Experience 2024 Holiday Events and Celebrations in Sebring, FL
A historic Santa Express train ride, Christmas markets, parades, holiday fun runs and visits from Saint Nick himself means just one thing—the holidays are almost here!
November 21, 2024 – (Sebring, FL) – It may not be the North Pole, but Central Florida’s Sebring area will be in full holiday mode this year for both residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly activities, unique local traditions, or some one-on-one time with Father Christmas, our curated list of Christmas and holiday events will help you make the most of this joyful season. As an added bonus, many of these events take place in Sebring’s newly spruced up Circle Park downtown area that will be highlighted early next year on HGTV’s Home Town Takeover. The upcoming season takes place in Sebring, and this is your chance to see what’s new in the city before the rest of country.
November 24: Flor de la Noche Buena
Discover the Mexican legend of the poinsettia told in English and Spanish by two narrators and then sing, dance and enjoy holiday and popular music from Mexico, Puerto Rico, Dominica and other Latin countries with the band Orquesto Caribeano Tropicale.
November 27-January 21: Christmas at the Jacaranda Hotel
Experience the spirit of Christmas past at the historic hotel where Babe Ruth, Clark Gable and Al Capone once stayed. Step back in time and embrace the magical holiday season at this 1920s property that takes Christmas to a whole new level. Full of traditional and festive holiday décor, the Grand Lobby showcases the 15-foot Christmas tree, nutcrackers, fireplace and ornate holiday splendor. Enjoy a holiday buffet lunch or dinner in the Palm and Citrus Dining rooms or stroll the Arcade decorated with poinsettias, an antique sleigh, and lavish decorations. Visit the Hotel Jacaranda website for more information on the many holiday events they’ll be hosting.
November 30- December 24: Carousel of Lights
Celebrate the holiday season with the annual Downtown Sebring Carousel of Lights. Each evening from 6-9 p.m., the historic Circle Park will illuminate with an amazing display of festive holiday lights. This month-long event also features Santa Claus every night, special nights of snow, kid games and miniature golf. Free to attend with a small fee to participate in the activities.
November 30th, December 1st, 7th, 8th (Sebring departures) and December 20th, 21st, 22nd (Lake Placid departures): Sebring and Lake Placid Santa Express
Climb aboard the Sebring and Lake Placid Santa Express train rides and discover another side of St. Nick. These joyful holiday trains offer families a 1.5-hour trip through the countryside aboard a decorated, historic passenger train. Each ride features Sugar Express steam locomotive No. 148, a visit with Santa Claus, cookies, refreshments, and a commemorative ornament. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
December 2: Avon Park Christmas Parade
Held every year on the Monday after Thanksgiving, enjoy Avon Park’s annual Christmas parade with floats, cheerleaders, bands, fire trucks and, of course, Santa Claus. Parade starts at 7 p.m. and one of the best ways to experience the celebrations is from the veranda of the Hotel Jacaranda as part of the Jacaranda Jubilee. This festive evening includes hors d’oeuvres, desserts, drinks and music while viewing the parade.
December 3, 10 and 17: Tree Lighting and Holiday Evening Markets at Journal Plaza
The weekly Holiday Evening Markets at Journal Plaza in Lake Placid kicks off December 3 from 5:00PM – 9:00PM with a special event featuring the tree-lighting ceremony, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, and more! If you miss the first night of the market, you still have two more chances to cross some names off your Christmas gift list on December 10 and 17.
December 6: Sebring Christmas Parade
See those visions of sugar plums dancing in your head come to life with this year’s theme “Candyland Christmas”! The parade kicks off at 7:00 PM at the intersection of North Ridgewood Drive and Sebring Parkway. It will proceed along North Ridgewood Drive to Circle Park, then continue down South Commerce Avenue, concluding at Fireman’s Field. Don’t forget to bring a chair and choose a spot along the route to fully enjoy the festivities.
December 9: Sebring’s Christmas Boat Parade
A magical evening where boats adorned with twinkling lights glide across Lake Jackson, creating a festive and enchanting spectacle for all to enjoy. Families gather along docks and the shorelines to watch the dazzling display. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Sebring Christmas Boat Parade is a heartwarming tradition that captures the magic of the season.
December 10: Country Christmas with Lee Golden and the Goldens
The Legendary Oak Ridge Boy is joined by his award-winning family & all-star band for a Country Christmas event you don’t want to miss! Grab your tickets now for a night filled with nostalgia, festive cheer, and toe-tapping musical magic at the Alan Jay Wildstein Center for Performing Arts.
December 13: Jingle Bell Run 5K & Children’s Fun Run
Grab your sneakers and show your holiday spirit for the annual Jingle Bell Run along Avon Park’s Main Street. Enjoy the festive downtown display of Christmas lights, the cheerful sounds of holiday music, and the warmth of community as participants of all ages come together for a fun-filled experience!
December 13-14 & 20-21: Florida Flywheelers’ Christmas in the Village
The Florida Flywheelers Antique Engine Club promotes interest in restoring, preserving and exhibiting antique internal combustion engines, steam engines, antique tractors and autos and other labor-saving devices from the by-gone years. For Christmas in the Village, their Old-Fashioned Village is decorated as a winter wonderland that you can drive through to experience.
December 14: Santa Dog 5K Run/Walk
You and your furry friend can dash away at the Santa Dog 5K Run/Walk at Sebring’s Secret Gardens Winery. This pawsitively exciting event kicks off at the winery with a speedy, flat course that’s perfect for both runners and walkers. Bring your furry friend or go solo—all are welcome! All proceeds from the event will be donated to Sebring Angels Animal Shelter.
December 14: The Red Easel’s Craft & Fun Fair
Enjoy a variety of offerings from over 40 local vendors, a Kids Create Corner, a Toy Drive for Ag Angels, along with music and food.
December 14: Secret Gardens Christmas Wine Run 5K
Like running or walking? Love wine? This race is for you! Join Secret Garden’s Winery for an exciting Christmas themed event featuring the scenic views of Secret Gardens Winery & Farm and a great assortment of locally produced wines.
December 14: Christmas on the Farm
As the cool breeze of winter begins to sweep across the Sebring area, Arbuckle Creek Farms transforms into a festive wonderland, offering a unique experience for visitors who seek the warmth and magic of the holiday season. Visit their holiday evening farmers market to browse over 70 local vendors serving handmade treats, farm fresh goods, handcrafted gifts, home decor and more. Enjoy live entertainment, festive decor and photo backdrops, crackling campfire, hayrides, and yes, Santa!
December 14: Lake Placid Christmas Parade
Expect a dazzling lineup of floats, cheerleaders, bands, fire trucks, and the big guy himself, Santa Claus! This year’s theme is “Toy Land: Christmas through a Child’s Eyes,” so prepare for some festive magic! The parade starts at 7PM in front of Journal Plaza in downtown Lake Placid.
December 16: Avon Park’s Christmas in the Park
Browse local vendors for seasonal shopping and tasty treats starting at 4:00PM and enjoy merry music from local child’s choirs starting at 6:00PM. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be in attendance to help you celebrate the season in the heart of Avon Park.
While many of these holiday events are free to attend, others may have a small admission fee or a ticket requirement upon entry. Stay up to date with our events calendar and reserve your spot before it’s too late! For more information contact Tanya Churchmuch at tanya@muchpr.com or Casey Hartt at Casey@visitsebring.com.
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Visit Sebring is the destination marketing organization managed by the Highlands County Tourist Development Council (TDC). The mission of the TDC is to contribute to a positive quality of life for the residents of Highlands County through destination promotion, tourism development, advocacy, and resource management – which are foundation pieces for future economic growth. For more information, visit http://www.VisitSebring.com or find us on social media @VisitSebring.
