Light Up Ocala & Christmas Events
Celebrate the holiday season with festive events, Christmas lights, parades, and family-friendly festivities throughout Ocala and Marion County
Holiday Season in Ocala
Ocala and Marion County celebrate the Christmas season with numerous festive events, holiday lights, parades, shopping, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. From December through early January, the area transforms with holiday spirit and seasonal cheer.
Whether you're seeking holiday entertainment, Christmas shopping, festive dining, or family celebrations, Ocala offers diverse holiday experiences for everyone to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year.
Main Holiday Events
Light Up Ocala and the Christmas Parade are downtown Ocala's signature holiday celebrations, typically held the first Saturday of December. Additional events include the Christmas Light Spectacular at Florida Horse Park and World Equestrian Center holiday programming throughout the season.
December is peak holiday season in Ocala, with multiple celebrations, special shopping events, holiday markets, and festive activities available throughout Marion County.
Major Holiday Events in Ocala
Light Up Ocala
Ocala's premier holiday celebration held downtown, typically on the first Saturday of December. Features festive lights, holiday entertainment, Santa visits, vendor booths, food, and community celebration.
This beloved family event transforms downtown Ocala into a winter wonderland with holiday spirit, making it the perfect holiday outing for all ages.
Ocala Christmas Parade
The Ocala Christmas Parade is typically part of the Light Up Ocala celebration, held in early December. Features parade floats, marching bands, holiday displays, and festive entertainment.
This cherished holiday tradition draws families and community members to downtown Ocala to celebrate the Christmas season together with holiday cheer and festive pageantry.
Christmas Light Spectacular
Held at Florida Horse Park, this holiday attraction features Christmas light displays, festive entertainment, holiday shopping, food vendors, and family activities in a unique equestrian setting.
The Christmas Light Spectacular provides a distinctive holiday experience celebrating the season in a beautiful outdoor venue with holiday magic and attractions.
Holiday Activities & Experiences
Christmas Shopping & Markets
Ocala offers excellent holiday shopping opportunities including downtown boutiques, shopping malls, holiday markets, specialty gift shops, and seasonal pop-up vendors. Support local businesses during the holiday season.
- •Downtown holiday shopping areas
- •Holiday gift fairs and markets
- •Specialty and local boutiques
- •Unique gifts and local artisan items
Holiday Dining & Dining Specials
Ocala's restaurants offer holiday menus, festive specials, Christmas events, and special dining experiences. From casual family dinners to elegant holiday celebrations, dining options abound.
- •Holiday menu specials and festive dishes
- •Holiday dinner and celebration packages
- •Holiday happy hours and promotions
- •Family-friendly and upscale options
Holiday Entertainment & Performances
Ocala features holiday concerts, theatre productions, holiday performances at venues like Reilly Arts Center, and festive entertainment throughout the season. Celebrate with music, dance, and cultural performances.
- •Holiday concerts and musical performances
- •Christmas theatre productions
- •Holiday performances at cultural venues
- •Community celebrations and pageants
Family Activities & Traditions
Create lasting holiday memories with family-friendly activities including visit Santa, holiday light displays, ice skating (where available), holiday festivals, and festive attractions.
- •Meet Santa and holiday characters
- •Holiday light viewing and tours
- •Holiday festivals and fairs
- •Seasonal attractions and activities
World Equestrian Center & Venue Holiday Events
World Equestrian Center Holiday Programming
World Equestrian Center hosts holiday events and seasonal programming throughout December. These unique venue celebrations take advantage of the beautiful equestrian facility and spectacular grounds.
- •Holiday shopping and boutique offerings
- •Holiday exhibitions and demonstrations
- •Equestrian performances and activities
- •Family-friendly holiday entertainment
Planning Your Visit
Check World Equestrian Center's events calendar for specific holiday programming dates and details. Hours and activities vary seasonally, and advance planning ensures you don't miss special events.
- →Visit website for current holiday events
- →Check hours before visiting
- →Reserve tickets for special events in advance
- →Follow social media for holiday announcements
Holiday Planning Tips for Ocala
Best Time to Visit Events
- →Light Up Ocala: First Saturday of December
- →Christmas Parade: Early December downtown
- →Christmas Light Spectacular: November through December
- →Holiday shopping: November and December
- →Arrive early for popular events to secure parking
Helpful Information
- ✓Check event websites for exact dates and times
- ✓Plan transportation and parking in advance
- ✓Dress warmly for December celebrations
- ✓Many events are free or have low admission costs
- ✓Support local businesses during holiday shopping
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Light Up Ocala?
Light Up Ocala is Ocala's annual holiday celebration and Christmas parade held in downtown Ocala. Typically held on the first Saturday of December, this beloved family event features festive lights, holiday entertainment, Santa Claus meet-and-greets, vendor activities, food, and community celebration of the Christmas season throughout the downtown Broadway and Central Street area.
When is the Ocala Christmas Parade?
The Ocala Christmas Parade is typically held in early December, often as part of the Light Up Ocala celebration. The parade usually takes place on the first Saturday of December. Specific dates vary year to year, so check local event calendars and the City of Ocala website for the exact parade date and time for the current year.
Where are Christmas lights in Ocala?
Christmas lights are displayed throughout downtown Ocala during the Light Up Ocala event. Additionally, the Christmas Light Spectacular at Florida Horse Park offers holiday light displays and attractions. Many residential neighborhoods throughout Ocala also feature festive holiday decorations. Check local tourism websites for holiday light locations and display hours.
What is the Christmas Light Spectacular at Florida Horse Park?
The Christmas Light Spectacular at Florida Horse Park is a seasonal holiday attraction featuring Christmas light displays, festive entertainment, holiday shopping, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. This attraction typically opens in November and runs through December, providing a unique equestrian venue holiday experience.
Does World Equestrian Center do Christmas events?
Yes, World Equestrian Center hosts holiday events and seasonal celebrations during December. These may include holiday shopping opportunities, festive decorations, special programming, and equestrian exhibitions. Check World Equestrian Center's events calendar and website for specific holiday events, dates, and activities for the current season.
Are there free Christmas events in Ocala?
Yes, many Christmas events in Ocala are free or low-cost, including Light Up Ocala celebrations in downtown, the Christmas Parade, and holiday activities in public spaces. Some venues charge admission for special attractions like the Christmas Light Spectacular. Check individual event details for admission information and free family activities.
What other holiday events are in Marion County?
Marion County offers numerous holiday celebrations throughout November and December including holiday festivals, Christmas markets, church events, shopping specials, tree lighting ceremonies, holiday performances, and community celebrations. Check local event calendars, tourism websites, and community center programs for a complete list of holiday events.