When the holiday season approaches, Highlands County in Central Florida becomes a center for festive activities. Communities in Sebring, Avon Park, and Lake Placid organize a range of events from train rides to light displays and local markets.
Sebring’s Circle Park, recently renovated and featured on HGTV’s Home Town Takeover, serves as a focal point for many celebrations. The park hosts the Carousel of Lights from November 29 to December 25, with illuminated displays and nightly appearances by Santa Claus and the Grinch. There is also artificial snow on select evenings.
The historic Jacaranda Hotel in Avon Park decorates its halls for Christmas through January 12, offering seasonal buffets and events that reflect its 1920s heritage.
Train enthusiasts can take part in the Santa Express Holiday Train Rides operated by Sugar Express on select dates between November 29 and December 21. Passengers travel through Florida’s sugarcane fields while enjoying cookies and visits from Santa Claus.
Community parades are scheduled throughout December. Avon Park holds its Christmas Parade on December 1, followed by Sebring’s “Candy Cane Lane” themed parade on December 5. Lake Placid will host its annual parade with a “Gingerbread Lane” theme on December 13, allowing spectators to vote for their favorite entry.
Other highlights include the Tree Lighting & Holiday Evening Market at Journal Plaza on December 2; Flor de la Noche Buena, a bilingual performance at the Alan Jay Wildstein Center on December 7; Christmas in the Park in Avon Park on December 8; Jingle Bell Run 5K & Children’s Fun Run in Avon Park on December 12; Florida Flywheelers’ Christmas in the Village drive-through event on select dates; The Red Easel’s Craft & Fun Fair in Sebring; and the Sebring Christmas Boat Parade across Lake Jackson.
Many events are free or have minimal fees. More information can be found at http://www.VisitSebring.com or by contacting Tanya Churchmuch or Casey Hartt.
Visit Sebring is managed by the Highlands County Tourist Development Council (TDC). According to Visit Sebring, “The mission of the TDC is to contribute to a positive quality of life for the residents of Highlands County through destination promotion, tourism development, advocacy, and resource management – which are foundation pieces for future economic growth.”
For details about specific events or updates to schedules, visitors are encouraged to check Visit Sebring’s website or social media channels.
