Experience The Magic of the Holidays In the Village of Wellington

By Shannon Anastasio

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration and togetherness. In the Village of Wellington, this sentiment is taken to heart as the community hosts a series of magical holiday events that will leave you and your loved ones in awe. From festive parades to Wellington Winterfest and everything in between, our village offers a holiday experience like no other. So, mark your calendars for the following dates, and get ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the Village of Wellington this holiday season.

Holiday Cultural Celebration, Thursday, Nov. 30
Wellington’s holiday season kicks off with the Holiday Cultural Celebration on Thursday, Nov. 30 at the Wellington Amphitheater. This event is a showcase of the rich cultural diversity that exists within the Village of Wellington. Best of all, it’s free to attend, making it accessible to all members of the community.

The Holiday Cultural Celebration is a delightful opportunity to embrace the spirit of the season with friends and family. It’s a day filled with enchanting performances, art displays and cultural exhibitions. From music to dance to traditional cuisine, you’ll have the chance to experience the world’s cultures right in your own backyard. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/967/holiday-cultural-celebration for full details and immerse yourself in the captivating tapestry of global traditions.

Wellington Winterfest 2023, Friday, Dec. 8
Wellington Winterfest 2023, hosted by the Wellington Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Wellington, promises to once again be a night to remember. Taking place on Friday, Dec. 8, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater, this event is free to attend and boasts a wealth of exciting features.

The evening will be headlined by the renowned musical icon, philanthropist, actor and TV star Vanilla Ice. His electrifying performance is sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit. In addition to the music, Winterfest offers a wide array of delightful activities, including delicious food vendors, exhibitors, the Live 360 photobooth, live musical and dance performances, and much more.

For the young and the young at heart, there’s the Blizzard Beach interactive area, and you can even visit with Santa himself. Adult attendees can relax in designated lounge areas, and pet lovers can explore pet adoptions. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to get some holiday shopping done with a variety of vendors on site. Don’t forget to capture the magic of the night in the snow globe photobooth.

For more information about Winterfest 2023, visit the Wellington Chamber of Commerce web site at www.wellingtonchamber.com. With a lineup like this, it’s a holiday celebration that you won’t want to miss.

Holiday Boat Parade, Saturday, Dec. 9
Prepare to be amazed as local residents and boating enthusiasts “Light up the Lake” with the Holiday Boat Parade on Lake Wellington. This event, set to take place on Saturday, Dec. 9 at 6 p.m., is a splendid spectacle for all ages.

The parade, visible from the Town Center Promenade, features festively decorated boats parading behind the Wellington Community Center. At approximately 6:30 p.m., the waters of Lake Wellington come alive with a dazzling display of lights and holiday cheer. Make sure to bring your own seating for a more comfortable viewing experience.

The Holiday Boat Parade is a tradition that brings the community together, combining the magic of the holiday season with the beauty of Lake Wellington. It’s a wonderful opportunity to share in the joy of the holidays with your loved ones, all while enjoying the picturesque waterside setting.

Wellington Holiday Parade, Sunday, Dec. 10
The 39th annual Wellington Holiday Parade, hosted by the Village of Wellington and the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce, is a cherished tradition that returns this year on Sunday, Dec. 10. This year’s theme is “Holidays Around the World,” promising a multicultural and diverse parade that celebrates the spirit of unity during the holiday season.

The parade kicks off at 1:30 p.m. and winds its way down Forest Hill Blvd., from Wellington Trace to Ken Adams Way. It’s a judged parade, so you can expect imaginative floats, marching bands, characters, dance troupes and more. This event is not only a visual feast but also a day of free fun and festivities for the entire family.

Gather your loved ones and come out to enjoy this fantastic holiday event. To learn more about the parade and its details, visit www.cpbchamber.com.

Be aware that road closures will be in effect, and Forest Hill Blvd. will be closed from its northern intersection at Wellington Trace to South Shore Blvd. between 1 p.m. and approximately 5:30 p.m. So, plan your travel accordingly and seek alternate routes during this time. If you’re parking at Town Center, be aware that vehicles parked there will not be able to exit until the conclusion of the parade.

Other Events To Enjoy 
In addition to these events, the Village of Wellington also hosts many other holiday-themed gatherings, ensuring that everyone in the community can find something special to enjoy during the festive season. These include the Senior Holiday Party for ages 50-plus, the annual Children’s Holiday Fishing Classic and the annual Wellington Holiday Jingle Bell Run 5K. Check out the calendar at www.wellingtonfl.gov to learn more.

Lakeside Market Fridays; Food Truck & Music Series Thursdays
Underway now and continuing through Feb. 23, 2024, the Lakeside Market at Wellington Town Center is open on Friday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. It offers a variety of goods, and admission and parking are free. This pet-friendly market is a great place to enjoy a holiday shopping experience with the whole family.

To keep the festivities going, the Food Truck & Music Series on Thursdays from 5 to 9 p.m. is a great way to unwind and enjoy delicious meals from approximately 18 food trucks in attendance each week. This event also features live performances by local tribute bands and music artists. Be sure to bring your own blankets or chairs for seating. The Food Truck & Music Series promises an entertaining evening for all ages. Be on the lookout for a list of food trucks expected to attend and get ready to indulge in delectable treats.

As the holiday season approaches, the Village of Wellington is offering many events and activities to celebrate this special time of year. Whether you’re watching the beautifully illuminated boats in the Holiday Boat Parade, singing along with Vanilla Ice at Winterfest 2023 or marveling at the creativity in the annual Wellington Holiday Parade, you’ll be making cherished holiday memories that will last a lifetime. So, don’t miss out on these magical holiday events. Share in the joy, laughter and togetherness that this wonderful community has to offer and create lasting memories with your friends and family. Celebrate the holidays the Wellington way, and you’ll find yourself filled with the spirit of the season.