Savor the Season with these 4 Unforgettable Holiday Events on AMI

a picture of the sun setting on the gulf of mexico with purple, pinks and orange shades with a small wooden tree decorated with lights and the words that say Savor the Season with these 4 Unforgettable Events on AMI

Holiday magic takes a whole new meaning this year on the sun-kissed shores of Anna Maria Island. Imagine celebrating the festive season surrounded by white sandy beaches, a gentle breeze off the Gulf, and a calendar filled with unforgettable events. Get ready to create those cherished memories in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals this December. Let’s explore the top four holiday events happening on Anna Maria Island, all while enjoying the comforts of home.

Festive Lights & Sparkling Nights

This is a large Christmas tree that was displayed at a Christmas event in Florida.

Kick off your holiday vacation with the mesmerizing spectacle of twinkling lights. Anna Maria Island transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with festive decorations. Head to Holms Beach for the Tree Lighting on Friday, December 1^st, from 5:00 – 8:00 pm. After the tree has been lit at 6:00 pm, shop at the Holiday Market for a little while. Grab a few gifts to give to those in your life who mean the most. Your family will delight in strolling through the luminous streets, soaking in the spirit of the holiday.

Christmas Extravaganza with Santa

Experience the season’s joy with a Christmas extravaganza with Santa and his helpers. Mark your calendars for a jolly time on Saturday, December 2^nd, from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Pier Circle on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. The AMI Privateers are set to make the season merry & bright by bringing Santa and his sleigh to the beach. Families can enjoy the festive atmosphere with various activities, from joyful caroling to delightful season treats. As the sun sets, gather at the Post Office for an enchanting outdoor movie with the family. Create the perfect ambiance of holiday cheer under the starlit skies, all while making new memories together.

Unwrap the Magic at the Holiday Faire & Boat Parade

A decorated Christmas boat in a marina in Florida

Get ready to kick off the festive season in style at the Bradenton Beach Holiday Faire & Boat Parade on Saturday, December 2^nd, from 3:00 – 9:00 pm on Bridge Street. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit as the street comes alive with holiday cheer. Explore the array of stalls featuring local crafts, delectable treats, and unique treasures of the coast. This is the perfect place to find those special gifts for ones at home. As the sun sets in the west, be enchanted by the dazzling Boat Parade, a spectacle of lights leaving you in awe. It’s a holiday soiree your family won’t want to miss!

A Joyful Island Tradition with the Privateers

Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 9^th, as Anna Maria Island transforms into a winter wonderland for the Privateers Christmas Parade & Gifts from Santa. From 10:00 am until 1:00 pm, the island will come alive with festive floats, marching bands, and the jolly presence of Santa himself. Join the community in welcoming the holiday season with open arms as the parade winds through the picturesque streets. Little ones will be delighted as Santa hands out unique gifts, helping spread joy and creating those cherished memories. It’s a heartwarming tradition that promises to spread cheer among locals and visitors alike.

Between these enchanting events, your family can relax and recharge in the privacy of your AMI Locals vacation rental. Whether a charming beachfront or a spacious rental with panoramic views, these accommodations offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for a holiday getaway. We can’t wait to hear which event was your favorite this holiday season!

October 30, 2023October 30, 2023

A Tropical Thanksgiving Getaway to Anna Maria Island

Thanksgiving poster or greeting card with Thanksgiving Calligraphy inscription and holiday traditional symbols.

Are you tired of celebrating Thanksgiving at home each year and ready for a change? This year, why not embrace the idea of a tropical Thanksgiving getaway to Anna Maria Island? This beautiful destination on Florida’s Gulf Coasts offers a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate this year. When you stay in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals, you’ll get to explore why spending Thanksgiving on this stunning island is a great idea.

Escape the Cold, Embrace the Sun

That feeling you get when you see the beach for the first time on vacation on Anna Maria Island, Getaway Tropical Thanksgiving

One of the most enticing aspects of a Thanksgiving getaway to Anna Maria Island is the opportunity to leave the cold weather behind and embrace the sun. Instead of bundling up in sweatshirts and coats, you can enjoy the island’s mild, sunny weather. With temperatures typically in the 70s, it’s the perfect setting for all outdoor activities. From beach strolls to a dip in the waters of the Gulf to enjoying your pool at your vacation rental. Say goodbye to winter and hello to Thanksgiving in paradise.

Dinner with a View

Thanksgiving is all about spending time with your family and delicious food. Anna Maria Island offers unique dining experiences with local restaurants serving special Thanksgiving menus. Would you rather cook for the whole family? Have no fear, as your vacation rental will come with a fully equipped kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances. Imagine indulging in a traditional turkey dinner with all the sides while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a memorable way to savor the holiday meal while creating lasting memories.

Thanksgiving Activities in Paradise

Parked bicycles on tropical beach of Anna Maria Island, Florida

A tropical Thanksgiving doesn’t mean missing out on the holiday spirit. The island offers a range of activities to make your getaway a little extra special. Start your day with a sunrise beach walk or rent a kayak for an adventure on the water. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride with the family or a swim in your pool at your vacation rental in the afternoon. Anna Maria Island’s natural beauty and friendly community make it easy to appreciate the things you’re thankful for.

So, this year, break from tradition and embark on an unforgettable getaway to Anna Maria Island. Celebrate Thanksgiving with the family in a new way by enjoying the warm weather, dinner with a view, and embracing gratitude in a tropical setting. It’s soon to be a holiday you won’t forget with the family in your AMI Locals vacation rental! What are you waiting for? Book this year’s Thanksgiving getaway today!

September 30, 2023September 30, 2023

Chasing Sunsets: Anna Maria Island’s Mesmerizing Evening Strolls

An aerial view of a a neighborhood along Holmes Beach at Anna Maria Island, Florida on a summer evening during sunset.

Anna Maria Island, a gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is renowned for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and unforgettable sunsets. One of the island’s most cherished traditions is taking leisurely walks along the show, toes in the water while witnessing the breathtaking spectacle of the sun setting over the Gulf of Mexico. We at AMI Locals wanted to share our favorite tips on capturing these stunning sunsets as you experience this daily phenomenon.

The Golden Hour

A very romantic shoreside sunset with orange and blue cloudy sky in Anna Maria Key

Each evening, as the sun descends towards the horizon, it paints the sky with warm hues. This magical time, known as the “Golden Hour,” casts a soft golden light over the island, creating a picture-perfect setting for your sunset stroll. The island’s western side is the perfect spot to witness this fantastic golden light with the family.

Pack Your Camera

One thing that we have to say is to pack your camera or smartphone to capture the magic of Anna Maria Island sunsets. We promise you that the changing colors and stunning reflections on the water make for some of the most Instagram-worthy photos you’ll ever take. You can also capture your family pictures as you watch their faces with awe as they, too, watch the sunset on the horizon.

Prime Sunset Spots

With every inch of Anna Maria Island’s shoreline offering stunning views, there are a few spots that are particularly renowned for their sunset vistas:

Bean Point: Located at the island’s northern tip, Bean Point offers unobstructed views of the Gulf. The backdrop of lush vegetation and tranquil waters makes for a serene sunset.
Coquina Beach: This famous beach park is an excellent choice for those looking for a livelier atmosphere during the sunset. The contrast of colorful beach umbrellas against the setting sun is a sight.
Holmes Beach: The central part of the island boasts vast sandy shores, making it a fantastic place to take a leisurely sunset walk. The iconic wooden pier here adds a touch of charm to your sunset experience.

Plan Ahead

Plan to make the most of your sunset stroll and arrive about 30 minutes before the sunset. Doing this lets you find the perfect spot, set up your camera, and soak in the pre-sunset ambiance. Bring a towel, beach chair, or blanket, and let the kids sit as they watch this beautiful masterpiece happen.

Stay for the Twilight

two happy children, running on the beach at sunset on the Gulf of Mexico, (Florida)

While the sunset is stunning, don’t rush off once the sun dips below the horizon. Stay a little longer to enjoy the twilight moments with a canvas of deep blues and purples. You may even see a few stars peek through those stunning colors before returning to your vacation rental.

Anna Maria Island’s sunsets are nothing short of enchanting. With every step you take along its shores, you’ll be immersed in a world of natural beauty and serenity. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or simply seeking a tranquil escape, include a sunset stroll on Anna Maria Island vacation. Witnessing the sun’s daily descent into the Gulf of Mexico is an experience you’ll treasure forever!

July 31, 2023August 1, 2023

How to Explore Anna Maria Island without a Car

Do you have a vacation planned to Anna Maria Island soon, but you don’t want to drive your car after you arrive at your vacation rental? No worries, we know the best ways to get around our island without needing a car. Anna Maria Island is only 7 miles long so you can explore our beautiful island differently. Let’s look at some options for exploring Anna Maria Island without a car below.

Golf Cart Rentals

golf cart riding around anna maria island

Exploring with a Golf Cart Rental is a great way to get around Anna Maria Island. Depending on how many people you have in your party will determine the size cart you will need. Take your pick between a 4-passenger or 6-passenger golf cart and whether you want it to be electric or gas-powered. Another great thing about the golf carts is that they are street-legal and can be driven on most of the roads on the island. Which one would you choose?

Biking

Another great option that is available to explore the island is bike riding. Even if you’re traveling to AMI with the family in your car, bringing bikes can be an excellent option for anyone. If you don’t have room to bring the bikes, you may want to check out several of the local places on the island to rent a bike or one for the whole family. Bean Point, City Pier, and Coquina Beach Bike Path are some places you can check out on bikes. Pack a picnic lunch and explore what our beautiful island has to offer. We promise you won’t be disappointed!

Boats, Tours & Jet Skis

Beautiful Scenery at Anna Maria Island Florida USA. Photo Credit: Marty Jean-Louis

The final option we wanted to share with you is exploring the open waters around our beautiful island. A favorite for many of our guests is booking a dolphin tour that will allow you to see these beautiful animals glide through the water during the day. For something a little different, check out the Sunset Dolphin Cruise or book a private tour the family will discuss for years to come. Boat and Jet Ski rentals are also available to check out!

There are many other ways to explore the island without a car, but we wanted to share some of our favorites. If you are ready to book your next stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear how your next visit was and be sure to tag us in your pictures and videos on social media as you explore the island!

May 30, 2023May 30, 2023

Must Have Items for Your Beach Bag

Are you headed to the white sandy beaches of Anna Maria Island this spring for your vacation? Nothing says vacation like spending a few days sitting on the beach, soaking up the rays. When staying in one of our Beach and Golf View vacation rentals, having the right items in your beach bag will help enjoy your vacation a little better. We have compiled a small list to be sure that you will be ready for your next vacation to Anna Maria Island.

Must Have Items

Beach Bag

Having the right beach bag can make ALL the difference in the world. Sure, you can throw all of your items into any old bag, but did you know that all beach bags were not created equal. We suggest looking at the size, water and sand resistance, security and stylish when searching for your bag. We have found that even using a backpack, diaper bag or a large utility tote bag works perfect for a beach bag.

Beach Towels

Pack a towel for everyone in your family whether you are going to sit in the sun or swim in the ocean. Bringing an extra towel with you is always a good idea especially if you have little ones with you. Having a beach towel with a different design can help each member in your group remember which one theirs is. This can help with the upset that the little ones will get because someone else is using their towel.

Sunscreen

With the hot southern sun on Anna Maria Island, sunscreen is a must for any beach bag. Use a sunscreen that is designed for your beach activities such as waterproof, sport, high SPF, etc.). Dermatologists recommend that you use a sunscreen with at least 30 SPF while you are enjoying the sunshine. And don’t forget to reapply throughout your day as we don’t want you to ruin your vacation here with a sunburn. If you happen to get a little too much sun, pack a bottle of aloe and stick it in the fridge. This can help soothe the burn so you can enjoy your vacation a little more.

Mesh Bag for Sand Toys

When you go on vacation with kids, bringing toys to play in the sand is a must. But we understand that bringing back the sand into your car or vacation rental can be a hassle. If you pack in your beach bag a mesh bag such as a laundry bag or a bag specifically for beach toys can help eliminate the mess. Just throw the sandy toys into the bag, give it a good shake and leave the sand behind at the beach. You can purchase these online or in a local store to bring with you on your vacation.

Baby Powder

This is a must when you go on vacation whether you have the kids with you or not. Whether you are staying in a vacation rental or you decided to drive your car to the beach access, sand will be all over you when you leave the beach. So, bringing baby powder in your beach bag will magically get the sand off of your body without irritation and leave a nice scent too.

Hat & Sunglasses

Bringing both of these items can be very useful for anyone who visits the beach. The sun in the south is a lot warmer than it would be up north, and so we want to make sure you are protected. Having sunglasses will protect your eyes from the sun bright rays and will offer you some relief when trying to keep an eye on your little ones playing. Whether you have a floppy hot or a baseball cap, you will be happy that you brought these along with you. Be sure to pack one for each member of your family.

Beach Blanket

This is an item that is often overlooked when packing your beach bag for many families. With all the excitement of spending your days on the beach that you forget to pack one. One beach blanket that we recommend you try and grab is sand-proof beach blanket. This is made to make it easier to keep the sand off the food, little hands of the kids and all the clothes. Another beach blanket alternative is using a full-size fitted sheet especially if you have young kids. Put something heavy in each of the corners and you can have a sand-free zone for your babies. Now we can’t guarantee that the kids won’t bring back sand to your vacation rental, but know that while you’re sitting on the sand your belongings will be safe.

There are many other items that you can pack into your beach bag for your next trip to Anna Maria Island, but these are the must have items we thought you should have with you. If you are still looking for a place to stay for your next getaway, then check out our Beach and Gulf View vacation rentals today. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you enjoy the white sandy beaches of Anna Maria Island!

April 30, 2023May 1, 2023

What to Pack for your Anna Maria Island Vacation

Family loading luggage into car top box before road trip

Do you have a family vacation to Anna Maria Island soon but are unsure what to pack? We understand that it can be overwhelming to pack the whole family, so we have come up with a packing guide to help you. AMI Locals provide linens and a few starter items in each vacation rental for you. Let’s check out a more detailed list to get your next Anna Maria Island vacation packed and ready to go.

What We Provide in All of Our Vacation Rentals

AMI Locals vacation rentals include fresh bed linens, beach towels, bath towels, and kitchen towels. We also have a starter supply of products that provides for one small bottle of dish soap, two dishwasher tablets, one roll of paper towels, two rolls of toilet paper per bathroom, one small bar of hand soap per bathroom, one trash bag per bin and a sanitary strip on each toilet. We also provide beach chairs in our rental homes, but the number of chairs will vary by each property. Almost all of our vacation rental homes have a washer & dryer but be sure to check the amenities list on the rental you’ve booked.

Rental Home List

Paper Towels
Napkins
Toilet Paper
Coffee Filters
Sponges
Laundry Detergent/Fabric Softener/Dryer Sheets
Dish Soap/Dishwasher Tablets (or liquid)
All-Purpose Cleaner/Disinfectant Wipes
Trash Bags

Aluminum Foil/Plastic Wrap
Storage Containers/Ziplock Bags/Reusable Bags
Hand Soap for Bathrooms & Kitchen Sink
Tissues
Clothes Basket/Collapsible Hamper
Reusable Water Bottles
Spices/Non-Stick Cooking Spray/Oil
Nightlights
Sound Machines
Items for Your Baby

Beach Day List

An African American family of four packing their car for a trip to the beach or pool, with cooler, umbrella and toys. The teenage boy is carrying pool noodles and the 10 year old girl is watching the father put a picnic basket into the car.

Sunscreen/Face Sunscreen
Aloe/Lotion
Beach Umbrella
Beach Blanket
Beach Wagon (to carry all the items on the beach)
Cooler
SPF Shirts (a white shirt will also work well)
Bluetooth Speaker

Boogie Board/Rafts
Floats (for the pool if vacation rental has access to one)
Beach Toys
Books/Magazines/Kindle
Sun Hats/Sunglasses
Baby Powder
Beach Tote/Mesh Bag

Toiletries

Toothbrush/Toothpaste
Glasses/Contact Lenses/Contact Solution
Shampoo/Conditioner
Body Wash/Bar Soap
Haircare Products
Razors/Shaving Cream
Makeup
Feminine Products

Hairdryer/Styling Tool
Brush/Comb
Face Cleanser/Toner/Moisturizer
Insect Repellant
Hand Sanitizer
Pain Reliever
Medications/Vitamins
Deodorant

Clothing

Young Asian woman packing a suitcase for trip at home.

Underwear/Bras/Undershirts
Sleepwear
T-Shirts
Dress/Casual Pants
Jeans/Pants
Light Jacket
Shorts

Dress/Sun Dress
Swimsuits/Cover-Ups
Leisure/Walking/Tennis Shoes
Sandals/Flip-Flops/Water Shoes
Purse
Dress Shoes

Miscellaneous Items

Microfiber Towel
Laptop/Tablet plus Chargers
Waterproof Phone Pouch/Case
Insurance Cards
Credit/Debit/ATM Cards
Cash

List of Emergency Contacts
House/Car Keys
Camera/Charger/Memory Cards
Phone/Phone Chargers
Driver’s License

You can pack many other things, including groceries, for your stay, but we wanted to share this list with you. If you haven’t booked your next stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear how easy it was to pack with the help of this list!

February 28, 2023February 28, 2023

Explore Springfest 2023 this year on your Vacation to Anna Maria Island

Explore Springfest 2020 this year on your Vacation to Anna Maria Island

Do you and your family have a vacation planned to Anna Maria Island in March? If the answer is yes, then we need to let you know about the fun that is happening at this year’s Springfest. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to where the fun is at. Let’s look below at what your family can enjoy while you are on vacation during Springfest this year.

About the Festival

If you have never been to Springfest before then you are in for a treat! Springfest is sponsored by the Anna Maria Island Art League is and held every year. This year the dates to attend the festival is March 18th & 19th, 2023 in Holmes Beach. This is a fine arts & crafts festival that you won’t want to miss this year. Springfest is returning for its 35^th year and is one that will allow you and your family to check out the local’s crafts and art. This year it will begin at 10:00 am at City Hall Field and we promise you that it’s one you can’t miss!

What to Find & Buy

Some of the fun things that you will be able to purchase at Springfest 2023 are crafts, art and fine art from 80 professional artists. With having so much to check out, it’s good that there are two days that you can hang out at the festival and also listen to some excellent music, get to try a variety of food & treats and so much more. There will also be different things that the kids can participate in to create their very own arts and crafts. Just think of the memories that you can make while on this vacation to Anna Maria Island.

While there are other fun things that you will be able to check out on your next vacation to Anna Maria Island, we wanted to share the details about Springfest 2023 with you. If you haven’t booked your vacation to stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals yet, now is the time. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you help us celebrate Springfest 2023 together!

January 30, 2023January 30, 2023

Day Trip to 3 Theme Parks on your Anna Maria Vacation

Father, daughter and mother with their hands in the air on a ride

Did you know that Anna Maria Island is within driving distance of several theme parks in Florida? That’s right, and we have all the details to share with you and your family. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the fun. Look below at three theme parks within driving distance of our beautiful island.

Busch Gardens Tampa

roller coaster high in the summer sky at theme park most excited fun and joyful playing machine

Busch Gardens Tampa is your ticket if you’re looking for an unforgettable memory at a local theme park. They are in North Tampa, only an hour from our beautiful island. Fun for the whole family, you’ll be able to enjoy rides for the thrill seekers and rides for the younger kids too. This park offers guests of all ages the chance to check out many different animals you’ll find here in Florida and some from other countries. And if you’re looking for a fun waterpark, check out their Adventure Island.

Legoland

a child girl in an amusement park in the summer eats cotton candy near the carousels in sunglasses, the concept of summer holidays and school holidays

Do you have a young child who loves to build with Legos? Then Legoland is your perfect ticket for a fun day at a theme park. They are in Winter Haven, which is about 2-hours from the island. Legoland is ideal for children 12 and under as they have perfect kid-sized rides. Legoland also offers a waterpark with “heated pools seasonally” and a wave pool, lazy river, body slides, and even a Duplo safari to enjoy. Think of this theme park to enjoy Legos as an adult without the chance of stepping on them in the middle of the night.

SeaWorld Orlando

Amusement park ride purple and red with palm trees

SeaWorld Orlando is another great theme park to visit for the day and is in Orlando, about a 2-hour drive from Anna Maria Island. This park is often overlooked by too many who visit the other theme parks in the area, but it is one we wanted to share with you. For the younger kids in the family, and as it says, sunny days keeping the clouds away is perfect as you can step on into Sesame Street Land and feel like you’re right in the TV show. If the bigger kids want something to do, there are plenty of rides such as Mako, Kraken, and Journey to Atlantis to check out. Plus, don’t forget to check out the different animals, such as the manatees, manta rays, and more.

Many other theme parks in the area would make great day trips; we wanted to share these. If you haven’t booked your next stay with us in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear which theme park was your favorite on your next stay with us!

December 29, 2022December 29, 2022

Best Coffee Shops on Anna Maria Island

If you and your family are coming to Anna Maria Island for vacation, then we must tell you all about the Best Coffee Shops on the island. Many of the locals find that getting their daily dose of caffeine at these shops will help you enjoy your vacation a little more. And if you happen to be staying in one of our Water Access vacation rentals, then you won’t be far off from any of them. Let’s look at our picks for the best coffee shops on Anna Maria Island.

North Shore Cafe

You’ll find a quaint coffee shop in the heart of Anna Maria Island called North Shore Café. Here you’ll be able to grab a nice cup of coffee and some wonderful breakfast selections. Many of their customers rave about the different kinds of coffee drinks they have, along with their specialty teas and their smoothies. And if you’re up for something the kids will enjoy, check out the gourmet popsicles they offer. Something about this little coffee shop will make you continue to visit for years to come. Don’t forget to check out their little store and bring home a souvenir to remember this fantastic coffee shop!

Ginny’s & Jane E’s Café

If you are searching for a coffee shop that has some amazing food, coffee and that “Old Florida” feel, then we suggest Ginny’s & Jane E’s Café. Here you and your family will not only be able to get coffee, but you can get Breakfast and Lunch from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm every day. Some of the coffee that you will be able to get are eclectic and many of the locals love them! They have many different options of drinks that you can get including smoothies and Frappuccino’s. Many of the local’s love heading here for more of their signature drinks that they have to offer you and your family.

Two Scoops

Two Scoops is not like any coffee shop that you have probably been to and is very unique to many visitors to Anna Maria Island. Here you will not only be able to take advantage of the ice cream goodies, but you will also be able to enjoy Breakfast & Lunch as well as the coffee. Located at 101 S. Bay Blvd in Anna Maria Island, Two Scoops is open 7 days a week from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. Here you are able to grab a quick bite to eat, have a few cups of coffee and then to finish off the visit grab yourself a scoop or two of ice cream. This is not like any other coffee shop that you have been to and we highly recommend you check it out too.

The Donut Experiment

If you and your family love donuts, then this is a café that you must visit on your next vacation to Anna Maria Island. Locals consider this café to have some of the best donuts around and we can tell you that we too agree. Why not head to The Donut Experiment, grab a dozen of donuts as you make your own creations with different toppings and a cup of coffee or two. Sit back and enjoy the scenery and also some of the staples that many are looking for as far as coffee goes. Here you are able to grab a hot cup of coffee, iced lattes and even cold brew. We promise you that this is a place you need to visit on your next vacation to the island!

While there are other coffee shops that are on Anna Maria Island or in nearby Bradenton, we thought that you’d enjoy these. And if you are still searching for the right place to come stay in on Anna Maria Island, the you must check out our Water Access vacation rentals today. We look forward to seeing you and your family soon as you stay with us at AMI Locals.

November 30, 2022December 1, 2022

Don’t Miss These Fun Events This December on Anna Maria Island

Sandy christmas snowman in red santa hat and sunglasses at sunny beach. Holiday concept for New Years Cards.

Do you and your family have a vacation planned to Anna Maria Island in December? If the answer is yes, allow us to share a few fun things in the area. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will allow you and your family to be close to the fun. Let’s look below at when and where you’ll be able to attend these fun events on Anna Maria Island.

Did Someone Say a Boat Parade?

Boats lit up with Christmas lights parked at the dock in Florida

One of the best things about vacationing on Anna Maria Island during December is seeing the boat parade. This year head over to Bradenton Beach for the 4th Annual Holiday Boat Parade. The event will take place on Saturday, December 3rd starting at 6:00 pm along the Intracoastal Waterway. You and your family will be able to see the parade from two different locations – Longboat Pass Bridge and Bradenton Beach City Pier. Think of the memories you’ll make while watching the beautiful boats pass by, all decorated for the holidays.

Privateers Christmas Parade

This December the Privateers Christmas Parade will be island-wide and will run the entire island length. The fun parade to see with the family is happening on Saturday, December 10^th, 2022, from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm. This parade is presented by the Anna Maria Island Privateers and can’t be missed. After the parade, don’t leave as Santa & Mrs. Claus will be making their appearance and will have a party for the kids. Get in the Christmas spirit with the whole family as you enjoy your day together on the island.

Annual Christmas on Bridge Street

Another fun event that is returning in 2022 is the Annual Christmas on Bridge Street celebration in Bradenton Beach. On December 17^th, 2022, starting at 3:00 pm and ended at 9:00 pm on Bridge Street is where you’ll be able to locate this fun-filled event. There will be plenty for the whole family to do, including a kid’s zone, holiday crafts, shopping, and food. Don’t miss out on this event this year as you help us celebrate the holidays.

Two hot cocoa drink on a bed of snow and white background, close up. Concept of christmas winter morning

Many other things are happening in the area this December, but we had to tell you of the ones listed above. If you haven’t booked your next stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, give us a call today. We hope to see you out there and can’t wait to hear which event was your favorite.