Coconut Grove Ushers in the Holiday Season with Festive Events and Local Shopping
Coconut Grove is set to light up the holiday season with two exciting events that bring the community together, highlight local businesses and create magical experiences for all. Organized by the Coconut Grove Business Improvement District (BID), these events will showcase the district’s dedication to fostering a thriving local economy and providing festive fun for families and visitors.
On Saturday, Nov. 30, Coconut Grove will host its largest Shop Small Saturday event yet, featuring over 100 retailers lining the sidewalks with unique deals and one-of-a-kind finds. This initiative aligns with the nationwide Small Business Saturday, which encourages communities to support local businesses.
Coconut Grove BID sees this as an opportunity for residents and visitors to discover the charm and quality of the neighborhood’s diverse mom-and-pop shops—an effort that’s especially vital for South Florida's small businesses. From gifts for loved ones to personal treasures, the event promises something for everyone, making it the perfect day to jump-start holiday shopping.
Participating restaurants, including Bartaco, Chug’s, Varsol, RedFarm, Eva and La Cabrera, will complement the shopping experience with special offers, giveaways and all-day happy hour specials. Families can enjoy festive activities such as creating personalized snow globes, painting snowmen and decorating ornaments. Adding to the lively atmosphere, The Band Vizcaya will perform live from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., offering a musical backdrop to the day’s celebrations.
The holiday cheer continues on Sunday, Dec. 1, as Coconut Grove transforms into a whimsical Winter Wonderland from 6 to 9 p.m. The evening will feature enchanting performances by Rainbow Circus, whose “Carousel Lollipop”—a hand-painted carousel horse replica—will serve as a dazzling centerpiece. Roaming performers, including snow fairies, ballerinas, jugglers, Pierrot-style mimes and stilt walkers, will captivate audiences, while holiday-themed hula hoop light shows and live music, including a Barbershop Quartet, add to the festive atmosphere.
The highlight of the evening will be the annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at 7 p.m., a beloved tradition that draws families and friends from across the area. Children can enjoy photos with Santa, while local businesses offer holiday treats like hot cocoa to keep the seasonal spirit warm and bright.
Both events are free and open to the public, reflecting the Coconut Grove BID’s mission to enhance the community experience while supporting the local economy. The BID has long been committed to initiatives that ensure the district remains vibrant and welcoming. Their efforts include keeping the area clean and secure, funding marketing projects, sponsoring events like these, beautifying streetscapes, and fostering new business relationships. By hosting Shop Small Saturday and the Winter Wonderland, the BID not only promotes its local merchants but also strengthens ties between the neighborhood and its visitors.
For years, Coconut Grove BID has emphasized the importance of supporting small businesses, and this year’s Shop Small Saturday continues that tradition. As the BID’s flagship holiday shopping event, it allows local retailers to shine while encouraging the community to shop local. The organization’s ongoing programs, which range from capital improvements to partnerships with state and national organizations, reflect a broader vision of community and economic development.
As the holidays approach, Coconut Grove offers a unique blend of local shopping, family-friendly activities and festive entertainment. From discovering gifts on Nov. 30 to marveling at the wonder of the Winter Wonderland on Dec.1, these events promise to create cherished memories for all who attend. Visit coconutgrove.com for more information and make Coconut Grove your holiday destination this season.