Wellington’s Holiday Magic
Enjoy A Season Of Festivities, Fun And Community Cheer
By Shannon Anastasio
The Village of Wellington is offering a vibrant lineup of holiday events that capture the true spirit of the season, making it a fantastic place to celebrate with family, friends and neighbors. From community-driven initiatives like the annual toy drive to dazzling parades and cultural celebrations, there’s something for everyone in this festive community.
One of the first holiday traditions kicking off in Wellington is the annual Hometown Holiday Toy Drive, running from Nov. 14 to Dec. 6. This heartwarming event invites residents to donate new, unwrapped toys to ensure that no child goes without a gift this holiday season. Donations can be dropped off at several locations, including the Lakeside Market on Thursday nights at the Wellington Amphitheater, Village Hall, Village Park, the Wellington Community Center and the Wellington Tennis Center. The village also welcomes businesses and organizations to partner in the effort. To learn more about partnership opportunities, call Jenifer Brito at (561) 753-2476.
On Thursday, Dec. 5, Wellington’s annual Holiday Cultural Celebration takes center stage at the Wellington Amphitheater. This free event invites the community to come together and celebrate the village’s rich ethnic diversity. From 5 to 9 p.m., attendees can enjoy a variety of food trucks, shop at the Lakeside Market and participate in holiday activities. The celebration will culminate in the highly anticipated tree lighting ceremony at 6:30 p.m., marking the official start of the holiday season. Guests are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy to the event to support the ongoing Hometown Holiday Toy Drive.
For those looking to continue their holiday festivities, Wellington Winterfest on Friday, Dec. 6 at the Wellington Amphitheater is an event not to be missed. Presented in partnership with the Greater Wellington Chamber of Commerce, Winterfest features headliner performer Vanilla Ice, who will bring his signature blend of music and energy to the stage. The event will also feature live musical and dance performances, exhibitors, food vendors, kids’ activities, pet adoptions and more. There will be plenty of opportunities for holiday shopping and entertainment, and best of all, the event is free to attend.
The following evening, on Saturday, Dec. 7, the annual Holiday Boat Parade will light up Lake Wellington at 6:30 p.m. This annual tradition sees approximately 40 festive, decorated boats cruising along the lake, creating a stunning display of holiday lights. Sponsored by South Florida Marine, the parade is visible from the Town Center Promenade, located behind the Wellington Community Center. Along with the boat parade, attendees can visit vendors from the Lakeside Market and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Those interested in participating in the parade should contact Jack Brownson at jbrownson@comcast.net for details.
The 40th annual Wellington Holiday Parade, produced by the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce on Sunday, Dec. 8, promises to be another highlight of the holiday season. This year’s parade, with the theme “Rockin’ in the Holidays,” will feature an exciting array of floats, marching bands, dancers and other performers winding their way down Forest Hill Blvd. from Wellington Trace to Ken Adams Way. Drivers beware… the parade will close the road from the northern intersection at Wellington Trace to South Shore Blvd., so attendees are advised to arrive early to secure the best viewing spots. Parking is available at Wellington’s Town Center, though vehicles will not be able to exit until the parade concludes.
For Wellington’s senior residents, the Senior Holiday Party on Tuesday, Dec. 10 at the Wellington Community Center offers a special celebration with music, lunch and festive fun. This event gives older adults an opportunity to enjoy the season with friends and neighbors in a joyful setting. Be sure to sign up in advance.
Additionally, the 12th annual Holiday Jingle Bell Run 5K on Sunday, Dec. 22 at Village Park provides a fun, active way to get into the holiday spirit. Participants of all ages can dress in their best holiday gear for a spirited run or walk. All runners will receive jingle bells prior to the race and are asked to donate an unwrapped toy for the village’s toy drive. Learn more at www.runsignup.com.
From Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, Wellington will also celebrate Kwanzaa, honoring African American culture and traditions. A Virtual Kwanzaa Celebration will offer videos and content highlighting the seven guiding principles of the holiday, such as unity, purpose and faith. Local leaders and performers will share their insights through special performances and educational materials, enriching the community’s understanding of this important cultural observance.
For those looking for a weekly dose of holiday cheer, the Lakeside Market at the Wellington Amphitheater is a must-visit destination. Running Thursday nights through May 2025, the market features more than 40 vendors, 18 food trucks and live music starting at 6:30 p.m. It’s the perfect place to do some holiday shopping, sample local treats, and enjoy an evening out with friends and family.
Wellington truly knows how to celebrate the holidays, offering a mix of charitable events, cultural celebrations and festive entertainment that bring the community together. Whether you’re donating to a good cause, watching a parade or enjoying a festive performance, there’s no shortage of ways to make this holiday season special in the Village of Wellington.
Learn more about holiday events this season in the Village of Wellington at www.wellingtonfl.gov/events.
