When the holiday season arrives in Highlands County, Florida, communities in Sebring, Avon Park, and Lake Placid host a series of events designed to bring festive cheer. Activities range from vintage train rides and illuminated downtown displays to themed parades and community markets.
Sebring’s Circle Park, recently featured on HGTV’s Home Town Takeover, is a focal point for many festivities. The park will be lit up nightly during the Carousel of Lights event from November 29 to December 25, featuring illuminated displays and appearances by Santa Claus and the Grinch. Snowfall events are scheduled for select evenings.
The historic Jacaranda Hotel in Avon Park transforms into a traditional holiday setting until January 12, offering decorated spaces and seasonal buffets. The hotel also serves as a vantage point for the annual Avon Park Christmas Parade on December 1.
Holiday train rides aboard the Sugar Express will operate on select dates between November 29 and December 21. Passengers can expect decorated cars, classic carols, cookies, and visits from Santa Claus.
Other highlights include:
– Tree Lighting & Holiday Evening Market at Journal Plaza on December 2.
– Sebring Christmas Parade with a “Candy Cane Lane” theme on December 5.
– Flor de la Noche Buena bilingual performance at Alan Jay Wildstein Center on December 7.
– Christmas in the Park in Avon Park with local vendors and choirs on December 8.
– Jingle Bell Run 5K & Children’s Fun Run in Avon Park on December 12.
– Florida Flywheelers’ Christmas in the Village drive-through event on two weekends in December.
– The Red Easel’s Craft & Fun Fair for holiday shopping on December 13.
– Sebring Christmas Boat Parade across Lake Jackson also on December 13.
– Lake Placid Christmas Parade with a “Gingerbread Lane” theme that allows spectators to vote for their favorite entry.
While many events are free, some require tickets or have admission fees. For more information about these events or updates to schedules, visitors can check Visit Sebring’s official website at http://www.VisitSebring.com or contact organizers directly via email or phone.
Visit Sebring operates under the Highlands County Tourist Development Council (TDC), which focuses on promoting tourism as part of its mission to support economic growth and quality of life for residents.
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