Prepare for a wonderful holiday season in Venice, Florida! As the weather cools and the festive mood grows, our welcoming city is ready for its yearly celebration of lights, togetherness, and local artistry. This year, Venice will host a series of engaging events to start the holiday period with excitement, bringing people together for enjoyable days and bright nights. From impressive parades to chances to find distinctive handmade presents, there is something for everyone to appreciate as we welcome the season’s warmth.
We are pleased to share a schedule of events that truly represent a Venice holiday. Whether you have lived here for a long time or are thinking about making Venice your home, these customs provide a great look at our lively community spirit. Get ready to be delighted by the sights and sounds of the season as we greet the holidays with enthusiasm, celebrating together in Historic Downtown Venice and along our beautiful shores.
Venice Holiday Parade and Winter Kickoff 2025
The City of Venice Holiday Parade is a cherished tradition that officially marks the start of the festive season, held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. In 2025, the 49th annual parade is set for Saturday, November 29th, starting at 6:30 p.m. This year’s theme, “All Aboard the Centennial!”, suggests a creative and engaging show. Following the success of last year’s event, which featured 80 entries and over 2,000 participants, attendees can anticipate a lively parade of floats, marching bands, and community groups moving through the city. A parade route map will be available to help you find the best spot to watch this valued local event.
Following closely is the Mayor’s Hometown Christmas, scheduled for the first Saturday in December, on Saturday, December 6, 2025, starting at 6:00 p.m. This touching event features the official lighting of the Christmas tree, brightening the center of Historic Downtown Venice. Local performers, including The Venice Chorale and Venice Musicale, will share their talents, filling the air with lovely holiday songs. It is also an excellent opportunity for families to meet Santa Claus, who will make a special appearance. The event encourages everyone to support local businesses by shopping and dining in downtown, and to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
The Venice Christmas Boat Parade of Lights is another fantastic way to experience the holiday spirit, celebrating the season with boats adorned with lights on our intracoastal waterway. This parade offers very close viewing opportunities, allowing observers to appreciate the festive lights on the water fully. The procession starts north of the Albee Road Bridge and proceeds south, turning around before the Circus Bridge. It is a community effort that truly reflects the spirit of “Giving Back to the Community,” inviting boat owners to participate and create a stunning holiday display for all to enjoy.
Attendees are highly encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets to enjoy the Mayor’s Hometown Christmas events comfortably. For those planning to attend, please note that the rain date for this enjoyable evening is the following day, ensuring the celebration can still take place if the weather is not favorable. This careful planning allows everyone to make arrangements and anticipate a memorable holiday night in Venice, Florida, celebrating together under the sparkling lights.
The Venice Christmas Boat Parade of Lights promises a memorable evening, turning our local waterways into a brilliant display of holiday joy. Participants are invited to decorate their boats with festive lights and ornaments, creating a lively, moving scene that glides along the intracoastal. This event is a wonderful demonstration of community spirit and inventiveness, offering a unique view of holiday celebrations that fully embrace Venice’s beautiful coastal location. It is a prime chance for residents and visitors alike to experience the season’s magic in a truly special way.
When the boats begin their route, the intracoastal waterway becomes a top viewing spot. Starting their journey above the Albee Road Bridge and heading south, the parade will turn around before reaching the Circus Bridge, offering excellent viewing locations along the way. This close distance between the decorated boats and the spectators on shore allows for a personal and memorable experience. The focus on “Giving Back to the Community” is evident throughout the event, highlighting the cooperative and cheerful nature of this water-based holiday tradition.
Craft Fairs and Local Shopping Opportunities
While specific details for dedicated craft fairs in 2025 are still being put together, the spirit of local artisan craftsmanship is a key part of Venice’s holiday events. Visitors attending the Mayor’s Hometown Christmas and the Holiday Parade will find that businesses in Historic Downtown Venice are open and ready to welcome shoppers. These local shops often have distinctive, handmade items, making them ideal places to find special gifts. The inventiveness shown by parade participants and the decorated boats suggests the abundance of local talent that adds to our community’s appeal.
As you enjoy the festive atmosphere of Venice this holiday season, we suggest you explore the shops and small businesses located throughout Historic Downtown Venice. This area is full of local enterprises, many of which display the work of skilled artists and crafters. During events like the Mayor’s Hometown Christmas, these businesses extend their operating hours and offer special holiday deals, creating a pleasant shopping experience. Finding unique gifts and supporting local business owners is a great way to contribute to the community and discover truly special items.
