Your Guide to Festive Events at Sundial
The most wonderful time of the year is just around the corner! From Thanksgiving through the New Year, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa is transforming into a tropical winter wonderland.
Whether you are looking to book a cozy coastal holiday getaway, reserve a table for a gourmet feast, or join us for our open-to-the-public community events, here is your complete guide to celebrating the holidays with us on Sanibel Island.
Thanksgiving Weekend
Thanksgiving Holiday Buffet
Date: Thursday, November 26, 2026
Details: Celebrate Thanksgiving island-style with a festive holiday buffet featuring an island-inspired menu and beautiful Gulf views. Afternoon and evening seatings are available. View the menu!
How to Join: Advance reservations are required; please call 239-395-6005.
A Visit from Santa
Date: Thursday, November 26, 2026
Details: Keep an eye out as Santa makes a special Thanksgiving Day appearance, strolling through the holiday buffet and visiting the main pool deck!
Merry & Bright Market
Date: Friday, November 27, 2026 | 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Details: Kick off the holiday season with a festive outdoor shopping experience. Shop unique local vendors for one-of-a-kind gifts, enjoy a special visit from Santa, and unwind with snacks and cocktails at Turtle’s Tiki Bar.
How to Join: Free and open to the public!
Annual Tree Lighting
Date: Friday, November 27, 2026 | 6:00 pm
Details: Resort guests can gather near the main pool deck for a magical evening featuring hot chocolate, a festive carol sing-along, and our annual tree lighting ceremony to officially kick off the Christmas season.
December Magic & Christmas Celebrations
Holiday Cookie Decorating Kits
Dates: Available November 26 – December 31, 2026
Details: Add a little sweetness to your getaway! Resort guests can order freshly baked cookie decorating kits to create their own delicious, festive sugar cookies right in your room.
Pricing & Booking: $20 plus tax (must be ordered at least 24 hours in advance). To order, email erin.atwood@sundialresort.com or call 239-472-4151.
Santa’s Mailbox & Rec Shack Fun
Dates: November 27 – December 24, 2026
Details: Stop by the Rec Shack to write a letter to Santa and drop it straight into his official North Pole mailbox! Throughout December, enjoy festive family games and activities, plus special Santa photo-op sightings on December 5, 12, 19, and 24 at 2:00 pm.
Christmas Day Holiday Buffet
Date: Friday, December 25, 2026
Details: Make Christmas Day extra special with our traditional Christmas buffet. Gather with family and friends to enjoy a festive holiday meal in the warm island sunshine. View the menu!
How to Join: Advance reservations are required; please call 239-395-6005 to reserve your table.
Ring in 2027: New Year’s Eve Celebration
Outdoor NYE Party beneath the Palms
Date: Thursday, December 31, 2026 | 6:30 pm – Midnight
Details: Ring in 2027 Island Style! Join us outdoors in a festive, Gulf-front setting for an unforgettable night.
- Kids’ Games & Caricature Artist: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm (including a special kids’ countdown)
- Island-Inspired Dinner Buffet: 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. View the menu!
- DJ, Dancing & Midnight Toast: Ring in the new year with dancing and a midnight toast for the adults!
How to Join: Advance party tickets are available here.
Important Note: In preparation for this event, the main pool deck will close at 3:00 pm (our other four resort pools will remain open for your enjoyment).
Plan Your Holiday Escape Today!
Rooms fill up fast for the holiday season. Whether you’re planning a multi-night holiday vacation or joining us locally for our festive dining events, we can’t wait to celebrate with you.
- To book an overnight stay: sundialresort.com/stay/specials
- To reserve a table for Thanksgiving or Christmas: Call 239-395-6005
- To grab your New Year’s Eve tickets: Click Here
