There is a chill in the air which means it’s time to kick your holiday spirit into high gear! Thankfully, across Northeast Florida, there are ample opportunities to fill your calendar with family-friendly jolly good times. 

Deck the Chairs 

November 24 – January 1

Head down to Jacksonville Beach for chair decorating, music, hot chocolate, and plenty of twinkling lights. More than forty American Red Cross lifeguard chairs will be decked out in nautical-themed decor and lights. This free event has family fun for everyone. 

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens ZOOLights

December 10-12, 17-19, 22-24 & 26

For the last ten years, ZOOLights has provided a magical holiday light experience amongst the zoo animals. The zoo truly comes alive at this nightly event where mesmerizing lights, musical performances, and Wildlife Carousel rides have you looking up, down, and around. 

Beaches North Pole Express

December 10 and December 11

All aboard! Chug over to the Beaches Museum to climb on the North Pole Express to write a letter to Santa, make crafts, and enjoy a night of holiday festivities. Pre-registration is required and can be completed by clicking here.  

19th Annual Gingerbread House Extravaganza

December 4-22, Closed Mondays and on December 19

The Jacksonville Historical Society will host their annual Gingerbread Extravaganza at Old St. Andrew’s Church, across from VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. Walk-ins are welcome, however pre-purchasing tickets is encouraged to tour the exhibit of gingerbread houses, holiday gift shop, bake shop, silent auction, and have the opportunity to vote for your favorite display!

First Coast Nutcracker

December 17-19

Experience the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet that is a time-honored family tradition with the only performance of The Nutcracker in Jacksonville with a full, live symphony orchestra. This spectacular performance will dazzle you from start to finish. Purchase tickets today! 

St. Augustine Nights of Lights Festival 

November 20, 2021 – January 31, 2022

The Nights of Lights Festival is perhaps the most iconic holiday tradition in Northeast Florida. This award-winning holiday lights display features more than three million lights dancing and dazzling across every corner of the St. Augustine historic district. Take a walk or schedule a tour for a night you’ll never forget. 

It is clear the holiday season is here, so take advantage of all the joyful festivities taking place on the First Coast.