West Palm Beach’s famed holiday event earned the top recognition via a USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Poll in 2021; aims to win again with public’s support
“Our annual Holiday in Paradise event is known for bringing the community together to make memories and share joy,” said Mayor Keith A. James. “Our event is made extra special when nominated for national recognitions like this one. We know we can secure the No. 1 spot again with the public’s support. So please vote – and keep voting once daily until the contest ends!”
A USA TODAY 10 Best panel of editors and experts combed the nation for the brightest and most beautiful holiday light shows put on by neighborhoods, cities and parks, and now the public will select the top 10 winners. The final rankings will be announced on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at noon. USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice awards highlight the best of the best in contests covering categories such as destinations, food and drink, hotels and things to do.
“Sandi has come to be a West Palm Beach holiday hallmark,” said Mary Pinak, community events manager for the City of West Palm Beach, who was involved in creating the unique holiday celebration. “Fans of Sandi come from far and wide to enjoy her magical light and music shows, and this year, we’re making Holiday in Paradise the destination for ‘Your Holiday Happy Place,’ encouraging the community to leave behind their personal, professional and political worries and spread holiday cheer through the rest of the year.”
This year’s Holiday in Paradise theme is “Sandi Shares Harmony.” While traveling during the off-season, Sandi met Harmony, the leader of a Happy Herd of Llamas, who inspired the theme. Harmony’s herd is aptly named: NOdrama Llama, NOprob Llama, Llamaste, Fa-la-la-la-Llama, LlAmour, LlAmazing, Llama Mia, and Dolly Llama. The harmonious crew will be sculpted at the base of Sandi and along the Waterfront, where the four 25-ton smaller sand sculptures are displayed. Sandi’s usual cast of characters will also return, including Hope, Merry the Mermaid, and Duke.
The month-long celebration will begin on the night of the Clematis by Night Holiday Tree Lighting. The festivities include synchronized nightly music and light shows of Sandi and the surrounding area through Tuesday, Dec. 31, from 6 – 10 p.m. (shows will be extended on New Year’s Eve through midnight). The festivities will also include lots of free and affordable, family-friendly events throughout the month.
Since her debut in 2012, Sandi has received numerous international and regional awards and accolades, including “Best New Event” and “Best Event within an Existing Festival” by the International Festivals and Events Association, “Most Innovative Project” by the Florida Festivals and Events Association and a Henry Award from VISIT FLORIDA. Sandi has been featured in/on The Huffington Post, Thrillist, CNN, Martha Stewart, Travel + Leisure, and The Ellen Show.
Holiday in Paradise sponsors and partners to date include: Presented by Florida Power & Light Company, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Health Specialty Center, NewDay USA, Discover the Palm Beaches, Florida Blue, Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, 97.9 WRMF, SUNNY 107.9, New Country 103.1, X 102.3, PARTY 96.3, News Talk 850 WFTL, FOX Sports 640 AM, WPBF 25, West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency, West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority, Visit Palm Beach, Best Western Palm Beach Lakes, Hawthorne Suites by Wyndham West Palm Beach, WPB Magazine, Hilton Garden Inn at the Outlets, The Palm Beach Post, The Ben West Palm and Lion Country Safari.
To vote in the USA TODAY 10Best contest, visit USA TODAY 10Best’s website or wpb.org/holiday. To keep up with Sandi all season-long, visit wpb.org/holiday or follow her holiday cheer on Instagram @sanditreewpb.
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