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Santa at Butler Tree Lighting

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Celebrating the Holidays with these popular Gainesville traditions

A Christmas Lights Tour in one of several communities that go all-out decking their homes, towns and yards with much more than just boughs of holly

Our Showcase Properties of Central Florida Family wants to share a few of our favorite Gainesville Traditions with you this season. Celebrating the Holidays has never been more fun! 

Haile Village 

The town center transforms into a virtual Santa’s Village wonderland during the holiday season, with bedazzled storefronts and avenues twinkling with colorful lights and decorations so magical, even the adults are awed. For more information:  Leland Management

North Florida Regional Medical Center 

Thousands gather each year for the Annual NFRMC Pond Lights, with its 95,000-light display and holiday figurines, music, and Toys for Tots drive. Activities include penguin bowling, ornament decorating, and carriage rides. For more information:  North Florida Regional Medical Center

High Springs “Old Fashioned Country Christmas”

High Springs Chamber of Commerce revamped their Christmas extravaganza, and this year the town merchants are getting in on the act by decking out their storefronts and staying open late. For more information:  High Springs Chamber of Commerce

Celebration Pointe

Every year, the Promenade is lit up and storefronts decorated in an all-out Christmas extravaganza, and this year is no different. A 40-foot lighted tree plus live music during the weeks up to Christmas, including the weekly Chomp the Block party on Fridays, which features kids' activities till 8:00PM.  Celebration Pointe

Dance Alive's The Nutcracker

The all-time family favorite with beautiful dancing, sets, and costumes is here again!  Everyone needs a hero, and in this case she’s a girl! Clara saves the Nutcracker prince, and to thank her, he brings her on a magical journey to the Kingdom of the Sweets, where the exquisite Sugar Plum Fairy puts on a regal show for her. Tradition, beauty, grace, and a terrific story!   December 18 & 19, 2:00PM. & 7:30PM. Dance Alive National Ballet

Butler Town Plaza Tree Lighting

Join the 4th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Butler Town Center at Stengel Field!  Bring your friends and family for photo ops, food, festivities, and a visit from Santa! December 10th, 4:00PM - 7:00PM.

Herlong Mansion, Micanopy

Take the short drive to historic Micanopy - just south of Gainesville - and check out this elegant bed & breakfast mansion on Cholokka (the town's main street), all decked out in her holiday glory.  Arrive early enough to visit the quaint shops and cafes that also line the street. Herlong Mansion Bed & Breakfast

Sweetwater Branch Inn

Located in historic downtown Gainesville, the McKenzie House - dating back to 1895 - dresses up for the holidays as well.  This graceful Victorian mansion is part of the inn's accommodations complex and lights up the night beautifully.  Sweetwater Branch Inn

  • Dance Alive Nutcracker
  • Herlong Mansion
  • Sweetwater Branch Inn
  • Butler Plaza Tree Lighting
  • Dance Alive
  • Santa at Butler Tree Lighting

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