The holiday season of 2022 has arrived, and Bradenton and Sarasota are all set to celebrate it with authentic Florida flair. This year, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the holidays in Southwest Florida. Illuminated water parades, beach street celebrations, and tree light displays are just a few of the unique local Christmas attractions. One cannot run out of fun this year.

Here is a guide to family-friendly places to gaze at the holiday tree lightings in Bradenton and Sarasota.

Related Read: Things To Do in Sarasota This Holiday Season

The Mall at University Town Center
4.5  5 Rating (3)
140 University Town Center Dr, Sarasota FL, 34243
It is the place to enjoy beautiful tree lighting and vibrant light shows. The holiday mega market at The Mall at University Town Center will attract more than 140 vendors to the mall at University Town Center. Shop at local retailers, crafters, and artisanal enterprises while enjoying festive dance performances. The event will take place on December 3 and 4 from 10 AM to 5 PM. Free access and parking.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
5.0  5 Rating (2)
900 S Palm Ave, Sarasota FL, 34236
Visitors to the renowned Marie Selby Gardens will be able to admire more than 2 million gorgeous, shimmering lights as they brighten the much-loved location - Marie Selby Botanical Garden. It will start on December 10 and go on until January 5.
HarborChase of Venice
Other
Venice FL
Join the Festival of Trees to view beautiful Christmas trees decorated at HarborChase of Sarasota. Witness lovely Christmas trees that have been beautifully decorated with your dear ones. Vote for your favorite tree while savoring a hot cocoa and coffee bar with specially made delicacies from the kitchen.
Community & Government
1383 Main Street, Sarasota FL, 34236
The Sarasota Menorah and Christmas Tree Lighting celebration come first in the line of holiday celebrations. It will take place in Five Points Park on December 2nd from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The holiday season will ring in with Sarasota's best handbell ensemble. A wonderful opportunity to take a photo for your holiday card is right then. At 7 PM, the Christmas Tree will be lit for pictures. No fees associated with taking pictures of the tree or menorah. Additionally, neighborhood shops will extend their hours and offer snacks, beverages, special deals, and promotions. The Downtown Sarasota Enrichment Association is hosting this event.
Recreation
40th Avenue West, Bradenton FL, 34209
Winter Nights Under the Lights will be held at Palma Sola Botanical Park from 6 to 9 PM every night from Thursday, December 15, through Sunday, December 18. Entry is free for all. Bring your camera and join Santa for a photo. Buy a sweet treat and hot beverage to enjoy while you stroll across the park and take in the holiday lighting. People of all ages can join in enjoying Winter Nights Under the Lights in the Park.