7 Christmas Towns In Florida That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer
By Megan Todaro|Published November 08, 2023
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Megan Todaro
Author
Megan Todaro was born and raised in Miami, Florida, and still calls The Sunshine State home today. While saving lives and putting out fires during the day, Megan is also passionate about writing and travel, especially when it comes to sharing her knowledge of her home state. A few of Megan's favorites include: favorite Florida vacation destination - New Smyrna Beach. Favorite Florida restaurant - Eastside Pizza in Miami. Favorite Florida hidden gem - Shibuya Sushi Art. Favorite Florida OnlyInYourState article: Take A Terrifying Florida Road Trip That Will Surely Haunt Your Dreams.
The holidays are my favorite time of year, and Florida sure knows how to light up the holiday season with a dazzling display of twinkle lights, beloved traditions, and enchantment! The festive spirit in Florida lasts from November through the New Year, which means you have plenty of time to get in on the magic. Here in Florida, we’ve got some Christmas towns that are so incredible that you’d think they came straight out of a storybook or a feel-good holiday movie. These 7 Christmas towns in Florida go all-in with their celebrations, featuring fantastic festivals with horse-drawn carriages, real-life reindeer, and city-wide parades. As far as Christmas events in Florida go, each city and town offers something unique to visitors. So, are you ready to plan for your holiday state exploration?
Celebrating the holidays in Mount Dora, Florida, is a storybook celebration. The town comes alive with its annual Christmas lighting festival, featuring an enchanting display of lights. Visitors can explore a bustling Christmas market with unique gifts and delicious treats. The charming downtown streets are adorned with holiday decorations, creating a picturesque setting for a memorable holiday experience. Mount Dora's festive spirit, cozy atmosphere, and friendly community make it an ideal destination for a joyous Christmas celebration.
Some might call St. Augustine the unofficial Christmas Capital of Florida, simply because of the annual Nights of Lights event. The Nights of Lights festival transforms the city into a mesmerizing wonderland, with millions of lights adorning its historic streets and landmarks. Visitors can enjoy holiday tours, carriage rides, and festive music, creating a magical ambiance. The city's rich history adds a unique dimension to the celebrations, making St. Augustine a cherished destination to experience the true spirit of Christmas.
Get ready for a truly captivating celebration in Safety Harbor Florida. Every year, the city becomes a festive wonderland with stunning light displays, lively parades, and cheerful community events. Residents and visitors can enjoy ice skating, carolers, and visits with Santa. What's not to love? The charming downtown area and local shops add to the cozy, small-town charm, making Safety Harbor a perfect place to create lasting holiday memories. The city's annual boat parade along Tampa Bay further enhances the festive experience, making it a treasured holiday destination.
One of my personal favorites, celebrating Christmas in New Smyrna Beach, Florida is a truly magic experience. Blending coastal charm and the festive spirit, the city’s pristine beaches provide a unique backdrop for holiday celebrations. Visitors can relish the annual Christmas parade, which winds through historic Flagler Avenue, featuring colorful floats and cheerful participants. Festive events like boat parades, art festivals, and charming holiday markets create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The town's laid-back coastal vibe is perfectly complemented by the holiday cheer, making New Smyrna Beach a wonderful destination to enjoy the season while basking in the Florida sun and sea breeze.
As far as Christmas festivals in Florida go, nothing is better than Sandi Tree in West Palm Beach, which is why this city made our list and usually does. The Sandi Tree in West Palm Beach is a unique holiday attraction, featuring a massive Christmas tree made entirely of sand. It's beautifully illuminated and stands as a testament to the city's creative holiday spirit. As the world’s only 35-foot, 800-ton holiday sand tree, this is truly a sight to see.
Christmas in Winter Garden is a heartwarming celebration that captures the essence of the holiday season in Central Florida. Enjoy stunning light displays, immersive parades, and tons of community events. Residents and visitors can enjoy a bevy of activities all season long. This one might be more of a lesser-known add to our list, but certainly great nonetheless.
Christmas in DeLand, Florida, is like stepping into a holiday wonderland that charms everyone who visits. The town comes alive with festive vibes, decked-out streets, and a jolly atmosphere. One of the big hits is DeLand's annual Christmas Boat Parade on the St. Johns River, where you can watch fancy boats gliding through the water, putting on a dazzling show. DeLand also knows how to throw a good holiday bash with lively events, craft fairs, and a warm, welcoming community spirit, making it a super fun place to celebrate the season.
What do you think about our list of things to do for Christmas in Florida? Have you been to any of these towns or cities to celebrate the holidays? Sound off in the comments section! Also, if you’re looking for unique places to go for Christmas and haven’t yet booked your accommodations, then we have you covered. Check out all the best vacation rentals in Florida through VRBO. Plus, check out our unique holiday gift guide, featuring the best gift ideas for the traveler in your life!
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