It’s the most magical time of the year! Christmas in Venice, Florida is a beautiful time to drive down historic Venice Avenue as the palm trees sparkle with Christmas lights, local shops are bustling with people looking for unique gifts for their loved ones and restaurants are filled with families enjoying their time together.
Are you celebrating Christmas in Venice Florida in 2025?
Then you are in for a wonderful holiday season. Christmas in Venice is a magical time of twinkling lights, delicious meals and fun experiences all around town. From tree lighting ceremonies to parades and festivals, there’s fun for the whole family. This guide has the restaurants that will be open for Christmas, where to find take out or catered meals for Christmas, virtual events and local events… everything you need for the holiday season!
Venice Foodies Christmas Ornament… Shark Tooth and Spoon Edition
Celebrate the spirit of Venice with a glossy ceramic ornament featuring our signature shark tooth and spoon design. This coastal-foodie keepsake is crafted from white ceramic with a matte UV-printed finish and comes ready to hang with a golden string.
Be A Christmas Miracle For A Local Family
I have been passionate about making sure every child has a beautiful Christmas morning. Starting in 2013 under my group, Venice Moms Helping Hands, I began coordinating efforts between local residents and families in need to make sure every child had a Christmas. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I took a step back in 2018 which resulted in the program being taken in a different direction under new ownership. After seeing the increasing need in 2020, I knew that I needed to help again. I reopened my group, Christmas Miracles to start the process of matching families with miracles again.
Where can I see a Live Performance in Venice for Christmas?
A Christmas Carol
Step back in time and into the cobbled streets of Victorian London at Venice Theatre’s original musical adaptation of Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” From December 4th to the 21st, join us in the Raymond Center as we follow the transformation of Ebenezer Scrooge, brought to life by the talented Brad Wages. Witness Scrooge’s poignant reflections on his past, present, and the shadows of what may come, in a story that has warmed hearts for generations. Secure your passage to this classic tale that continues to remind us of the spirit of Christmas. Tickets are available now, with prices at $30 for adults, $25 for college students and educators, and just $18 for youth. Don’t miss this holiday masterpiece that promises to be as enriching as it is entertaining!
Tickets: Buy Now | $30 adult | $25 college/educator | $18 youth
The Nutcracker
Whisk away to a winter wonderland with the timeless enchantment of ‘The Nutcracker’ at the Venice Performing Arts Center this December 12th and 13th. The story of Clara’s magical journey unfolds with grace and excitement in four captivating performances. Not only will the Venice stage come alive with the elegance of The Sarasota Ballet Studio Company, but the youthful exuberance of students from The Sarasota Ballet School and the Margaret Barbieri Conservatory will also shine. Prepare for an approximately two-hour escape into a world of fantasy, complete with a 20-minute intermission to reflect and refresh. Tickets range from $40 to $95, offering you a seat at one of the season’s most beloved ballets. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a tradition that captures the spirit of the holidays and the hearts of audiences year after year.
Date: Friday, December 12, 2025 @ 7:00pm
Saturday, December 13, 2025 @ 3:00pm
Tickets for Venice: Buy Now | $40 – $95
What Restaurants are Open for Christmas in Venice, FL?
There are a number of restaurants in Venice that will be open either Christmas Eve and/or Christmas Day.
Bodrum Restaurant
225 Miami Ave W, Venice, FL 34285
(941) 412-0090
www.bodrumfl.com
Bodrum is consistently ranked as one of the top restaurants in Venice. Always noted for their exceptional flavors and outstanding service, Bodrum is easily one of the favorite restaurants for the locals in the know. They started with a small space in the back of the alley behind Burgundy Square Cafe, eventually expanding into the space next door and out into the breezeway. They will be open for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Call the restaurant to make reservations, as space fills up quickly!
I am still confirming the restaurants that will be open and offering catering for Christmas 2025
UPDATED DECEMBER 2, 2025
Keep watching this page for updates!!
Please use the phone number to confirm with the restaurant and make your reservations.
Chaz 51 Steakhouse
549 US-41 Bypass, Venice, FL 34285
(941) 484-6200
www.chaz51.com
Gather with family and loved ones this holiday season at Chaz 51 Steakhouse in Venice, Florida, where exceptional cuisine meets warm southern hospitality. Indulge in their regular menu offerings, including a special prime rib, available through the end of the year. Enhance your dining experience with live entertainment featured every weekend; be sure to check their events calendar for the latest schedule.
For a thoughtful gift, consider Chaz 51 Steakhouse gift cards, available for purchase online or at the restaurant. These make perfect presents for friends and family, offering them a memorable dining experience.
Holiday Hours:
- Christmas Eve (Tuesday, December 24, 2024): 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Christmas Day (Wednesday, December 25, 2024): 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- New Year’s Eve (Tuesday, December 31, 2024): 4:00pm – 10:00pm
- New Year’s Day (Wednesday, January 1, 2025): 12:00pm (noon) – 8:00pm
Côté France French Bistro – Christmas Eve
218 Tampa Ave W,
Venice, FL 34285
(941) 220-7189
https://www.cotefrancevenice.com/
Cote France is serving a special Christmas Eve dinner. Reservations are required.
TJ Carneys
231 W Venice Ave
Venice, FL 34285
(941) 480-9244
www.tjcarneys.com
This Christmas, TJ Carney’s is the place to be! Remember, seats fill up faster than Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve, so call ahead at 941-480-9244 to reserve your spot. At TJ Carney’s, they’re not just serving meals; they’re serving memories.
Made in Italy
117 W Venice Ave
Venice, FL 34285
(941) 488-8282
www.madeinitaly-venice.com
On Christmas night, Made in Italy transforms into a festive martini haven, inviting you to a potluck dinner where the community’s culinary prowess takes center stage. From 7:30 PM until the stars claim the sky, revel in the joy of shared dishes, clinking martini glasses, and the warm buzz of holiday spirit. Bring your signature dish and partake in the merriment, with a chance to win a prize for your culinary creation. It’s a night where Italian charm meets the heart of Venice’s Christmas—a toast to good food, great company, and the best of holiday cheer.
Celebrate Christmas Eve at Big Mike’s Pizza
1939 Tamiami Trl S, Venice, FL 34293
(941) 303-5805
www.bigmikespizzavenice.com
Big Mike’s Pizza in Venice, FL, is the perfect spot to grab a delicious meal before the holiday festivities begin. Open until 8:00 PM on Christmas Eve and closed on Christmas Day, this local favorite offers a cozy atmosphere and mouthwatering pizza options. Whether you’re dining in or taking out, Big Mike’s is here to make your holiday mealtime easy and enjoyable.
Italian Feast of the Seven Fishes with a Modern Twist
Big Mike’s Pizza in Venice, Florida, offers a delicious way to incorporate local flavor into the traditional Italian-American Feast of the Seven Fishes celebrated on Christmas Eve. Their standout King Neptune Pizza features a medley of seafood toppings, making it a unique and flavorful addition to this holiday tradition. Along with other seafood-inspired menu items, Big Mike’s provides a convenient and tasty option for those looking to honor the custom of serving seven different seafood dishes while adding a modern twist to the festivities.
Wally’s Pour House
1730 Tamiami Trl S, Venice, FL 34293
(941) 786-1956
www.wallyspourhouse.com
Wally’s Pour House in Venice, FL, is your go-to destination for holiday cheer! Open regular hours on Christmas Eve with kitchen service from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, Wally’s keeps the fun going on Christmas Day from 8:00 AM to 2:00 AM with bar service only. Whether you’re meeting friends for a drink or winding down after a busy holiday, Wally’s friendly atmosphere and great selection of drinks make it the perfect spot to celebrate.
Koi Cafe
806 Pinebrook Rd, Venice, FL 34285
(941) 946-9841
Koi Cafe LLC is serving up the holiday spirit with a blend of festive offerings and authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Starting Saturday, their sought-after soft shell crab dish returns with an exciting twist, available exclusively for dine-in to ensure the best flavor. Pair this seasonal treat with selections from their limited menu, featuring crispy Vietnamese Eggrolls, savory Banh Xeo shrimp crepes, refreshing Summer Rolls, hearty Pho, bold Bo Luc Lac shaken steak, and the light, refreshing Bun dry noodle salad. Open regular hours on Christmas Eve and closed on Christmas Day, this is the perfect time to savor the vibrant flavors of Koi Cafe. Reservations are encouraged—call 941-946-9841 to secure your table!
List of Restaurants Open For Christmas in Venice 2025
Open Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day:
- Abby’s on Miami
- Bocca Lupo Coal Fired Pizza
- Brew Burgers
- British Open Pub
- Burgundy Square Cafe
- Cafe Venice
- Chaz 51 Steakhouse
- Crow’s Nest
- Darrell’s Restaurant
- Dockside Waterfront Grill
- Fins at Sharky’s
- Gold Rush BBQ
- Island Fin Poke
- Leone’s Ristorante & Pizzeria
- Made in Italy
- Mon Ami Cafe
- Monty’s
- Oak and Stone
- Paradise Grill
- Pop’s Sunset Grill
- Prime Serious Steak
- Sharky’s on the Pier
- The Banyan House
- The Old Salty Dog
- The Pilot House
- Unique Cuisine
- Venice Creamery
- Venice Fine Wine & Spirits
What Restaurants Are Offering Catering or Platters for Christmas?
As the sleigh bells ring and the holly jingles, this Christmas, give yourself the gift of relaxation and savor the flavors of the season without the fuss of cooking. Wondering where to find the most delectable catering or platters for your festive feast? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of local restaurants that are decking the halls and their menus with sumptuous spreads, ready to make your holiday table a banquet of joy. Whether you’re after a traditional dinner, an exotic twist, or a platter to please every palate, these spots have got your Christmas covered.
Johnny Tomatoes Christmas Catering 2025
If your holiday plans feel a little busier than your kitchen can handle, Johnny Tomatoes is offering a full spread of Christmas catering again for 2025. They’re taking orders for both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with a cutoff of Sunday, December 21, and they ask for 48 hours’ notice on all orders.
Their menus hit that comforting Italian-American sweet spot… the stuff everyone at the table actually eats. Great for family gatherings, office setups, or keeping food warm while you’re bouncing between events.
Highlights:
Cocktail Party for 6… $150
Meatballs, ricotta meatballs, arancini, stuffed mushrooms, garlic knot tree, stuffed bread, and a cannoli platter.
Dinner Party for 6… $250
Salad, arancini, garlic knot tree, meatballs, sausage and peppers or chicken parmigiana, plus your choice of baked ziti or penne vodka.
Dessert Tray for 6… $125
Rainbow cookies, gingerbread biscotti, peppermint cheesecake, mini cannoli, and tiramisu cups.
Half and Full Trays Available:
Caprese, crepe manicotti, penne vodka, baked ziti, meatballs, arancini, stuffed mushrooms, sausage and peppers, chicken parmigiana and more.
They’re also carrying frozen take-and-bake items, including Pastosa raviolis, stuffed mushrooms, meatballs, pepperoni bread, sausage bread and pizza dough. Perfect for stocking the freezer for the week between Christmas and New Year’s.
Order online at johnnytomatoespizza.com or call 941-493-1515.
Moulin Blanc Cafe
As the yuletide cheer spreads, Moulin Blanc Cafe is here to add a dash of French homemade warmth to your Christmas Eve festivities. Be sure to place your orders early, as the café will be closing its doors at 1 PM on the 24th, with all pickups finalizing by 12:45 PM. Their artisanal bread selection, featuring the crusty Classic Baguette and the hearty Multigrain Loaf, promises to be the perfect complement to your holiday table. Indulge in their flaky Butter Croissants, or satisfy your sweet tooth with an Almond Croissant, a rich Chocolate Croissant, or a fruity Apple Turnover. And for a savory note, the Whole Quiche Lorraine and Mushroom Quiche, each serving 10-12, are sure to be the centerpiece of your Christmas Eve brunch.
La Botte Italian Bistro
533A US Highway 41 Byp N
Venice, FL 34285
941-220-7038
https://labottevenice.com/
Papa’s Meat Market & Prepared Foods
324 Tamiami Trail S
Venice, FL 34285
941-209-1888
http://papasmeatmarket.com
Fully Cooked Individual Meals or Raw Specialty Meats
Choose from a Prime Rib Dinner or a Fresh Amish Ham Dinner. Prices are per person and include the choice of sides and dessert. If you prefer to cook your own meal, Papa’s Meat Market has incredible specialty meats perfect for your holiday meal. Call and speak to someone during their open hours to place your order.
Angelo’s Italian Market & Restaurant: Holiday Catering Specials
Make your holiday celebrations unforgettable with Angelo’s Italian Market & Restaurant’s exclusive Holiday Catering Specials. From decadent Paccheri with calamari and porcini mushrooms to luxurious Veal Ossobuco Ravioli in butter sage sauce, the menu offers something for every palate. Celebrate the tradition of the Feast of Seven Fishes with the Zuppa di Pesce or the Insalata di Pesce, featuring fresh clams, mussels, scallops, shrimp, and more. For those craving classic Italian flavors, the Baccala alla Siciliana and Petite Veal Ossobuco are sure to impress.
Contact Angelo’s today or visit the market to place your order and make your holiday gathering truly special!
Unique Cuisine
353 W Venice Ave, Venice, FL 34285
941 716 7553
Closed Christmas Eve / Open Christmas Day… 3 pm to 8:30 pm
Reservation only, $75 per person prefix menu
For those looking to step outside the traditional holiday menu, Unique Cuisine is offering a thoughtfully crafted Christmas Day dinner that blends comfort, warmth, and bold global flavors. This is a relaxed but elevated way to celebrate the holiday… perfect for couples, families, or anyone who wants Christmas dinner handled beautifully from start to finish.
The evening begins with a mushroom soup, followed by a shared appetizer course, then a choice of entrées including roasted duck, fried half chicken, pan grilled salmon, or pan grilled Key West pink shrimp. Dishes are paired with rich curry peanut or ginger cashew nut sauces, plus roti flatbread and coconut noodles to round out the meal. Dessert brings a sweet finish with a choice of crème brûlée or chocolate mousse.
Christmas Cookies and Desserts
Yummies Donuts & BBQ
2001 Tamiami Trl S
Venice, Florida 34293
(941) 493-7170
Santa’s Cookie Box… A Cozy Christmas Eve Tradition
This family run local business is making Christmas Eve a little sweeter with their Santa’s Cookie Box, designed to take one thing off your holiday to do list while keeping the magic fully intact. Each box includes 18 homemade cookies, beautifully wrapped and ready to set out for Santa, plus plenty to share with the family. It’s simple, nostalgic, and perfect for Christmas Eve traditions. To order, contact Laura Banner on Facebook and message her directly.
Artic Alligator Creamery
Arctic Alligator is bringing the holiday cheer with a handful of festive, preorder-only treats that make Christmas week easier and a lot sweeter. From a playful 12 Days of Christmas ice cream option to ready-to-share dessert assortments and DIY sugar cookie kits, everything is designed for gifting, gatherings, or cozy nights at home. Quantities are limited, and preorders run mid to late December, making this a great pick for families who want the fun of holiday treats without the baking chaos.
Delightful Bitefulls
Artisanal Cravings
The holiday season just got sweeter with Artisanal Cravings’ festive offering! To celebrate the start of this joyous time, dive into their exclusive variety 6-pack boxes, now available for just $21. Whether you’re gifting or treating yourself, these artisanal assortments are perfect for any sweet tooth. But hurry, they’re going fast—claim yours by calling or texting 718-704-8785 today! Plus, don’t miss out on the chance to place your holiday orders for a range of delectable delights, from fluffy cupcakes to rich brownies and sumptuous cakes. Make Artisanal Cravings your go-to for holiday desserts that are sure to spread cheer and satisfy cravings!
Parise’s Coffee & Cannoli Bar
Indulge in the festive flavors of Italy right here in Venice with Parise’s Christmas Sweets Platter! Imagine biting into the heavenly Anjanettes, savoring each crumbly Pignoli Cookie, and being transported to a sweet wonderland with Cannoli Cream Puffs and assorted Wedding Cookies. Don’t miss out on the pièce de résistance – 6 mini Cannoli, a perfect mix of traditional and innovative, all waiting to add a dash of Italian magic to your holiday celebrations. Preorder now and bring home a taste of Christmas, Parise style! In the words of Michael Parise… WHERE YA GONNA GO?
Hire Santa For Your Next Event! Santa Ron: Bringing the North Pole to Your Doorstep.
Deck your halls with the jolliest Santa of them all! Santa Ron, a seasoned professional with a real beard and a twinkle in his eye, is ready to deliver the magic of Christmas to your doorstep. He is also a graduate of the International University of Santa Claus and a member of esteemed Santa communities like ClausNET.com and the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas, he offers a sleigh-full of services. From home visits to story time sessions, breakfast gatherings, corporate and private parties, to leading parades and tree lighting ceremonies, Santa Ron’s decade-plus experience ensures memories that last a lifetime. His special touch includes story time with Santa, gift distributions, photo sessions, and he’s even adept in modeling for commercial shoots. No chimney? No problem! Santa Ron’s expertise extends to heartwarming engagements with special needs children, particularly those on the autism spectrum as he is a single father raising an incredible child thriving on the spectrum. As a Venice local, he is focused on serving Sarasota County but is also available beyond those boundries as well.
Holiday Themed Breakfasts, Brunches, Lunches and Dinners
- Sertoma Club of Venice – Venice Community Center – Dec 8, 2024 at 12 PM until 3 PM
- Free Pancake Breakfast and Photo with Santa
- Englewood Methodist Church – December 25th – 12 pm – 3 pm. Turkey dinner for dine in and carry out. Only to reserve free homebound delivery, now preferably but by 12 noon December 25, leave name and phone number only at 941-474-5588 extension 101 for a confirmation call-back.
Christmas Gift Ideas from Venice
Ah, the holiday season in Venice, Florida! It’s that time of year when the air buzzes with festive excitement and the search for the perfect gift is on everyone’s mind. But why wander in a wonderland of uncertainty when gift cards offer the magic touch? In our enchanting town, an array of local businesses are rolling out some of the most irresistible gift card deals, making it easier than ever to give a slice of Venice joy. Whether it’s for a foodie, a fashionista, or someone who loves a little pampering, our guide to the BEST Gift Card Deals for Christmas in Venice will lead you to the perfect present that promises delight and a personal touch. Let’s dive in and unwrap these festive treasures!
Sunkis’d Creations
Looking for a custom shirt or gift for the holidays? Check out Sunkis’d Creations!
Here’s the Link to their Facebook Page –> https://www.facebook.com/SunkisdCreations/
Soul in a Basket
Looking for a gift that speaks from the heart? ‘Soul in a Basket’ offers custom-designed and personalized gift baskets that are as unique as the person you’re gifting them to. Each basket is a work of art, crafted with love and filled with treasures that aim to delight and surprise. Whether you’re after a basket brimming with gourmet treats, self-care essentials, or a mix of local goodies, ‘Soul in a Basket’ puts passion into every weave. Ready to give a basketful of joy? Find the perfect gift and support local artisans by ordering directly from their Facebook page. Let’s spread the spirit of the season with gifts that tell a story, one basket at a time.
Looking for the perfect stocking stuffer or a fun addition to your festive table settings? “Soul in a Basket” doesn’t just weave wonders with their baskets but also offers these charming 2 oz shot glass tumblers! Each tumbler is a colorful expression of personality and pizzazz, perfect for toasting the season with a splash of your favorite spirit. Whether it’s the playful “Mimosas” tumbler that catches your eye or one that declares your mixology mantra, these tumblers are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering. They’re not just drinkware; they’re conversation starters, ideal for those who love to mix a good drink with good times. Cheers to holiday cheer in a tiny, spirited package!
Shopping Events at Local Shops
Unwrap the Gift of a Gleaming Home with Sparkle!
If you’re in need of a sprinkle of holiday ease, look no further! THE ELF HELPER is here with a sparkling offer to prepare your home for the most wonderful time of the year. Imagine your space transformed into a festive haven, all without lifting a finger. For just $145, you can book a 3-hour cleaning session that will leave your home shimmering with holiday spirit. But hurry, the elves can’t stay for long, and slots are filling up quicker than a snowflake melts on the tongue. Don’t let the stress of the season dampen your sparkle; click and schedule your exclusive Sparkle Package now and ensure a gleaming, serene holiday home. Click here for a stress-free holiday: https://trysparkle.com/holiday.
What Events Are Happening in Venice for Christmas?
Looking for a magical way to kick off the holiday season? Treat your family to breakfast with Santa in Venice, where delicious food, festive activities, and photo opportunities with Santa Claus await. These special events are just one of the many Christmas happenings making Venice a winter wonderland this year!
Cookies with Santa at Playtime Paradise (North Port)
Sunday, December 7… 2 pm to 4 pm
Playtime Paradise Indoor Play Center
4637 E Price Blvd, North Port
Admission: 20 dollars per child (members receive 5 dollars off)
If you’re looking for something sweet and festive for the little ones, Playtime Paradise is hosting a cozy holiday afternoon perfect for burning off energy and making memories. Kids get to decorate their own Christmas cookie, sip hot cocoa, write letters to Santa and of course meet the big guy himself.
This one happens indoors, which makes it a solid choice for families who want a guaranteed weather-proof holiday outing. Great for toddlers through early elementary.
Ticket includes:
• Christmas cookie to decorate
• Meet and greet with Santa
• Hot cocoa
• Letter-writing craft
• Full access to the play center
Registration is online under the “Special Events” tab at PlaytimeParadiseFL.com.
Venice Christmas Boat Parade: A Dazzling Maritime Celebration
On Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 6:00 p.m., Venice’s Intracoastal Waterway will come alive with the annual Christmas Boat Parade. This cherished event features over 50 festively decorated boats, each adorned with holiday lights and decorations, creating a captivating spectacle for attendees of all ages. The parade embarks from the Albee Road Bridge near Casey Key, proceeding south along the Intracoastal Waterway and passing under the Venice Avenue Bridge, with the turnaround point just before MarineMax. Prime viewing locations include the Venetian Waterway Park, Legacy Park, and areas behind Venice High School. Attendees are advised that early chair setup is prohibited; any items placed before 3 pm on December 6 will be removed. For comprehensive details, including parade routes and participation information, visit the official Venice Christmas Boat Parade website.
Enander’s Winter Wonderland: A Holiday Light Extravaganza
Enander’s Winter Wonderland is a cherished holiday attraction in Nokomis, Florida, offering visitors a festive experience with over 400,000 lights and 400 illuminated figurines. Spanning 2.5 acres, the display features synchronized holiday music and a snow machine, creating a magical atmosphere for all ages. The event is free to the public and operates nightly from 6 to 10 p.m. through New Year’s Day. Located at 2281 Mission Valley Blvd., it has become a beloved tradition for both locals and visitors seeking holiday cheer.
Friday the 13th: The Nightmare Before Christmas Party 🎄🧟♀️
Get ready for a hilariously spooky twist on the holidays at Fusion Live in South Sarasota! On Friday, December 13, 2024, starting at 10 PM, ditch the traditional Christmas vibe for themed drinks, a zombie costume contest, and zero Christmas music. Whether you’re rocking a creepy costume or the ugliest holiday sweater, this free event is your ultimate escape from family drama and holiday stress. VIP packages are available for those who like a touch of luxury with their Christmas chaos. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind festive fright!
Celebrate the Season at the eXchange Christmas! 🎄
Join the eXchange Church for a heartwarming Christmas Eve service on Sunday, December 22nd, 2024, at 10:00 AM. Located at the KoWorx building (1101 S Tamiami Trl, Suite 101D, Venice, FL), this family-friendly event features a special morning of worship, a festive photo booth, and a unique telling of the Christmas story. Celebrate the true reason for the season with your loved ones at this meaningful and joyous gathering. All are welcome to share in the celebration of Jesus’ birth!
