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Rema Merrick | February 1, 2026

Clearwater Courthouse Winter Wedding Summary

Planning a winter elopement in the Tampa Bay area? A traditional courthouse wedding isn’t your only option. You may not know that the Clearwater Courthouse creates a seasonal, winter-themed ceremony room each year — a festive Clearwater Courthouse Winter Wedding offered by the Pinellas Clerk’s Office.

In this article, I’m sharing everything you need to know about this unique Clearwater courthouse wedding option, including dates, guest limits and marriage license details, including how to plan this cozy celebration. My hope is that this gives you a memorable, winter-inspired alternative to say “I do” with close family and friends.

Introduction

Looking for a fun and unique place to have an elopement or mini-mony in Tampa Bay? The Pinellas Clerk’s Office has created a whimsical Winter Wonderland Wedding Ceremony room inside the downtown Clearwater Courthouse. This seasonal little event popped up on The Petite Peoni's Instagram feed and I couldn’t resist sharing it with y’all — especially if you’re considering a simple, affordable, and magical courthouse wedding.

Clearwater Courthouse Winter Wedding (What to Expect)

What I love about this wintry enchantment is the cozy vibe and how casual and low-pressure the space feels. The Clearwater Courthouse always offers traditional (non-themed) ceremony rooms year-round, but from November 24, 2025, to January 30, 2026, they transform one of the rooms into a snowy, magical experience for couples wanting something more festive than the usual courthouse setting.

According to The Pinellas County Clerk's Office (2005) press release, the room becomes: “A serene, snowy scene complete with whimsical winter décor and festive photo backdrops.” If you’re thinking about eloping or having a small mini-mony in Tampa Bay, I definitely suggest checking out this Winter Wonderland wedding option. Couples may bring up to 10 guests, including children. Kids even get to create a personalized ornament to hang on the courthouse’s Winter Wonderland tree — a sweet tradition for future couples to enjoy. Winter Wonderland ceremonies are open to walk-ins, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

A quick reminder: A valid marriage license is required before the ceremony. Marriage licenses in Florida are valid for 60 days, so your ceremony must take place before the expiration date listed. This is a perfect example of how a simple courthouse wedding can still feel intimate, meaningful, and festive.

Quick Facts: Clearwater Courthouse Winter Wedding

Type of Wedding

Elopement or mini-mony

Venue

Pinellas Clerk’s Office, Clearwater Courthouse, 315 Court Street, Room 150, Clearwater, Florida 33756

Dates Available

November 24, 2025 to January 30, 2026

Lead Time

None — walk-ins welcome

Guests

Up to 10 (children welcome)

Credit: www.youtube.com/@PinellasCountyCler

Special Feature

A holiday–themed Winter Wonderland ceremony room, plus ornament-making for kids

Clearwater Courthouse Winter Wedding Fee

$30.00 (license is separate)

Planning Guide: How to Arrange a Winter Wonderland Elopement in Tampa Bay

Since the themed ceremony is only available for a limited window (November 24, 2025 to January 30, 2026), here’s a simple planning guide to help you prepare for your Clearwater courthouse elopement.

Decide your budget.

Even though this isn’t a full wedding, it helps to determine what you’d like to spend. The ceremony itself is inexpensive, but you may want to include photography, flowers, attire, or a post-ceremony gathering.

Choose your ceremony location: Clearwater Courthouse Winter Wedding.

This one’s easy — your ceremony will be held at the Pinellas County Clerk’s Office.

Ceremony fee: $30
Marriage license: $86

No reservation is required; simply arrive with your guests during ceremony hours.

Get your marriage license.

Complete and submit the online E-Marriage Application. Your ceremony must take place within 60 days of the license’s effective date.

Waiting period details:

Non-Florida residents: No waiting period
One or both partners are Florida residents: Three-day waiting period applies

Allow time for processing and any unforeseen delays.

Choose what you'll wear.

Purchase your outfits, accessories, shoes, or whatever you wish to wear during your winter-themed ceremony.

Choose optional vendors.

Elopements are typically vendor-light, but you may want small florals, a photographer, or a videographer. A bouquet, boutonniere, or simple arrangement can add a nice seasonal touch..

Let your guests know the details.

Send an e-vite, create a group message, mail physical invitations, or invite your guests personally — whatever feels right to you.

Pick a cozy spot to celebrate afterward.

Think about what makes you and your partner feel special — a favorite café, a restaurant, or even a warm meal at home. If you're considering a restaurant or café, contact them ahead to confirm they can accommodate your group. If celebrating at home, a small local caterer can make the evening relaxed and personal.

Book a place to stay.

If you're traveling into Tampa Bay or simply want a relaxing first night as newlyweds, book a room at a favorite hotel.

Grab a sweet treat.

You may want a small cake to enjoy with your guests after the ceremony. Keep in mind that some restaurants may charge a cake-cutting fee.

Create a little wish list (optional).

Even with intimate weddings, guests may want to give gifts. Consider a small registry or ask for donations to a favorite charity. If registering, note whether gifts should be mailed or brought to the celebration.

Final Thoughts: Is a Clearwater Courthouse Winter Wedding

Right for You?

Planning a small wedding, in any form, is always about choosing what feels right for you and your partner. A winter-themed courthouse wedding at the Pinellas Clerk’s Office can be a magical, stress-free, and budget-friendly alternative to a traditional ceremony. It’ intimate, festive, and offers a meaningful way to celebrate with just a few

loved ones.

Whether this option becomes your perfect fit or simply inspires new ideas, my hope at The Petite Peoni is that you discover a wedding experience that reflects who you are and what you value.

Happy holidays — and happy planning!

Please note: This post is not sponsored or supported by any of the establishments or organizations mentioned. I’m not being paid for this content; everything I share is based on my own experience, research, and opinion.

References

Pinellas County Clerk's Office. (2025) Pinellas Clerk's Office Invites Couples to Say "I Do" In a Winter Wonderland [Press Release]. https://www.mypinellasclerk.gov/Portals/0/Newsroom/Press%20Release/2025/2025-2026%20Winter%20Wonderland%20Wedding%20Press%20Release%20(2).pdf?ver=8kmZAD9KQukmiLKDal1rIQ%3d%3d

Share your story

Have you planned — or are you planning — a unique winter-themed wedding?

I would love to hear your story if you’d like to share it.

Share your story

Photography: K&K Photography | Make-up: Tricia Montaque | Bouquet: Wonderland Floral Art

Rema Merrick

Hi! I’m a St. Pete local, tiny wedding enthusiast, and long-time vegetarian. When I’m not researching or writing articles for The Petite Peoni, you’ll usually find me running along the waterfront at Vinoy Park, taking a hot yoga class, or enjoying a cup of coffee at Bandit Coffee in St. Pete’s Grand Central District. In a former life, I’ve been an insurance agent, flight attendant, and instructional designer—experiences that still shape how I approach storytelling and thoughtful celebration.