Christmas & New Year's on Anna Maria Island 2026: Events, Dining & Holiday Fun

Who says the holidays have to come with snow and freezing temperatures? On Anna Maria Island, Christmas lights twinkle among the palms, holiday celebrations come with a coastal twist, and the Gulf of Mexico provides a beautiful backdrop for making memories.

Whether you're spending Christmas with family, planning a romantic New Year's Eve getaway, or enjoying a winter vacation on Florida's Gulf Coast, there's something special about celebrating the season on Anna Maria Island.

From Christmas tree lightings and festive markets to waterfront dining and New Year's Eve celebrations, we've gathered the 2026 Christmas and New Year's events on Anna Maria Island and in nearby Bradenton to help you plan your holiday getaway.

We'll continue updating this guide as restaurants, churches, and event organizers announce additional holiday details.

Christmas Events on Anna Maria Island 2026

Anna Maria Island celebrates the holidays with a laid-back coastal charm all its own. Explore these scheduled holiday events in Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach.

Sundown Get Down Christmas Tree Lighting – Bradenton Beach

Saturday, November 21, 2026 | 2–8 PM

Location: Historic Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach

Kick off the Christmas season with a tropical holiday celebration on Historic Bridge Street!

The Sundown Get Down Christmas Tree Lighting brings visitors and locals together for an afternoon and evening of holiday cheer, including Santa and the official Christmas tree lighting.

While you're there, explore the shops and restaurants along Bridge Street and enjoy the festive atmosphere of Bradenton Beach.

Event information: AMI South End

Holidays in Paradise – Historic Bridge Street

Every Saturday, November 28–December 26, 2026 | 2–8 PM

Location: Historic Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach

The holiday fun continues throughout December with Holidays in Paradise!

Each Saturday brings a festive lineup of entertainment, family-friendly activities, local shopping, and island-style Christmas cheer to Historic Bridge Street.

2026 event dates:

• November 28

• December 5

• December 12

• December 19

• December 26

Whether you're looking for a little holiday shopping or simply want to soak up the island's festive atmosphere, it's a fun way to spend an afternoon or evening.

Event information: AMI South End

Anna Maria Island Chamber Christmas Tree Lighting – Holmes Beach

Friday, December 4, 2026 | 5–8 PM

Location: Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach

Celebrate the season at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Christmas Tree Lighting!

This annual gathering brings the community together to welcome the holidays with festive decorations and island Christmas spirit.

It's a wonderful opportunity for vacationing families to experience the welcoming atmosphere that makes Anna Maria Island such a special place to visit.

Event information: Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce

Lester Family Fun Day – Anna Maria

Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 10:30 AM–2 PM

Location: The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Avenue, Anna Maria

A beloved island tradition, Lester Family Fun Day returns for its 25th annual celebration in 2026.

Held in memory of Chuck and Joey Lester, this community event brings families together for a day of activities and holiday spirit.

It's a great addition to your family's Christmas vacation plans, particularly if you're visiting Anna Maria Island with children.

Event information: Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce

Christmas Events Near Anna Maria Island

Looking for even more holiday fun? Several wonderful Christmas celebrations are scheduled just off the island in Bradenton, Palmetto, and Parrish.

These nearby events make excellent additions to an Anna Maria Island vacation, especially for families looking to combine beach time with traditional holiday activities.

North Pole Express – Florida Railroad Museum

Select evenings, November 27–December 22, 2026

Location: Florida Railroad Museum, Parrish

All aboard for a magical Christmas adventure!

The North Pole Express at the Florida Railroad Museum is a seasonal train experience designed to bring holiday excitement to children and adults alike.

Guests can enjoy a festive train excursion with Christmas activities and opportunities to celebrate the season.

This is an especially popular family experience, so advance ticket reservations are strongly recommended.

Tickets and schedules: Florida Railroad Museum North Pole Express

European Holiday Market – Palmetto

December 2–6, 2026

Location: Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Boulevard, Palmetto

Experience a little European Christmas magic without leaving Florida!

The European Holiday Market brings seasonal shopping, artisan gifts, festive food and drinks, live performances, and interactive activities to the Bradenton area.

Browse unique creations from participating vendors, discover special holiday gifts, and enjoy the sights and sounds of a traditional European-inspired market with a Gulf Coast twist.

Admission tickets are required, with free admission for children ages 12 and under.

Tickets and event details: European Holiday Market

Winter Wonderland – Downtown Bradenton

Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 5–8 PM

Location: Old Main Street, Downtown Bradenton

Who says you can't enjoy snow during a Florida beach vacation?

Downtown Bradenton's Winter Wonderland transforms Old Main Street into a festive holiday destination with seasonal entertainment, local vendors, and family-friendly activities.

Children can experience artificial snowfall and a snow slide while families enjoy holiday performances, food, shopping, and festive fun.

Admission is free!

It's a wonderful opportunity to experience a little traditional winter magic before returning to the beach.

Event information: Winter Wonderland – Bradenton Gulf Islands

Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade – Bradenton & Palmetto

Saturday, December 12, 2026 | Evening

Location: Manatee River, Bradenton and Palmetto

Celebrate Christmas Florida-style with beautifully decorated boats cruising along the Manatee River!

The Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade features vessels adorned with colorful lights and festive decorations as they travel along the waterfront.

Public viewing locations include the Green Bridge and Palmetto Pier. The parade begins around sundown, with viewing times varying along the route.

It's a wonderful way to experience the holidays on the water without needing a boat of your own.

Event information and viewing locations: Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade

Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Church Services on Anna Maria Island

For many families, attending a Christmas Eve service or Christmas Day Mass is an important part of their holiday traditions.

Whether you're looking for a candlelight service, a family-friendly celebration, or Catholic Mass, several churches on Anna Maria Island welcome visitors during the Christmas season.

Roser Church – Anna Maria

Location: 512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria

Roser Church is known for its beautiful waterfront setting and meaningful Christmas celebrations.

In previous years, the church has offered an outdoor children's Christmas Eve service near the water, along with traditional candlelight services in its sanctuary.

The combination of Christmas music, candlelight, and Anna Maria Island's coastal surroundings makes this a memorable holiday tradition.

2026 Christmas service times will be added when announced.

Church information: Roser Church

St. Bernard Catholic Church – Holmes Beach

Location: 248 South Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach

St. Bernard Catholic Church offers Catholic worship on Anna Maria Island and traditionally celebrates Christmas with Christmas Eve vigil Masses and Christmas Day services.

Visitors wishing to attend Christmas Mass should check the parish's official holiday schedule for service times and any special arrangements.

2026 Christmas Mass times will be added when announced.

Church information: St. Bernard Catholic Church

CrossPointe Fellowship – Holmes Beach

Location: 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach

CrossPointe Fellowship provides another convenient worship option for guests staying on Anna Maria Island.

The church has hosted Christmas Eve worship in previous years. Visitors can contact the church for details about its 2026 Christmas celebrations.

2026 holiday service schedule pending.

Episcopal Church of the Annunciation – Holmes Beach

Location: 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach

The Episcopal Church of the Annunciation welcomes visitors seeking a traditional Christmas worship experience.

The parish has offered Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services in previous years.

2026 holiday service schedule pending.

Additional Christmas Worship Options

Visitors may also wish to explore churches in Bradenton Beach, Longboat Key, and nearby Bradenton, including Harvey Memorial Community Church and St. Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church.

Please note: Christmas Eve and Christmas Day schedules may differ from regular weekly worship times. Confirm service times directly with each church before attending.

Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Dining on Anna Maria Island

Planning a holiday dinner without spending the day in the kitchen?

Some restaurants on Anna Maria Island offer special Christmas Eve menus or holiday dining experiences. Christmas Day options may be more limited, so making reservations and confirming holiday hours in advance is especially important.

Mademoiselle Paris – Christmas Eve Dinner

Thursday, December 24, 2026

Location: 9906 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria

Celebrate Christmas Eve with a festive French-inspired dinner at Mademoiselle Paris!

The restaurant has announced special Christmas Eve selections alongside its regular menu, including French onion soup gratinée, a seafood entrée with Parmesan risotto, ribeye steak with peppercorn sauce, and a special holiday dessert.

The Anna Maria Island location lists its Christmas Eve dining event from 4:30–10:30 PM.

Reservations are highly recommended.

Menu and reservations: Mademoiselle Paris Christmas Eve Dinner

More Restaurants to Consider for Christmas Dining

Several popular island restaurants are worth checking as Christmas approaches:

• The Waterfront Restaurant – Anna Maria

• Sandbar Seafood & Spirits – Anna Maria

• The Chateau Anna Maria – Holmes Beach

• Beach House Waterfront Restaurant – Bradenton Beach

• Beach Bistro – Holmes Beach

• The Porch Restaurant – Anna Maria

Nearby Bradenton restaurants, including PIER 22 and Mattison's Riverwalk Grille, may provide additional dining possibilities.

Important: These are restaurant suggestions, not confirmed Christmas Day openings. Their December 24 and December 25, 2026 holiday hours and menus have not yet been verified for this guide.

We'll update this section as restaurants announce their Christmas dining plans.

New Year's Eve on Anna Maria Island 2026

Ready to say goodbye to 2026 and welcome 2027?

Whether you prefer a festive celebration on Bridge Street, an elegant dinner, or a peaceful evening at your vacation rental, Anna Maria Island is a beautiful place to ring in the new year.

New Year's Eve Oyster Drop – Historic Bridge Street

Thursday, December 31, 2026 | 5 PM–1 AM

Location: Historic Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach

Celebrate New Year's Eve with a uniquely coastal tradition at the Historic Bridge Street Oyster Drop!

Instead of a traditional ball drop, Bradenton Beach welcomes the new year with its own island-style celebration.

The event is scheduled to run from 5 PM into the early hours of January 1, creating a festive setting for visitors and locals to celebrate together.

Explore the Bridge Street area, enjoy the holiday atmosphere, and welcome the new year with a little Anna Maria Island personality.

Event information: AMI South End

Mademoiselle Paris – New Year's Eve Five-Course Dinner

Thursday, December 31, 2026 | 4:50–10 PM

Location: 9906 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria

For an elegant New Year's Eve celebration, Mademoiselle Paris has announced a special five-course French dining experience.

This festive dinner offers couples, families, and friends an opportunity to enjoy a memorable evening before welcoming 2027.

Reservations are required, and special holiday cancellation policies apply.

Menu and reservations: Mademoiselle Paris New Year's Eve Dinner

Other New Year's Eve Dining Options

If you're planning a special dinner, consider checking with popular island restaurants such as The Waterfront Restaurant, Sandbar Seafood & Spirits, Beach House Waterfront Restaurant, and The Chateau Anna Maria.

Floridays Woodfire Grill & Bar, located just off the island overlooking Anna Maria Sound, is another restaurant worth contacting about holiday dining.

These restaurants' specific 2026 New Year's Eve menus and schedules have not yet been confirmed for this guide.

We'll add additional dining experiences as restaurants announce their plans.

New Year's Day on Anna Maria Island

Friday, January 1, 2027

There's something wonderful about beginning a new year at the beach.

Enjoy a peaceful morning walk along the Gulf, sip coffee on your vacation rental balcony, or gather with family and friends for a relaxed New Year's Day breakfast.

The first day of the year is also a lovely time to explore the island, enjoy the winter sunshine, and slow down after the previous evening's festivities.

If you're planning breakfast, brunch, or dinner out, confirm restaurant hours in advance. Some businesses may operate on adjusted New Year's Day schedules.

Holiday Meals, Publix Hours & Celebrating at Your Vacation Rental

Not every holiday celebration needs a restaurant reservation!

One of the benefits of staying in an Anna Maria Island vacation rental is having the space and flexibility to enjoy your favorite holiday traditions.

Whether you're preparing Christmas dinner, ordering a holiday meal, or hosting a New Year's Eve gathering, planning ahead can make your celebration more relaxing.

Publix Holiday Shopping – Holmes Beach

Location: 3900 East Bay Drive, Holmes Beach

Publix is the island's primary full-service grocery store and a convenient option for guests shopping for holiday meals, desserts, snacks, and party supplies.

Publix also offers seasonal prepared meals and entertaining options through its ordering services.

Expected Publix Holiday Hours for Christmas 2026 & New Year's 2027:

• Christmas Eve, December 24: Open, with early closing expected

• Christmas Day, December 25: Closed

• New Year's Eve, December 31: Open, with adjusted closing hours expected

• New Year's Day, January 1: Generally open with reduced hours

Exact 2026–2027 store, pharmacy, deli, and pickup hours should be confirmed with the Holmes Beach location before visiting.

Guests ordering prepared holiday meals should plan pickup before store closures and follow any reheating instructions.

Helpful shopping resources:

• Publix on Anna Maria Island

• Anna Maria Island Grocery Shopping Guide

• Publix Holiday Meal Ordering

Tips for Spending Christmas & New Year's on Anna Maria Island

Book holiday dining early. Special menus and limited seating can make Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve reservations popular.

Confirm holiday hours. Restaurants, grocery stores, and local attractions may have adjusted schedules.

Plan for event traffic. Allow additional travel time around Bridge Street, downtown Bradenton, and other holiday celebration areas.

Bring a light layer. December weather on Anna Maria Island is often pleasant, but evenings can be cooler, especially near the water.

Explore local shops. Pine Avenue, Holmes Beach, and Historic Bridge Street are wonderful places to find unique gifts and island-inspired souvenirs.

Save time for a Gulf sunset. Few holiday traditions are more memorable than watching the sun disappear over the Gulf of Mexico.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas & New Year's on Anna Maria Island

Are there Christmas events on Anna Maria Island in 2026?

Yes! Scheduled events include the Sundown Get Down Christmas Tree Lighting, Holidays in Paradise on Historic Bridge Street, the Anna Maria Island Chamber Christmas Tree Lighting, and Lester Family Fun Day. Nearby Bradenton-area celebrations offer even more holiday activities.

Are Anna Maria Island restaurants open on Christmas Day?

Some restaurants may offer Christmas Day dining, while others close for the holiday. Because operating hours vary, guests should confirm December 25 availability directly with restaurants before making plans.

What can families do near Anna Maria Island during Christmas?

Families can enjoy island tree lightings and holiday celebrations, the North Pole Express in Parrish, Winter Wonderland in downtown Bradenton, the European Holiday Market in Palmetto, and the Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade.

Where can I attend Christmas Eve church services on Anna Maria Island?

Roser Church in Anna Maria, St. Bernard Catholic Church, CrossPointe Fellowship, and the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation are among the island's worship options. Check each church for its confirmed 2026 Christmas service schedule.

What is happening on Anna Maria Island for New Year's Eve 2026?

The New Year's Eve Oyster Drop is scheduled for December 31 on Historic Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. Mademoiselle Paris has also announced a special five-course New Year's Eve dinner.

Is Publix open on Christmas Day or New Year's Day?

Publix is closed on Christmas Day but generally open with reduced hours on New Year's Day. Confirm the exact holiday hours for the Holmes Beach location before shopping.

Celebrate Christmas & New Year's with Island Real Estate Vacations

From festive island celebrations and memorable holiday dinners to quiet mornings by the Gulf, Christmas and New Year's on Anna Maria Island offer a refreshing way to spend the season.

At Island Real Estate Vacations, we love helping families and friends find the perfect place to celebrate special moments.

Whether you're looking for a cozy island condo, a spacious vacation home with a private pool, or a property with room for the whole family, our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals offer a comfortable home base for your holiday getaway.

Explore Anna Maria Island Vacation Rentals and start planning your Christmas or New Year's escape today!

Last updated: October 2026. Event schedules, holiday dining, worship services, and business hours are subject to change. Please confirm details with organizers and businesses before attending or making reservations.