Spending the most magical time of year on an island getaway in Florida might seem a little unconventional, but there's plenty of holiday cheer to go around on Anna Maria Island. Plus, winter is a great time to visit this sunny paradise.
From Bridge Street to the boardwalk, AMI is the perfect destination for your holiday getaway. Gather your holiday decorations and start planning your vacation today. We've got parades, plenty of kid-friendly activities, holiday lights, Santa, and more waiting just steps from your vacation rental, so book your stay with us today.
What this balmy vacation hotspot lacks in snow, it more than makes up for in Christmas spirit. Whether you're a new resident or a first-time visitor, here's the ultimate guide to Anna Maria Island Christmas activities for holidaymakers of all ages.
Christmas Events on Anna Maria Island
Photo Credit: Marian Weyo
These holiday events occur annually on AMI, so you can start planning your visit today. Remember to check the Chamber of Commerce Community Events page beforehand for details about specific events.
1. Enjoy Christmas on Bridge Street with the AMI Privateers
Every year in mid-December, the Anna Maria Island Privateers host a Christmas party on historic Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. If you have little ones, rest assured that Santa and Mrs. Claus will be present and accounted for.
There's entertainment for adults at the Anna Maria Island Privateers Christmas parade, too. Aside from soaking up the Christmas vibes, you can enter a raffle to win a variety of treats such as bottles of liquor, lottery tickets, and cash prizes.
You can also savor some potluck dinner if you're feeling peckish, just know that the menu changes yearly. Expect a festive atmosphere of food and celebration.
2. Get a Dose of Local Culture at Mistletoe Market
Mistletoe Market allows you to explore what local artists of all disciplines have to offer. You can browse paintings, crafts, jewelry, cosmetics, and other artistic staples from local vendors while treating your ears to live music from resident musicians.
Held in Holmes Beach, this is the perfect place to pick up Christmas gifts and stocking fillers, or grab some one-of-a-kind decorations.
3. Witness the Island's Christmas Tree Lightings
This nationwide annual Christmas tradition takes place on Anna Maria Island too. Each holiday season, live Christmas trees get lit up in several locations, including on scenic Holmes Beach and bustling Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach.
The lightings usually take place at the end of November. If you happen to miss them, not to worry: the ornamented tree stays up for admiration throughout December.
4. Watch the Holiday Boat Parade
If you want a Christmas activity that's distinctly Floridian, you'll appreciate the Holiday Boat Parade. Boat owners deck out their vessels and show off for spectators on the beach and piers. Boats are adorned for the season with twinkling lights that dazzle through the night, and then beautifully decorated boats cruise through the bay.
The glitter and glow of these sailing winter wonderlands should keep kids interested, and let's face it: adults, too. It's sure to be a free highlight of your visit.
Things to Do During Your Christmas Trip
Photo Credit: Leigh Trail
While these aren't technically festive events, they are an excellent way to spice up your Anna Maria Island vacation and get you into the holiday spirit.
If you're hankering for a meal after partaking in all the Anna Maria Island Christmas fun, plenty of restaurants keep their doors open during the holidays. Enjoy the festive atmosphere of these local shops:
Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe
The landmark Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe stays open all year round, serving a classic fare of tasty favorites such as onion rings and tacos, as well as yummy seafood platters. The kitchen is open on Christmas Eve, and you can pre-order Christmas dinner.
Bridge Tender Inn
Get a taste of Bradenton Beach culture as well as seafood at this dockside bar and grille. It's a favorite among locals and tourists for the casual atmosphere, friendly staff, and varied menu. Whether you're craving dinner on Christmas Eve or lunch on Christmas Day, the Bridge Tender Inn keeps its doors open, albeit with limited hours.
Sandbar
The elegant Sandbar serves up mouthwatering seafood and an array of delightful cocktails to try this holiday season. It's open for business on Christmas Eve and New Year's Day and offers housemade holiday pies if you want to satisfy your sweet tooth. Come enjoy a festive Christmas lunch.
Waterfront Restaurant
Favorites like Waterfront Restaurant have yet to confirm whether they'll be open on Christmas, but they're worth a try if you're staying on the island for holiday festivities. Invest in an elegant dining experience at the Waterfront Restaurant, located right on the beach. Drink crafted cocktails while trying the local catch of the day.
Enjoy a Meal At Your Home Away From Home
If you aren't in the mood to leave your rental to go to a restaurant, nothing says bonding quite like cooking a meal together.
You can stay in the comfort of your own rental and have The Loaded Kitchen drop off your groceries to you, so all you have to focus on is making memories. Whether you are cooking a family favorite or trying out something new, The Loaded Kitchen is the premier grocery delivery service.
The holidays on Anna Maria Island are a spectacular affair. Still, if you have downtime between events, consider touring the island. Temperatures remain relatively balmy even during December, rarely dropping below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Take a chartered boat tour of the island to catch dolphins playing, or if you're feeling adventurous, try water sports like parasailing. For even more outdoor activities, visit some of the other islands near Tampa, which offer ample opportunities for walking, cycling, snorkeling, and more.
If you're eager to know more about how this island came to be, visit the Anna Maria Island Historical Society. You and any budding historians in your family can learn about the first settlers, plus the island's illustrious fishing and baseball history.
You can also explore some of the more classic tourist destinations on the island, like the Bridge Street Pier and Bayfront Park. Looking for live music? Pop in for a scheduled performance by the Crosley Theater Dickens carolers in Bradenton Beach.
If you're looking for more indoor things to do during your Anna Maria Island Christmas, we've got you covered there, too. The area has plenty of museums, art galleries, spas, and entertainment venues to keep you occupied.
Spend Christmas With Us on Anna Maria Island
We hope you enjoy your Anna Maria Island Christmas celebrations and all the family fun it's sure to bring.
From Anna Maria Island to Sarasota Bay, we've got the perfect vacation rental for the whole family. Well stocked with Christmas cheer, stunning views, and fully equipped kitchens, you'll feel right at home.
Planning a Florida getaway with friends and loved ones this Christmas? Find the perfect home away from home with our gorgeous Anna Maria Island vacation rentals. Join us to celebrate the holiday season and prepare for an unforgettable winter adventure.
