Christmas and holiday events 2025 Gainesville and Alachua County Florida

Staff report
| Gainesville Sun

Decades on Main Christmas Displays & Windows

THROUGH DEC. 25: Wander into the festive spirit at Decades on Main, located at 18559 W. Main St. in High Springs, where holiday cheer comes alive in decorated storefront windows. Open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesdays through Sundays, this seasonal display invites families and visitors to enjoy a whimsical showcase of holiday decorations from local vendors and artisans. Admission is free. For more details, visit decadesonmain.com.

‘The Nutcracker’

THROUGH DEC. 21: Thousands of people across the United States will be transported to the Kingdom of Sweets with Dance Alive National Ballet’s annual adaptation of “The Nutcracker.” Presented by PNC Foundation, Dance Alive’s “The Nutcracker” will be performed 19 times this holiday season. The company will start the season with two free performances at Legacy Park Multicultural Center in Alachua on Nov. 22 before traveling to Wisconsin, Michigan and Illinois, returning Dec. 12 for performances at The Sharon in the Villages. DANB will then present four public performances and two school performances at the Reilly Arts Center in Ocala between Dec. 13 and Dec. 16 before returning to Gainesville for four public performances and two school shows between Dec. 18 and Dec. 21. The Dec. 13 performance in Ocala will be with the Ocala Symphony Orchestra, while all of the public performances in Gainesville also will be with the orchestra. Special events include “Magic of Nutcracker” at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 17 for special needs children, and two “Class With Clara” opportunities at 4 p.m. Dec. 20-21. Composed by P.I. Tchaikovsky and choreographed by Artistic Director Kim Tuttle, Dance Alive’s adaptation showcases local dance students from Gainesville and surrounding areas. The ballet follows the story of Clara, a girl who saves the Nutcracker prince. To thank her, he brings her on a magical journey to the Kingdom of Sweets, where the exquisite Sugar Plum Fairy puts on a regal show for her. Also, children of all dance abilities are to join Clara for “Class with Clara,” an onstage ballet class. Tickets for that event are only needed for class participants, and can be purchased at dancealive.org/2018/07/10/lil-wonder-bistro. Spectators may attend for free. Purchase tickets for “The Nutcracker” in Gainesville in person at the Phillips Center box office, by phone at 392-2787 or 800-905-2787, or visit dancealive.org/2025/06/29/the-nutcracker-4. Purchase tickets for “The Nutcracker” in Ocala in person at the Reilly Arts Center box office, by phone at 351-1606, or online at tinyurl.com/tn25ocala. Purchase tickets for “The Nutcracker” at The Sharon in The Villages at smartseat.thevillages.com/?itemnumber=33720#.

Alachua Christmas Tree Walk

THROUGH DEC. 30: Stroll through a festive indoor forest at the annual Alachua Christmas Tree Walk, where 20 uniquely decorated 6-foot Christmas trees transform the Alachua City Hall corridor into a bright and cheerful holiday display. Each tree is decorated by a local family, business or community group, giving visitors a charming showcase of creativity, personality and seasonal spirit. The walk is open to the public throughout the holiday season and offers a delightful stop for anyone exploring hometown holiday sights. Enjoy the lights, snap a few photos and experience a little extra magic in Alachua this December. Alachua City Hall is located at 15100 NW 142nd Terrace. For more information, visit cityofalachua.com.

‘Winter Showcase 2025’

THROUGH DEC. 19: The Gainesville Fine Arts Association Gallery will have its “Winter Showcase 2025” exhibit on display Nov. 26 through Dec. 19. Gallery hours are 1 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. The gallery is located at 1314 S. Main St. For more information, visit gainesvillefinearts.org or email [email protected].

Kirby Family Farm’s Christmas Train

THROUGH DEC. 27: Kirby Family Farm will open its gates for its annual Christmas Express, which will run 6 to 10 p.m. Nov. 28-29, Dec. 5-6, Dec. 12-14, Dec. 19-23 and Dec. 26-27. The Christmas train is a holiday event featuring numerous activities to enjoy. Organizers recommend at least two hours for the entire experience, which features performances, vendors, a petting zoo, rides and a visit with Santa Claus. The highlight of the evening is a featured train ride through thousands of Christmas lights pulled by one of the farm’s old-fashioned locomotives. Tickets are $19.99 for general admission in advance, $25 for general admission at the gate; $12.99 for ages 3-9 in advance, $15 for ages 3-9 at the gate; and free for children 2 and younger. Tickets can be purchased in advance at kirbyfarm.com/the-christmas-express. Kirby Family Farm is located at 19630 NE 30th St. in Williston.

Light up Newberry

THROUGH DEC. 16: The city of Newberry is illuminating its holiday spirit with the Light Up Newberry competition, where neighborhoods sparkle with festive light displays and residents can vote for their favorites using the Christmas Prism app. Held throughout the town, the event encourages families and friends to stroll through decorated streets, enjoy community cheer, and find their favorite lighting setups. For full event details, visit cityofnewberry.com.

‘Old Time Christmas Radio Shows’

THROUGH DEC. 21: The High Springs Playhouse presents “Old Time Christmas Radio Shows,” a nostalgic double feature directed by Andy Hunn, that brings classic 1940s radio storytelling to life onstage. “World War II Radio Christmas” recreates a live Christmas Eve broadcast filled with period songs, veteran-inspired stories and wartime holiday spirit. The second show, “Christmas Thieves: A Small Town Radio Play,” follows a frantic small-town radio host scrambling to save his Christmas Eve telethon when his cast suddenly falls ill — a heartwarming comedy where holiday miracles just might happen. Performances run Dec. 5-21 at the High Springs Playhouse, located at 130 NE First Ave. in High Springs. For showtimes and tickets, visit onthestage.tickets/high-springs-playhouse.

‘The Holiday Channel Christmas Movie Wonderthon’

THROUGH DEC. 21: Get ready for a festive film extravaganza! Join Acrosstown Repertory Theatre at 3501 SW Second Ave., Suite O, for “The Holiday Channel Christmas Movie Wonderthon,” running Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Dec. 5-21. This hilarious parody mash-up of six over-the-top holiday rom-coms offers cozy sweaters, mistletoe mishaps and plenty of Christmas cheer. Tickets are available at acrosstown.org.

Winter Fest

THROUGH DEC. 24: The most wonderful time of the year will be celebrated on a Florida farm Dec. 5-24. See Santa, behold your sights on amazing one-of-a-kind Christmas crafts and art, step into Christmas photo ops, and enjoy a sip of hot chocolate while listening to seasonal music at Amber Brooke Farms’ Winter Fest. Event hours are 4 to 8 p.m. Fridays, noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $15.95 online and $17.95 at the gate for Fridays, and $17.95 online and $19.95 at the gate for Saturdays and Sundays. Amber Brooke Farms is located at 3250 NE 140th Ave. in Williston. For more information, visit amberbrookefarms.com/winter-fest.

Festival of Lights

THROUGH DEC. 24: Take part in the annual family holiday event Festival of Lights — featuring complimentary popcorn, hot cocoa, marshmallows by the bonfire, Santa, food and craft vendors, kids’ crafts and more — from 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 5-24 at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, 11016 Lillian Saunders Drive in White Springs. Tickets are $4; free for ages 2 and younger. For more information, visit stephenfostercso.org.

‘A Christmas Carol’

THROUGH DEC. 21: The Hippodrome Theatre’s beloved production of “A Christmas Carol” returns for its annual holiday run, bringing Dickens’ classic tale to life with festive staging, rich storytelling and Gainesville tradition. Performances take place Dec. 6–21 at the Hippodrome Theatre, located at 25 SE Second Place. For showtimes and tickets, visit thehipp.org.

Vintage Holidays Guided Tours

THROUGH DEC. 28: Visit the decorated 1856-era Historic Haile Homestead for its “Vintage Holidays” season — a unique, guided tour experience that showcases the home’s famed “talking walls” (with more than 12,500 words inscribed by the family and friends dating back to 1859) while offering a festive holiday atmosphere. Tours run 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, and noon to 4 p.m. and Sundays, with the last tour beginning 45 minutes before closing. Admission is $5 per person; children 11 and younger are admitted free. The Homestead is located at 8500 SW Archer Road. For more information, visit hailehomestead.org.

Holiday Unity Concert

DEC. 9: Experience an evening of song and celebration at the Holiday Unity Concert presented by 1000 Voices of Florida. The event begins at 7 p.m. Dec. 9 at the Phillips Center, located at 3201 Hull Road. The event is free to attend. For more information, visit 1000voicesofflorida.com.

Gilchrist County Old Fashioned Christmas Festival

DEC. 12: Step into small-town holiday charm at the annual Gilchrist County Old Fashioned Christmas Festival, set for 6 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 12 at Trenton Train Depot Park, located at 111 NW Fourth Ave. in Trenton. Attendees can enjoy complimentary treats from local businesses, kids’ activities, a bike raffle, festive music, and family-friendly holiday fun as the community celebrates together under twinkling lights. Admission is free. For more details, visit tinyurl.com/ofcoms25.

‘Cinderella’

DEC. 12-13: The Danscompany of Gainesville brings the enchanting ballet “Cinderella” to life this holiday season at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. See the annual magical tale of hope, transformation and dancing pumpkins as the stage is filled with holiday charm and movement for all ages. Performances will be held at 7 p.m. Dec. 12, and 1 and 6:30 p.m. Dec. 13. Tickets are $15. For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit performingarts.ufl.edu.

The Polar Express

Dec. 12-20: All aboard for a magical holiday event at Saint Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church in High Springs. Join the third annual village celebration where attendees follow a “Polar Express” theme, meet Santa Claus, and enjoy crafts and festive entertainment. The event takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 12, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 13, 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 19, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 20 at 18615 NW 238th St. in High Springs. Admission is free. For more details, visit tinyurl.com/gps25aa.

Chiefland Christmas Festival

DEC. 13: Join the festive fun at the annual holiday gathering presented by the Chiefland Chamber of Commerce, featuring the 5K Rudolph Run, a lighted Christmas parade, free children’s activities, a meet-and-greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus, live entertainment and plenty of shopping. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Dec. 13 at Trailhead Park, located at 121 S. Main St. in Chiefland. For more details, visit chieflandchamber.com.

Alachua Christmas Parade

DEC. 13: The city of Alachua will host its annual parade — this year with the theme “Charlie Brown” — beginning at 11 a.m. Dec. 13 along Main Street. According to the event website, “The Parade features dozens of parade floats, entertainers, local school organizations and more.” For more information, visit alachuachamber.com/christmas-on-main.

Movie Night at Bo Diddley Plaza

DEC. 13: Bring a blanket and enjoy a free outdoor screening of “Elf” at Bo Diddley Plaza, located at 111 E. University Ave. The film follows Buddy (Will Ferrell), who was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a baby and raised to adulthood among Santa’s elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn’t fit in, the adult Buddy travels to New York in search of his real father. The fun begins at 8 p.m. Dec. 13, and the event is open to the public at no charge. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/mnabdpfe.

Christmas in the Quarry

DEC. 13-23: Take a walk through a light show designed to dazzle. During the annual Christmas in the Quarry event, families can stroll through a 20-acre botanical garden illuminated with billions of lights while enjoying treats from a cookie and cocoa station, and participate in some of the family-friendly holiday crafts for kids to take home. Santa will also visit. The event is set for 5:30 to 8 p.m. December 13-14, Dec. 18 and Dec. 20-23 at Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens, 4990 NE 180th Ave. in Williston. Tickets are $10 for general admission, $5 for ages 6-13 as well as military members and first responders, and free for members. Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens is located at 4990 NE 180th Ave. in Williston. For more information, visit cedarlakeswoodsandgarden.com.

Christmas Cookie Contest

DEC. 14: Sweeten your holiday weekend at Blackadder Brewing Company’s annual Christmas Cookie Contest. Bring your best cookie batch or vote on local bakeries’ creations while sampling seasonal brews from 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 14. Blackadder Brewing Company is located at 618 NW 60th St., Suite A. For full contest rules and details, visit tinyurl.com/babcccc25.

Sunday with Santa

DEC. 14: Bring the family out for an afternoon with Santa at Blackadder Brewing Company, 618 NW 60th St., Suite A. From 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 14, attendees can take photos with Santa, and enjoy holiday treats and a festive community atmosphere. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/sundaywithsanta2025.

Holiday Mingle

DEC. 14: Get in the holiday spirit during the Holiday Mingle, an outdoor celebration of this year’s conservation victories featuring light food, drinks and more. Picnic blankets and chairs from home are recommended for the musical performance. The free event is scheduled for 2 to 5 p.m. Dec. 14 at Prairie Creek Lodge, located at 7204 SE CR 234. Donations are welcome in support of Alachua Conservation Trust’s conservation efforts. For more information, visit alachuaconservationtrust.org.

‘Dancing Through the Snow’

DEC. 14: Celebrate the holiday season with an enchanting handbell performance by Hoggtowne Bronze at the inaugural Christmas at the Matheson concert, titled “Dancing Through the Snow.” The free event begins at 4 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Matheson History Museum, 513 E. University Ave. For more information, visit mathesonmuseum.org.

Downtown High Springs Artwalk

DEC. 15: The monthly Artwalk event, held in downtown High Springs, will have a holiday feel from noon to 5 p.m. on Dec. 15, featuring local artists and makers, as well as specials from downtown businesses. Entry is free; items and food will be available for sale during the event. For more information, visit facebook.com/downtownhighsprings/events.

Road to Bethlehem

DEC. 16-17: Join the immersive holiday experience at Camp Kulaqua in High Springs, where the Road to Bethlehem invites families and community members to walk through an enchanting recreation of the night of Jesus’ birth. Beginning at 4:45 p.m., the journey opens with a village walk-through featuring live animals in the stables, lively merchant scenes and festive crafts. At 7 p.m., the story culminates with a hillside live production filled with music, scenes of the Nativity, and reflections on the life of Christ. Bring a blanket or chairs for seating, which begins at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free. Camp Kulaqua is located at 23400 NW 212th Ave. in High Springs. For more details, visit campkulaqua.com or call 386-454-1351.

Eat. Drink. Be Ugly. Ugly Sweater Contest

DEC. 18: Get cozy in your wildest holiday sweater and join the ultimate ugly-sweater showdown at Blackadder Brewing Company, 618 NW 60th St., Suite A. The festivities begin at 6 p.m. Dec. 18 with music, festive beers, and prizes for the most outrageous holiday looks. There will be a food truck on site. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/usc25a.

Downtown Holiday Arts Stroll

DEC. 19: The Art League of North Florida invites the public to embrace their artistic spirit at the second annual Downtown Holiday Arts Stroll from 4 to 8 p.m. Dec. 19 at Gateway Art Gallery in Lake City. According to organizers, attendees will be able to meander through the heart of historic downtown and explore the creativity of the community’s artists and artisans within the participating galleries and studios, including the Gateway Art Gallery. Arts-friendly local businesses are also opening their doors for the festivities. Attendees can meet artists and learn more about how they foster art and culture in the community — painting demos, hands-on learning projects and more. The family-friendly event is free to attend; items and food will be available for purchase. For more information, visit artleagueofnorthflorida.com/downtown-arts-stroll.

‘Christmas with the Currys’

DEC. 19: Celebrate the season with The Currys as they bring their annual “Christmas with The Currys” tour to Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St., beginning at 7 p.m. Dec. 19. Expect rich harmonies, original holiday songs and beloved classics in a festive night of music for all ages. Tickets are $24.38 when purchased in advance and $30.01 when purchased the day of the show. For more information, visit heartwoodsoundstage.com.

Tioga outdoor movie night

DEC. 19: Tioga’s popular “movies on the lawn” event is getting into the holiday spirit with an outdoor screening of “Elf.” The film follows Buddy (Will Ferrell), who was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a baby and raised to adulthood among Santa’s elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn’t fit in, the adult Buddy travels to New York in search of his real father. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, and enjoy the free movie under the stars. Local eateries will be open for snacks and meals before, during and after the movie. The event starts at 7 p.m. Dec. 19. Tioga Town Center is located at 133 SW 130th Way in Newberry. For more information, visit tiogatowncenter.com.

‘Tis the Season Holiday Market

DEC. 20: Shop for uniquely crafted gifts and enjoy seasonal treats at the ‘Tis the Season Holiday Market hosted by The AUK Market at 2031 NW Sixth St. From noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 20, explore a curated selection of handmade goods, vintage finds and food trucks in an indoor-outdoor pop-up setting. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/ttspue25.

Newberry Christmas Parade

DEC. 20: Join the downtown Newberry community for the annual Christmas parade, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 20. Gather along Newberry Main Street for floats, festive music and seasonal holiday cheer for all ages. For more information, visit facebook.com/NewberryMainStreet.

Christmas on the Square

DEC. 20: Ring in the season at the ninth annual Christmas on the Square, a free community celebration in downtown Newberry starting at 6 p.m. Dec. 20 at CountryWay Town Square, 1739 SW 248th Drive in Newberry. Expect Santa’s arrival, wagon rides, bounce houses, dance performances, live music, crafts and holiday treats. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/9acots25.

Class with Clara

DEC. 20-21: Join the holiday specialty event Class With Clara, presented by Dance Alive National Ballet on the stage of the Phillips Center, for a special “Nutcracker” tutorial. At the 4 p.m. classes Dec. 20-21, attendees are invited to a playful on-stage ballet session led by Clara, the heroine of “The Nutcracker,” accompanied by company dancers. Street shoes are fine, and even socks will do; all ages are welcome, and spectators may attend for free. Participant tickets are $25. The Phillips Center is located at 3201 Hull Road. For more information, visit performingarts.ufl.edu.

Christmas From the Hart

DEC. 20-21: Experience Christmas From the Hart, a magical holiday evening at Hart Springs , 4240 SW 86th Ave. in Bell, as the springs glow with festive lights, live caroling, hot cocoa and cookie treats, and Christmas crafts for the kids — all free to attend. The event is scheduled from 6 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 20-21. For full event details, visit hartsprings.com.

Winter Wonderland Craft and Vendor Market

DEC. 20-21: The annual Winter Wonderlan Craft and Vendor Market is set for 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 20 and noon to 6 p.m. Dec. 21 at the Oaks Mall. Organizers call this “a magical winter event filled with local vendors, holiday treats and endless gift ideas.” The Oaks Mall is located at 6419 W. Newberry Road. For more information, visit hometownvendormarket.com.

Holiday Music Bingo

DEC. 23: Get into the festive spirit with Holiday Music Bingo at Blackadder Brewing Company, 618 NW 60th St., Suite A. From 7 to 9 p.m. Dec. 23, attendees can enjoy seasonal tunes, bingo rounds with holiday flair and a cozy community vibe. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/hmb25a.

A History of Kwanzaa: A Storytelling and Drumming

DEC. 27: Experience an evening of cultural storytelling and live drumming at the A. Quinn Jones Museum & Cultural Center, 1013 NW Seventh Ave., beginning at 7 p.m. Dec. 27. Local historians and performers will share the origins and principles of Kwanzaa through narrative, music and community celebration. For more information, call 334-2010.

Sparks in the Park

DEC. 31: Ring in the New Year with family-friendly fireworks and evening fun at Depot Park, 874 SE Fourth St.. Past editions kicked off around 5 p.m. with DJ-hosted music on the hill and a 20-minute choreographed fireworks display at approximately 6:30 p.m. Organizers have not yet officially released the 2025 schedule, so times are subject to change.

Downtown Countdown

DEC. 31: Ring in the new year during the annual Downtown Countdown in Gainesville at Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E. University Ave., where the festivities kick off at 9 p.m. and continue through midnight with live music, dancing and community celebration. Past years have featured headline bands and a lively crowd jumping into the new year together. For updated information, visit gainesvillefl.gov.

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