Here in Florida we are far from a wintery wonderland. With the average winter temperature being around 60 degrees, it can be hard to get in the holiday spirit! Well have no fear– we have compiled a list of some of the coolest ways in and around Jacksonville to feel a little less like The Grinch and a little more like Cindy Lou Who!

Christmas at Gaylord Palms

Located about an hour away, the Gaylord Palms hotel is a tourist attraction for their annual winter wonderland happening now through January 6! This is such an amazing experience because it features something we don’t get much of … snow! Yes, that’s right, the Gaylord Palms features fun snow-related activities like snow tubing and ice skating along with holiday shows. This is such a great way to get into the holiday spirit and feel a little more of that snowy weather we lack here in the Sunshine State! This is a #FrayLife favorite because you get to do cool winter activities you usually can’t, and it’s perfect for a weekend trip with a group of friends or family.

Jacksonville Ice Sportsplex

Everyone you know from up north always talks about how fun ice sports are, like ice skating and ice hockey. Well if you are want to experience a little bit of that winter fun for yourself, we recommend checking out the Ice Sportsplex here in Jacksonville! The Ice Sportsplex hosts holiday events during the fall and winter months to help us Floridians get in the holiday spirit.

#FrayLife Tip: We know most Florida natives don’t own ice skates, but luckily you can rent equipment from the facility. Do make sure you dig out one of your heavier coats from the back of your closet, though!

St. Augustine Nights of Lights

Hit downtown St. Augustine anytime between now and the New Year to enjoy the beautiful historic area completely lit up with Christmas lights! You can enjoy a quiet scenic tour by horse and carriage or go to any of the bars we highlighted in the St. Augustine Tour!  The St. Augustine Nights of Lights completely lights up all of downtown St. Augustine in true vintage fashion. White lights help with the holiday ambiance, and the abundance of things to do in Downtown St. Augustine make this a great way to feel festive this holiday season!

Jax Illuminations

Nothing screams “holiday season” like lights! And this seasonal gem in Jacksonville has A LOT of them! With over a million kinds of lights flashing to the season’s most memorable holiday music, there is no better way to get out of Scrooge mode. Pile up a truckload of your friends, and maybe a cooler of beer (not for the driver of course), and enjoy the ride through the Illumination Station!  

Okay so now that you have your list of things to do, you’re out of excuses to be anything but merry and bright. Know of any other great festivities going on here in Jacksonville? Let us know in the comments below or tag us on social using #JAXFray or #FrayLife.

If you’re looking for even more events going on this month here in Jax, look no further. Here’s a full list of all Jacksonville’s happenings this December.

View More Articles By Breonna Quash

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