In Fort Lauderdale, holiday shopping takes on a lighter, sunnier rhythm; the kind that turns a simple gift hunt into an easy afternoon out. Maybe it’s the warm breeze drifting through open-air boutiques, the glow of palm-lined streets dressed in lights, or the mix of local makers and beloved retailers that give the season its distinctly coastal charm. Whether you’re hunting for festive décor, handcrafted gifts, or something a little more personal, Fort Lauderdale’s shopping scene makes the experience feel relaxed and joyful. Never rushed, never cold.
And with The Garden Hotel & Resort as your stylish home base, you’re perfectly placed to explore it all. Here’s where to shop, what to discover, and how to make your holiday getaway feel naturally effortless.
The Christmas Palace — A Must for Holiday Magic
If you’re planning to Christmas shop in Fort Lauderdale, The Christmas Palace is where the season truly begins. This beloved South Florida landmark has been inspiring holiday traditions since 1992, and stepping inside feels like entering a world made entirely of sparkle, color, and nostalgia. Towering trees shimmer in every style imaginable, from coastal blues and seashell ornaments to classic reds, golds, and heirloom glass. Aisles are lined with collectible figurines, lush wreaths, hand-painted ornaments, twinkling lights, and décor that turns any home, beachside or not, into a festive haven.
What makes The Christmas Palace special is its care and craftsmanship. Every piece is thoughtfully chosen and built to last, the kind of décor families unpack year after year. Whether you’re searching for a meaningful gift, a keepsake ornament, or a statement piece for your holiday home, you’ll find something memorable. It’s joyful, immersive, and full of the kind of magic that makes you feel like a kid again, making it the perfect way to set the tone for a sunlit Fort Lauderdale holiday.
Christmas on Las Olas — December 2
Once a year, Las Olas Boulevard becomes one of the most festive stretches in Fort Lauderdale. Christmas on Las Olas brings twinkling lights, live performances, and the joyful hum of holiday crowds to one of the city’s most iconic streets. More than 60 local vendors line the boulevard, offering handmade gifts, seasonal treats, décor, clothing, jewelry, and creative pieces you won’t find anywhere else. Live music, school choirs, and dance groups fill the air with holiday cheer, transforming the evening into a community celebration.
Families can slide down Snow Mountain, wander through Santa’s Village, enjoy ice skating, or stop at local shops offering holiday specials. The palm-lined street glows as the sun dips into the horizon, giving the whole event that distinctly Fort Lauderdale charm; festive, bright, and breezy. And because The Garden Hotel & Resort is just minutes away by EV bike, it’s one of the easiest and most spirited holiday activities to add to your stay.
Lovers Lore: Bookish Wonderland — December 6–7
If your holiday shopping includes gifts for readers, writers, or anyone who loves the magic of stories, Lovers Lore Bookish Wonderland is a must-visit. About a 30-minute drive from The Garden Hotel & Resort, this two-day pop-up blends the nostalgia of a school book fair with the creative energy of South Florida’s literary community. Imagine tables filled with carefully curated books, indie presses, local authors signing their work, handmade bookmarks, candles, art prints, and thoughtful bookish gifts that feel wonderfully personal.
Sip seasonal drinks while browsing, take a moment to enjoy the cozy photo ops, or pick up something special for the book lover in your life. The event has an endearing charm; intimate, immersive, and full of the kind of gifts that carry meaning beyond the season. It’s one of the most unique holiday shopping experiences near Fort Lauderdale, and it pairs beautifully with a slow morning or relaxing afternoon back at The Garden Hotel & Resort.
Christmas Edition: Sunny Side Up Sunday Market — December 21
Held along the waterfront in downtown Fort Lauderdale, the Christmas Edition of Sunny Side Up Sunday Market is where the community gathers for sunshine, music, and holiday cheer. This special seasonal edition features local artisans selling handmade gifts, from pottery and jewelry to textiles, home goods, and small-batch treats, perfect for finding those thoughtful, last-minute presents.
The energy is easy and uplifting: Pilates by the water, live holiday music floating through the air, fresh coffee and smoothies, festive bites, and families and friends browsing beneath warm skies. With boats drifting along the river and palm trees swaying overhead, it captures everything people love about December in Fort Lauderdale. Relaxed, bright, and full of small pleasures, it’s a beautiful way to round out your holiday shopping weekend.
Where to Stay While Holiday Shopping in Fort Lauderdale
With so many festive events, waterfront markets, and beloved retailers to explore, choosing the right place to stay makes a big difference. The Garden Hotel & Resort is the perfect home base for a holiday shopping getaway: calm, stylish, and freshly renovated, giving guests a chance to be among the first to enjoy the reimagined spaces. Our location puts you minutes from Las Olas, downtown, the Galt Ocean Mile, and major hubs like The Christmas Palace, all while offering a peaceful return at the end of each day.
Explore the city by EV bike or rideshare, wander through open-air boutiques, then come back to comfortable rooms, sunlit courtyards, a quiet pool, or fresh bites at The Greenhouse. The Garden’s grounded design and easygoing atmosphere help create a holiday trip that feels as restorative as it is fun.
Looking for more Christmas events to fill up your festive stay in Fort Lauderdale? Take a look at our guide to Planning Your Holiday Getaway.
Whether you’re discovering new makers, searching for the best Christmas stores in Fort Lauderdale, or simply enjoying the festive spirit of the city, The Garden Hotel & Resort gives you a warm, welcoming place to return.
