When the holiday season arrives in Highlands County, Florida, communities in Sebring, Avon Park, and Lake Placid prepare a variety of events for residents and visitors. The festivities begin with the transformation of the historic Jacaranda Hotel in Avon Park into a traditional holiday setting, featuring decorations from the 1920s era. Guests can explore decorated areas of the hotel and attend seasonal buffets and events.
Sebring’s Circle Park hosts the Carousel of Lights from November 29 to December 25, offering illuminated displays and nightly visits from Santa Claus and the Grinch. On select nights, artificial snow creates a winter atmosphere downtown. While some activities require a fee, access to light displays and snowfall is free.
The Sugar Express train provides Santa Express Holiday Train Rides on select dates between Clewiston and Sebring. Passengers experience decorated cars, music, cookies, and a visit from Santa Claus who gives gifts to children.
Annual parades are scheduled throughout December. Avon Park’s Christmas Parade takes place on December 1 at 7 p.m., while Sebring holds its “Candy Cane Lane” themed parade on December 5 along North Ridgewood Drive through Circle Park. Lake Placid’s Christmas Parade occurs on December 13 with a “Gingerbread Lane” theme; spectators can vote for their favorite entry.
Other community events include an evening market at Journal Plaza in Avon Park on December 2 with live music and vendors; Flor de la Noche Buena bilingual performance at Alan Jay Wildstein Center on December 7; Christmas in the Park in Avon Park on December 8 featuring local choirs; Jingle Bell Run 5K & Children’s Fun Run on December 12; Florida Flywheelers’ Christmas in the Village drive-through event across two weekends; The Red Easel’s Craft & Fun Fair in Sebring on December 13; and Sebring Christmas Boat Parade across Lake Jackson that same evening.
Most events are free or have minimal admission fees. Visitors are encouraged to check event calendars for updates or contact organizers for more information.
Visit Sebring operates as part of the Highlands County Tourist Development Council (TDC), which aims to enhance quality of life through tourism promotion and economic growth initiatives. More details about these events can be found at http://www.VisitSebring.com or by following @VisitSebring on social media.
For additional information, Tanya Churchmuch (tanya@muchpr.com) or Casey Hartt (Casey@visitsebring.com) can be contacted.
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