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:
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 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:
-

Dickens on Centre

Dickens on Centre

The annual Dickens on Centre Christmas Market and Holiday Festival on beautiful Amelia Island, Florida, promises to be one of the merriest we’ve ever had! Free to the public, this Victorian Christmas Market and Holiday Festival is sure to enliven your Christmas spirit. Throughout the weekend, feel the spirit of the holiday with Victorian-inspired entertainment. Families will enjoy a plethora of fun including Tiny Tim’s Kids Zone, visits with St. Nick, holiday entertainment and shopping, festive food and drink, costumed characters, holiday movies and plenty of Christmas inspiration.

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:
-

Daytona Turkey Run

Daytona Turkey Run

The Daytona Turkey Run features thousands of unique automobiles and swap meet vendors in the infield of the ‘World Center of Racing’, Daytona International Speedway. Considered to be the largest combined car show and swap meet in the United States, this family-friendly four-day event takes place every fall during the Thanksgiving holiday week. The event showcases over 7,000 classic cars, massive swap meet, vendors, food and live entertainment.

Where:
Fort Myers Beach
When:
-

35th annual American Sand Sculpting Championship, Fort Myers Beach

35th annual American Sand Sculpting Championship, Fort Myers Beach

he 35th Annual American Sand Sculpting Championship is returning to Fort Myers Beach in spectacular fashion, attracting over 15,000 attendees to celebrate world-class artistry, creativity, and community spirit. Held from November 20-24, 2025, this year’s event will draw enthusiastic crowds to experience the awe-inspiring work of 8 Master Sculptors and 10 Advanced Amateur Sculptors from 10 countries, each showcasing their extraordinary talents in sand sculpture.

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
When:

Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade

Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade

Known as the “Best Show on H2O,” the Seminal Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade offers a unique holiday experience. Escape the cold and soak up some sun at this South Florida Holiday Season kickoff. Watch the aquatic parade of boats of all sizes navigate a 12-mile route along Fort Lauderdale’s Intracoastal Waterway.

Where:
Panama City Beach
When:
-

Beach Home for the Holidays

Beach Home for the Holidays

Bring the family together Thanksgiving weekend at Beach Home for the Holidays. The most wonderful time of the year begins November 28 with two full days of holiday fun in Panama City Beach. Enjoy FREE fun including headliner RaeLynn, carol-themed concerts, delicious s'mores, an array of holiday vendors, and appearance by Mr. & Mrs. Claus with several activities for the kids.

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:
Pensacola
When:
-

US Navy Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show

US Navy Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show

The Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show is one of Pensacola’s largest events, attracting over 150,000 spectators to Sherman Field on NAS Pensacola during the two-day event. There is an incredible lineup of aerobatic performers and our very own U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron Blue Angels.

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:
-

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:
Visit Sarasota County
When:
-

Siesta Key Crystal Classic

Siesta Key Crystal Classic

Each year, 24 talented sand sculptors from around the world converge on Siesta Beach to compete in the breathtaking Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sandsculpting Competition.

Witness the creative process Thursday through Sunday, with sculptors working against the clock—8 hours per day Thursday to Saturday, and 4 final hours on Sunday. Then, on Sunday at 3 PM, don’t miss the Awards Ceremony

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.

Hawaii

Where:
Hawaii
When:
-

The 54th Kona Coffee Cultural Festival

The 54th Kona Coffee Cultural Festival

o One of Hawai‘i’s longest-running food festivals, this 10-day java-enriched celebration honors the farmers, roasters, cafes, culture and rich history surrounding the Kona district’s world-famous coffee. Attendees checking out the fest’s many events will enjoy coffee tastings, cupping competitions judging Kona’s best coffee, farm and mill tours, coffee art exhibits, an evening lantern parade through historic Kailua-Kona, food events and more

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.

Portugal

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:
Madrid, Spain
When:
-

Autumn Festival

Autumn in Madrid arrives not only through the changing colours that sweep across the capital, but also through the performing arts during the Autumn Festival.

Every year, Madrid compiles a broad programme of activities to feature in this festival. Theatre and dance performances, shows, concerts and other activities related to performing arts are staged in a range of venues around the capital and in various towns and villages throughout the region.

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:
Port Aransas
When:

Lighted Boat Parade & Drone Show

Lighted Boat Parade & Drone Show

Enjoy the holiday-decorated boats on parade in the City Marina followed by the Holiday Drone Show! Watch the night sky come to life with over 150 Drones while listening to music by The Cleartones with their holiday entertainment. Spectators are encouraged to watch from Port Aransas Fisherman's Wharf & Grumbles, where there will be live holiday music, photo ops with Santa and Mrs. Clause, holiday beverages, and more! Sign up to be in the boat parade now to enjoy the fun festivities. https://www.portaransas.org/events/holiday/lighted-boat-parade-entry-fo…

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

Where:
South Pare Island
When:

Lighted Boat Parade

Lighted Boat Parade

Enjoy a cool winter breeze and watch as boats of all sizes cruise by decorated in their holiday finest. Designated viewing areas throughout the route offer FREE public viewing as the bay sparkles with the light of these beautifully decorated boats!

Snowbird Services & Resources

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Snowbird Destination Guides

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