✨ This Weekend in Palm Beach County: November 15-16 ✨

Quick note from your neighbors: We apologize for getting this newsletter to you a bit later than usual! We've been heads-down building some exciting new projects (more on that soon!), but the silver lining? So many amazing new events were added in the last 24 hours that we wanted to make sure you got the absolute best of the best for this weekend. Trust us, it was worth the wait!

And what a weekend it's shaping up to be! The holiday season is officially kicking into high gear across Palm Beach County, and your neighbors at Palm Beach Locals have curated six spectacular experiences that capture the magic of November in South Florida.

Picture this: evening snowfall in downtown West Palm Beach (yes, really!), hundreds of glowing silk lanterns illuminating tropical gardens, outdoor art festivals showcasing local talent, a beachside wellness market in Jupiter, ice skating under the stars, and glowing wildlife displays at Lion Country Safari. From FREE community celebrations to enchanting after-dark experiences, this weekend offers something magical for every member of your family.

Whether you're seeking holiday wonder, cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or simply a beautiful way to spend time with your loved ones, these six events represent the very best of what makes Palm Beach County special during this time of year. Many of these experiences run through January, so you can return again and again—but there's nothing quite like experiencing them for the first time this weekend.

Let's dive into your weekend plans! 🌴

❄️ Snowfall Magic at CityPlace: A West Palm Beach Winter Wonderland

📅 Dates: Starting Saturday, November 15 through December 31
⏰ Snowfall Times: Friday & Saturday 6:00-8:00 PM | Sunday 5:00-7:00 PM
📍 Location: CityPlace, West Palm Beach, FL
🎅 Photos with Santa: Every Friday, Saturday & Sunday through December 24
💰 Admission: FREE

This Saturday marks the beginning of one of Palm Beach County's most beloved holiday traditions—and trust us, you'll want to experience the magic from opening weekend. Starting November 15th, CityPlace transforms into a winter wonderland complete with nightly snowfall that turns downtown West Palm Beach into something straight out of a holiday movie.

We're talking real snow falling from the sky (okay, it's manufactured, but your kids won't care!) creating that picture-perfect holiday atmosphere you've been dreaming about. There's something absolutely enchanting about watching snow drift down while you're in Florida weather—it's the best of both worlds, and it creates memories that last long after the season ends.

What You'll Experience:

The snowfall happens every evening throughout the holiday season, creating multiple opportunities to catch and play in the flurries. Kids absolutely love running through the snow, trying to catch flakes, and making "snow" angels—all while wearing shorts! It's a uniquely Florida experience that brings together families, couples, and friends from across the county.

But the magic doesn't stop with the snow. Santa Claus himself sets up shop at CityPlace every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through Christmas Eve, ready to hear wish lists and pose for those precious holiday photos. Located conveniently next to Sloan's, Santa takes a brief 8-minute break during snowfall—but otherwise, he's there spreading cheer and creating memories. The photo opportunity is FREE, making this an incredibly budget-friendly way to check "Santa photos" off your holiday to-do list.

Between snow sessions and Santa visits, you'll have the perfect opportunity to explore CityPlace's fantastic dining and shopping options. Grab dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, do some early holiday shopping, enjoy ice cream at Sloan's, or simply stroll the beautifully decorated streets soaking in the festive atmosphere.

Whether you're starting a new family tradition or continuing an annual pilgrimage, this opening weekend of snowfall at CityPlace is the perfect way to officially welcome the holiday season to Palm Beach County.

More Info: cityplace.com

🏮 ILUMINA: A Tropical Garden Lantern Festival That Will Leave You Breathless

📅 Dates: Now through January 11, 2026 (nightly)
⏰ Times: Gates open at 5:30 PM (timed entry)
📍 Location: Mounts Botanical Garden, 531 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL 33415
💰 Admission: Ticketed event (purchase in advance recommended)

Prepare to step into a world where nature, art, and light converge in the most spectacular way imaginable. ILUMINA transforms Mounts Botanical Garden's 20-acre tropical paradise into an after-dark wonderland featuring more than 500 handcrafted silk lanterns that will absolutely take your breath away. This isn't just a light show—it's an immersive artistic journey through glowing gardens unlike anything you've experienced in South Florida.

Each lantern is a masterpiece, painstakingly created by skilled artisans who blend centuries-old traditions with contemporary creativity. As you stroll through illuminated pathways, you'll encounter towering chameleons glowing in vibrant hues, radiant flamingos that seem to dance with light, shimmering butterflies suspended in the tropical breeze, and luminous orchids that rival their living counterparts in beauty.

The Showstopper You Can't Miss:

Rising majestically from the Garden's lake is ILUMINA's breathtaking centerpiece—a 195-foot dragon that serves as the festival's crown jewel. This massive masterpiece of color and light represents months of artistic vision and craftsmanship, and seeing it in person is genuinely awe-inspiring. We've heard from neighbors who've already visited that this dragon alone is worth the price of admission—it photographs beautifully but must be seen in person to truly appreciate its scale and artistry.

What makes ILUMINA truly special is how it celebrates the tropical plants, animals, and vibrant spirit that make South Florida unique. This isn't a generic holiday light display—it's a thoughtful, artistic celebration of our ecosystem rendered in glowing silk and carefully choreographed illumination. From prehistoric creatures to modern tropical wildlife, every installation tells a story and creates a multisensory experience that connects visitors of all ages with the beauty of the natural world.

The festival is completely walkable and family-friendly, making it an ideal evening outing for couples celebrating an anniversary, families with children of all ages, or friends looking for a unique experience. Food and beverages are available for purchase on-site, and the Garden Gift Shop remains open for those wanting to bring home a memento of their magical evening.

ILUMINA runs through mid-January, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to return with out-of-town guests during the holidays or to experience it multiple times throughout the season. But there's something truly magical about seeing it during these early November evenings when the excitement is fresh and the festival has just begun.

Tickets & Info: mounts.org/ilumina

🎨 Art Festival in Downtown Palm Beach Gardens: Where Creativity Comes Alive

📅 Dates: Saturday & Sunday, November 15-16, 2025
⏰ Times: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (both days)
📍 Location: Downtown Palm Beach Gardens, FL
💰 Admission: FREE

If you've been searching for that perfect piece of original art to transform your living space, looking to start your holiday shopping with truly unique gifts, or simply want to spend a beautiful November weekend immersed in creativity, the Art Festival in Downtown Palm Beach Gardens is calling your name. This FREE two-day celebration brings together talented artists from across the region in one of the most accessible and enjoyable art festivals Palm Beach County has to offer.

Downtown Palm Beach Gardens transforms into an open-air gallery where you can browse, discover, and connect directly with the artists who create the work you're admiring. There's something special about purchasing art from the person who made it—hearing the story behind a piece, understanding the inspiration, and knowing you're supporting a local creative professional makes each purchase infinitely more meaningful than anything you'd find in a big-box store.

What You'll Discover:

The festival features a diverse array of artistic mediums and styles. You'll find everything from vibrant paintings and detailed sculptures to handcrafted jewelry, photography that captures Florida's natural beauty, mixed media creations, ceramics, glasswork, and textile art. Whether your taste runs toward bold contemporary pieces or classic traditional works, toward beach-inspired coastal art or abstract modern designs, you'll find artists whose vision speaks to you.

What we love most about this festival is its accessibility. Running from 10 AM to 5 PM both Saturday and Sunday gives you flexibility to visit when it fits your schedule. Come early Saturday morning to beat any crowds and have first pick of available pieces. Return Sunday afternoon for a more relaxed browse after you've had time to think about that painting that caught your eye yesterday. Many artists offer special festival pricing or package deals, making this an excellent opportunity to invest in original art at reasonable prices.

Beyond the art itself, the festival creates a wonderful atmosphere for a weekend outing. Stroll through downtown Palm Beach Gardens with your coffee in hand, stop by local restaurants for lunch between gallery visits, let the kids watch artists at work (many offer demonstrations), and enjoy the beautiful November weather that makes outdoor festivals in South Florida absolutely perfect this time of year.

Whether you're a serious collector, a casual appreciator of art, or someone looking for meaningful holiday gifts that can't be found anywhere else, this festival offers a refreshing alternative to standard shopping. Plus, you'll be directly supporting the artists who make Palm Beach County's creative community thrive—and that's beautiful in itself.

More Info: pbgfl.gov

🧘‍♀️ Coco Market Jupiter: Where Wellness Meets Community by the Beach

📅 Date: Sunday, November 17, 2025
⏰ Time: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
📍 Location: Seabreeze Amphitheater at Carlin Park, 750 S. State Rd A1A, Jupiter, FL
🅿️ Parking: FREE at Carlin Park (arrive early!)
💰 Admission: FREE | Family & Pet Friendly

The beloved Coco Market wellness celebration is expanding north to Jupiter, and Sunday marks one of the first opportunities to experience this community phenomenon in its new beachside location! If you've never been to Coco Market, imagine a vibrant gathering where wellness, creativity, small business, and coastal living converge into one uplifting Sunday experience. And yes, it's completely free.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Carlin Park's oceanfront amphitheater, Coco Market creates a space where you can move your body, nourish your mind, discover local artisans, and connect with like-minded neighbors—all while feeling the ocean breeze and soaking in that uniquely Jupiter atmosphere. Whether you're a dedicated wellness enthusiast or simply curious about what all the buzz is about, this monthly gathering offers something meaningful for everyone.

What You'll Experience:

From 9 AM to 3 PM, you'll find a curated lineup of local wellness vendors and artisans offering everything from handmade goods and plant-based foods to healing services and conscious lifestyle products. Shop from approximately 75 local small business vendors showcasing aromatherapy, sustainable fashion, herbal products, yoga accessories, natural skincare, and unique gifts you won't find anywhere else.

But Coco Market is about more than shopping—it's about movement and mindfulness. Throughout the day, you can participate in a full schedule of FREE yoga classes, movement workshops, and wellness sessions led by incredible local teachers. Whether you're an experienced yogi or have never stepped on a mat before, these classes are designed to be accessible and welcoming for all levels. There's something wonderfully grounding about practicing yoga outdoors with the sound of the ocean nearby and palm trees overhead.

Live music and DJ sets add to the upbeat, coastal atmosphere, creating an energy that's simultaneously relaxing and invigorating. Local chefs and food vendors offer healthy, delicious options to fuel your day—think fresh juices, açai bowls, plant-based treats, and other nourishing foods that make you feel as good as they taste.

The family-friendly and pet-friendly environment means you can bring the whole crew. Kids love the activities, your dog will enjoy the social scene, and everyone benefits from the positive, community-focused vibe that makes Coco Market special. This isn't just an event—it's a movement to make wellness accessible, support small businesses, and create meaningful connections within our community.

Coco Market happens on the third Sunday of each month from November through May (no March event), so if you love this Sunday's experience, you can make it a monthly ritual. But experiencing it for the first time in this beautiful new Jupiter location? That's something special.

More Info: cocomarket.org | @cocomarket.tribe

⛸️ Winter Wonderland at The Ben: Ice Skating Under the Florida Stars

📅 Dates: Now through January 4, 2026 (daily)
📍 Location: The Ben, Autograph Collection, Flagler Drive, Downtown West Palm Beach, FL
💰 Admission: FREE for non-skaters | Skating tickets available online
🎫 Tickets: thebenevents.com

Palm Beach County's favorite holiday attraction is back and bigger than ever! The Ben's Winter Wonderland has returned to downtown West Palm Beach's waterfront, transforming Flagler Drive into a festive celebration that perfectly captures the magic of the season—with a uniquely South Florida twist. Where else can you ice skate outdoors in 75-degree weather while palm trees sway overhead?

This year's Winter Wonderland is more spectacular than ever, featuring an expanded 50-by-66-foot ice rink that accommodates more skaters and creates an even more impressive centerpiece for the waterfront. Whether you're a confident skater gliding across the ice or holding onto the rail for dear life (no judgment—we've all been there!), there's something absolutely magical about ice skating under the Florida sky as the sun sets over the Intracoastal.

What You'll Experience:

Beyond the ice rink itself, Winter Wonderland creates an entire festive village experience. Stroll through the Aspen-inspired chalet village, where you'll find local vendors offering unique gifts, holiday treats, and seasonal specialties. Warm up with hot chocolate (yes, we drink hot chocolate in Florida!), toast s'mores, or enjoy a Hot Toddy while taking in the twinkling lights and holiday decorations.

This year debuts the Holiday Tree Forest—an enchanting new addition where each tree has been uniquely decorated by local nonprofits including Habitat for Humanity and the Boys & Girls Club of Palm Beach County. It's beautiful to see, and it's wonderful knowing that this celebration gives back to our community. As you wander through the illuminated trees, you're literally surrounded by the spirit of giving and community support that makes our county special.

Even if you choose not to skate, admission is completely FREE for spectators. You can enjoy the entire festive atmosphere, watch friends and family on the ice, explore the chalets, indulge in seasonal treats, and soak in the holiday spirit without purchasing a skating ticket. This makes it perfect for multigenerational outings where not everyone wants to lace up skates.

The waterfront location couldn't be more perfect. The Ben sits right on the Intracoastal, so you're skating (or watching) with stunning water views, the West Palm Beach skyline as your backdrop, and boats gliding past creating that quintessential South Florida scene. It's the kind of Instagram-worthy moment that perfectly captures why we love living here—we get all the holiday magic without sacrificing our beautiful weather.

Winter Wonderland runs daily through January 4th, giving you over two months to experience this holiday tradition. Whether you visit once or return multiple times with different friends and family members, each visit offers new memories and that special feeling that only comes from celebrating the season in such a uniquely Florida way.

Tickets & Info: thebenevents.com

🦁 Lanterns & Lights Safari Nights: A Glowing Wildlife Adventure After Dark

📅 Dates: Now through January 18, 2026
📍 Location: Lion Country Safari, 2003 Lion Country Safari Road, Loxahatchee, FL 33470
💰 Admission: Ticketed event (purchase in advance recommended)
✨ What's New: First-ever lantern festival at Lion Country Safari!

Get ready to experience Lion Country Safari like never before! For the first time in its history, this beloved Palm Beach County attraction transforms into an after-dark wonderland featuring more than 60 glowing wildlife displays that will absolutely delight visitors of all ages. Lanterns & Lights Safari Nights is the perfect blend of education, artistry, and pure magical fun—and it's unlike anything else happening in South Florida this season.

As the sun sets and the safari grounds transition from day to night, you'll embark on an illuminated journey through larger-than-life lantern installations celebrating wildlife from around the world. These aren't simple light displays—these are massive, intricately detailed lantern sculptures that glow with vibrant colors and capture the majesty of lions, elephants, giraffes, and countless other creatures in stunning artistic form.

Adventures That Await:

One of the most exciting features is the Prehistoric Land of Legends—a special section where you'll encounter glowing dinosaurs and ancient creatures that transport you millions of years into the past. Kids (and let's be honest, adults too) go absolutely wild for this section. There's something incredibly cool about seeing a massive T-Rex illuminated against the night sky in the middle of a safari park!

Throughout the evening, you can enjoy festive food and beverage options including holiday cocktails for adults and seasonal treats for everyone. The event creates multiple photo opportunities at every turn—you'll want your phone fully charged and ready to capture these Instagram-worthy moments. From towering elephant lanterns to shimmering peacock displays, every corner offers something new to discover and photograph.

Santa himself makes appearances throughout the season, adding that extra touch of holiday magic to your safari experience. Imagine telling friends that your kids met Santa at a glowing safari park—it's the kind of unique holiday memory that becomes family legend. The combination of wildlife education, artistic lantern displays, holiday festivities, and after-dark adventure creates an experience that's truly one-of-a-kind.

What makes this event special for families is how it engages different age groups. Toddlers are mesmerized by the glowing colors and larger-than-life animal displays. Elementary-aged kids love the prehistoric section and learning about different wildlife. Teenagers appreciate the Instagram opportunities and evening adventure atmosphere. Adults enjoy the artistry, the festive beverages, and watching their family experience something truly magical together.

Running through mid-January, Lanterns & Lights Safari Nights gives you plenty of opportunities to experience this magical event or to bring visiting family and friends during the holiday season. But experiencing it during these beautiful November evenings—when the weather is absolutely perfect and the excitement is brand new—makes this weekend an ideal time to add it to your plans.

Tickets & Info: lioncountrysafari.com

Your Weekend Awaits!

There you have it—six spectacular ways to make this November 15-16 weekend absolutely magical. From experiencing evening snowfall at CityPlace and wandering through 500+ glowing lanterns at ILUMINA, to discovering original art at the Palm Beach Gardens festival and connecting with community wellness at Coco Market Jupiter, to ice skating under the stars at Winter Wonderland and marveling at glowing wildlife displays at Safari Nights—this weekend truly offers something extraordinary for everyone.

What we love most about these events is how they capture the magic of this season while celebrating what makes Palm Beach County special. They're opportunities to create memories with your family, support local artists and small businesses, introduce your kids to new experiences, reconnect with neighbors, and celebrate the beautiful weather and vibrant community that make living here feel like home.

Quick Recap:
❄️ CityPlace Snowfall & Santa Photos - Starts Sat Nov 15, ongoing (FREE)
🏮 ILUMINA Lantern Festival - Nightly at Mounts Botanical Garden
🎨 Art Festival - Sat & Sun Nov 15-16, Palm Beach Gardens (FREE)
🧘‍♀️ Coco Market Jupiter - Sun Nov 17, Carlin Park (FREE)
⛸️ Winter Wonderland - Daily at The Ben (FREE for non-skaters)
🦁 Safari Nights - Nightly at Lion Country Safari

However you choose to spend your weekend, make it count. Get out there, explore your community, support local, and create some beautiful memories. We'll be back next week with more events, stories, and reasons to fall in love with Palm Beach County all over again.

Have an amazing weekend, neighbor! 🌴

— The Palm Beach Locals Team