Steam trains, small-town parades, glittering lights and farm-fresh markets bring big holiday cheer to Florida’s Heartland
November 21, 2025 – (Sebring, FL) – When the holiday season arrives, Highlands County in Central Florida takes on a festive glow, with communities across Sebring, Avon Park, and Lake Placid rolling out events that make this time of year feel special. From vintage train rides and downtown light displays to fun runs and holiday nights out, there’s something happening for every age and interest. Many celebrations unfold around Sebring’s newly revitalized Circle Park—fresh off its appearance on HGTV’s Home Town Takeover—giving visitors a great chance to see the updates for themselves as the holiday season gets underway.
Until January 12, 2026: Christmas at the Jacaranda Hotel
Each year, the historic Jacaranda Hotel in Avon Park transforms into a classic holiday scene, complete with a towering Christmas tree, garlands, nutcrackers, and period décor reflecting the property’s 1920s charm. Visitors can browse the festively decorated Arcade, enjoy holiday buffets in the Palm and Citrus dining rooms, and check the hotel’s website for seasonal events offered throughout December and January.
November 29–December 25, 2025: Carousel of Lights
Sebring’s Circle Park glows nightly from 6–9 p.m. with illuminated displays, light tunnels, photo spots, and more. Santa appears each evening through December 24th, but he won’t be along. This year, Saint Nick is joined by the Grinch, who holds court in his own “Grinch Gazebo” where visitors can stop for photos and playful meet-ups. On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights at 7 p.m., “Snow in Circle Park” transforms the downtown into a winter scene, with actual snow! While some activities come with a small fee, the light displays and snowfall are open to everyone.
November 29–December 21, 2025 (select dates): Santa Express Holiday Train Rides
The Sugar Express begins its 2025 Santa service with diesel-powered departures from Clewiston and Sebring. Twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the sounds of classic carols set the stage as you settle into a historic passenger car aglow with holiday cheer. The aroma of cookies fills the train while Florida’s sugarcane countryside glides past your window. Midway through the trip, Santa Claus himself climbs aboard, greeting every child with warm holiday wishes, cookies, and a commemorative gift to take home.
December 1, 2025: 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.
December 2, 2025: Tree Lighting & Holiday Evening Market at Journal Plaza
Celebrate the season with an evening full of holiday cheer featuring a nighttime farmers market, local pop-up vendors, and downtown shops staying open late. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and a special visit from Mr. & Mrs. Claus. Gather with friends and family as we light the town tree and kick off the holiday season—Florida style (no snow required)!
December 5, 2025: Sebring Christmas Parade
Bring your holiday spirit to this year’s “Candy Cane Lane”–themed parade, a festive community tradition that lights up downtown Sebring. The parade begins at 7:00 p.m. at the intersection of North Ridgewood Drive and Sebring Parkway, travels through Circle Park, and continues down South Commerce Avenue before wrapping up at Fireman’s Field. Be sure to grab a chair and find a good viewing spot along the route to take in all the holiday fun.
December 7, 2025: Flor de la Noche Buena
The Alan Jay Wildstein Center presents its annual bilingual performance retelling the Mexican poinsettia legend. The show blends storytelling, festive music from Mexico, Puerto Rico, Dominica and other Latin countries along with folkloric dance for audiences of all ages.
December 8, 2025: Avon Park’s Christmas in the Park
Browse local vendors for seasonal shopping and tasty treats starting at 5:00PM and enjoy merry music from local child’s choirs starting at 6:00 p.m. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be in attendance to help you celebrate the season in the heart of Avon Park.
December 12, 2025: Jingle Bell Run 5K & Children’s Fun Run
Put on your Santa suit and hit the road! Avon Park’s annual festive 5K invites runners and walkers to dress in holiday attire for an evening route lined with lights and music.
December 12–13 & 19-20, 2025: 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 the club opens its drive-through holiday village featuring vintage machinery, decorated buildings, and glowing displays. Donations benefit local charities.
December 13, 2025: The Red Easel’s Craft & Fun Fair
More than 30 local vendors, kids’ creative activities, and a community toy drive make this Sebring event a must-visit stop for holiday shoppers.
December 13: Sebring Christmas Boat Parade
Beginning at 7 p.m., boats strung with holiday lights will once again make their way across Lake Jackson, creating a bright, festive scene along the water. Families line the docks, parks, and shoreline to watch the illuminated procession glide by. Whether you’re from the area or visiting for the season, the Sebring Christmas Boat Parade offers a unique, welcoming way to enjoy the holidays by the lake.
December 13: Lake Placid Christmas Parade
Get ready for one of Lake Placid’s favorite holiday traditions! This year’s Annual Christmas Parade will bring the magic of the season to life with the sweet and festive theme “Gingerbread Lane.” New this year — you get to be the judge! Spectators will have the chance to vote for their favorite parade entry that best captures this year’s theme. The parade starts at 7 p.m.
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.
