Nights of Lights - Holiday Festival Under the Stars

Published on November 03, 2025

MAGIC AFTER DARK: NIGHTS OF LIGHTS RETURNS TO PINECREST GARDENS

DECEMBER 5–28, 2025

This December, Pinecrest Gardens once again transforms into a glowing wonderland as Nights of Lights returns for the holiday season. A South Florida family favorite, this annual festival blends art, music, and holiday joy. As dusk falls, the gardens come alive with radiant displays and illuminated sculptures that dance across the tropical landscape. Families can wander beneath a canopy of twinkling trees, explore the award-winning playground lit for nighttime adventure, and indulge in hot cocoa and festive treats from local vendors.

FESTIVE FUN EVERY NIGHT
Each evening offers something new. Families can get photos with Santa (Dec. 5-23), visit the cozy Jolly Craft Corner, and enjoy nightly Story Time from 7:30 to 8:30 pm. On select evenings, carolers will fill the air with classic holiday tunes at 7:30 and 8:30 pm, making every visit unique. Families are encouraged to check the nightly schedule (www.pinecrestgardens.org/nol) in advance to plan their perfect evening of lights, laughter, and holiday fun.

SPOTLIGHT ON THE STAGE
The Banyan Bowl comes alive throughout the festival with performances that showcase the spirit of the season. The opening weekend features holiday-themed performances by Maria Verdeja School of the Arts (December 5), the Alhambra Orchestra (December 6), and the Greater Miami Symphonic Band (December 7). Other performance highlights include the Greater Miami Youth Symphony (December 18) and vibrant performances by Dance Steps and Mariachis Voces de America (December 21 to 23).

For those seeking an extra-special experience, the festival’s special ticketed performance nights offer unforgettable evenings under the stars. Each performance promises a festive night of lights, music, and joy for the whole family and includes entry to the holiday light festival.

PARRANDA NAVIDEÑA WITH CHINO NUÑEZ: DECEMBER 23
A lively celebration of Puerto Rican holiday music traditions in Spanish and English with storytelling and dances.

HOLIDAY JAZZ IN THE BOWL: DECEMBER 20
A Jazzy Holiday featuring the Christina Alexander Quartet. Blending R&B, funk, soul, jazz, and blues, the quartet reimagines Christmas classics with fresh, soulful energy.

GRINCH-THEMED NIGHTS: DECEMBER 12–14
A little holiday mischief joins the magic when The Grinch drops by! Guests can don their best Seussinspired looks for themed photo ops and a chance to win a Family Membership.

MOVIE NIGHT UNDER THE STARS: DECEMBER 27
Gather in the Meadow for an outdoor screening of The Polar Express at 7:30 pm. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, and cocoa for this heartwarming family favorite beneath the stars.

A FINAL NIGHT OF MAGIC: DECEMBER 28
The festival wraps up with live music by Vic Kingsley in the Meadow. Two intimate sets at 6:30 and 7:30 pm offer a soulful and uplifting finale to a month filled with celebration.

Plan your visit and explore the full schedule of nightly experiences.