The weather outside may not be frightful, but we guarantee you’ll find plenty of delightful things to do in north Florida this holiday season! While it’s true that the area might not receive heaping piles of fluffy, white snow to help you discover your holiday spirit, you can still find plenty of ways to get transported to a Christmas wonderland full of twinkling lights, sparkling ornaments, beautifully decorated trees, and even a Santa sighting or two.
Gather your friends and family and check out some of these great options for spending the holidays in north Florida this year.
Christmas on the Square — Historic Downtown Live Oak
For 33 years, the Suwannee Chamber of Commerce has hosted Christmas on the Square the first weekend in December. This year, festivities begin on Friday, Dec. 1, as Mayor Nobles lights the Christmas Tree in Millennium Park. Then, head to Heritage Square for fun activities for those of all ages, including live music, amazing food, a professional fireworks show, and maybe, just maybe, some snow. The next day, downtown Live Oak will be filled with vendors showcasing arts and crafts, cars, agricultural exhibits and more live entertainment.
Gainesville Pops! Christmas Concert — Advent Christian Village at Dowling Park
On Saturday, Dec. 9, the Gainesville Pops! will perform a Christmas concert at The Village Church at Advent Christian Village. This event is free (although a $5 donation is requested from attending adults) and will feature a variety of Christmas music, which may include light classical, jazz standards, popular hits, Broadway show tunes, and more! Come for the 3 p.m. matinee concert and stay for a live outdoor presentation of Bethlehem and Beyond at 7 p.m.
Winter Festival Celebration of Lights — Downtown Tallahassee
Take a drive into beautiful downtown Tallahassee this December to celebrate the lighting of the trees in the Chain of Parks, plus enjoy live entertainment and delicious, seasonal food. 2017 marks the 29th season for this magical event, which starts on Saturday, Dec. 2, with a lighting ceremony, the Jingle Bell Run, and the Holiday Parade.
ZOOLights — Jacksonville Zoo
This festive holiday event kicks off on Dec. 7 and runs through Jan. 6 at the Jacksonville Zoo, where you’ll truly be transported to a holiday wonderland. Thousands of LED lights illuminate the zoo paths and gardens with moving sculptures, forests of lighted trees, and animal silhouettes. Stroll through the zoo at your own pace while listening to holiday music, or board the Zoo’s lighted train for even more spectacular views.
Suwannee Music Park — Live Oak
Located just north of Live Oak, this one-of-a-kind venue and premier campground is nestled along the banks of the historic Suwannee River in north Florida. This December, you can enjoy a few different festive holiday events at the music park, including Suwannee Lights, the Elvis Christmas Show, and the Santa Jam. Plus, they’ll be hosting a New Year’s Eve Party!
Shopping at the Village Square — Dowling Park
No holiday season is complete without brightly wrapped gifts for loved ones underneath your tree. Luckily, members of Advent Christian Village have a variety of unique shopping options right on campus! The Village Square, located just steps away from the Suwannee River, features three unique gift shops — Riverside Gifts, the Rustic Shop, and Twice Nice — offering gifts for the whole family, handmade wonders from pottery to quilts, and gently-used clothes and household items, respectively. You’re sure to find something for everyone on your list!
Live life to the fullest this holiday season and beyond with the vibrant independent living options at Advent Christian Village. Located near Live Oak in Dowling Park, our senior living community offers a variety of spacious apartments and cottages with peace of mind for your future. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a personal tour.
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