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Kevin Mims

I'm a freelance writer and videographer, and spend most of my days exploring Florida's natural wonders from a kayak, a bike or rambling down a hiking trail. A Florida native living in Citrus County, you'll often find me watching the boats go by on the Homosassa River. I'm always sharing stories, photos and videos, so follow along and together we'll discover Florida's natural treasures.

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Light up the Holidays at a Florida State Park

December 08, 2009

Related Tags: Family, Events, Parks, White Springs, Dunnellon

Festival of Lights at Stephen Foster Folk Culture State Park Credit: Florida State Parks

Over the years, I'm sure you've seen tons of holiday light displays. Thousands of glowing bulbs of all different colors are put out for all to enjoy, wrapped around houses, hotels, buildings and offices. Robotic snowmen creak back and forth, dancing wobbly to the tune of an electronic holiday soundtrack. Yep, we've all been there and done that. These grand exhibitions are stunning and definitely make for a great outing.

But, there's one thing that totally trips the circuit breaker on the standard ol' light fest, and I imagine that there's plenty of people who haven't seen this uniquely Florida holiday event. What is it, you ask?

Mr. and Mrs. Claus slowly cruising into Rainbow Springs on a holiday-lighted boat.

Believe me, this is something you have to see! The annual "Santa over the Rainbow" event at Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon draws a huge crowd of families to watch the boat come into the headsprings, and afterward the merry couple heads to their cottage for pictures. It's a great experience with tons of personality that keeps folks coming back year after year. Visit www.floridastateparks.org/rainbowsprings for a complete listing of dates and times.

If you can't make it to Rainbow Springs, there are plenty of other fantastic events in Florida State Parks to enjoy this holiday season. Here are a couple more:

Festival of Lights at Stephen Foster Folk Culture State Park - Head to White Springs and take part in a combined town and park event on Sat., Dec. 12. Ornament-making workshops, a Santa breakfast and an evening concert in the park are just a few of the things going on. Visit the website for a complete list of activities that will be going on throughout the holiday season.

Caroling the Ravines at Ravine Gardens State Park - Take a wagon ride through the park and enjoy listening to carols. This is a great event that is fun for the whole family, and makes for some fantastic memories. Head to the park on Sat., Dec. 12. Visit the Ravine Gardens State Park website for more information.

There's a whole lot more going on around the state - visit www.floridastateparks.org for a complete list and to find a holiday event near you!