Looking for something fun to bring the whole family together? Is there a Scrooge in your family who needs an extra push to get in the Christmas spirit? We have just the thing for you: a most magical road trip to check out the best Christmas lights in Florida. All of these places just happen to be fun to visit year-round, too, so you could even take this road trip after the holidays are over and still have a great time. But we suggest taking it while they're all lit up to really make it a magical season:
1. St. Augustine
During the holiday season, our nation's oldest city really shines. It has made several lists of top Christmas displays in the country. Every night from mid-November through the end of January, the city is decorated with millions of tiny lights. Take a trolley tour, a scenic boat tour, or even a romantic carriage ride to take in all the magic. St. Augustine is without a doubt one of the best Christmas towns in Florida, hands down!
2. Ravine Gardens State Park, Palatka
Visit this charming park in North Florida on certain evenings in December to take part in the Caroling the Ravines celebration, complete with a light show, wagon rides, luminaries, and musical performances. Also plan a visit during specific nights in December to catch a rare glimpse of the park after dark and a special holiday light show. Check out the most up-to-date schedule for fun holiday events in Florida's state parks on the official website.
3. Rainbow Springs State Park, Dunnellon
Rainbow Springs is known for hosting the annual Santa Over The Rainbow Celebration, in which Santa arrives by pontoon boat to visit the impeccably decorated state park. Guests of all ages will appreciate this beautiful park covered in half a million twinkling lights. This is one magical evening you do not want to miss! Be sure to keep an eye on the official Rainbow Springs State Park website for the most up-to-date info on this year's festivities.
4. Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Homosassa
This beloved state park's Celebration of Lights will run for multiple nights, giving you a little wiggle room in scheduling your trip. Visit any evening during the run for one heck of a memorable holiday experience. The celebration features a synchronized light and sound display, beautiful lights and decorations, music, live entertainment, and refreshments for sale. Keep an eye on the official website for details about this year's events!
5. Mount Dora
Whether you already know and love this quaint little town or you've never visited, you should schedule your trip soon. This year, the town will be decorated with more than two million dazzling lights throughout the month of December. There will be various events all month long, including a boat parade, bus tours, and a truly magical train ride. This is one of our favorite small towns in Florida all year, but during the holidays it's extra special.
6. Stetson Mansion, DeLand
This mansion that once belonged to the famous hatmaker blends different architectural styles and Gilded Age decorations and is considered Florida's first luxury home. The house is especially impressive when it's all dressed up for the holidays with gorgeous and creative decorations. Christmas tours will take place through mid-January. Tours run 75 to 90 minutes long every day except on Sunday mornings. Reservations required. This is one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in Florida, so be ready for fun!
Are you ready to hit the road on this Christmas lights road trip in Florida? Don't forget to share your photos on our Facebook page, and let us know about other unforgettable holiday destinations!
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