Black Tie Ball

Latest Update on November 17, 2025

The 2025 Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Black Tie Ball

Presented by Broward Health in Association with Republic National Distributing Company

Saturday, December 6, 2025

✨ 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.

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.

Hosted by the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

Sponsorship Opportunities

All sponsorships are created to provide the maximum entertainment/branding opportunities within the Winterfest Celebration.

Click on the sponsorship level of interest, and a Winterfest representative will contact you to create a custom sponsorship for your company.

OR

Call the Winterfest Office at 954-767-0686

Tickets to select Winterfest Events including the Winterfest Black Tie Ball
Logo incorporated on the digital auction used by Winterfest for over three months and promoted on a variety of media platforms

Tickets to select Winterfest Events including the Winterfest Black Tie Ball
Logo incorporated on a variety of social media platforms

Ready to be a Sponsor?

Have a Sponsorship Idea not Listed? Contact Winterfest to have a representative discuss how to make your idea a reality.

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.

The Epic 2024 Winterfest Black Tie Ball has entered the history books!

Coming in 2025, this page will be updated with all the exciting details of the next Winterfest Black Tie Ball.
We’ll see you then!

Until then, enjoy a look back at the 2024 Winterfest Black Tie Ball

Winterfest Appreciation Party

Latest Update on April 23, 2025

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!

April 22, 2025 5:30 – 7:30 PM

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.

2024 Winterfest Appreciation Party date: April 22, 2025

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

Captains’ Meeting

Latest Update on October 31, 2025

WINTERFEST CAPTAINS’ MEETING

Hosted by Suntex Marinas

FJ Propeller and Chevron

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.

Have a Sponsorship Idea Not Listed? Contact Winterfest to have a representative discuss how to make your idea a reality.

Photos are on our Facebook page.

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

VIP Viewing Party

Latest Update on November 23, 2025

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

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 Parade 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

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 is the 2025 president of Broward, Palm Beaches and St. Lucie Realtors®. With 18 years of experience in the real estate industry, Jonathan shares his extensive knowledge in emerging technologies, social media strategies, professional standards, and the Code of Ethics essential for today’s AI-driven marketplace. Beyond his role as president of Broward, Palm Beaches & St. Lucie Realtors®, Jonathan also serves on the Board of Directors for both the Florida Realtors® and National Association of Realtors ®, as well as on several committees across the Broward, Palm Beaches & St. Lucie Realtors® and Florida Realtors®. Read more…

After living in Honduras for six years and being exposed to different markets, Jonathan made a grand impact to the expansion of LoKation Real Estate. He played a pivotal role in growing a small team to more than 4,300 agents, earning recognition from Real Trends and RISMedia as the 11th largest independent brokerage in the U.S.

Beyond his role as president of Broward, Palm Beaches and St. Lucie Realtors®, Jonathan is the Chief Operating Officer at LoKation Real Estate, serving as a Broker, Mentor, and Certified Instructor. He also prioritizes giving back to the real estate community as an RPAC Major Investor and contributes to various committees with Florida Realtors® and the National Association of Realtors®.

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 November 10, 2025

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:

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.
Download the Winterfest App for updates and opportunities to vote for your favorite boat.

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**

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 2024 Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade has entered the history books!

Coming in 2025, this page will be updated with all the exciting details of the
54th Annual Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade Viewing Area.
We’ll see you then!

Until then, enjoy a look back at the 2024 Parade Viewing Area

The Winterfest Launch Party

Latest Update on October 26, 2025

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

Photos are on our Facebook page.

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

Hosted By

Featured Restaurant

2025 Poster Artist

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.

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

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

Water Taxi Photo Booth

Carroll’s Jewelers Bling Bar

Check out what you missed last year – WSVN Channel 7’s coverage (additional event links on winterfestparade.com/videos)

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

All sponsorships are created to provide the maximum entertainment/branding opportunities within the Winterfest Celebration. Click on the sponsorship level of interest and a Winterfest representative will contact you to have a custom sponsorship created for your company OR call the Winterfest Office at 954-767-0686

Ready to be a Sponsor? Get ready to be part of the Winterfest Family!

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

Captain’s Cup

Latest Update on April 2, 2025

The 2024 Captain’s Cup is In The History Books

Coming in 2025, this page will be updated with all the exciting details of our next Captain’s Cup.
We’ll see you then!

Winterfest celebrates parade participants and partners that make the year magical.

This wrap-up party recognizes parade entries, corporate sponsors, the board of directors, and Winterfest supporters. The Awards Dinner is decorated to the Parade’s theme with entertainment to compliment.

One lucky boater will win the People’s Choice Award. By voting – you are saying thank you to those that went the extra mile to become a winner! Voters have the opportunity to win airline tickets (see rules).

Live entertainment, cocktails, full-course dinner, and more!

EVERY PARADE ENTRY receives two (2) complimentary tickets to the event. Additional tickets can be purchased for $40 per person (limited tickets available and must be purchased in advance).

The 2025 Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Black Tie Ball

Presented by Broward Health in Association with Republic National Distributing Company

Saturday, December 6, 2025

Sponsorship Opportunities

OR

Qtego Auction Package (10 available range $5,000-$8,000)

Swag Bag Sponsor ($2,000-$3,000 plus 1000 items)

Ready to be a Sponsor?

The Epic 2024 Winterfest Black Tie Ball has entered the history books!

The 2024 Winterfest Appreciation Party has entered the history books!

WINTERFEST CAPTAINS’ MEETING

Hosted by Suntex Marinas

Winterfest VIP Viewing Party

People’s Choice Award – You Be the Judge

2025 Parade Judges:

AND YOU!

TICKETS for the 2025 Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade

The 2024 Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade has entered the history books!

The 2025 Winterfest Launch Party has entered the history books!

Photos are on our Facebook page.

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

Hosted By

Featured Restaurant

2025 Poster Artist

Romero Britto

2025 HIGHLIGHTS

Picture Perfect Partners

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The 2024 Captain’s Cup is In The History Books

Winterfest celebrates parade participants and partners that make the year magical.

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