7 Florida holiday events: Even Santa enjoys a little sun and sand

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Illuminated Boat Parades

Santa ditches the sleigh and reindeer for Florida holiday events. Illuminated boat parades are the Floridian way to celebrate the holiday. Throughout the Sunshine State, several cities celebrate the holiday season with illuminated boat parades. These special holiday events are quite a sight to see.

One of the longest running illuminated boat parades is held in St. Petersburg. The St. Pete Rotary Club will hold its 30th annual illuminated boat parade this year. As dark settles on the beach, the boats turn on their lighted decorations and parade along the watery route.

The creativity of the boat owners is astounding. From elaborate decorations to simple choices, each boat has its own personality. After seeing one of these holiday parades, the light battles with neighbors will seem like amateur hour.

Many coastal cities have illuminated boat parades. Both the east coast and west coast of Florida often these special holiday events throughout the month of December. According to Florida by Water, there will be 74 illuminated boat parades this year. From large boats to even the small dingy, the holiday spirit is strong with the Florida boating community.

The majority of parades are free to the public and are family friendly. Some illuminated boat parades offer special seating areas for a nominal fee.

Who needs a snowy ride on a winter sleigh? In Florida, Santa and his helpers are opting for a water arrival this year.

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Florida holiday events are just as festive as those blistery cold ones. Who knows, maybe Santa really prefers the sun and sand to the North Pole.