Jacksonville, Florida, January 22, 2026
Jacksonville, Florida celebrated the holiday season with a range of delightful events that brought the community together. Highlights included the Cathedral Hill Christmas Walking Tour, the Jacksonville Light Boat Parade, and the 3rd Annual Jacksonville Holiday Market. The traditions continued with the Gingerbread Extravaganza and Deck the Chairs, along with numerous performances and community activities that spread festive cheer throughout the city. These events not only showcased local culture but also encouraged residents to participate and support local businesses during the magic of the holiday season.
Jacksonville’s 2025 Holiday Season: A Festive Roundup
Jacksonville, Florida, embraced the holiday season with a variety of events that brought the community together. From dazzling light displays to festive markets, the city offered something for everyone. Here’s a recap of the notable events that took place in December 2025.
Cathedral Hill Christmas Walking Tour
On December 6, 2025, local historian Mike Field led a two-hour walking tour through Cathedral Hill, highlighting the area’s rich history, architecture, and the artistry of stained glass. Participants explored the newly restored windows of Mt. Zion AME and other iconic churches, delving into the stories and beauty that make Cathedral Hill shine during the holidays. Tickets were priced at $25.
Jacksonville Light Boat Parade
A cherished holiday tradition for over 30 years, the Jacksonville Light Boat Parade illuminated the St. Johns River with decorated boats of all sizes. The parade featured a dazzling fireworks display, captivating both residents and visitors.
Jacksonville Holiday Market
On December 13, 2025, the 3rd Annual Jacksonville Holiday Market took place at the Adam W. Herbert University Center. The event showcased over 50 local retailers, offering a variety of holiday shopping options. Admission was free, encouraging community participation and supporting local businesses.
Gingerbread Extravaganza
From December 13 to 27, 2025, the Jacksonville History Center hosted the 23rd annual Gingerbread Extravaganza. The event displayed incredible, edible gingerbread houses crafted by professionals, amateurs, and children alike, delighting attendees with festive creativity.
Deck the Chairs
Throughout December, Latham Plaza and the Seawalk Pavilion featured “Deck the Chairs,” a community event showcasing over 40 lifeguard chairs creatively decorated by local artists and businesses. The dazzling display of lights added to the festive atmosphere of Jacksonville’s beaches.
JAX Artist Walk on Ice & Holiday Market
From November 28, 2025, through January 19, 2026, Riverside Avenue was transformed into a festive winter destination with the JAX Artist Walk on Ice & Holiday Market. The event featured a real outdoor ice rink, local artisans, festive music, and holiday cheer, providing a unique experience for the community.
Gator Bowl
On December 27, 2025, EverBank Stadium hosted the 81st annual Gator Bowl, featuring a matchup between the Virginia Cavaliers and the Missouri Tigers. The game concluded the 2025 FBS football season, adding to the city’s holiday festivities.
Riverside Avondale Luminaria
On December 21, 2025, the Riverside and Avondale neighborhoods celebrated the 39th annual Luminaria event. Residents lined the sidewalks and streets with glowing luminaries, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that brought the community together.
Christmas at Sykes Family Farms
Throughout December, Sykes Family Farms offered a holiday experience featuring a hayride through a 3/4 mile-long light display. Visitors enjoyed hot beverages, a play area, and the opportunity to create Christmas tree ornaments or roast marshmallows by the fire pit. Admission was $16 per person, with discounts available for military personnel and children.
Sarah Brightman: A Winter Symphony
On December 6, 2025, the world’s best-selling soprano and GRAMMY-nominated artist Sarah Brightman brought her new holiday spectacle, “A Winter Symphony,” to Jacksonville. Joined by an orchestra, choir, and special guests, she performed holiday classics and greatest hits in an enchanting show that delivered an unforgettable Christmas experience.
Holiday Pops
From December 5 to 7, 2025, the Jacksonville Symphony’s beloved Holiday Pops featured Broadway vocalists Carole Bufford and Campbell Walker Fields, alongside the Symphony Chorus and the full power of the Jacksonville Symphony, in an unforgettable festive spectacular.
First Coast Nutcracker
From December 12 to 14, 2025, the cherished First Coast Nutcracker filled the air with the wonder and joy of the season. For more than 50 years, this iconic Jacksonville Symphony tradition brought families and communities together to experience holiday enchantment.
Third Thursday Sip & Stroll
On December 18, 2025, the Third Thursday Sip & Stroll, presented by PNC Bank, took place on the Southbank Riverwalk. Attendees had the opportunity to meet and greet with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, warm up with hot chocolate, and take in beautiful views of the St. Johns River.
CARVILL Senior Center Activities
Throughout December 2025, the CARVILL Senior Center offered various activities for seniors, including board games, puzzles, walking groups, and card games. The center provided a welcoming environment for older adults to engage in social and recreational activities.
JIM FORTUNA Senior Center Activities
Throughout December 2025, the JIM FORTUNA Senior Center offered activities such as early riser walks, Tai Chi, chair exercises, and various card games. The center provided a range of programs to keep seniors active and engaged during the holiday season.
Jacksonville’s 2025 holiday season was marked by a diverse array of events that brought the community together, celebrated local culture, and spread festive cheer throughout the city.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Gingerbread Extravaganza Experience?
The Gingerbread Extravaganza Experience is a holiday event featuring a gift shop and special activities, open daily from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.
How long will the Glowing Gardens event last?
The Glowing Gardens event at the Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens will be celebrated for a month, transforming the area into a display of lights and sculptures.
When does the Colors of the Wild event run?
The Colors of the Wild event at the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens runs on select nights through February 6, 2026.
What is Deck the Chairs?
Deck the Chairs is a community event at Latham Plaza and the Seawalk Pavilion showcasing over 40 lifeguard chairs creatively decorated by local artists and businesses in a dazzling display of lights.
When is the Gator Bowl scheduled?
The TaxSlayer Gator Bowl is scheduled for December 27, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. EST at EverBank Stadium, featuring Virginia vs. Missouri.
Key Features of Jacksonville’s Holiday Events
| Event | Date | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gingerbread Extravaganza | Daily through holidays | Jacksonville History Center | Gift shop and special activities |
| Glowing Gardens | Throughout December | Jacksonville Arboretum | Light and sculpture displays |
| Colors of the Wild | Through February 6, 2026 | Jacksonville Zoo | Lantern displays |
| Deck the Chairs | Throughout December | Latham Plaza and Seawalk Pavilion | Community artist displays |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
