Jacksonville Florida Christmas Events And Activities Guide

Jacksonville, Florida, is a city that comes alive during the holiday season, offering a wide range of Christmas events and activities that cater to all interests and ages. From festive light displays to heartwarming performances, and from fun-filled family activities to romantic date nights, Jacksonville has something for everyone to enjoy during the most wonderful time of the year.

As the holiday season approaches, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, filled with the magic of Christmas. The smell of hot cocoa and freshly baked cookies wafts through the air, while the sound of carolers and holiday music fills the streets. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Jacksonville's Christmas events and activities are sure to put you in the holiday spirit.

Jacksonville's Top Christmas Events

Here are some of the top Christmas events and activities to enjoy in Jacksonville:

1. Jax Illuminations

Jax Illuminations is a must-visit event during the holiday season. This festive light display features over a million lights, synchronized to music, and is sure to mesmerize visitors of all ages. The event takes place at the Jacksonville Fairgrounds and features a winter wonderland, complete with ice skating, sledding, and a Christmas market.

2. Riverside Arts Market Holiday Celebration

The Riverside Arts Market is a popular destination in Jacksonville, and during the holiday season, it transforms into a winter wonderland. The market features local artists and vendors selling handmade crafts, decorations, and gifts. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food, and drinks, making it a great place to get into the holiday spirit.

3. ZooLights

ZooLights is a fun and festive event that takes place at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. The event features over a million lights, animal-themed displays, and a winter wonderland. Visitors can also enjoy live music, hot cocoa, and a visit with Santa Claus.

4. Holiday on the River

Holiday on the River is a festive event that takes place in downtown Jacksonville. The event features a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, live music, and a holiday market. Visitors can also enjoy a visit with Santa Claus and a festive boat parade.

5. Deck the Chairs

Deck the Chairs is a fun and unique event that takes place in Jacksonville Beach. The event features festive chair displays, decorated by local artists and businesses. Visitors can vote for their favorite chair, and the winner receives a prize.

Jacksonville's Best Holiday Activities

In addition to the top Christmas events, Jacksonville also offers a wide range of holiday activities that are sure to keep you and your family entertained. Here are some of the best holiday activities to enjoy in Jacksonville:

1. Ice Skating

Ice skating is a fun and festive holiday activity that is perfect for all ages. The Jacksonville Ice and Sportsplex offers public ice skating sessions during the holiday season, complete with festive lights and music.

2. Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

Horse-drawn carriage rides are a romantic and festive way to enjoy the holiday season. Jacksonville Carriage Company offers horse-drawn carriage rides through the city's historic neighborhoods, complete with festive lights and decorations.

3. Christmas Tree Farm Visits

Visiting a Christmas tree farm is a fun and festive holiday activity that is perfect for families. Jacksonville has several Christmas tree farms that offer choose-and-cut trees, wreaths, and other holiday decorations.

4. Holiday Cooking Classes

Holiday cooking classes are a great way to learn new recipes and cooking techniques. The Jacksonville Cooking School offers holiday cooking classes that feature festive recipes and cooking techniques.

5. Gingerbread House Making

Gingerbread house making is a fun and festive holiday activity that is perfect for families. The Jacksonville Museum of Science and History offers gingerbread house making classes that feature festive decorations and sweet treats.

Jacksonville's Best Holiday Shopping Destinations

Jacksonville has a wide range of holiday shopping destinations that offer unique and festive gifts. Here are some of the best holiday shopping destinations to visit in Jacksonville:

1. St. Johns Town Center

St. Johns Town Center is a popular shopping destination in Jacksonville that features a wide range of stores and restaurants. During the holiday season, the center is decorated with festive lights and decorations, making it a great place to find gifts.

2. Riverside Arts Market

The Riverside Arts Market is a great place to find unique and handmade gifts. The market features local artists and vendors selling everything from jewelry to home decor.

3. Jacksonville Landing

The Jacksonville Landing is a popular shopping and dining destination in downtown Jacksonville. During the holiday season, the landing is decorated with festive lights and decorations, making it a great place to find gifts.

4. Avondale

Avondale is a charming neighborhood in Jacksonville that features a wide range of unique shops and boutiques. During the holiday season, the neighborhood is decorated with festive lights and decorations, making it a great place to find gifts.

5. San Marco

San Marco is a popular shopping destination in Jacksonville that features a wide range of unique shops and boutiques. During the holiday season, the neighborhood is decorated with festive lights and decorations, making it a great place to find gifts.

Jacksonville's Best Holiday Dining Destinations

Jacksonville has a wide range of holiday dining destinations that offer festive and delicious meals. Here are some of the best holiday dining destinations to visit in Jacksonville:

1. The Bearded Pig

The Bearded Pig is a popular restaurant in Jacksonville that offers a wide range of delicious meats and sides. During the holiday season, the restaurant offers a special holiday menu that features festive dishes.

2. Black Sheep Restaurant

Black Sheep Restaurant is a popular restaurant in Jacksonville that offers a wide range of delicious dishes. During the holiday season, the restaurant offers a special holiday menu that features festive dishes.

3. Orsay

Orsay is a popular restaurant in Jacksonville that offers a wide range of delicious French-inspired dishes. During the holiday season, the restaurant offers a special holiday menu that features festive dishes.

4. The Floridian

The Floridian is a popular restaurant in Jacksonville that offers a wide range of delicious Southern-inspired dishes. During the holiday season, the restaurant offers a special holiday menu that features festive dishes.

5. Biscotti's

Biscotti's is a popular bakery and café in Jacksonville that offers a wide range of delicious baked goods and coffee. During the holiday season, the bakery offers a special holiday menu that features festive treats.

We hope this guide has helped you plan your holiday activities in Jacksonville. From festive light displays to delicious holiday meals, Jacksonville has something for everyone to enjoy during the holiday season. Don't forget to share your holiday experiences with us on social media using the hashtag #JaxHolidayCheer!