As the holiday season approaches, Anna Maria Island transforms into a magical wonderland, adorned with festive decorations and brimming with cheerful activities for locals and visitors alike. Concierge AMI has created the ultimate guide to celebrating Christmas and New Year’s on Anna Maria Island. This charming island off the Gulf Coast of Florida is a haven for those seeking a unique and delightful Christmas experience. From dazzling light displays to joyful community events, here’s a glimpse of the merry celebrations awaiting you on Anna Maria Island.
Holiday Light Displays and Parades on Anna Maria Island
Witness the island’s streets and palm trees adorned with twinkling lights, casting a warm and festive glow throughout the area. Take a leisurely stroll or a drive around the island to admire the captivating displays of colorful lights, creating a whimsical atmosphere that perfectly complements the island’s natural beauty.
December 2, 2023 – 10:30am – 2 pm – Lester Family Fun Day at The Center of Anna Maria Island.
Old fashioned fun at old fashioned prices. Pony rides, face painiting, crafts, fun inflatables, MHS Drumline, Burgers & Hotdogs. Santa arrives at noon! Free admission, tickets are $0.25 each!
December 2, 2023 – Starting at 6pm – Experience Christmas on Bridge Street and the Bradenton Beach Boat Parade.
Vessels in the parade will gather near the south end of Jewfish Key. The parade will head northwest along the Longboat Pass Bridge and then north in the Intracoastal Waterway. The parade will pass alongside the Bradenton Beach City Pier and end at the Bradenton Beach Marina.
December 2, 2023 -The 7th annual Christmas Jeep Parade, hosted by the Bradenton Jeep Club.
The jeeps will be coming through AMI! Last year we had 205 lit up Jeeps! Come see us as we come out to Publix and turn south onto Gulf drive and head down to Coquina Beach! We should make it out there around 7:45 -8 pm ish!
December 9, 2023 – 10am – 4pm – Children’s Christmas Parade hosted by The Anna Maria Island Privateers.
The parade will take off at 10am from Coquina Beach (North Entrance) to City Pier Park in Anna Maria. The children’s party will be at Holmes Beach field immediately following the parade. Kids will be provided a hotdog, chips and a drink AND a gift from Santa at the kids party.
December 14, 2023 – 3:30pm – 7:30pm – City of Holmes Beach Sleigh Bell Social
5801 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach Fl
Come on down to the City of Holmes Beach Sleigh Bell Social. Family, fun, prizes, and more. There will be games, food, and plenty of entertainment for the whole family including bounce houses, guest appearances and giveaways!
Grocery stores and hours over Christmas and New Year's
Publix Announces Holiday Schedule: Adjusted Hours for Christmas
Publix, the renowned supermarket chain, has recently unveiled its adjusted hours for the upcoming Christmas holiday.
Publix Supermarket at Holmes Beach
Address: 3900 E Bay Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
Christmas Eve:
On Christmas Eve, December 24th, Publix will be open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. This revised schedule allows customers ample time to gather any last-minute holiday essentials, whether it’s that extra bag of cranberries for the sauce or a special treat to add to the festivities.
Christmas Day:
In the spirit of the holiday, Publix stores will remain closed on Christmas Day, December 25th. This closure honors the occasion, giving employees the opportunity to spend cherished moments with their loved ones and families.
New Year’s Eve:
On New Year’s Eve, December 31st, Publix will be open at regular hours, but close early at 9:00 PM. This revised schedule allows customers ample time to gather any last-minute holiday essentials, whether it’s that extra bag of cranberries for the sauce or a special treat to add to the festivities.
New Year’s Day:
As for New Year’s Day, Publix stores will resume their regular hours of operation, providing customers with their usual shopping convenience for the start of the new year.
Planning Ahead:
To ensure a seamless holiday experience, it’s advisable to plan your shopping accordingly. Consider making your purchases ahead of time or within the adjusted hours on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve to avoid any inconvenience.
Publix understands the importance of these special occasions and aims to accommodate customers while prioritizing the well-being and celebration of its staff members.
Online Services:
For added convenience, Publix offers various online services, including delivery and curbside pickup, which might be available during the holiday period. Check the Publix website or app for details on online ordering and delivery schedules during the festive season.
As we embrace the joys of this holiday season, Publix remains committed to providing quality service and products to its customers while celebrating the spirit of togetherness and gratitude.
Please note that individual store hours may vary, so it’s advisable to confirm the operating hours of your local Publix before planning your holiday shopping trip.
Grocery Delivery Service:
We highly recommend The Loaded Kitchen to do all of your pre-arrival shopping for you. This convenient service will shop, deliver, and put away all of the groceries for you. All you have to do is arrive to your rental with your groceries waiting for you.
Don’t wait visit their website to create your opening order, with a minimum order of $100. This will hold your spot on their delivery schedule and guarantee you are able to secure this helpful service. You will have up to 3 days prior to arrival to edit your order.
Guide to Restaurants and Bars Open Over Christmas and New Year's on Anna Maria Island, Florida
Anna Maria Island is a delightful destination offering a variety of culinary experiences, even during the holiday season. Here’s a comprehensive guide detailing the operational hours for restaurants and bars over Christmas and New Year’s.
Restaurants and Dining on Anna Maria Island over the holiday’s:
Rod & Reel Pier
– Christmas Eve: Regular hours
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
The Waterfront Restaurant
– Christmas Eve: Regular hours
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
gRub Tropical BBQ
– Christmas Eve: Closing early
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Closing early
– New Year’s Day: Closed
Pizza Social
– Christmas Eve: Hours uncertain at time of posting
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Hours uncertain at time of posting
– New Year’s Day: Hours uncertain at time of posting
Poppos Taqueria
– Christmas Eve: Closing early
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Donut Experiment
– Christmas Eve: Closed
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Day: Closed
North Shore Cafe
– Plans for Christmas and New Year’s yet to be confirmed
The General Store Anna Maria
– Christmas Eve: Regular hours
– Christmas Day: 9 am to 3 pm
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
The Sandbar
– Christmas Eve: Regular hours
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Harry’s Grill
– Christmas Eve: Closing at 8 pm
– Christmas Day: Open 3 pm – 9 pm
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
The Porch Restaurant Anna Maria
– Christmas Eve: Regular hours
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Mademoiselles Paris French Restaurant & Bakery
– Christmas Eve: 7 am – 4 pm
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Special dinner service until 9 pm (reservation required)
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Ginny & Jane E’s Cafe & Gift Store
– Christmas Eve: Closing early at 12 pm
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Slim’s Place
– Christmas Eve: Regular hours
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
The Chateau Anna Maria
– Christmas Eve: Open – Reservation recommended
– Christmas Day: Open – Reservation recommended
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours (reservations recommended)
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Breakfast at Victoria’s AMI & Sophia’s Fine Italian Cuisine
– Christmas Eve: Regular hours
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Open regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
The Beach Bistro
– Christmas Eve: Regular hours
– Christmas Day: Closed (in-house reservations required for Christmas Eve)
– New Year’s Eve: Open early (reservation required)
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours (in-house reservation required on New Year’s Eve)
Hurricane Hanks Grill & Bar
– Christmas Eve: Closing early at 7 pm
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Closed
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Duffy’s Tavern
– Christmas Eve: Closing early at 4 pm
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Closing early at 4 pm
– New Year’s Day: Closed
Scott’s Deli
– Christmas Eve: 9 am – 6 pm
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Closed
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Ugly Grouper
– Unable to confirm operational hours at time of posting (will update if possible)
The Doctors Office
– Unable to confirm operational hours at time of posting (will update if possible)
Fifty Three Fifty The Pour House
– Christmas Eve: Open until 2 pm
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Blueberries Cafe & Wine
– Christmas Eve: Regular hours
– Christmas Day: Regular hours
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Vinny’s Italian Kitchen
– Christmas Eve: Closed
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Closed
– New Year’s Day: Closed
Minnie’s Cafe
– Unable to confirm operational hours at time of posting (will update if possible)
Freckled Fin
– Christmas Eve: Closing early at 5 pm
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours and beyond (ready to party)
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Cheesecake Cutie
– Christmas Eve: Closed
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Closed
– New Year’s Day: Closed
Los Chiludos
– Christmas Eve: Closed
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Closed
– New Year’s Day: Plans yet to be confirmed
Graze Street AMI
– Christmas Eve: Regular hours
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Closed
Le Creperie
– Christmas Eve: 8:30 am – 3:30 pm
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: 8:30 am – 3:30 pm
– New Year’s Day: Closed
Kiwi Style Fish and Chips
– Closed from Dec 22 to Jan 1, reopening on Jan 2 with regular hours
Skinny’s Place
– Christmas Eve: Open 11 am – 4 pm
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe
– Christmas Eve & Christmas Day: Closing early at 5 pm (open 8 am – 5 pm)
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
SALT Bar & Table
– Christmas Eve & Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Open for a special event (reservation requested)
– New Year’s Day: Normal business hours
Moose Lodge AMI
– Christmas Eve: 11 am – 10 pm
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Anna Maria Oyster Bar (on the Pier)
– Christmas Eve: Open until 6 pm
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Bridge Street Bistro & Island Time Bar
– Christmas Eve: Regular hours
– Christmas Day: 12 pm – 8 pm
– New Year’s Eve: Open until 1 am
– New Year’s Day: Reservations required for Bridge Street Bistro on NYE
Blue Marlin Seafood Restaurant
– Christmas Eve & Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Open extended hours until 11 pm
– New Year’s Day: Closed
Bridge Tender Inn
– Christmas Eve: 11 am – 6 pm
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve: Party with Dr. Seuss theme, open 11 am – 1 am
– New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Gulf Drive Cafe & The Kokonut Hut
– Unable to confirm operational hours at time of posting
Wicked Cantina Bradenton Beach
– Christmas Eve: Closed
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Bars and Night Life on Anna Maria Island Over The Holiday’s:
Drift In AMI
– Christmas Eve & Christmas Day: Regular hours (open 365 days a year)
– New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day: Regular hours (open 365 days a year)
Dcoy Ducks
– Christmas Eve: Regular hours
– Christmas Day: Closed
– New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Anchor Inn
– Christmas Eve & Christmas Day: Regular hours
– New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day: Regular hours
Sports Lounge
– Christmas Eve: Regular hours
– Christmas Day: Opening late
– New Year’s Eve: Regular hours
– New Year’s Day: Opening late
Anna Maria Island offers a diverse array of dining and entertainment options during the festive season. Please note that operational hours might change; contacting the establishments directly or visiting their websites/social media for real-time updates is recommended. Enjoy your holidays on Anna Maria Island!
Celebrating Christmas Spirit: Churches on Anna Maria Island
As the festive season draws near, Anna Maria Island transforms into a haven of joyous celebrations and heartfelt traditions. Amidst the sandy beaches and swaying palms, the island’s vibrant community comes together to commemorate Christmas, offering a variety of spiritual sanctuaries for locals and visitors alike to celebrate the true essence of the holiday season.
For those seeking a place of worship on Anna Maria Island during Christmas, several churches warmly welcome individuals to partake in their special services and experience the spirit of the season:
Rosedale Community Church
– Location: 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria, FL
– Christmas Services: Rosedale Community Chapel typically hosts Christmas Eve candlelight services that feature beautiful carol singing, readings, and a serene atmosphere to celebrate the birth of Christ.
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church
– Location: 6608 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach, FL
– Christmas Services: Gloria Dei Lutheran Church holds various Christmas services, including candlelight services on Christmas Eve and special musical programs. Visitors can immerse themselves in the joyful melodies and meaningful sermons during these gatherings.
CrossPointe Fellowship
– Location: 8605 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL
– Christmas Services: CrossPointe Fellowship offers Christmas services that are inclusive and uplifting. Their programs often incorporate engaging music, community fellowship, and a welcoming environment for individuals and families.
St. Bernard Catholic Church
– Location: 248 S Harbor Dr, Holmes Beach, FL
– Christmas Services: St. Bernard Catholic Church celebrates Christmas with traditional masses and special services. The church’s beautifully adorned surroundings and sacred rituals create a serene ambiance for those seeking a reflective Christmas experience.
Harvey Memorial Community Church
– Location: 300 Church Ave, Bradenton Beach, FL
– Christmas Services: Harvey Memorial Community Church hosts Christmas services embracing the community spirit. Their gatherings often feature heartwarming messages and a sense of unity among attendees.
Please note that service times may vary, especially during the Christmas season. It’s recommended to check the respective church websites or contact them directly for updated schedules and any special events planned for Christmas.
Whether you’re a resident or a visitor on Anna Maria Island, these churches extend warm invitations to join in the joyous celebrations, fostering a sense of togetherness and reverence during this magical time of year.
As you embrace the holiday spirit on Anna Maria Island, may these churches serve as sanctuaries of peace, hope, and love, enriching your Christmas experience with cherished memories and meaningful connections.
Christmas on Anna Maria Island is a time of joy, togetherness, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re captivated by the shimmering lights or partake in the island’s festive events, the holiday season here is sure to create lasting memories filled with warmth and cheer.
Let Concierge AMI help you plan your visit to Anna Maria Island this Christmas and immerse yourself in the magic of the season in this enchanting Gulf Coast paradise. Give us a call 941-526-0264 or visit our website for more information.
