FOLIO
Dazzling Nights Jacksonville
Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Through Dec. 29
Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is completely transformed during the holidays with the opening of Dazzling Lights. Enjoy snowball fights within a 40-foot snow globe right here in Florida, thousands of sparkling Christmas lights and for the adults, themed drinks! Plus so much more. This winter wonderland has something for everyone. This is a great time for families, date nights or even a night out on the town with friends!
jacksonvillearboretum.org
Blackhawk Bluff Christmas Display
Off Girvin Road
Through Dec. 31
One of the best parts of the holiday season is the beautiful lights and decorations that brighten various neighborhoods. Being able to see the personality within a home shine on the outside is always a treat and nowhere more so than the Blackhawk Bluff neighborhood, located off Girvin Road. With a three-year consecutive title as “Jax Best Choice for Holiday Lights,” it is well worth the wait to be able to drive in the comfort of your car blaring your favorite festive tunes with your family and friends while admiring beautiful displays of holiday cheer.
Deck the Chairs
Jacksonville Beach
Through Jan. 1, 2024
Get ready to jingle all the way with Deck the Chairs, Jacksonville Beach’s heartwarming holiday exhibit that’s all about spreading joy and supporting children’s arts and education! Lifeguard chairs are transformed into festive masterpieces by the creative minds of kids, turning public spaces into magical wonderlands and bringing smiles to everyone.
deckthechairs.org
St. Augustine Nights of Lights
St. Augustine Historic District
Through Jan. 28, 2024
In the enchanting city of St. Augustine, the annual Nights of Lights celebration transforms the historic district into a dazzling spectacle of holiday magic. The sparkling extravaganza showcases the city’s timeless charm with historic landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos and the Bridge of Lions adorned in a breathtaking array of festive illuminations. As the radiant display continues to paint the night sky, St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights stands as a testament to the city’s enduring legacy and its ability to evoke a sense of timeless joy during the holiday season.
floridashistoriccoast.com/nights-lights
Colors of the Wild
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
Through Feb. 18, 2024
The Jacksonville Zoo has transformed its wildlife scenery into a breathtaking Asian lantern festival for the holidays — and beyond. Guests are invited to explore Asian lanterns of all sizes take on life as animals and plants in over 70 displays. Each lantern tells its own story about the importance of conservation through carefully curated details. Although the event isn’t specifically holiday-centered, the zoo will host holiday nights from Dec. 14 until Dec. 24, where special characters and performers will take the stage, like the Grinch, Ice Queen, Toy Soldier stilt walker and of course, Santa Claus.
jacksonvillezoo.org
Lighted Christmas Parade
Central Park, Amelia Island
Dec. 2
From 6 to 8 p.m., holiday fans of all ages can enjoy can enjoy a night parade featuring bands, dancers, lighted floats and, of course, an appearance by the man in red. But only if you’ve been good. The parade is free and organized by America’s Youth Inc.
Annual Gingerbread Extravaganza
Dec. 8-27
Old St. Andrew’s Church
The Jacksonville Historical Society’s beloved Gingerbread Extravaganza is back with a mind-boggling collection of gingerbread houses, schools, offices, local attractions and anything else these spicy creators can dream up. The event also features a holiday shop, tours of the Merrill House and Kids Day (Dec. 10) with activities, facepainting and photos with Santa.
jaxhistory.org
Florida Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”
Dec. 9-10, Thrasher Horne Center, Orange Park
Dec. 15-17, UNF Fine Arts Center
Indulge in a holiday classic with a touch of elegance and pointe shoes! Join The Florida Ballet for their annual presentation of “The Nutcracker.” It’s the ideal start to the festive season, creating enduring memories. With The Florida Ballet’s skilled Company and over 100 local student dancers, this delightful show caters to all ages. If time is tight, check out “Nutcracker in a Nutshell,” a 60-minute version of the full ballet.
floridaballet.org
Riverside Avondale Luminaria
Dec. 10
Riverside Avondale Historic District
Celebrating its 39th year in 2023, Riverside Avondale Luminari returns the historic district with thousands of luminaria creating a magical glow throughout the neighborhoods. In addition to the photo worthy trail of lights, visitors will also get a health dose of holiday spirit from neighborhood families and friends touring the streets by bike and foot.
riversideavondale.org
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