12 Festive Activities To Do In Gainesville, Fl For Christmas

As the holiday season draws near, Gainesville, Florida is adorned with a festive flair that is hard to miss. The town is aglow with dazzling lights and the air is filled with the sweet scents of gingerbread and peppermint. There's truly no better time to explore this vibrant city and indulge in thrilling activities that are sure to dazzle and delight. From jingling parades to sipping hot cocoa by the fire, there's something for everyone on this list of 12 Festive Activities to Do in Gainesville, FL for Christmas. So, grab your mittens and join us on a journey through some of the most magical festivities that Gainesville has to offer!

Visit the annual Downtown Festival of Lights

Gainesville, Florida is a charming city located in the north-central region of the Sunshine State. Christmas is a festive time of the year, and if you're thinking of spending your holidays in Gainesville, you won't be disappointed. One of the best things to do during this time is to visit the Downtown Festival of Lights - an annual event that attracts thousands of locals and tourists every year.

The Downtown Festival of Lights is a month-long celebration that takes place every year from the end of November to the end of December. The event features dazzling holiday lights, live music performances, a snow slide, food trucks, and a host of other fun activities for people of all ages.

The highlight of the festival is the lighting of the tree ceremony. This beautiful ceremony takes place at Bo Diddley Plaza, where a towering Christmas tree is decorated with colorful lights and ornaments for everyone to see. The tree lighting ceremony is usually accompanied by live music performances from local artists, and people gather around to sing carols and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Another popular part of the Downtown Festival of Lights is the Art Walk. The Art Walk takes place on the last Friday of every month and showcases the best local artists and their work. The streets are lined with beautiful artwork, and visitors are free to walk around and admire the stunning pieces.

Aside from the Art Walk and the tree lighting ceremony, the Downtown Festival of Lights also features several other exciting events, such as the annual Santa Fe College Winter Art Fair and the Christmas Parade. The Santa Fe College Winter Art Fair is held at the SF Fine Arts Hall and features work by more than 70 artists. The fair is a great place to find unique handmade gifts and souvenirs for your loved ones.

The Gainesville Christmas Parade is another event you don't want to miss. The parade features festive floats, marching bands, and dancers who put on a spectacular show for the crowds. The parade usually takes place in mid-December and is a great way to get into the holiday spirit.

In conclusion, Gainesville, Florida is a fantastic place to visit during the Christmas season. The Downtown Festival of Lights is the perfect event for people of all ages to enjoy the holiday season. With its vibrant atmosphere, beautiful lights, and exciting events, you're sure to have a memorable time in Gainesville.

Attend the Gainesville Ballet's annual performance of The Nutcracker

If you're planning to spend Christmas in Gainesville, Florida, there's one event that you absolutely can't miss: the annual performance of The Nutcracker by the Gainesville Ballet.

Presented in the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, this show is a beloved tradition for both locals and visitors alike. The Gainesville Ballet, founded in 1979, is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting dance in the community. The Nutcracker is their flagship production, and it's a feast for the senses.

The Nutcracker tells the story of a young girl named Clara, who receives a magical nutcracker on Christmas Eve. When she falls asleep, she dreams that the nutcracker comes to life and takes her on a journey through a world of snowflakes and sweets. Along the way, she meets the Sugar Plum Fairy, the Mouse King, and the handsome prince who helps her defeat him.

What makes the Gainesville Ballet's production of The Nutcracker so special? For one thing, the sets and costumes are truly magical. From the sparkling Christmas tree to the shimmering tutus of the dancers, every detail is designed to transport you to another world. The choreography is also top-notch, with intricate footwork and joyful leaps that will leave you breathless.

But perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Gainesville Ballet's Nutcracker is the talent of the dancers themselves. The young performers who play Clara, the Nutcracker, and the other lead roles are members of the ballet company's pre-professional program. They're accompanied by adult dancers who are seasoned professionals, many of whom have performed with renowned companies like the American Ballet Theatre and the New York City Ballet.

Attending The Nutcracker is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit in Gainesville. The show runs for four performances over two days, so you can choose the date and time that works best for you. Tickets range from $26-44 depending on the seat location and can be purchased online in advance. Be sure to arrive early to soak in the festive atmosphere of the Phillips Center, which is decorated with twinkling lights and garlands of holly.

Overall, if you're spending Christmas in Gainesville, attending the Gainesville Ballet's annual performance of The Nutcracker is an event that you won't want to miss. This classic holiday ballet is sure to enchant audiences of all ages and leave you with unforgettable memories of your time in North Central Florida.

Ice skating at Skate Station Funworks

Characteristic	Description
Name	Skate Station Funworks
Type	Amusement center in Alachua County, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.1 / 684
Address	1311 NW 76th Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32606
Phone	(352) 332-0555
Hours	Sunday - 2–7 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - 3–11 PM Thursday - 5–9 PM Friday - 7:30–11 PM Saturday - 12–5 PM, 7–11 PM
Profiles

The holiday season is upon us and Gainesville, Florida is the perfect place to spend Christmas with your loved ones. One of the best things to do in Gainesville during Christmas is to go ice skating. Skate Station Funworks is a popular destination where you can skate, play arcade games and have fun with family and friends.

Skate Station Funworks is a favorite among Gainesville residents for a reason. This indoor ice skating rink is perfect for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a beginner, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere and glide across the frozen floor.

During Christmas season, Skate Station Funworks offers extended hours and special deals. They set up holiday decorations, play Christmas music and add a touch of magic to the entire rink. You can bring your own skates, or rent them at the venue. Rental skates are available for reasonable prices and come in a variety of sizes, perfect for skaters of all ages.

If you need a break from skating, there are plenty of other attractions at Skate Station Funworks. A large arcade game zone is available, allowing you to take a break from skating and enjoy some fun games. You can also grab some food at the concession stand, which offers a variety of options including hot dogs, pizza, fries, and soft drinks.

The staff at Skate Station Funworks are friendly and helpful, and they make sure that everyone has a great time. There are special skating lessons available for those who want to brush up on their skating skills.

In conclusion, visiting Skate Station Funworks for ice-skating is one of the best things to do during the holiday season in Gainesville. The vibrant and festive atmosphere is perfect for a family outing, or hanging out with friends. This is definitely a must-visit place during the holiday season. So put on your skates and join in on the fun!

Watch It's A Wonderful Life at the Hippodrome Theater

Gainesville, FL is a great place to spend the Christmas season. Whether you're a local or visiting the city, there are plenty of fun and festive activities to enjoy. One of the must-do activities is to watch "It's A Wonderful Life" at the Hippodrome Theater.

The Hippodrome Theater is a historic theater located in the heart of downtown Gainesville. It originally opened in 1911 as a vaudeville house and has since been transformed into a cultural hub that offers theatrical productions, films, concerts, and more.

During the holiday season, the Hippodrome Theater hosts a special screening of the classic movie "It's A Wonderful Life." This movie is a staple of the holiday season and has been a beloved classic for decades.

Watching "It's A Wonderful Life" at the Hippodrome Theater is an experience like no other. The theater is decorated for the holidays and the atmosphere is festive and cozy. The seats are comfortable and the sound quality is excellent, ensuring that you will have an enjoyable viewing experience.

In addition to the movie itself, the Hippodrome Theater also offers a variety of concessions, including gourmet popcorn, hot chocolate, and other holiday treats. You can enjoy these snacks while you watch the movie, adding to the overall experience and making it a fun outing for families, couples, and friends.

The best part about watching "It's A Wonderful Life" at the Hippodrome Theater is that it's a tradition. Every year, people gather from all over the city to watch this classic movie together, creating a sense of community and holiday spirit that is truly special.

In conclusion, watching "It's A Wonderful Life" at the Hippodrome Theater in Gainesville, FL is an excellent way to celebrate the holidays. Whether you're a fan of the movie or just looking for a fun and festive activity, this event is sure to be a highlight of your holiday season. So grab some popcorn and hot chocolate, snuggle up in a cozy seat, and enjoy the magic of this timeless classic with loved ones.

Take a picture with Santa at the Oaks Mall

The holiday season always seems to bring out the festive spirit in everyone, and Gainesville, FL is no exception. With a plethora of activities and events for locals and visitors to enjoy, one standout activity is taking a picture with Santa at the Oaks Mall.

The Oaks Mall, located in the heart of Gainesville, is the perfect spot to get into the holiday spirit. Every year, the mall transforms into a winter wonderland with festive lights, beautifully decorated Christmas trees, and larger-than-life presents. The real highlight, however, is the chance to take a picture with Santa Claus.

From the minute you set foot in the mall, you can feel the excitement building. The line to see Santa might be long, but the anticipation is worth it. Children and adults alike will be filled with joy when they finally sit on Santa's lap and tell him their holiday wishes.

The Oak's Mall offers a variety of photo packages to capture the moment, including digital copies and printed copies that make for a perfect holiday card or gift. The photo packages are affordable and can be a cherished keepsake for years to come.

But the fun doesn't stop there. After getting those memorable photos, make time to explore the mall's many stores that offer unique holiday gifts and decorations. From clothing to toys to home decor, there's something for everyone on your holiday list.

Moreover, the Oaks Mall has plenty of activities to keep the family entertained. You can enjoy ice skating, riding on the carousel while admiring the huge Christmas tree, or watching the movie screenings in the AMC theater.

Overall, a visit to the Oaks Mall during the holiday season is a must-do for anyone living in or around Gainesville, FL. The chance to take a picture with Santa Claus in such a festive environment is an experience that won't be forgotten. So, bring the whole family and create a memorable holiday tradition.

Drive through the lights display at the Florida Agricultural Museum

If you are looking for a fun and festive activity to do this Christmas season in Gainesville, FL, then we highly recommend checking out the drive-through light display at the Florida Agricultural Museum. This is an amazing opportunity for you and your loved ones to experience the magic of the holidays in a unique and exciting way.

Located just a short drive from downtown Gainesville, the Florida Agricultural Museum is a 460-acre working farm that is dedicated to preserving Florida's agricultural heritage. During the holiday season, the museum is transformed into a winter wonderland with over a million twinkling lights spread throughout the grounds.

The drive-through display is an incredible experience that begins at the museum's entrance and winds its way through several themed areas. You will drive past giant snowflakes, glowing candy canes, and towering Christmas trees as Christmas music fills the air. There are also several interactive light displays that you can control from your car, including an enchanting light tunnel that is sure to delight young and old alike.

One of the highlights of this display is the incredible attention to detail. The museum has gone to great lengths to create a truly immersive experience that will transport you to a winter wonderland like no other. The quality of the lights is truly outstanding, with every detail carefully considered to make sure that you and your family have an unforgettable experience.

Another bonus of the drive-through light display is the fact that it is completely contactless, making it a great activity to do while social distancing. You can enjoy the beauty of the lights from the safety and comfort of your own car, without having to worry about coming into close contact with others.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a magical and memorable way to celebrate the holidays in Gainesville, FL, then you absolutely must check out the drive-through light display at the Florida Agricultural Museum. This is an amazing opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of the season, all while staying safe and socially distant. So why not hop in the car, turn on some holiday tunes, and make some unforgettable memories with your loved ones this Christmas season?

Attend the Florida Museum of Natural History's holiday craft and bake sale

Characteristic	Description
Name	Florida Museum of Natural History-Exhibits
Type	Natural history museum in Gainesville, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 2,796
Address	3215 Hull Rd, Gainesville, FL 32611
Phone	(352) 846-2000
Hours	Sunday - 1–5 PM Monday - 10 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM
Profiles

Are you spending your Christmas holidays in Gainesville, Florida this year? Well, you're in luck because Gainesville has plenty of holiday-themed activities that will help get you into the spirit of the season. One of the most exciting things to do is attending the Florida Museum of Natural History's holiday craft and bake sale.

The Florida Museum of Natural History, located on the University of Florida's campus, is a popular attraction for locals and visitors alike. During the holiday season, the museum puts on a special craft and bake sale, where you can get unique gifts for your loved ones, while also supporting local artists.

The holiday craft and bake sale features a variety of vendors selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and holiday-themed decorations. It's the perfect place to shop for that one-of-a-kind gift that you just can't find anywhere else. Not only will you find unique items, but you'll also be supporting local artists and craftspeople.

In addition to the crafts, the bake sale is one of the most popular aspects of the event. Local bakers and pastry chefs come out to sell their delicious holiday treats, such as homemade pies, cakes, and cookies. It's the perfect opportunity to indulge in some sweet treats while also getting a head start on your holiday baking.

The Florida Museum of Natural History's holiday craft and bake sale is perfect for families, friends, and anyone who wants to get into the holiday spirit. So why not head down to the museum this Christmas and explore all the amazing crafts and treats available at the sale? You're sure to find something unique and special that will make your holiday season even more memorable.

Watch the holiday parade in Alachua

Gainesville, FL is a lovely place to spend your Christmas holidays. This city offers a variety of attractions, such as shopping centers, parks, and historical sites. However, one of the most exciting things you can do is to witness the beautifully decorated Christmas parade in Alachua.

The holiday parade in Alachua is an annual event that takes place every December. It's filled with festive cheer, joy, and colorful displays of lights, floats, and performers. The parade starts at the Alachua Town Center and makes its way down Main Street to the Hal Brady Recreation Complex. People from all over Florida come here to enjoy the parade, which is suitable for all ages.

As a spectator, you'll enjoy the cheerful Christmas music played by marching bands and the sound of carols being sung by choirs. You'll see local businesses and organizations hard at work decorating the floats they will use for the parade. There are also Santa Claus and his elves, performing acrobatic acts on the streets, and some breathtaking fireworks display that lights up the sky in the night.

Apart from the parade, Alachua offers many other festive activities during Christmas. You can visit the Christmas tree festival, take your kids to meet the "real" Santa Claus, explore the gingerbread house displays, and even attend a Christmas carol concert. There are many delicious local restaurants and cafes serving traditional Christmas treats such as hot cocoa and eggnog, Gingerbread and Sugar cookies.

In conclusion, spending your Christmas holidays in Gainesville near the Alachua parade is a wonderful way to create lasting memories. You'll get to enjoy amazing sights, sounds, and activities that'll leave you feeling joyful and happy. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Gainesville, FL for Christmas now so that you can experience the delightful holiday cheer of Alachua's parade.

Decorate gingerbread houses at the Cade Museum

If you're looking to get into the holiday spirit this Christmas season in Gainesville, Florida, there's a great activity that you won't want to miss. The Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention will be hosting gingerbread house decorating throughout the month of December.

Located in the heart of Gainesville, the Cade Museum is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to inspiring creativity and innovation in visitors of all ages. During the holiday season, the museum offers a fun and festive gingerbread house decorating activity that is sure to get you in the mood for the holidays.

The activity is open to individuals and families alike. Participants are provided with a pre-built gingerbread house, plenty of icing, and an array of colorful candies, sprinkles, and other decorations. The museum also offers aprons to help keep your clothes clean during the decorating process.

As you work on decorating your gingerbread house, you'll be surrounded by a warm and welcoming holiday atmosphere. The museum will be decked out in its holiday best, complete with beautiful decorations and twinkling lights. Staff members will be on hand to answer any questions you may have and to provide helpful tips for perfecting your gingerbread house.

Once your gingerbread house is complete, you can take it home to display and enjoy with your family and friends. It's the perfect way to kick off the holiday season and to create lasting memories with your loved ones.

If you're interested in participating in the gingerbread house decorating activity at the Cade Museum, be sure to purchase your tickets in advance. This activity is extremely popular and spots fill up quickly. The museum also offers a variety of other holiday-themed activities and events throughout the month of December, so be sure to check out their website for more information.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a fun and festive activity to enjoy this Christmas season in Gainesville, Florida, be sure to check out the gingerbread house decorating at the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention. It's the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit and to create magical memories with your loved ones.

Listen to Christmas carolers at the Haile Plantation Village Center

Gainesville, Florida is a great place to spend the Christmas holidays. With its mild winter weather, charming holiday events, and festive atmosphere, Gainesville is the perfect place to get into the spirit of the season. One of the most delightful holiday events in Gainesville is the annual Christmas carolers at the Haile Plantation Village Center.

The Haile Plantation Village Center is a delightful shopping and dining destination located just outside of Gainesville. During the holiday season, the center transforms into a winter wonderland, with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and holiday music filling the air. One of the highlights of the holiday season at the Haile Plantation Village Center is the appearance of Christmas carolers.

The carolers at the Haile Plantation Village Center are a group of talented singers who dress in traditional holiday attire and perform classic Christmas songs. Their beautiful harmonies, joyful spirit, and infectious holiday cheer are sure to lift your spirits and leave you feeling merry and bright. Whether you're a local or a visitor to Gainesville, listening to the Christmas carolers at the Haile Plantation Village Center is an enchanting and unforgettable experience.

In addition to the carolers, there are plenty of other holiday activities to enjoy at the Haile Plantation Village Center. You can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the center's charming streets, enjoy hot cocoa and holiday treats at one of the many local cafes, or shop for unique, locally made gifts at one of the center's boutiques. There are also several holiday events, such as tree lightings and holiday markets, throughout the season.

Overall, if you're looking for a festive and joyful way to celebrate the holiday season in Gainesville, listening to the Christmas carolers at the Haile Plantation Village Center is a must. It's an enchanting, family-friendly event that captures the true spirit of the season and is sure to put you in the holiday mood. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, bundle up in your warmest sweater, and head to the Haile Plantation Village Center for an unforgettable holiday experience.

Attend a candlelight service at a local church

For many people, Christmas is a time to celebrate with friends and family, and attending a candlelight service at a local church can be a great way to deepen your spiritual experience during this special time of year. If you find yourself in Gainesville, FL for Christmas, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to candlelight services.

One such service can be found at First United Methodist Church in downtown Gainesville. This historic church, which was founded in the mid-1800s, offers a beautiful candlelight service every Christmas Eve that combines traditional hymns, contemporary songs, and readings from the Bible. The service begins at 7 pm and typically lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the experience before heading home.

Another option is to attend the Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service at St. Augustine Catholic Church. This service, held in one of the oldest Catholic parishes in Florida, is a wonderful way to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. The service features traditional carols and hymns, as well as a special Communion ceremony that allows attendees to reflect on the gifts of the season.

If you're looking for something a bit more contemporary, you might want to check out a candlelight service at one of the many non-denominational churches in the Gainesville area. Places like Abundant Grace Community Church, Celebration United Methodist Church, and Faith Presbyterian Church all offer Christmas Eve services that feature contemporary music, fun activities for kids, and a welcoming atmosphere for people of all faith backgrounds.

No matter where you choose to attend a candlelight service in Gainesville, make sure to arrive early and dress warmly. Many of these services can get quite crowded, so you'll want to arrive early to ensure that you can get a seat. Additionally, since many of these services are held outdoors, it's a good idea to dress in layers so that you can adjust to the temperature as needed.

All in all, attending a candlelight service at a local church can be a memorable experience during your visit to Gainesville, FL during the holiday season. Whether you're looking for a traditional service, a contemporary worship experience, or something in between, there's sure to be a church in the area that has everything you need to celebrate Christmas to the fullest.

Donate to a local food bank or service organization to spread holiday cheer to those in need

The holiday season is traditionally a time of joy and togetherness with friends and family. However, for many people in the Gainesville area, the holidays can be a challenging time. With the ongoing pandemic, job losses, and financial struggles, many families are facing difficult times this Christmas season. That's why it's more important than ever to spread holiday cheer and help those in need in our community through donating to local food banks and service organizations.

One of the easiest ways to make a difference this holiday season is by donating non-perishable food items to local food banks. Many local organizations collect and distribute food to families who are struggling to put food on the table. You can donate items such as canned goods, rice, pasta, beans, and other non-perishable items that will help families in need to have a good holiday meal.

Another great way to spread cheer is by volunteering at a local service organization. Several organizations in the Gainesville area work to give back to the community during the holidays by providing meals, clothing, and gifts to underprivileged families. You can donate your time and efforts to help these organizations prepare and distribute food or gifts to families. This helps to spread holiday cheer and provides those in need with a sense of comfort and hope during a difficult time.

There are many ways that you can get involved in giving back to the Gainesville community during the holidays. Consider participating in a toy drive, donating clothing, or even making a monetary contribution to a local charity. Every little bit helps, and you'll be making a positive impact on those in need and spreading the spirit of the season.

In conclusion, donating to a local food bank or organization that provides services during the holiday season is a fantastic way to make a difference this year. With so many people struggling, your generosity and kindness can help spread holiday cheer and provide hope and comfort to families in need. Let's all do our part to make the holidays a little brighter for everyone in Gainesville!

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