See 7 Ways Northeast Florida is Reimagining Holiday Entertainment

Updated November 12, 2024

The holiday season is always a fun-filled and joyous time for families across the globe. It’s an opportunity to bring friends and families together, enjoy delicious holiday meals, and create enduring memories. In Northeast Florida, residents continuously find new ways to celebrate the season in style. From one-of-a-kind light displays to cherished orchestral concerts, the region is home to an endless stream of festive celebrations. Here’s a list of holiday events we’re looking forward to enjoying. #7 on the list might be the perfect place for future residents to host their next holiday gathering.

1. Now – January 1: Deck the Chairs

Deck the Chairs in Jacksonville Beach uses a rare object as the starting point for its holiday light display. Lifeguard chairs are sponsored by local businesses and non-profits, each decorated to harmonize with that year’s festive theme. Visitors are invited to wander among these larger-than-life displays at the Seawalk Pavilion. While the event itself is free to attend, the funds raised promote arts and education throughout the community.

2. Now – January 26: Nights of Lights

Just to the south of Jacksonville, St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights dazzles with over three million lights illuminating the historic district. Flagler College and the Lightner Museum showcase elaborate displays, while the main plaza twinkles with lights draped around every tree and a huge Christmas tree for photos. Visitors can enjoy festive tours via trains and trolleys, exploring the best-lit spots while enjoying joyful holiday tunes.

3. Now – February 9: Colors of the Wild

Visitors can see the Jacksonville Zoo in a whole new light at Colors of the Wild. The event is one of the country’s largest Asian lantern festivals, with more than 70 intricately designed lanterns throughout the park creating a fusion of lanterns, wildlife, and wild places. Holiday Nights will also be celebrated from December 5-24 with the opportunity to meet Santa Claus.

4. December 12-15: Dickens on Centre

Downtown Fernandina Beach becomes a Victorian village during the ninth annual Dickens on Centre festival. Throughout the long weekend, families will be able to enjoy Victorian-inspired entertainment on two stages, a costume ball, a pet parade, photos with Santa, a drone show, and much more.

5. December 12: Trans-Siberian Orchestra

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra is amping up the holiday spirit at the Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena by blending seasonal classics with rock flair and a stunning laser display. This legendary production merged music, theatrics, storytelling, and festive joy to create an international phenomenon that captured audiences worldwide.

6. December 20: Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland

Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland returns to the Florida Theatre to captivate audiences with an enchanting holiday experience. This spectacular show transports viewers to a whimsical land filled with acrobatics, aerial displays, and jovial holiday antics. The blend of circus artistry and beloved seasonal melodies provide excitement for every member of the family.

7. Tributary Entertainment Close to Home

Whether for a holiday visit or an extended stay, Tributary residents enjoy a stylish social hub ideal for festive gatherings right at home. The Lookout Amenity Center welcomes all generations to come together and savor fun-filled days, Overlooking a wide lake with a forested natural shoreline, the clubhouse provides a rustic indoor lounge space as well as an outdoor bar with patio seating perfect for hosting movie nights, game nights, barbecues, and more.

A state-of-the-art Fitness Center, two pickleball courts, a children’s playground, and a recreational play field offer plentiful opportunities for residents of all ages to get outside and be actively engaged in fun activities. Even furry friends have a space to call their own at the Pawsome Dog Park, with separate play areas for large and small dogs, and obstacle course challenges for energetic pups. At the end of the day, a refreshing cool down in the resort-style pool allows residents to feel like they are on a tropical vacation, with an abundance of stylish chaise lounges and seating areas providing a welcoming leisurely atmosphere with plenty of shade.

Spacious New Construction Homes from the $300s

Spanning across 1,550 acres, Tributary boasts homes designed to elevate the holiday experience for families of all ages and lifestyles. Four of the nation’s top homebuilders – Dream Finders Homes, Lennar, David Weekley Homes, and Richmond American Homes – provide 36 single-family floorplan options for future residents to choose from. Homebuyers have the flexibility to personalize their floorplan selection with hundreds of interior options that reflect their distinctive taste and style. Moreover, they integrate the latest advancements in construction materials and technology, ensuring efficiency and sustainability for the future. Equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and the newest technological features, residents can benefit from reduced monthly utility bills. This creates not just a house, but homes tailored for modern living and memorable holiday celebrations.

Tributary’s Model Home Village features designer-decorated models that are open daily for tours or can be toured virtually. To hear from residents themselves on what makes life at Tributary so unique and rewarding, watch our new Community Video. You can also request a complimentary copy of our Explore More lifestyle magazine, which provides information on the neighborhood and surrounding area. For more information, visit TributaryLiving.com.