The holiday season is here, and Indian River County is brimming with festive cheer! From dazzling light displays to heartwarming community gatherings, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or magical evenings out, our list of the top 9 Christmas events in Indian River County has something for everyone. Let the festivities begin!
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IRRC Cowboy Christmas
Get ready for a night of excitement and competition! Join us for a festive event featuring a $5/run cash-only exhibition at the gate, $20 peewee, $50 open 4D, $35 poles 3D, $30 youth side pot 4D, and a special $30 Christmas Tree 4D race. Poles will run first, with the show kicking off at 6:30 PM.
Full dress is required—cowboy hat/helmet and long sleeves. Don’t miss the food trucks onsite to keep you fueled throughout the evening. A $5 grounds fee applies to all attendees. WPRA open and junior are pending. See you there!
Jungle Lights at Mckee Botanical Gardens
Experience 17 Glittering Nights in December, a festive and joyful event for the entire family! Enjoy Vero Beach’s largest animated Christmas tree, illuminated flora and fauna along the Jungle Trails with exotic sounds, and over 200,000 LED lights. Delight in the Holiday Train Show on select dates, live nightly entertainment, festive treats and hot chocolate at the Garden Café, and special appearances by Santa from December 17–22 (6:30–8:00 PM). Don’t miss the magical Snowflake Glasses experience and complimentary shuttle service from off-site parking at 146 Vista Royale Blvd. Join us for an unforgettable holiday celebration filled with light, music, and merriment!
Nutcracker on Indian River
Experience Ballet Vero Beach’s enchanting spin on the classic holiday tale with “Nutcracker on the Indian River.” Join Marie on a festive journey from New York to Florida, where iconic settings like Fifth Avenue mansions, Grand Central Station, and vintage rail cars come alive on stage. In a delightful twist, instead of candy characters, Marie dreams of the picturesque shores of the Indian River Lagoon, entertained by a vibrant cast of local flora and fauna—from playful land crabs and graceful manatees to curious river otters and blooming bougainvillea. This production has become an instant classic, capturing all the magic of the season while celebrating the natural beauty of our region.
Miracle on 34th Street
Experience the holiday magic with “Miracle on 34th Street,” running from December 12th to 22nd, 2024. This timeless story follows a divorced New York mother who hires a kindly old man to play Santa Claus at Macy’s, only to be astonished when he claims to be the real deal. As questions about his sanity arise, a determined lawyer steps in to defend him in court, arguing that perhaps belief is more powerful than doubt. With its rich history of film and stage adaptations, this classic tale is sure to become a cherished part of your family’s holiday traditions.
Cowboy Christmas
Experience the magic of the holidays at LaPorte Farms’ Cowboy Christmas on Saturday, December 21, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM EST. Bring the whole family to feed the animals, enjoy pony rides, and savor delicious food amid thousands of colorful twinkling Christmas lights and over 50 beautifully decorated Christmas trees. Don’t miss Santa’s grand arrival on horseback at 6:00 PM! Capture memorable photos with “Moondance” the llama dressed in his Christmas outfit alongside his Elf handler, explore Whoville, and immerse yourself in festive cheer. Join us at 7700 129th St, Sebastian, FL, for an unforgettable evening filled with joy and holiday spirit. Merry Christmas to all!
Downtown Hot Cocoa Crawl
Start at Notions & Potions to pick up your bag. Travel downtown to participating businesses and go to all 11 stops and complete your cup of hot cocoa (while supplies last). Once completed go back to Notions & Potions for a raffle ticket to enter to win our basket of cheer valued over $300. Drawing will be held at 8:15pm on facebook live. You do not have to be present to win!! Good luck and let’s have some HOLIDAY FUN!!!! Must be 21 or older to win the basket of cheer.
Jolly Saint Nick Paint Party
Let’s get festive and creative this holiday season! Join your favorite German art instructor, Ute, for a fun and beginner-friendly painting session at Lila Libelle Studio. For just $30 per canvas, you’ll receive all the supplies you need and step-by-step guidance to create your masterpiece on a pre-sketched canvas—no experience necessary!
Cocktails for A Cause Event!
All we want for Christmas is for YOU to come out & support Steve Renfrew with Healthy Start!!! See you there!!!
Winter Wonderland Party
Join us for a festive day at our Winter Wonderland Party Saturday December 21st.
Buy One Get One Free on any same size small, medium or large treat all day.
Santa will be arriving on a fire truck with the Indian River County Fire Department at 7pm.
Photos will be available with Santa till 9pm.
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