Events

Family Fun Day

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FREE EVENT

Winterfest Family Fun Day at Esplanade Park

2025 Winterfest Family Fun Day Flyer

For an exciting day of family fun in Fort Lauderdale, head on over to Esplanade Park for Winterfest’s Family Fun Day.

This event offers many FREE activities for kids of all ages – and parents, too! This holiday event features giant slides such as Polar Express Slide, Catabella Express Train, and other activities.

Our Family Fun Day is in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale in front of the Museum of Discovery and Science and it is packed with exciting family activities.

If you work up an appetite, there will be plenty of food and beverage options for sale. Samples and so much more.

With great food, fun activities, and live music, this is an event you don’t want to miss out on. It’s a perfect day on the New River / Riverwalk for the entire family.

Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital logo
TITLE SPONSOR:
Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital
Publix Logo
PRESENTING SPONSOR:
Publix Super Markets

List of Event Highlights and booths:

  • Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Teddy Bear Clinic
  • Cookie decorating by Publix
  • Stoked on Salt Ocean Conservation Village
  • Experience Catabella Express Train, Polar Express
  • Entertainment provided by School of Rock
  • Broward College Snow Mountain
  • Pet Rescue Row and Puppy Kissing Booth
  • Free boat rides courtesy of Water Taxi
  • City of Fort Lauderdale Kids Zone
  • Free Bicycle Helmets from Epilepsy Alliance
  • Sampling by Raising Cane’s
  • Additional entertainment by the Hip Hop Kidz, Sout Florida Cloggers and Florida Children’s Theatre.
  • BONUS: the Museum of Discovery & Science will open for FREE after this event (Free Admission from 3-5 P.M.)
School of Rock
Fifth Third Bank logo
School of Rock Fort Lauderdale logo
City of Fort Lauderdale Logo
WSVN 7 logo
Stoked on Salt logo
iHeart Radio logo
WHYI-FM Y100 logo
Magic 93.9 WMIA-FM Logo
Rick Case logo
Museum of Discovery & Science logo
NHL Florida Panthers logo
SunSentinel Media Group logo
Ave Maria logo
Broward College logo
Water Taxi logo
Raising Cane's logo
Preferred Travel & Company logo
Miami Marlins logo
Two Men And A Truck logo
Epilepsy Alliance Florida logo
Florida Blue logo
GEICO Logo

Don’t miss the excitement for 2025, contact us today to be a sponsor at 954-767-0686

Become a 2025 Sponsor

  • Sponsors receive Tickets to Winterfest Events – the Winterfest Launch Party, Grand Marshal Reception, VIP Area, and Captain’s Cup
  • 10×10 Booth prominently displayed
  • Logo incorporated in a variety of Winterfest Promotions including Family Fun Day Flyer and Social Media
  • Other media opportunities

Photos are on our Facebook page.

PRESS CREDENTIALS: All media requests must be submitted using an email address from the media’s active domain address. The submission must include a commitment from an editor/publisher noting where and when the story/photos will be printed/uploaded on social media platforms.

Any social media influencers must submit their handles, viewership and pre-/event day promotions plan when requesting credentials.

Black Tie Ball

Latest Update on

The 2025 Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Black Tie Ball

Presented by Broward Health in Association with Republic National Distributing Company

Broward Health logo

Saturday, December 6, 2025

Republic National Distributing Company logo

✨ WELCOME TO THE NIGHTLIFE! STUDIO 54 THEMED You are invited to celebrate 54 years of Winterfest✨

Step into the glittering glow of the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Black Tie Ball presented by Broward Health in association with Republic National Distributing Company. Our Welcome Reception, powered by Fision Fiber Optics by Hotwire Communications, will be setting the stage for a night that shines as bright as the disco ball.

Republic National Distributing Co. will pour the finest wines and spirits, while Stephen’s Distributing Co. keeps the party flowing with crisp, iconic Stella Artois.

In the PEOPAYGO / COMPEO Red Lounge, revel in an atmosphere dripping with velvet, neon, and pure Studio 54 decadence. This is more than a reception—it’s a scene.

THE BALL: The Crown Jewel of the Season
Fort Lauderdale’s most elegant, dazzling, and star-studded gala—a spectacle worthy of the city’s social elite. Need Inspiration for what to wear? LOOKBOOK: Click here.

SPECIAL ENTERTAINMENT: Straight from New York, the epic 16-piece Jordan Kahn Music Company, featuring the magnetic PROFESSOR D, will bring unstoppable energy and make the dance floor pulse like never before.

LIBATIONS WITH A DISCO TWIST
Raise a glass and let the night sparkle with our Welcome Drink: Prosecco, poured as the ultimate curtain-raiser for a glamorous evening.

Glide into the decadence with the JF Haden’s Ice Luge — chilled, playful, and pure Studio 54 spectacle.

At dinner, the stars shine in your glass:

  • Bold and unapologetic Juggernaut Cabernet Sauvignon – a wine as powerful as the disco beat.
  • Crisp, vibrant Yealands Sauvignon Blanc – as fresh and electric as a night under the mirror ball.

Tables are a hot ticket:

  • $4,000 – $5,000 tables available
  • $6,000 tables—completely sold out
    A LIMITED NUMBER OF TICKETS REMAIN!
Tickets
Auction

AUCTION UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT
The night heats up with both Silent and Live Auctions, presented in dazzling style by Daoud’s Fine Jewelry.

The Silent Auction lets you groove at your own pace—bid from the comfort of home or on the go, with more than 200 glittering treasures awaiting their star owner.

The Live Auction takes center stage inside the ballroom, where the energy is electric and the spotlight shines on show-stopping luxury items that will make the crowd buzz with excitement.

Ocean Manor Beach Resort
Fort Lauderdale Plastic Surgery logo
Savior-Faire logo
LaGasse' Pools logo
U.S. Brick & Block Logo
Pink Sands logo

If you wish to donate an item to our auction, contact Winterfest.

Cocktails, Dinner, and Dancing 5:30 PM – 11:30 PM. Don’t have a ticket? You can still bid on auction items.

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Hollywood, FL logo
Broward Health logo
Republic National Distributing Company logo
Fision by Hotwire Communications logo
Fifth Third Bank logo
J.F. Haden's Craft Liqueurs logo
Great HealthWorks logo
Pet HealthWorks logo
WSVN 7 logo
Supreme Lending logo
Carr Workplaces logo
Todd Stone Law logo
Zola Keller logo
Rick and Flo logo

What can I do while I’m in town for Winterfest? Click Here

Photos are on our Facebook page.

PRESS CREDENTIALS: All media requests must be submitted using an email address from the media’s active domain address. The submission must include a commitment from an editor/publisher noting where and when the story/photos will be printed/uploaded on social media platforms.

Any social media influencers must submit their handles, viewership and pre-/event day promotions plan when requesting credentials.

Family Fun Day – Where to Park?

Latest Update on

Planning on attending this Sunday’s November 22nd Winterfest Family Fun Day with the City of Fort Lauderdale’s Open Streets? Click on the link to find the best locations to park. Remember Las Olas will be closed during the day and the event is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. City lots will have a flat rate of $5.

http://bit.ly/1MuEqeW

 

Winterfest Appreciation Party

Latest Update on

The 2024 Winterfest Appreciation Party has entered the history books!

Coming in 2026, this page will be updated with all the exciting details of our next Winterfest Appreciation Party.
We’ll see you then!

Casa Calabria logo

Casa Calabria

4040 Galt Ocean Drive, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33308

Free Valet Parking

ATTENTION: PARTNERS & SUPPORTERS

This invitation-only celebratory event honors the people who play a huge role in the success of Winterfest® – our volunteers!

Hors D’oeuvres – Cocktails – Raffles – Fun – Friendship – More

The Carolyn McLaughlin Spirit of Volunteerism Award winner is announced during the event.

If you would like to be a volunteer – contact the Winterfest office.

Duck Fest Derby

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Duck Fest(2)DATE NOT CONFIRMED – To benefit Kids In Distress – You won’t want to miss the Annual Duck Fest Derby in Fort Lauderdale. This is a family friendly event at Esplanade Park on the New River. The event is from 1-4 PM in March 2016 with live entertainment by “The Bittersweet Experience” on the main stage, KID Olympic Games, KID Fun Zone, Petting Zoo and many other fun activities! At 3:30 sharp, 15,000 rubber ducks will be dropped into the water and the 1st to cross the finish line wins! Many other great raffle prizes to be announced! To sponsor, start a Duck Sales Team or get involved call 954 390 7654 Ext:1290 or visit www.duckfestderby.kintera.org

 

Captains’ Meeting

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WINTERFEST CAPTAINS’ MEETING

Hosted by Suntex Marinas

Suntex Marinas
801 Seabreeze Blvd.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

December 9, 2025, 6 – 8 PM

Before the big night, all Parade participants are required to attend the Captains’ Meeting at the Captain’s Quarters inside  Suntex Marina at Bahia Mar. Hosted by Suntex Marinas, captains will receive line-up information and rules and regulations for the parade. Boat number and goodie bags featuring great items from our sponsors and raffle items are for Parade participants. CAPTAINS ONLY.

Parade captains will enjoy dinner courtesy of Suntex Marinas following the mandatory meeting.

Following the meeting, first time boaters will have the opportunity to view the route on a Water Taxi.

ALL BOATERS REGISTERED FOR THE PARADE WILL RECEIVE A RAFFLE TICKET FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO WIN PRIZES.

Each registered entry will receive a Captain’s Goodie Bag with:

  • Shirt
  • Chevron gas card
  • Parade-themed souvenir burgee designed by Romero Britto
  • Parade Boat number by Image360 Lauderhill

Want to promote your company to boaters? Donation items/gift certificates to the boaters – contact Winterfest for details.

ADDITIONAL PARTNERS: Image360, Marine Industries of South Florida, Suntex Marinas and Water Taxi.

Chevron logo
Frank & Jimmie's Propeller logo
Suntex Marinas logo
Water Taxi logo
Image 360 Fort Lauderdale logo

Photos are on our Facebook page.

PRESS CREDENTIALS: All media requests must be submitted using an email address from the media’s active domain address. The submission must include a commitment from an editor/publisher noting where and when the story/photos will be printed/uploaded on social media platforms.

Any social media influencers must submit their handles, viewership, and pre-/event day promotion plans when requesting credentials.

VIP Viewing Party

Latest Update on

Winterfest VIP Viewing Party

SPONSOR: Holy Cross Health

The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest® Boat Parade makes its “Official Start” at one of Fort Lauderdale’s most iconic locations – Tunnel Top Park, overlooking the historic Stranahan House and Riverside Hotel. More than 500 community leaders and sponsors will gather to enjoy an unforgettable evening filled with elegance, energy, and excitement.

Guests will sip cocktails and savor culinary creations from a variety of local restaurants, while mingling with Parade judges, WSVN’s television crew, and fellow supporters of this cherished community tradition.

A special thank you to Holy Cross Health for their continued support in making this exclusive experience possible. This is a sponsor-only event, offering unparalleled views of the Parade, premium hospitality, and a front-row seat to all the action in the Judging Area. Join the Winterfest® family of sponsors and be part of the magic where the Parade begins!

Chairs: Alyssa Lovitt, Nicole Covar & Gary Correll.

This area is Winterfest’s way of saying thank you to all our Board of Directors and Sponsors.
BY INVITATION ONLY.

Are you vacationing in this area for the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade and looking for something to do?
CLICK HERE to Discover Fort Lauderdale Beach or HERE to Visit Lauderdale

VIP Area

People’s Choice Award – You Be the Judge

Your vote decides who wins! Whether you’re watching from home, the shore, or aboard a boat, cast your vote for your favorite parade entry and you could win round-trip travel on
Download the Winterfest® App, scroll through parade entries, and vote daily through January 8. Each boat has an assigned number – details available at WinterfestParade.com.
Celebrate creativity, spirit, and design – and honor the hard work of our amazing participants.

2025 Judges:

2024 Parade Judge Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis

Mayor Dean Trantalis, City of Fort Lauderdale

Dean Trantalis has been mayor of Fort Lauderdale since March 2018 and previously served on the City Commission representing District 2 for eight years. As mayor, he represents the Broward County Tourism Development Council, the Metropolitan Planning Organization and the Broward Workforce Development Board.

Official USCG portrait of Rear Admiral Adam Chamie, the Assistant Commandant for Response Policy (CG-5R)

Rear Admiral Adam A. Chamie, Assistant Commandant for Response Policy (CG-5R)

Rear Admiral Adam Chamie assumed the duties as the Coast Guard Assistant Commandant for Response Policy in May, 2024.  In this capacity, he is responsible for developing strategic response doctrine and policy guidance for all Coast Guard forces.  These policies encompass seven of the eleven operational maritime missions, including law enforcement, search and rescue, maritime security, counterterrorism, defense operations, marine environmental response, and emergency management and disaster response programs. Read more…

In RDML Chamie’s previous assignment, he served as the Coast Guard’s Chief of Congressional and Governmental Affairs.  In this role, he was the Commandant’s strategic advisor for legislative affairs and was responsible for coordinating all engagements with Congress.

His military awards include the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal with operational device, among other personal, campaign, and unit awards.  In 2023, RDML Chamie was designated an honorary Chief Petty Officer by the Commandant and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard.  RDML Chamie was the 2002 Coast Guard Elite Athlete of the Year in the sport of powerlifting.

iHeart Media personality and 2024 Parade Judge Paul Castronovo

Radio Personality Paul Castronovo, iHeart Media – The Paul Castronovo Show

Celebrating his 40th year on the air in South Florida, Big 105.9 Morning Man, Paul Castronovo, host of the Paul Castronovo Show, is part of the landscape of South Florida. An avid Boater and Fishermen as well as being on the board of directors for the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation, Paul says he is the perfect candidate to judge the legendary Winterfest Boat Parade. “What an honor to be a judge once again, and for all the boat entrants, I take Venmo” Paul quips. Paul can be heard weekday mornings on Big 105.9 FM from 6-10am

Debbie Danto, 2025 Chair of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce

Debbie Danto, 2025 Chair of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce

As the COO of Danto Builders, Debbie Danto has played a pivotal role in growing Danto Builders in South Florida through building relationships with clients and the community, persistence and relentless attention to detail. Her and her husband’s, Craig Danto, industry expertise spans commercial, aviation, hospitality, healthcare, multifamily, retail government and industrial projects, always with a focus on quality and integrity. Her leadership at Danto Builders has helped many businesses and organizations bring their visions to life. Read more…

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Debbie has been an active and passionate advocate for local businesses, economic growth, workforce development and heart health. Her involvement with the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce has been instrumental in fostering collaboration among industries and enhancing opportunities for entrepreneurs and business leaders in the region.

Jonathan Lickstein, President of Broward, Palm Beaches & St. Lucie REALTOR®

Jonathan Lickstein, President of Broward, Palm Beaches & St. Lucie REALTOR®

2024 Parade Judge Stacy Ritter

President & CEO Stacy Ritter, Visit Lauderdale

Stacy Ritter was the 2024 Winterfest Belle of the Ball and is President and CEO of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau (GFLCVB). As CEO, she is responsible for the administration of the GFLCVB, a 45-person organization of sales and marketing professionals with a $24 million operating budget that focuses its efforts on behalf of the County for multicultural tourism, LGBT+ development, film and entertainment as well as national and international advertising and public relations.

AND YOU!


Be part of the judging team – along with community leaders – and help crown this year’s People’s Choice winner! Official Rules: winterfestparade.com/peoples-choice-award

What can I do while I’m in town for Winterfest? Click Here

Parade Viewing Area

Latest Update on
The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade Viewing Area

Winterfest’s Parade Public Viewing Area, sponsored by Nicklaus Children’s Health System, is conveniently located in east Fort Lauderdale at Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park on the Southeast corner of Las Olas Boulevard and the Intracoastal Waterway. Rideshare is encouraged and parking is within walking distance from the event area. Your ticket lets you experience a wonderful afternoon and evening of festival activities, interactive games, continuous stage entertainment, vendors, photo opportunities with Santa Claus and mascots before the main event – the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade.

The excitement begins at 4:00 PM when the gates open. Come early and bring the family (no pets, please) to enjoy the amenities. Enjoy the Stella Artois Culinary Courtyard, Live Entertainment, and activities. The Parade gets underway at 6:00 PM (new start time) along The New River in Downtown Fort Lauderdale and should arrive at Parade Viewing Area at approximately 6:30 PM.

SEATING (chairs) will be provided for every guest.

STAGE ENTERTAINMENT – Shane Duncan Band.

PARADE COMMENTARY by radio personalities from iHeart Radio.

TICKETS for the 2025 Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade

$40 Individual adult tickets

$35 Children 12 years & younger

Children 3 and under free

Tickets are electronic.

Purchased tickets and have questions? help@eventhub.net

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE AREA:

Shane Duncan Band
Shane Duncan Band
NEW! Soundwave – A 20 ft. LED Sound System Truck
  • Conveniently located adjacent to public parking, rideshare drop-offs, and shuttle services from local hotels. CLICK HERE for a list of Winterfest Weekend specials from our hotel partners!
  • Entertainment on the City of Fort Lauderdale’s stage starting at 4:00 PM. The area transforms into a concert with the Shane Duncan Band at 4:00 PM.
  • Hungry? Thirsty? Don’t worry, we have you covered! Stella Artois Culinary Corner will have a variety of festival foods, featuring beverages from Stephen’s Distributing as well as Coca-Cola and LaCroix products.
  • Photo opportunities with the jolly man himself – Santa, before he rides in the Parade.
  • Parade Commentary provided by iHeart personality.

Additional Tips and Parking CLICK HERE.

TICKETS: for PARADE VIEWING TICKETS: Ticket Policy: https://winterfestparade.com/ticket-policy

BRIDGES: Bridge Timings are approximate, and traffic can cause delays. The Las Olas Blvd. Bridge opens for boats on a regular schedule on the quarter and three-quarter hour. The bridge will be locked open for the duration of the Parade, so to make sure you have enough time to get to the Parade Viewing Area plan on being on the east side of the Las Olas Bridge by 6:00 PM.

For bridge openings throughout the day of parade: https://winterfestparade.com/when-are-the-bridges-up

PARKING: Las Olas Parking Garage (next to the viewing area) 200 Las Olas Cir, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316. Parking will be very limited on Parade night.

The Parade goes on Rain or Shine.

NO Bottles, coolers, chairs, pets – For additional Parade Viewing Area Tips, Click Here.

Promenade Park Sunset Terrace
Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park 80 Las Olas Circle Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Nicklaus Children's Health System logo
BBID - Discover Fort Lauderdale Beach logo
City of Fort Lauderdale Logo
Visit Lauderdale logo
Coca-Cola logo
Florida Panthers Logo
WBGG Big 105.9 logo
LaCroix Logo
iHeart Radio logo
Magic 93.9 WMIA-FM Logo
GEICO Logo
Waste Management logo
A crows of happy people watching The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade from the Parade Viewing Area
Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade Viewing Area Nightime

LOOKING FOR A HOTEL? CLICK HERE.

The Winterfest Launch Party

Latest Update on

The 2025 Winterfest Launch Party has entered the history books!

Coming in 2026, this page will be updated with all the exciting details of our next Winterfest Launch Party.
We’ll see you then!

Until then, enjoy a look back at the 2025 Winterfest Launch Party

Get DECKED OUT for the 2025 Winterfest Launch Party Opening Night Soirée

October 25, 2025 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Marriott Resort Fort Lauderdale Harbor Beach
3030 Holiday Dr, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

Presented By

Gray Robinson logo

Hosted By

Marriot Resort Fort Lauderdale Harbor Beach logo

Featured Restaurant

Casa Calabria logo

2025 Poster Artist

Romero Britto

The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade Co-Grand Marshal for 2025 - Romero Britto
As a Winterfest partner, you will receive tickets to South Florida’s preview of the holiday season featuring Winterfest updates, amazing bites, sips and entertainment at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa. The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 25, 2025 from 7-10pm, and will feature delights from top-area restaurants throughout Broward County.

NO TICKETS ARE SOLD TO THE PUBLIC – SPONSORSHIP IS YOUR TICKET IN!

2025 HIGHLIGHTS

The 2025 Winterfest Launch Party theme “Decked Out” is in celebration of this year’s Parade theme “Yacht Rock of Ages.”
This year’s Parade celebrates 54 years as a signature Holiday Tradition in South Florida.

Shine bright in Gold, Blue, Red, and White Nautical Cocktail Chic.

Did you receive an invitation but don’t know what to wear? Click on this LookBook link.

Special Performance  courtesy of Ocean Manor Beach Resort.

Ocean Manor Beach Resort logo

Featuring a JF Haden’s Martini Bar

Espresso Martini with Deep Eddy Vodka
Lychee Martini with Deep Eddy Vodka
Mango Margarita Martini with 1800 Tequila

J.F. Haden's Craft Liqueurs logo
Deep Eddy Vodka logo
1800 Tequila logo

Poster Artwork by Romero Britto and the unveiling of the original artwork of this year’s poster.

photo of Captain Lee Rosbach
Special Guest Captain Lee, the official Captain of Winterfest
MC DREW from Y100 Miami & iHeart Radio
MC DREW from Y100 Miami & iHeart Radio

Picture Perfect Partners

Great HealthWorks logo

Water Taxi Photo Booth

Water Taxi logo
Carroll's Jewelers logo

Carroll’s Jewelers Bling Bar

Gray Robinson logo
Casa Calabria logo
Marriott Resort Fort Lauderdale Harbor Beach logo
Ocean Manor Beach Resort logo
3030 Ocean Logo
Green Cheetah Catering Logo
Mimi's Ravioli logo
Eddie V's logo
Sea Level logo
ABC Miami logo
Republic National Distributing Company logo
LaCroix Logo
Great HealthWorks logo
Tower Club Fort Lauderdale logo
Ocean Prime logo
Sixth Star Logo
The Water Taxi logo
Fifth Third Bank logo
King Security logo
Carroll's Jewelers logo

PRESS CREDENTIALS: All media requests must be submitted using an email address from the media’s active domain address. The submission must include a commitment from an editor/publisher noting where and when the story/photos will be printed/uploaded on social media platforms.

Any social media influencers must submit their handles, viewership and pre-/event day promotions plan when requesting credentials.