Heading for Miami soon? Here’s What Happens In Miami In December! (2023)

Miami is a vibrant and super exciting city famous for its white sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse (particularly Latin) culture.

I have to admit that I love visiting Miami any time of year, and if I can, I stay for at least a month at a time!

But there’s more to this popular tourist destination than meets the eye.

In December, the city comes alive with a variety of events that will suit any and all interests and age groups as the holiday season approaches.

What Happens in Miami in December?

From music festivals to art shows and food fairs to sporting events, there’s something for everyone in Miami during this festive month right after the scary Halloween decorations have left the premises.

In this article, we will take a look at eight top events that are set to take place in December 2023 in Miami, on the verge of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

1. Art Basel Fair

Art Basel is a renowned annual art fair taking place every December in Miami Beach.

It showcases the works of over 4,000 artists from around the world, making it one of the largest and most prestigious art fairs in the Americas.

If you choose to visit the fair, you can definitely expect to explore a diverse range of contemporary art pieces, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and more.

2. Miami Art Week

In addition to Art Basel, Miami also hosts several other art shows and exhibitions during the month of December.

Known as Miami Art Week, this event attracts art enthusiasts and collectors from all over the world.

With a variety of shows to choose from, including Scope Miami Beach and Pulse Contemporary Art Fair, visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s thriving art scene.

One of the really fun things that happens in Miami in December if you like to get seduced by the creative arts. Why not make a fun Miami girl’s trip here to experience this with your best friends before the holiday festivities start for real?

3. Santa’s Enchanted Forest

No holiday season is complete without a visit to Santa’s Enchanted Forest!

This winter wonderland in Tropical Park features over 100 rides, shows, and attractions for the whole family to enjoy. Santas Enchanted Forest is one of the largest theme parks in the world.

From carnival games to live entertainment, there’s never a dull moment at this festive event.

And heading into the holiday season in December, the shows reflect the festive season by having entertainment like Christmas karaoke, Mistletoe Lane, and South Florida’s tallest Christmas tree!

4. Orange Bowl

Sports fans won’t want to miss the Orange Bowl, one of the most prestigious college football bowl games in the country.

Held annually at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, this event brings together top teams from the Atlantic Coast Conference as well as the Southeastern Conference for an exciting game of football.

5. Art Miami

Art lovers can continue their art-filled month at Art Miami, a contemporary and modern art fair that runs concurrently with Art Basel.

Featuring over 170 galleries from around the world, this event is a great opportunity to view and purchase works from renowned artists and emerging talents.

6. Miami Beach Bowl

College football fans will have another chance to catch a game at the Miami Beach Bowl, held at Marlins Park in Little Havana.

This bowl game features teams from the American Athletic Conference and Conference USA, creating an exciting matchup for fans to watch.

7. Zoo Lights

Head over to Zoo Miami for a festive evening at their annual Zoo Lights event. Visitors can enjoy light displays and a lot more!

Visitors can enjoy light displays, holiday music, and animal encounters while strolling through the zoo. This family-friendly event is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.

8. New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Ring in the New Year in true Miami style with one of the many celebrations happening throughout the city.

From fireworks shows to rooftop parties, there’s no shortage of creative ways to celebrate the start of a new year in this vibrant city.

9. Go From Ice Skating To The Beach!

In Miami, which is famous for the never-ending summer, you can also visit the winter for a few hours if you feel like it!

There are a variety of ice skating rinks in Miami, and can you imagine the fun experience of walking from crystal icy conditions and red cheeks for a few hours, changing into flip-flops, and heading straight down to the beach for a sunset swim?

Incredible contrasts to be discovered in Miami, and if you are up for trying the blades, here is where you can do that in Miami.

If you are traveling with your family, try the Kendall Ice Arena, which is a perfect place for a fresh ice skating experience for kids of all ages!

Kendall Ice Arena is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and offers classes in skating, hockey, and figure skating. And you can book time here for special events if there is a December celebration coming up.

Basement Miami is a multi-activity fun place where you can go skating, bowling, and/or even to a concert event! This is more of an adult playground, with a nightclub vibe, great DJs, and VIP events for your group of friends for that little extra service!

You find Basement Miami, super centrally located in Miami Beach, on 2901 Collins Avenue.

Top-Rated Places To Stay In Miami In December

I have visited Miami several times in the last few years, and personally, my favorite area to stay is somewhere in Miami Beach!

There are also really great places to stay around the Wynwood Art District, filled with fun murals, bars, and restaurants.

Close by is the Design District, as well as Downtown and Brickell super-urban, almost futuristic areas with shiny highrises and great shopping.

So it all depends on what kind of ambiance you want to surround yourself with!

Wrap-Up What Happens In Miami In December!

If you were asking yourself: “What happens in Miami in December?”, wondering if it is a destination worth a visit before the holidays, you now should be informed!

With so many exciting events happening in Miami during December, it’s no wonder it is such a super popular destination for everyone, locals and travelers alike.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, foodie, or sports fan, there’s bound to be something for you to enjoy in this lively city. So mark your calendars and get ready to experience the best of Miami in December 2023!

Keep reading and exploring what else Miami and Florida have to offer, even after the month of December ends.

With its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and endless activities, there’s never a dull moment in this dynamic city.