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It’s no wonder snowbirds fly south to escape the northern cold and often land in Florida. The region is known for festivals, beautiful autumn boating and year-round fun in the sun. From the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf Coast, the Sunshine State hosts events through December to get you excited for the season. Check out everything from arts and crafts events and concerts to holiday markets and fall wine festivals.
Jacksonville Beach, October 6-7
Get in the fall spirit by sipping pumpkin- flavored seasonal beers at Florida’s largest Oktoberfest celebration. Sea Walk Pavilion hosts live music, food trucks and German- inspired competitions such as bratwurst eating and stein hoisting.
Where to Dock: Fort George Island Marina
Panama City Beach, October 6-8
Hunt for treasure, watch live performances and enter a pirate- themed costume contest. The family- friendly festival celebrates the local legacy of buccaneers who once crossed the Gulf of Mexico.
Where to Dock: Bayside Marina
Miami, October 6-8
Celebrate this cultural Caribbean tradition without leaving the country. Witness amazing performances, beautiful outfits and signature events including Panorama, J’ouvert, and a costume parade and concert.
Where to Dock: Venetian Marina & Yacht Club
Apollo Beach, October 12-15
Experience one of the most peaceful festivals you’ll ever attend at this four-day event packed with boat trips, seminars, keynote speakers, a silent auction and free nature expo.
Where to Dock: Apollo Beach Marina
Fort Lauderdale, October 25-29
Florida’s larger-than-life boat show returns this fall hosting prestigious brands with everything from superyachts to personal watercraft. A few of the show’s seven locations include the Broward County Convention Center, Bahia Mar Yachting Center and Superyacht Village at Pier 66 South.
Where to Dock: Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina, Marina Bay Yachting Center
West Palm Beach, November 4
Lake Worth Lagoon’s 20-mile urban estuary flows through cities from North Palm Beach to West Palm Beach and Boynton Beach. This festival celebrates with a day of exhibitors, vendors, boat tours, kids’ activities and kayaking.
Where to Dock: Palm Harbor Marina
Key West, November 5-12
This exciting tradition showcases some of the most experienced offshore racing from around the world. Visit the Truman Waterfront Park Race Village and don’t miss the competitions, awards ceremonies and Rockhouse Live RWO Kickoff Boat Parade Party.
Where to Dock: Conch Harbor Marina
Siesta Key, November 10-13
Dig your toes (and hands) in the sands and watch the beach transform into the “Sand Village” at this fun festival. About 24 artists compete for the best sculpture while guests enjoy the Barefoot Beach Bar Party Tent with a full bar and live music all four days before voting for the winners.
Where to Dock: Safe Harbor Siesta Key
Miami, November 11-12
If you love country music, be sure to get tickets for this star-studded lineup at Miami Marine Stadium’s waterside venue. Headliners include Thomas Rhett, Sam Hunt, Chris Young and more. Dock at the venue’s anchorage and enjoy the concert from your boat.
Where to Dock: The Basin at Miami Marine Stadium
Sarasota, November 18-19
This festival celebrates its 10th season with an outdoor gallery of fine arts and crafts. Displays from local and national artisans line J.D. Hamel Park with sculptures, paintings, ceramics, jewelry and much more.
Where to Dock: Marina Jack
Miami Beach, December 8-10
This international event returns to Miami every December to celebrate works of modern and contemporary art from leading galleries across the globe. VIP events take place Dec. 6-7, and public events are held Dec. 8-10 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
Where to Dock: Miami Beach Marina
Fort Lauderdale, December 16
Among all the holiday boat parades across Florida, this annual celebration is by far the largest and most popular. Join the live-broadcast party and watch spectacular displays as decorated boats cruise down the 12-mile parade route.
Where to Dock: Bahia Mar Resort
Bradenton, December 16-17
Explore artwork and handmade crafts from over 100 artisans at this free event. An outdoor gallery and craft stands at Riverfront Park present everything from woodwork and ceramics to mixed-media art.
Where to Dock: Twin Dolphin Marina
South Beach Seafood Festival
Miami, October 18-21
Stone Crab Festival
Naples, October 27-28
Stone Crab Jam
Crystal River, November 4
Treasure Coast Brew Fest
Stuart, November 4
Savor St. Pete Festival
St. Petersburg, November 4-5
Wine & All That Jazz
Boca Raton, November 5
Boca Raton Wine & Food Festival
Boca Raton, November 11
Riverside WineFest
Jacksonville, November 18
Leesburg Craft Beer, Wine & Food Festival
Leesburg, November 20
Siesta Beach Seafood & Music Festival
Siesta Key, December 1-3
Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival
Palm Beach, December 7-10
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