As December tiptoes onto the calendar and Florida’s chilly weather dips below 70 degrees, Gainesville transforms into a hub of holiday magic. Whether you’re a sucker for sparkling lights or quirky traditions, there’s plenty to make your season merry and bright. Ready to dive into the festivities? Here are five must-do activities to sprinkle some holiday cheer into your life.
Winter Wonderland
Where: North Central Florida YMCA
When: Friday to Sunday, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. until Dec. 29
Cost: $15 admission
Step into Gainesville’s very own Winter Wonderland, a dazzling dreamland illuminated by 100,000 twinkling Christmas lights. Wander glowing paths, craft your own ornaments and decorate cookies to your heart’s content. Meet fairy tale characters, feast on festive foods and don’t leave without a photo with the big guy himself: Santa.
It’s festive fun at its finest and the perfect way to kickstart your holiday spirit.
Abiding Savior Lutheran Christmas Tree Lot
Where: 9700 W. Newberry Road
When: Ongoing through December
Say goodbye to fake trees and hello to the sweet smell of fresh pine. This year marks the launch of Abiding Savior Lutheran Church and School’s first-ever Christmas Tree Lot. Celebrate the season by picking out a fresh, high-quality Christmas tree to bring warmth and beauty into your home.
This isn’t just about finding the perfect tree — it’s about building community and supporting a meaningful cause. Proceeds from tree sales go directly to the church’s youth programs, missions and outreach efforts. By purchasing a tree, you’re spreading holiday joy and contributing to a greater purpose.
In addition to trees, the lot offers wreaths, garlands and festive centerpieces for sale. For those looking for extra holiday charm, beautifully crafted reindeer decorations will also be available. Make sure to visit the lot to shop these unique items and join in this new Gainesville tradition.
Vintage holidays guided tours of the Historic Haile Homestead
Where: 8500 SW Archer Road
When: Weekends, Dec. 7 to Dec. 29
Cost: $5, and children under 12 have free entry
Step back in time and experience the magic of a vintage holiday season with guided tours of the Historic Haile Homestead, where you can enjoy festive decorations and discover the fascinating "Talking Walls."
This festive experience is partially funded by Visit Gainesville, making it the perfect activity for history buffs and holiday enthusiasts alike. Marvel at the estate’s enchanting decorations and get lost in this charming glimpse into Christmases of yore.
Holiday Markets at Celebration Pointe
Where: Celebration Pointe
When: Dec. 4, Dec. 11 and Dec. 18, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Deck the halls with unique finds at Celebration Pointe’s Holiday Markets. Stroll through the beautifully decorated Promenade, aglow with sparkling Christmas lights, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Browse a variety of local vendors offering unique seasonal crafts, handmade gifts and seasonal baked goods. Enjoy live music performances that create the perfect holiday ambiance and capture the magic of the season with photo opportunities amid the stunning holiday decorations. It’s the ideal opportunity to discover unique gifts, indulge in festive treats and create unforgettable memories with loved ones. Make sure to include Celebration Pointe in your holiday traditions this year.
Operation Santa Delivery
Where: Santa Fe College North Fields
When: Dec. 7, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Forget reindeer — Santa’s arriving in style this year by helicopter. Hosted by LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, Operation Santa Delivery promises a morning of family-friendly fun, from free Santa photos to food trucks and games.
A Gainesville holiday tradition continues with the annual Operation Santa Delivery. Families can enjoy games and activities hosted by more than 30 community organizations, as well as opportunities for free photos with Santa.
LifeSouth will also hold a blood drive during the event, providing a chance to give back and help save lives during the holiday season. With fun for kids and opportunities to make a meaningful impact, Operation Santa Delivery is a must-attend event to kick off your holidays.
Make the most of the season with these festive Gainesville favorites. Whether you’re crafting, shopping or soaking up the lights, there’s no shortage of holiday magic to discover.
Contact Sabrina Castro at scastro@alligator.org. Follow her on X @sabs_wurld.
Sabrina Castro is a rising senior studying journalism at the University of Florida and a Summer 2024 reporter for The Avenue. In her free time you can find her scrolling TikTok or searching for hidden gems at local thrift stores.
