Parades! There are holiday parades all over the state, but the most exciting is Macy's Holiday Parade at Universal Orlando. The magic and merriment of Macy's world-renowned Thanksgiving Day Parade kicks off at dusk each evening, from mid-December through early January, featuring authentic Macy's balloons and floats, many of which were new for 2007. As a special treat, Santa Claus and his reindeer, straight from their appearance in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, will add a festive flair to the grand finale.
Quincy's Allison House Inn - When shopping and the hustle and bustle of the holidays get you down, take a short drive. Just minutes from Tallahassee in picturesque Quincy, your hosts Stuart and Eileen Johnson of the Allison House Inn will treat you to a quiet holiday reprieve. Relax among the holiday decorations while they attend to every detail of your stay. This is a great couples getaway!
Ride the Rails on a marvelous holiday adventure on the Jingle Bell Express that leaves the station on select days during November and December. For further information call Seminole Gulf Railway at 239-275-8487.
SeaWorld Orlando welcomes guests to create yuletide memories and celebrate the season during Christmas at SeaWorld — November 13, 2009 to January 3, 2010. This holiday event features festive decorations, live holiday music from classical musicians and carolers, light snowfalls and a special yuletide Shamu night show. Also, jump aboard The Polar Express Experience for a one-of-a-kind journey to the North Pole that will transport you into the spirit of the season. The experience combines one of the most beloved movies with an actual winter wonderland.
The Festival of Lights - This annual tradition is in its 16th year at Silver Springs. Dates are November 27-28, December 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 20-24 & 26-31, 2009 from dusk to 8:30 p.m.. Nightly activities will include local choirs performing songs of the season, strolling carolers and musicians, Lighted Boat Parade, shopping in Silver Springs' specialty stores, special entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays on the Wings of the Springs stage, plus Santa Claus (through Dec. 23). In addition, an all-you-can-eat Holiday Buffet will be served each evening from 5 to 7:30 p.m. with a traditional holiday menu. The park is located near Ocala about 10 miles east of I-75 off exit 69.
Universal Studios Orlando celebrates by transforming its on-site hotels, two theme parks and CityWalk into a seasonal spectacular featuring special holiday-themed entertainment, decorations, food and so much more! The
Victorian Christmas Seaside Celebration - Amelia Island claims "holiday wishes are always warmer on Amelia." Perhaps they're right because they have a whole list of holiday events that is sure to warm your heart.
Wild Wonderland at Lowry Park Zoo features more than a million twinkling lights, live reindeer and elaborate holiday displays. Holiday guests play in Frosty's Foam Factory, enjoy unlimited Zoo rides all evening, plus a visit with Santa. The 2009 dates are December 4-5, 10-13, 17-23 and 26-30 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Parking is free.
X-travaganza! is the only way to describe Seminole Hard Rock's Winterfest Boat Parade. The illuminated ships light up the night sky and delight crowds gathered along the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale. The 38th annual event will take place Saturday, December 12, 2009.
Yuletide carols and holiday favorites will fill the air around the Historic Bok Sanctuary as the carillon plays every half hour and during daily performances at 1:00 and 3:00 p.m. from December 1 through December 31, 2009. Free with admission to the gardens.
ZZZZZZZZZZZ is what you'll be doing after enjoying all these Florida holiday events! So, Merry Christmas to all... and to all a good night.
