Last updated: November 11, 2024
Enjoy the festive wonders of Gainesville with our detailed holiday guide. For Gainesville residents and newcomers, this guide highlights the top festive events.
One highlight of the season is the enchanting "Ebenezer Scrooge's Big Gainesville Christmas Show," which brings a classic tale to life with local talent and holiday charm. Another favorite is the "Winter Wonderland at North Central Florida YMCA," where families can enjoy seasonal activities and engaging attractions. And the "A Very GNV Holiday Parade" is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring vibrant floats and community spirit. Check out more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Gainesville Holiday Light Displays
Winter Wonderland at North Central Florida YMCA
- What to Expect
- 100,000 twinkling lights and festive Christmas melodies.
- Description
- A walk-through holiday light show featuring 100,000 twinkling lights, festive Christmas melodies, and delectable food, creating unforgettable memories for the entire family.
- Where
- Gainesville | More Info : Winter Wonderland at North Central Florida YMCA
Holiday Lights Celebration at the Historic Thomas Center
- What to Expect
- Illuminated holiday display with horse-drawn carriage rides.
- Description
- The Holiday Lights Celebration at the Historic Thomas Center features thousands of lights adorning the gardens, creating a shimmering display for all to enjoy. Holiday goodie bags are available for children, and entertainment includes performances by the Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus, Singers Reformation, and Gypsy Guerilla Band. Horse-drawn carriages transport visitors through a neighborhood lit with hundreds of luminaries.
- Where
- Gainesville | More Info : Holiday Lights Celebration at the Historic Thomas Center
Gainesville Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Ebenezer Scrooge's Big Gainesville Christmas Show
- What to Expect
- High-energy adaptation of "A Christmas Carol" with sensory-friendly options.
- Description
- Ebenezer Scrooge's Big Gainesville Christmas Show is a fast, funny, and highly theatrical reimagining of "A Christmas Carol," featuring Ebenezer Scrooge, the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, and the Cratchit family. This show is a delightful theatrical experience filled with laughter and festive escapism.
- Where
- Gainesville | More Info : Ebenezer Scrooge's Big Gainesville Christmas Show
Holiday Kids’ Dance Party at Bo Diddley Plaza
- What to Expect
- Interactive dance activities for kids.
- Description
- Bo Diddley Plaza hosts a Holiday Kids’ Dance Party featuring lively music and dance activities designed for children, creating a joyful atmosphere.
- Where
- Gainesville | More Info : Holiday Kids’ Dance Party at Bo Diddley Plaza
Sparks in the Park New Year’s Eve Celebration
- What to Expect
- Dazzling fireworks show with interactive activities.
- Description
- Celebrate the New Year at the Cade Museum with a dazzling fireworks show, games, experiments, and a photo booth. Enjoy the last day of 2023 with drinks and snacks in the panoramic galleries.
- Where
- Gainesville | More Info : Sparks in the Park New Year’s Eve Celebration
Gainesville Other Holiday Activities
A Very GNV Holiday Parade
- What to Expect
- Community-driven holiday parade with festive procession and holiday activities.
- Description
- The A Very GNV Holiday Parade is a community-driven event where families, neighborhood groups, and businesses come together to celebrate the holiday season. The parade features a festive procession along University Avenue and Sixth Street, culminating in a holiday dance party and lights celebration at the Thomas Center Gardens.
- Where
- Gainesville | More Info : A Very GNV Holiday Parade
Christmas Parade on Main Street Alachua
- What to Expect
- Community celebration with parade floats and local school performances.
- Description
- The Alachua Christmas Parade features colorful floats, entertainers, and local school organizations celebrating the holiday season along historic Main Street in Alachua.
- Where
- Alachua | More Info : Christmas Parade on Main Street Alachua
Main Street Christmas Tree Lighting
- What to Expect
- Holiday celebration with Santa, crafts, and festive activities.
- Description
- Join us for the Main Street Christmas Tree Lighting, featuring crafts, treats, pictures with Santa, train rides, and live music along Alachua's historic Main Street.
- Where
- Alachua | More Info : Main Street Christmas Tree Lighting