Merry and Bright

Nine Stunning Local Christmas Trees to Go See This Holiday Season

Need a break from the blue light of your computer or phone screen as we head into the holidays? Try these lights instead.

12/19/2025 By Megan McDonald Photography by Damon Powers

Sleigh What?

Our Big List of Holiday Events

From south Venice to Lakewood Ranch and everywhere in between, these are the best holiday events to close out 2025.

12/03/2025 By Lauren Jackson

Preview

Jennifer Jones, the First Black Rockette, on Her Path to Radio City Music Hall

It's not easy for any dancer. For Jennifer Jones, the first African American Rockette, it was harder. She tells her story in a talk at the Sarasota Art Museum.

12/01/2025 By Kay Kipling

Lighten Up

Cedar Hollow Has One of Sarasota's Biggest Holiday Light Displays

Can our resident Grinch find Yuletide cheer?

12/01/2025 By Isaac Eger

Community Partnership

Our Big List of Upcoming New Year's Events

Here's what's happening in Sarasota this season.

12/30/2024 By Lauren Jackson

Editors' Picks

Our Editors' Favorite Holiday Movies

It's a Wonderful Life, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, Bad Santa... the gang's all here.

12/23/2024 By Sarasota Magazine Staff

Under The Tree

Christmas Tree Disposal Can Mean More Than a Trip to the Curb

Green alternatives to trash day can actually make your garden grow better.

12/14/2023 By Sarah Owens/Community News Collaborative

Simply Having a Wonderful Christmastime

These Local Restaurants Will Be Open Christmas Day

No matter how you celebrate Dec. 25, these restaurants are ready to serve you a fabulous feast.

12/07/2023 By Lauren Jackson

Welcome Back!

After Three Years, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota Has Brought Back Its Massive Gingerbread Display

The tradition was paused during the Covid-19 pandemic, but it's back this year—and includes 400 pounds of gingerbread.

12/01/2023 By Lauren Jackson

'Tis the Season

Sarasota's Best Holiday Shows and Events

There's no shortage of fun ways to celebrate the holidays in Sarasota. Here are our top picks.

11/01/2023 By Cooper Levey-Baker

Flashback

Santa Comes to Town by Boat, 1965

He says, "Ho, ho, ho for the kids on the coast."

12/22/2022 By Bethany Ritz

Making Spirits Bright

Tired of Eggnog? Try a Bushwacker Cocktail This Holiday Season Instead

Who needs milk and cookies when you can have a bushwacker mixed with hot cocoa instead?

12/21/2022 By Chloé Cuyler

Rudolph Who?

Six Florida Mascots We’d Like to See in a Holiday Parade

You know Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen. Now meet their Floridian friends.

12/14/2022 By Laura Paquette

Ho Ho Ho

These Local Restaurants Will Be Open on Christmas Day

Ditch the dishes and make Christmas Day reservations instead.

12/14/2022 By Lauren Jackson

'Tis The Seasoning

These Local Shops Have The Best Gifts for the Foodie in Your Life

We shopped around for the best food gifts in town, perfect for the aspiring chef in your life.

12/07/2022 By Lauren Jackson

Deck the Palms

All the Best Holiday Events Happening in Sarasota This Year

From twinkly palm trees to boat parades, Southwest Florida shines during the holidays.

12/06/2022 By Laura Paquette

Better Not Pout

The Ultimate Holiday Survival Guide

Because we can't choose our families or do a home exchange in the romantic English countryside.

11/04/2022 By Laura Paquette

O Christmas Tree

Our Editors Share Their Favorite Holiday Memories

Christmas tree shopping, cookie decorating, The Nutcracker and more.

12/23/2021 By The Editors

Recipe

These Almond and Orange Blossom Crinkle Cookies Taste Like Sunshine

If you love the flavor of orange, these delicious—and simple—cookies are for you.

12/23/2021 By Megan McDonald

Let's party

Tips on Buying the Perfect Wine for Your Holiday Party

With Christmas and New Year's Eve looming, here's what to bring to your next gathering.

12/22/2021 By Bob McGinn

Sarasota Magazine

Christmas