Your Guide to St. Pete Beach Holiday Magic
When you think of the holidays, visions of snow-covered landscapes might come to mind. But what if you could trade snowflakes for sugar sand and hot cocoa for tropical cocktails? At TradeWinds Resort, one of the premier St. Pete Florida resorts, the holiday season takes on a whole new meaning with sunshine, beachfront celebrations, and unforgettable family memories.
Why Choose a Beachfront Holiday Getaway?
TradeWinds Resort stands out among beachfront hotels in St. Pete Beach, offering the perfect blend of tropical paradise and holiday tradition. Imagine starting your Thanksgiving morning with a turkey trot on pristine white sand, or ringing in the New Year with your toes in the sand and a champagne toast under the stars. This kid-friendly beach resort in Florida transforms the holiday season into an extraordinary experience that combines the best of both worlds: cherished holiday traditions with the relaxed luxury of Gulf Coast living.
Thanksgiving Weekend: Gratitude Meets the Gulf
Thanksgiving at TradeWinds Resort reimagines the holiday with a Florida twist. Start your Turkey Day weekend with the Morning Turkey Trot 5K, where you'll run along the stunning shoreline as the sun rises over the Gulf of Mexico. It's the perfect way to work up an appetite before the feast, and the beachfront setting makes it an experience you won't find anywhere else.
The festivities continue with a Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest at the beachfront pool at Island Grand. This family-friendly competition brings together guests for laughs, friendly rivalry, and plenty of pie. It's these unique touches that make TradeWinds one of the most sought-after St. Pete Beach restaurants on the water and entertainment destinations.
As evening falls on Black Friday, the Silent Disco at The SandBox offers a unique entertainment experience. Dance the night away with your choice of music channels, creating your own soundtrack to the holiday weekend. Cap off your Thanksgiving celebration with a Family Flag Football game on the beach Sunday afternoon, where families can create lasting memories competing in the sand.
When it comes to the traditional feast, TradeWinds delivers with style. The Thanksgiving Brunch Buffet showcases seasonal delicacies and traditional favorites, while Pete's Gulf Bistro serves a special Thanksgiving dinner menu. With stunning water views and exceptional cuisine, these St. Pete Beach restaurants on the water provide the perfect setting for giving thanks.
Christmas Weekend: Tropical Holiday Cheer
Christmas at TradeWinds Resort proves that you don't need snow to capture the magic of the season. The resort happenings over Christmas weekend include a delightful mix of traditional and tropical festivities. The Poolside Ugly Sweater Contest brings guests together for laughs and prizes, while the Mistletoe Mania poolside bash features games, trivia, and holiday entertainment that the whole family can enjoy.
Children will love the Letters to Santa station, where they can send their wishes to the North Pole from sunny Florida. Kids can enjoy a lavish Breakfast with Santa. Plus, the Sea-sonal Poolside Holiday Crafts provide hands-on fun for kids of all ages, making TradeWinds the ultimate kid friendly beach resort in Florida for holiday celebrations.
Christmas Day dining at TradeWinds offers something special for every taste. The festive Christmas Buffet at Island Grand serves up culinary delights in a celebration-worthy atmosphere. For those preferring a more intimate dining experience, Pete's Gulf Bistro, Palm Court Italian, and RumFish Grill each offer plated Christmas specials. These exceptional St. Pete Beach restaurants on the water ensure your holiday meal is as memorable as the setting.
New Year's Eve: Passport to 2026
Ring in 2026 with TradeWinds Resort's spectacular Passport to 2026 celebration. This innovative New Year's Eve party takes guests on a journey around the world without leaving the resort. From 7 pm to 1 am in the Island Grand Ballroom, families can enjoy international games, crafts, and activities representing destinations across the globe.
For those who prefer to start their evening elsewhere, the NYE Party Experience Only option begins at 10 pm, allowing you to join the celebration as midnight approaches. Both experiences are family-friendly, making this beachfront hotel in St. Pete Beach is the perfect place to welcome the new year with loved ones of all ages.
New Year's Eve dinner specials at Pete's Gulf Bistro, Palm Court Italian, and RumFish Grill provide the perfect prelude to the evening's festivities. And here's the best part: book a room at TradeWinds and you can simply take the elevator home after the countdown, no designated driver needed.
Beyond the Resort: St. Pete Beach Holiday Magic
While TradeWinds Resort offers an incredible array of resort happenings, the surrounding area provides even more festive experiences to enhance your holiday getaway.
Corey Avenue Holiday Golf Cart Parade
Just minutes from TradeWinds, Corey Avenue transforms into a holiday wonderland during its beloved Golf Cart Parade. This charming event features decorated golf carts adorned with lights, tinsel, and creative holiday displays from local residents and businesses. Stroll the historic Corey Avenue Shopping District, explore unique boutiques and galleries, and enjoy waterfront dining at restaurants on the water. The festive atmosphere makes this a St. Pete Beach favorite that perfectly captures the area's casual coastal spirit. Other events to enjoy here are Sip & Stroll on Corey Avenue and The St. Pete Beach Corey Area Craft Festival.
St. Petersburg Downtown Holiday Events
A short drive takes you to downtown St. Petersburg, where December brings spectacular holiday celebrations:
Santa Parade & Tree Lighting kicks off the season on November 29th. The illuminated parade begins at Albert Whitted Park at 6:30 pm and travels along Bayshore Drive before culminating in a magical tree lighting ceremony at North Straub Park.
Snowfest arrives on December 6th from 9 am to 2 pm at North Straub Park. Experience snow in Florida with toboggan slides, inflatables, arts and crafts tents, and winter activities. Activity wristbands are just five dollars and provide access to all the frosty fun.
Holiday Lights & Displays illuminate the downtown waterfront throughout December. Take an evening stroll through North Straub Park, South Straub Park, Pioneer Park, and along the St. Pete Pier to see thousands of twinkling lights and holiday decorations reflecting off the water.
Holiday Movies in the Park offer free outdoor screenings with pre-movie activities and Santa photo opportunities. December's lineup includes Home Alone 2 at Vinoy Park on December 6th, The Santa Clause at Pinellas Pioneer Settlement on December 13th, and A Miser Brothers' Christmas at Huggins-Stengel Field on December 20th.
Corey Avenue Sunday Market & Craft Festival
Every Sunday from October through June, the Corey Avenue Sunday Market brings together over 50 local vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, handmade crafts, and unique gifts. Live music adds to the vibrant atmosphere, making it perfect for holiday shopping with a beachside vibe.
The 31st Annual St. Pete Beach Corey Area Craft Festival on December 6th showcases over 100 skilled crafters displaying contemporary handmade items including jewelry, ceramics, photography, and holiday gifts. This free community event is ideal for finding one-of-a-kind presents for everyone on your list.
Why TradeWinds Resort is Your Perfect Holiday Destination
What sets TradeWinds apart from other St. Pete Florida resorts is the seamless blend of luxury, family-friendly amenities, and holiday spirit. The resort's beachfront location means you're never far from the soothing sound of waves and the feel of sand between your toes. Multiple dining options ensure everyone in the family finds something to love, while the thoughtfully planned resort happenings create opportunities for connection and celebration.
As a premier kid friendly beach resort in Florida, TradeWinds understands that family memories are made through shared experiences. Whether it's competing in a pie-eating contest, crafting holiday decorations poolside, or dancing at a silent disco, every activity is designed to bring families together.
Making Your Holiday Reservation
The holidays at TradeWinds Resort book quickly, especially for peak dates like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve. Planning ahead ensures you secure your spot at one of the most desirable beachfront hotels in St. Pete Beach. Check back regularly as the holidays approach for updated event details, reservation information and holiday stay special offers.
Book your holiday getaway today and discover why more families are choosing TradeWinds Resort for their seasonal celebrations. The perfect blend of relaxation, celebration, and Gulf Coast beauty awaits.
