Winterfest at the Atlantic Hotel & Spa
Winterfest at the Atlantic Hotel & Spa: A Fort Lauderdale Holiday Escape
There’s a special kind of magic that settles over Fort Lauderdale each winter — palm trees wrapped in twinkling lights, yachts and pleasure boats decorated like floating winter villages, and the warm Atlantic breeze carrying the promise of a celebration. At the heart of it all, the Atlantic Hotel & Spa provides the perfect base for experiencing Winterfest: festive, relaxed and luxuriously comfortable. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic escape, or a group getaway with friends, the Atlantic turns Winterfest into an unforgettable holiday tradition.
What is Winterfest?
Winterfest is Fort Lauderdale’s annual seasonal celebration centered around the spectacular Parade of Boats on the Intracoastal Waterway. Local marinas and boat owners deck out vessels in holiday lights and themes, creating a glittering procession that draws visitors from across South Florida and beyond. The city buzzes with related events — tree lightings, regattas, holiday markets, and live music — and the entire waterfront becomes a festive stage.
Why the Atlantic Hotel & Spa is your Winterfest HQ
- Prime location: Just minutes from the Intracoastal and Fort Lauderdale’s Riverwalk area, the Atlantic gives you easy access to parade viewing points, marina pick-up spots, and the city’s holiday events. Skip long drives and maximize celebration time.
- Refined comfort after festive days: Winterfest nights can be long and vibrant. Return to rooms with plush bedding, blackout curtains and sound-dampening windows that let you choose quiet or celebration on your terms.
- Spa recovery and holiday pampering: After a day of strolling waterfront promenades, holiday shopping and parade-watching, the spa’s warming treatments — hot-stone massages, seasonal aromatherapy and restorative facials — are exactly what you’ll want.
- Event-ready amenities: The hotel’s event and meeting spaces are ideal if you’re bringing a larger group for a private viewing party, corporate holiday event, or family reunion during Winterfest weekend.
- Culinary warmth: From cozy breakfasts to chef-crafted dinners and festive cocktails, the Atlantic’s dining options make holiday eating easy and delicious — no long waits, just thoughtfully prepared meals and seasonal specials.
A Winterfest weekend at the Atlantic — suggested itinerary Day 1: Arrive and start the season
- Check in, drop your bags and stroll the hotel’s lobby to soak up seasonal décor and welcome treats.
- Take a late-afternoon walk to the nearby waterfront or Las Olas Boulevard for early festivities and boutique shopping.
- Return for a holiday-inspired welcome cocktail at the rooftop bar or lounge. Share plans with concierge — they’ll help you book parade viewing spots, private boat charters or tickets to special events.
Day 2: Parade of Boats day
- Fuel up with a generous breakfast at the hotel or request a to-go winter picnic pack if you prefer to head out early for prime parade viewing.
- Choose your parade experience: a reserved viewing spot along the Intracoastal, a ticketed riverfront gig, or a chartered yacht to float among the procession. Coordinate pickups with the concierge to streamline logistics.
- After the parade, warm up with a spa booking — a muscle-melting massage or seasonal hydrating facial — followed by a relaxed dinner featuring local seafood and holiday specialties.
- Cap the night with rooftop stargazing and after-hours hot drinks; the glow of boat lights will still linger in your memory.
Day 3: Explore and unwind
- Visit Fort Lauderdale’s Riverwalk and museums, or take a scenic seaside stroll at the beach.
- Browse local holiday markets for unique gifts — think hand-crafted ornaments, artisanal goods and nautical-themed memorabilia.
- Before you leave, enjoy a leisurely brunch at the hotel and perhaps a short spa treatment for travel-ready relaxation.
Spa and recovery treatments for holiday travelers
- Winter Warmth Massage: A 60–90 minute treatment with warming oils and hot stones to soothe holiday travel tension and waterfront chills.
- Express Revive: A 30-minute facial or foot treatment for quick refresh between events.
- Seasonal Aromatherapy Rituals: Customized treatments using holiday-inspired scents (citrus, pine, or warm spice) to restore energy and calm.
Tip: Book spa appointments early — Winterfest draws crowds, and prime times fill fast.
Dining and holiday menus
The Atlantic’s kitchens curate seasonal menus with local ingredients and festive touches. Expect:
- Holiday brunch specials with warm breads, citrus-infused dishes and fresh coffee blends.
- Seafood-forward entrees celebrating Florida’s catch, plus comfort dishes for cooler nights.
- Seasonal desserts and signature cocktails with festive garnishes.
Reserve ahead for holiday dining times and consider pre-ordering a parade-night meal to enjoy at the hotel if streets get crowded.
Events, groups and private viewing options
- Private terraces and meeting rooms make the Atlantic an excellent home base for corporate winter parties or private family gatherings. Ask about tailored décor, seasonal catering and AV packages.
- Concierge can arrange private or shared boat charters, VIP parade viewing experiences, and local event tickets.
- If you’re traveling with kids, request family-friendly package details .
Packing list and holiday tips
- Layered clothing: Florida winter evenings can be crisp but not freezing. Lightweight layers, a warm sweater and a light jacket work best.
- Comfortable shoes: Expect outdoor walking and marina surfaces — comfy, weatherproof footwear is ideal.
- Warm accessories: A knit hat or scarf for evening parade viewing adds comfort and festive style.
- Camera & phone charger: Capture the lights and scenes — bring extra battery power for long evenings.
- Booking essentials: Reserve spa treatments, private viewing options and dining well in advance of parade weekend.
Local attractions to pair with Winterfest
- Las Olas Boulevard: Dining, shopping and galleries in a lively, walkable area.
- Bonnet House Museum & Gardens: Historic estate with scenic grounds, a short drive from the waterfront festivities.
- Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District: Museums, live music and cultural programming for daytime exploration.
- Fort Lauderdale Beach: Stretch out your legs and enjoy ocean views before the evening’s celebrations.
Why Winterfest at the Atlantic is different Winterfest is about community — neighbors, boat owners and visitors coming together to celebrate light and cheer. The Atlantic Hotel & Spa elevates that energy with thoughtful hospitality: curated comfort, practical concierge help, and a welcoming atmosphere to rest, recover and reconnect. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s a seasonal retreat where holiday spirit meets seaside luxury.
Make your Winterfest plans
If you’re ready to join the lights, music and joy of Fort Lauderdale’s Winterfest, the Atlantic Hotel & Spa is ready to make it seamless. Contact the reservations team to inquire about Winterfest packages, spa add-ons, private viewing arrangements and group rates. Book early to secure the best rooms and spa times — and get ready to experience a warm, luminous holiday by the water.
