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Some Florida Residents Leave Their Holiday Lights up Year Round

Author Budman

Some Florida Residents Leave Their Holiday Lights up Year Round.

The Christmas season will be upon us before you know it. Sincerely, it will pass by in a blink of an eye… like a Christmas light. Therefore, you should probably get started if you wish to decorate your home this Christmas. That’s what I did the weekend before last. Every year, I enjoy hanging some simple lights on my house.

I normally only light the house’s outside trim with those traditional blinking holiday lights rather than icicles. You’re not fooling anyone with those icicles, after all, it is southwest Florida.

Oh, and the danger is fun too. Nothing is more convenient than hanging your holiday lights if you lack a ladder. Nothing is riskier than stacking a few of your kitchen chairs on top of one another to get a few additional inches so you can hang these annoying lights. The only benefit is that I can swing on the strand of bulbs like Indiana Jones if I fall.

Florida Holiday Lights:

Over the weekend, did you put up any Christmas decorations? According to a survey by House Method, 23% of respondents often begin decorating in the first week of December. However, 15% believe it is still too early.

Over the weekend, did you put up any Christmas decorations? This suggests that many of us did. 4,000 people were surveyed to find out when they generally decorate and when they SHOULD begin. The response for both was typically this past weekend.

According to 23%, they typically put them up the first week in December. And most people concur that once December arrives, it’s suitable. 15% of people believe that it is still too early to decorate.

4% of them believe you should hold off until the next week. 8% stated the week before Christmas, and 3% believe that the lights shouldn’t be turned on until Christmas.

Only 5% indicated October, while only about 1% said September. With 44% of the vote, November received the greatest support. However, several of them responded with LATE November or the day following Thanksgiving.

4% of respondents said they keep some holiday decorations up the entire year.

Must-Visit Christmas Towns In Florida

If you’re looking to get out of town and want to feel extra festive this holiday season, there’s quite a few must-visit Christmas towns in Florida to put on your list.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… and what better place to celebrate the holidays than in Florida! From tiny towns with amazing holiday displays to larger cities with endless festive events, there’s something for everyone in the Sunshine State.

If you’re from up north, you know that Christmas looks a little different down here. I always liked the look of the snow, especially at Christmas time, however I’d much rather be in 80 degrees and watching it from afar. Yes, hearing songs singing “Let it Snow” is a little weird, but in my mind, “Let it Snow”- SOMEWHERE ELSE.

No matter where you go in Florida during the holidays, you’re sure to find festive fun around every corner. So whether you’re looking for a beachside paradise or a charming small town escape, Trips to Discover made a list of of some great destinations to add to your list. After all, what could be more magical than celebrating Christmas in sunny Florida?

So pack your Santa hat and head on down to one of these festive towns for a holiday experience you’ll never forget.

Top 10 Must-Visit Christmas Towns in Florida:

  • Celebration

    Celebration is known for its annual Now Snowing celebration. With white flurries in the sky, carolers on the streets, horse-drawn carriage rides and an ice rink, it’s about as close to a white Christmas as many Floridians will get.

  • St. Augustine

    St. Augustine has a huge annual Christmas event called the Night of Lights. You catch a ride on the trolley to admire the dazzling light displays, a festive parade and decorated boats at the Regatta of Lights.

  • Pensacola

    Pensacola goes all out for their annual Christmas celebration called Winterfest. You’ll find falling snow, hot chocolate, holiday performances and trolley rides with a backdrop of white-sand beaches.

  • Miami

    Miami is home to Santa’s Enchanted Forest, the largest Christmas-themed amusement park in the world. Enjoy 100 rides, the park’s interactive games and the petting zoo.

  • Orlando

    The theme park capital of the world goes all out this time of year. Between Disney, SeaWorld, Universal and nearby LEGOLAND, there’s no shortage of great live entertainment, lights, sweet treats and parades.

  • West Palm Beach

    Each year, West Palm Beach puts on display the world’s only 700-ton, 35-foot-tall tree made of sand called Sandi Land. Kids can enjoy a snowman building area called SnowieVille and glow-in-the-dark putt-putt golf. The Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens also holds its annual Festival of Trees.

  • Fort Lauderdale

    Nicknamed the “Venice of America”, it makes sense that Fort Lauderdale likes to show off its waterways during the holidays with the Winterfest Boat Parade and the “Greatest Show on H20”.

  • Jacksonville

    Jacksonville is the perfect town to enjoy a Christmas ambiance. Between the 56-foot-tall tree lighting display, the Deck the Chairs annual lighted sculptural exhibit, you’ll be feeling festive in no time.

  • St. Petersburg

    St. Petersburg comes alive during Christmas. Visit Enchant Christmas at the Tampa Bay Rays stadium to enjoy a Christmas light maze and village. Shop at the Christmas market, try holiday-themed food and drink, and go for a skate on the Ice-Skating Trail. The Florida Botanical Gardens also hosts their annual Holiday Lights in the Gardens and Busch Gardens hosts their annual Christmas Town.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Cjt520cgEa3/

  • Tallahassee

    In winter, Tallahassee is covered in twinkling lights for the holiday season and hosts their annual Winter Festival. Downtown transforms into a winter wonderland with live entertainment, a parade, and arts and crafts vendors. Enjoy a candle-lit walk through the gardens while enjoying live holiday music at the Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park. Tallahassee is also the site of the first Christmas celebrated in North America!

  • How to Have a Stress-Free Florida Christmas

    It’s that time of year again! The time when the humidity finally drops, the temperatures dip into the 60s, and people all over the state start putting up Christmas lights. That’s right, Floridians, it’s time to get ready for Christmas!

    And what better way to get into the holiday spirit than by following these simple tips for having a stress-free Florida Christmas? Trust us, with our years of experience dealing with holiday hurricanes, power outages, and heat waves, we know a thing or two about how to make the most of our unique Christmas climate! Running around when it’s still warm outside makes you sweat. Almost as much as I would worry about how I’m going to pay for all these gifts! So be sure to make a list—and check it twice!

    Once you know who you need to buy gifts for, make a list of everyone and what you’d like to get them. This will help you stay organized and on budget. No need for any extra perspiration here in South West Florida. Not sure what to get someone? Deodorant!  No? Okay, a gift card is always a good choice!

    By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to have a stress-free Florida Christmas that you’ll remember for years to come! And who knows – maybe you’ll even set a new tradition or two in the process!

    • Get yourself a fake Christmas tree.

      Don’t even bother with the hassle of putting up a real tree in this heat – just pick up a nice fake one from your local store and be done with it. Plus, you’ll save yourself the trouble of having to vacuum up pine needles every day!

    • Make sure your outdoor Christmas lights are LED.

      You don’t want to be spending your holiday budget on replacing burnt-out light bulbs – LEDs use much less power and will last for years. Not to mention, they don’t produce nearly as much heat, so you won’t have to worry about them adding to your electric bill.

    • Skip the roasted turkey and go for something lighter.

      Who wants to heat up their house by cooking a big bird in the oven? Instead, try grilling some seafood or making a festive salad. Your guests will still be impressed, and you’ll stay cool in the process!

    • Don't forget the sunscreen!

      Just because it’s December doesn’t mean you can let your guard down when it comes to sun exposure. In fact, many people find that they burn more easily in the winter months because they don’t expect it. So slather on some SPF 30 or higher before heading out to enjoy those beautiful Florida sunsets!

    • Plan ahead for any stormy weather.

      We all know that living in Florida means dealing with the occasional hurricane or tropical storm during Christmastime. The best way to deal with it is simply to be prepared – have an emergency kit ready with non-perishable food items, water, batteries, and first aid supplies. That way if a storm does hit, you’ll be able to ride it out without any worries!

    • Set a budget—and stick to it!

      It’s easy to overspend during the holidays, but it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Determine how much money you can realistically spend on gifts and don’t go over that amount. Once you’ve reached your limit, stop shopping!

    • Shop online.

      Avoid the crowds at the mall and do your shopping from the comfort of your own home. Not only is online shopping more convenient, but you’ll also have a better chance of finding deals and discounts. Plus, with sites like Amazon Prime, you can get your gifts delivered right to your door—talk about stress-free!

    • Simplify your décor.

      Don’t go overboard with your Christmas decorations—less is more! A few simple pieces (a string of lights, a decorated tree, etc.) will do the trick and save you time and money in the process. Now, where did I put those Santa hats for my Flamingo yard ornaments?

    • Potluck holiday party.

      Throwing a holiday party can be fun but also stressful and expensive. Save yourself some money (and hassle) by having everyone bring their favorite dish or beverage to share. Not only will this lighten your load, but it will also give your guests something to do while they’re at your party. Just remember those peanut butter cookies with the chocolate kisses on top. We love those.

    • Keep things low-key .

      The holidays don’t have to be elaborate or extravagant—keep things simple this year and focus on what’s truly important: spending time with those you love. Happy Holiday!

    • Photo Ops With Santa In Southwest Florida

      Photo Ops With Santa In Southwest Florida

      Was there anything better as a child than preparing for your visit with Santa Claus?

      We made our Christmas lists, checked them twice and prepared to sit on the jolly man’s lap as we listed off all of the things we wanted him to bring on Christmas.

      Heck, we even dealt with the itchy and scratchy Christmas outfits we were forced to wear for the special day.

      And how could we forget about the moms and dads and grandparents standing at the beginning of the sometimes hour long lines we waited in?  There they were in all of their glory trying to get us to smile so they could snap our picture with the big guy and have another Christmas memory.  Truly a wonderful tradition.

      While visiting with Santa was exciting for most kids, there were some kiddos who left terrified and maybe a little traumatized.  They did make for pretty good pictures though.  Haha

      So, where can you make these memories with Santa in Southwest Florida this holiday season?  Of course he will be at the local malls, but we’ve found some other fun events where he’ll make an appearance too!

      Here’s A List Of Photo Ops With Santa In Southwest Florida.  There are a couple of places you can take your pets as well

      • Coastland Center Mall in Naples

        Santa’s helpers have been working hard decking the halls for you and your family, so don’t miss out on taking tree-mendous pics with St. Nick!

        Pets are welcome too!  Let your fur kids and grand pups join in on the holiday fun! Get the family together to strike a pose with Santa to capture paw-fect holiday moments!

        Children within all spectrums of special needs and their families are welcome to join us for our sensory-friendly visit and photos with Santa!

        More Info

      • Edison Mall in Ft. Myers

        When:  November 17 – December 24

        Where: Visit Santa at his Holiday Wonderland located at Dillard’s Court.

        Price: There is no cost to see Santa. Photo Packages are Available

        Santa takes a break to feed his Reindeer from 11am – 12pm, 3 pm – 4pm and 6pm – 7pm.

        More Info

      • Bass Pro Shops at Gulf Coast Town Center in Ft. Myers

        Santa’s Wonderland is open now thru December 24, 2022 at Bass Pro Shops In Gulf Coast Town Center
        For more details, click here

      • Holiday Nights at Edison Ford Winter Estates in Ft. Myers

        Join us for the 47th celebration of Holiday Nights and see the homes and gardens decorated with thousands of lights!
        Holiday Nights runs through January 1 (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Night). Be sure to check the website to see the nightly schedule.
        There will be Santa visits, carolers, science shows and Inside-the-Homes tours on select nights. Lee County residents will receive $5 off admission on Sunday nights.
        $20 for adults, $10 for teens (13-19), $2 for children (6-12), and children 5 and under get in free.
        For more details, click here

      • Annual Holiday Tree Lighting at Bell Tower in Ft. Myers

        Mark your calendars for the Annual Bell Tower Tree Lighting, Friday December 2nd 6pm-8pm!

        Santa Claus will arrive to Bell Tower at 6:30 p.m. in a South Trail Fire Department fire truck at the main entrance near Grimaldi’s and Blue Pointe.

        Following his arrival, the festivities will commence in Center Court with a special tree lighting ceremony and a meet-and-greet with Santa Claus, ideal for holiday photo opportunities. Filled with holiday cheer and decor, center court will also feature a bounce house, face painting and holiday games & activities plus so much more!

        For more details, click here

      • Free Underwater Pictures With Santa in Cape Coral

        Join us for FREE pictures underwater with Santa!
        This year we have upgrade our camera setup, the pool, the backdrop and installed a heater!
        Ages 8 and up can be on SCUBA (No certification needed)
        Ages 7 and younger can snorkel with Santa!
        For more details, click here

      • Pet Photos with Santa at Rotary Park in Cape Coral

        Join us Saturday, December 3 from 10 am -12 pm to get a picture of your pet with Santa.
        *Bring your own camera to capture the perfect picture.
        For more details, click here

      • Breakfast With Santa at N. Ft. Myers Parks & Rec Center

        Join us for some holiday fun!
        The morning will include a continental breakfast, a holiday craft, letters to Santa
        and a picture with Saint Nick himself!
        PRE-REGISTRATION IS RECOMMENDED. $3 per person, please call (239) 533-7200 to register.
        For more details, click here

      • Breakfast With Santa at Coral Oaks Golf Course in Cape Coral

        Coral Oaks Golf Course

        Come and Bring the family for a delicious breakfast and the kids get to meet SANTA!
        $15. per Adult
        $10. per child and 2 and under FREE

        For more details, click here

      • Christmas Street Parade in Marco Island

        Saturday, December 10th, 2022
        6:30pm-8:30pm
        Free to attend!
        *Parade begins at Balfour and San Marco Road and will end at San Marco and Barfield.
        San Marco Road is lit up every year for the annual Marco Island Street Parade! The parade will feature floats, marching bands, music, costumes, candy and Santa Claus!
        For more details, click here

      • Winter Wonderland in Lehigh Acres

        Celebrate the season with Santa at Veterans Park Recreation Center.

        Come join us for a magical Winter Wonderland event! Children can write letters to Santa, make holiday crafts, play games and use the photo booths for family holiday photos. Mr. and Mrs. Clause will arrive and children can put in their wish list in person and receive a gift. Hot cocoa & Cookies, dancers and a tree lighting will spread the holiday cheer!

        For more details, click here

      • Holiday In The Park in Bonita Springs

        Tuesday, December 6th, 2022
        4:30pm-8:30pm
        Everything is free!!!
        *Tree lighting will be at dusk.
        ***NO PETS ALLOWED!*
        The City of Bonita Springs will be hosting their annual Holiday in the Park event at Riverside Park! Come enjoy the sounds of the season featuring a visit from Santa, a snow slide, snow flurries in the park, kid-friendly activities, musical and dance performances! Food and beverages will also be available for purchase.
        For more details, click here

      • Santa Paws in Naples

        Saturday, December 10th, 2022
        12pm-2pm
        Free!
        Third Street South will have Santa Claus available for photos with your well behaved pets!
        Bring your pet on its leash and pose with jolly Old St. Nick for a treasured memory. Professional photographer not on site, please bring your own camera.
        For more details, click here

      • Fort Myers - Santa's Block Party

        SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2022 AT 10 AM – 2 PM

        Come out to Santa’s Block Party 2022 in front of the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center downtown Ft. Myers. Santa will arrive by Fire Truck. Children’s workshop bags include crafts, crayons and a coloring book, a Publix decorate a cookie kit, a toy, candy and a ticket to ride the Holiday Express train. Bags are only $6 each. Tables will be set out on First Street for families to work together on crafts. Kits can also be brought home. There will be music and tons of outdoor entertainment. Additional train rides are available for $2 each. After the fun, come in for a photo with Santa, view the trees and get your raffle tickets. You may be a lucky winner of a beautifully decorated tree with tons of prizes! 

Meet Budman, dynamic host of Marconi Award winning radio station WXKB's WiLD Bunch Morning Show, on B1039. Budman likes to write about funny news, a good Florida man story, stupid criminals or anything involving a superhero. Budman, a comic book and pop culture enthusiast, even named his daughter Kara Zor-El, after Supergirl. His only child is his true passion beyond the mic. Being a dad is his favorite role. Budman, a true family man, balances his love for radio with quality time spent with loved ones and his trusty dogs.

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