attendees trade beads for bare feet and enjoy a one-of-a-kind beachfront parade.

Where:
Port Aransas
When:

New Year's Eve Fireworks Display

Port Aransas New Year's Eve

Ring in the New Year, Port A–style! Port Aransas’ New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show will light up the night sky with a colorful display at Roberts Point Park. Festivities start around 7:00 p.m. on December 31—bring a blanket or chair and enjoy the show.

Where:
South Padre Island
When:

New Year's Eve Fireworks

New Year's Eve Fireworks

Ring in the new year with a sky full of color over the shores of South Padre Island. Our New Year’s Eve fireworks show lights up the beachfront with brilliant bursts and big energy, the perfect way to kick off a fresh start on The Island. Grab a spot along the shoreline, count down with your crew, and watch the midnight sky put on its first show of the year.

Where:
South Padre Island
When:
-

SPI Market Dyas

South Padre Market Days

Discover the vibrant spirit of South Padre Island at SPI Market Days, happening January 23–25, 2026, at the South Padre Island Convention Center. This event brings together a wide variety of vendors, artisans, and food vendors, creating one of the most anticipated shopping experiences on the Island. Browse unique handmade items, discover original artwork, and shop for everything from fashion and jewelry to specialty goods you won’t find anywhere else. With delicious food options, fun door prizes, and an energetic atmosphere. Admission is just $2, making it an af

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