Marco Island Events: Holiday Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss

Marco Island moves into a festive rhythm every December. If you want a quick look at the best Marco Island events during the holidays, this guide brings together the island’s favorite celebrations. From tree lighting to parades on both land and water, these picks help you enjoy the season at an easy pace.

You can also check our events calendar for more local happenings during your stay.

Holiday Kickoff: Tree Lighting Ceremony

The Annual Tree Lighting and Community Celebration opens the season at Veterans’ Community Park. Families, locals, and winter visitors gather for the first big glow of December. It is a simple, cheerful way to mark the start of holiday festivities.

Event Details:

  • Event: Annual Tree Lighting and Community Celebration

  • Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025

  • Time: 6:00 P.M.

  • Location: Veterans’ Community Park

Parades Across the Island

Marco Island fills the calendar with parades that draw locals year after year. Each one offers a different take on the holidays, from pets in costume to evening floats rolling down the streets.

Canine Pet Parade

Dogs and owners line The Esplanade in festive gear for one of the most lighthearted Marco Island holiday events. Even if you do not participate, it is fun to watch.

Event Details:

  • Event: Canine Pet Parade

  • Date: Tuesday, December 9, 2025

  • Time: 5:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M.

  • Location: The Esplanade

Annual Street Parade

This parade brings floats, lights, and a full community turnout. It is one of the most anticipated Marco Island parades of the season.

Event Details:

  • Event: Annual Street Parade

  • Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025

  • Time: 6:30 P.M.

  • Location: Along the main parade route

Holiday on the Water: Annual Boat Parade

The Boat Parade is a signature moment each December. Decorated boats travel across Marco Island’s waterways, glowing with lights as they move along the route. It is a favorite for families and photographers looking for classic Marco Island Christmas events.

Event Details:

  • Event: Annual Boat Parade

  • Date: Saturday, December 20, 2025

  • Time: 6:00 P.M.

  • Location: Marco Island waterways

Restaurants like CJ’s on the Bay, SnookInn, Sami’s, Little Bar, Capri Fish House and The SpeakEasy offer full live music calendars throughout December. They are great places to extend your evening after the parades wrap up.

You can also use our Marco Island Beaches Guide or Shopping Guide to plan the rest of your weekend around these celebrations.