Gainesville Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Gainesville and surrounding areas
Gainesville comes alive for the festive season as Historic Downtown and the University area host Christmas markets, Christmas lights, and family fun that reflect local culture. Events like The Nutcracker and the Very GNV Holiday Parade bring performances and parades to the square and parks. Enjoy seasonal markets, sparkling light displays, and interactive activities that make Gainesville a welcoming place to celebrate the holidays with neighbors and visiting family.
Find the best Gainesville Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Lights
8 eventsAnnual holiday lighting ceremony and parade
Christmas Shows
5 eventsClassic Nutcracker ballet with live orchestra
Christmas Markets
5 eventsLocal artisans and holiday vendors
Christmas Activities
16 events70th anniversary of a beloved community Christmas parade
Editor's Picks (6)
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Ocala Christmas Parade
(Ocala)
70th anniversary of a beloved community Christmas parade
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The Nutcracker
Classic Nutcracker ballet with live orchestra
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Light Up Ocala
(Ocala)
Annual holiday lighting ceremony and parade
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The Nutcracker
(Ocala)
Classic Nutcracker ballet performance
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Parade of Trees
(Keystone Heights)
Community-decorated trees with solar lights
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Centennial Celebration Fireworks
(Keystone Heights)
Centennial celebration fireworks display
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Parties Near Gainesville
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Gainesville.
Onslow County Republican Women's Club Annual Christmas Dinner
The Onslow County Republican Women's Club hosts its Annual Christmas Dinner each December....
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Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about holiday events and activities in Gainesville
- Christmas, Florida Reindeer Street Names Published: Sat, Nov 22, 2025
- Yukon's Christmas in the Park Returns Published: Thu, Nov 20, 2025
Gainesville Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Gainesville
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Gainesville!
Gainesville Christmas FAQ
Gainesville often hosts a variety of large annual events, including tree lighting ceremonies, holiday festivals, and significant Christmas light displays in residential areas.
While many traditions are shared nationally, Gainesville often embraces its Southern charm with community gatherings and local artistic interpretations of holiday themes.
Neighborhoods like Haile Plantation are known for their elaborate Christmas light displays, with many residents decorating their homes extensively.
Christmas markets and local makers can often be found in downtown Gainesville, at community centers, and at various pop-up events throughout the holiday season.
Exploring neighborhood light displays, attending free tree lighting ceremonies, and enjoying festive window shopping downtown are great budget-friendly options.
Families often enjoy visiting Santa, attending holiday shows at local theaters, and exploring the festive light displays scattered throughout the city.