Looking for some Florida outdoor fun this holiday season? Here's a guide to some great activities going on at Florida State parks. 

If you've never attended a holiday event at a Florida State park, make sure to do so this year!  So many families take part in the events, and I've seen some fantastic pictures of lights over the water.  I've seen a lot of memories in the making at Rainbow Springs State Park, where Santa and Ms. Claus come up the river in a lighted boat with colorful bulbs beaming across the crystal clear water.  The kids love it!

Christmas Lights Show
Dec. 19-20, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Three Rivers State Park invites visitors on a scenic drive through the park to enjoy the light displays. Park entrance fee will be waived for participants. For more information call (850) 482-9006.

 

Saturday, Dec. 20, 5 p.m.
The park will host an evening cruise on the Wakulla River and dinner in the historic lodge followed by an old-fashioned sing-a-long in the lobby by the Christmas tree. Tickets are $29 for adults and $18 for children 12 and under. Reservations are suggested. For more information call (850) 926-0700.

 

Saturday, Dec. 20, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Eden Gardens State Park and the Friends of Eden invite visitors to a traditional walk through the luminaries leading to the Historic Wesley House. Inside, visitors will be greeted by Christmas carols and two harpists. After the tour, the Friends of Eden will provide refreshments in the pavilion. Park entrance fee is waived for participants, however donations are greatly appreciated. For more information call (850) 231-1167.

 

The Friends of Rainbow Springs bring Santa Claus to Dunnellon. Guests can walk through the wonderland of lights that decorate the headsprings area of Rainbow Springs State Park, see Mr. and Mrs. Claus come up the Rainbow River on a lighted boat and visit with Santa’s elves while listening to Christmas carols. Dec. 26 and 27 will feature lights only. Admission is $1 per person and photos with Santa are $2. For more information call (352) 465-8555.

 

Sponsored by the Friends of Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park, the community is invited to enjoy thousands of twinkling lights, decorations and holiday music. A variety of entertainments will be scheduled and refreshments will be available. Admission is a recommended donation of $2 for adults and $1 for children ages 3 through 12. For more information call (352) 628-5343.

 

Ravine Gardens State Park
Caroling the Ravines

Friday, Dec. 19, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 
The staff at Ravine Gardens will host its first annual Christmas event featuring a wagon ride around the ravines and seasonal carols sung by local church groups, school groups and other organizations. Entertainment will also be provided on stage in the Civic Center and under the pavilion. Local vendors will be selling hand-crafted items. Holiday refreshments will be also available for purchase. Fees for this event include a donation of one non-perishable item per person to donate to the local food banks. For more information call (386) 329-3718.

 

Friday, Dec. 26, 9 a.m.
The marsh tour is a great way to work off the holiday pounds and have fun with friends and family. A $10 per person donation is suggested. For more information call (772) 398-2779.