Where to See Holiday Tree Lightings
As the 2021 holiday season approaches, it's time for tree-lighting events to light up the night.
One time-honored holiday tradition is the lighting or decoration of a tree. When you think of The Palm Beaches, it's probably palm trees that come to mind over pines trees, but that doesn't mean South Florida isn't in on the action. From sandy sculptures to towering displays and unique art installations, here's where you'll find festivities that are merry and bright.
Sandi Hangs 10 at Holiday in Paradise
The beloved holiday tradition that is Sandi — a 35-foot, 700-ton tree sculpture made of sand — is marking her 10th season in West Palm Beach. The centerpiece of the city's December-long Holiday in Paradise campaign, Sandi is an icon of the season. Don't miss when she'll be illuminated on Thursday, Dec. 2, during the Clematis by Night Holiday Tree Lighting, from 6 to 10 p.m. Following her debut, nightly music and light shows run every 15 minutes from 6 to 9 p.m. through December. You can also catch Santa sightings, storytime and other activities at Sandi Land.
Great Lawn, 100 N. Clematis St., West Palm Beach
The 100-Foot Christmas Tree of Delray Beach
Dating back to 1993, Delray Beach's tree-lighting event centers around a massive 100-foot creation made of 15,000 lights, 40,000 ornaments and 3,000 branches. It takes a village of volunteers to construct (hundreds have been involved over the years), but the payoff is a beautiful tribute to the holiday season. On Tuesday, Nov. 30, you can watch it light up during the celebration from 6 to 9 p.m. that includes musical entertainment, family activities, open-house store events, dining and an appearance by Santa.
Old School Square, 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach
Gilded Age Decor at Whitehall
With turn of the century grandeur, the first floor of the Flagler Museum in Palm Beach is transformed into a Christmas wonderland each year — complete with historically accurate greenery, trimmings and ribbons. A 16-foot tree in the Grand Hall serves as the focal point, adorned with colored fairy lights and Gilded Age-style ornaments. Gather with family and friends on Sunday, Dec. 5, when the tree is lit at 1 p.m. The day is filled with holiday cheer in the form of festive organ and piano music, choir performances, refreshments and a visit from Santa Claus. You can also browse the Museum Store for some holiday shopping. The event is free with museum admission. If you cannot attend the tree lighting event, visit at any point during Holiday Season, the decorations will be on display though early January.
Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, One Whitehall Way, Palm Beach
Boynton Beach Tree Lighting & Holiday Concert
Coinciding with Boynton Beach's First Friday @ Five monthly concert series, the city's tree-lighting ceremony is happening on Friday, Dec. 3, starting at 5 p.m. Admire the kapok and banyan trees on Ocean Avenue at Town Square and Dewey Park once the lights are flipped on, creating a magical atmosphere. The free concert will feature holiday music from local performers, and food trucks and beverage vendors will also be on site. Bring a chair and blankets to enjoy the family-friendly evening that includes some children's activities, as well.
Centennial Park & Amphitheater, 120 E. Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach
Worth Avenue Tree Lighting
Santa and his elves are decking the halls, and that includes Palm Beach's Worth Avenue, a premiere destination for shopping and dining. There's no better way to kick off the holiday shopping season than by watching the magic happen on Tuesday, Nov. 30, starting at 6 p.m. Not only will you be surrounded by stores where you can get a headstart on your gift list, you'll also get a large dose of holiday cheer when the switch flips on the magnificent 40-foot tree. Rumor has it there will also be Santa sightings, festive activities and hot cocoa.
256 Worth Ave., Palm Beach
Holiday Surfboard Tree Reveal
In the spirit of surf and sand, The Royal Poinciana Plaza offers up a distinctly South Florida twist with its surfboard Christmas tree. Each year, the installation is a result of a collaboration with artists like Donald Robertson, Gray Malin and Ashley Longshore. Get a first look when it's revealed on Thursday, Dec. 2, starting at 6 p.m. The special event will include sips and nibbles, music, fashion and live appearances by Santa and this year's artist. Located right in the heart of Palm Beach, The Royal Poinciana Plaza is home to an amazing shopping experience, so it's also an opportunity to start your holiday shopping.
340 Royal Poinciana Way, Palm Beach
