As the year comes to a close, West Volusia is just getting started. Whether you’re experiencing the magic of CoolCraft Christmas, admiring the grandeur of one of the “Top 10 Best Attractions in the US,” or joining an enchanting Candlelight Tour, this is your chance to discover the events that make the season unforgettable. Explore the guide to the best of West Volusia’s holiday celebrations and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Join the Fall Country Jamboree at Barberville
Forget Disney’s Country Bear Jamboree—this is the real deal, without the Bears! The 49th Annual Fall Country Jamboree at Barberville Pioneer Settlement, happening on November 1st and 2nd, offers an authentic taste of Florida’s rich history and folk culture. Dive into pioneer life with historical demonstrations, reenactments, and artisan showcases. Enjoy live performances by Florida musicians, participate in hands-on activities for children, and savor delicious Florida Cracker-style food. It’s a two-day festival that celebrates tradition and family fun in Central Florida!
Check Out the Fall Festival of the Arts – DeLand
One of the biggest fall events in West Volusia, the Fall Festival of the Arts – DeLand, takes over Downtown DeLand the weekend before Thanksgiving on November 22 and 23. This vibrant festival brings together both established and emerging artists to showcase imaginative and juried artwork. Stroll through the creative hub, interact with artists, and enjoy live performances within DeLand’s lively artistic community. The family-friendly event features activities that inspire young minds, along with local cuisine from restaurants, pubs, and wine bars. Don’t miss out on this celebration of creativity and culture!
Go for a Run with the Central Florida Legends
Celebrating its seventh year, the Central Florida Legends is the annual marathon, half marathon, and 5K that takes over Gemini Springs and the Spring-to-Spring Trail. Held this year on November 23, the races guide runners along paved trails, roads, and parks that showcase the natural beauty and old-Florida charm of West Volusia. All participants receive a custom race T-shirt, finisher medal, and access to the post-race celebration. Stick around after your run for the Legendary Tailgate Party at the finish line!
Have a Very Merry CoolCraft Christmas
West Volusia Tourism’s award-winning Beverage Trail gets a festive makeover with CoolCraft Christmas! Throughout December, this beloved event brings holiday cheer to West Volusia with a special selection of beverages crafted to celebrate the season. Explore seasonal drinks, from spiced ales and festive cocktails to winter-themed coffees and hot chocolates. Each beverage is inspired by the spirit of the holidays, making it the perfect way to enjoy the season’s magic. Join us for a merry month of taste sensations and holiday festivities, and experience why CoolCraft Christmas is a must-visit event for beverage enthusiasts and holiday lovers alike.
Light Up DeLand
Experience the magic of the holidays at the award-winning Light Up DeLand festival, an event straight out of a Hallmark movie! As you stroll through the charming, light-filled streets of DeLand’s acclaimed MainStreet community, warm up with a mug of hot cocoa and soak in the festive atmosphere. But the highlight of the evening? Santa Claus himself skydiving out of an airplane to make his grand entrance! Thousands gather to witness this thrilling spectacle, culminating in Santa lighting up the Christmas tree. Mark your calendars for December 5th, 2024, and bring the whole family to enjoy this unforgettable new holiday tradition.
A Spectacular Display at the Stetson Mansion
Step into the grandeur of the Christmas Mansion for 2024 “Christmas Spectacular!” at Stetson Mansion in DeLand. Built in 1886 for famed hat maker and philanthropist John B. Stetson, this winter retreat was the only richly detailed “Gilded Age” mansion built in Florida. Now rescued, restored and updated, its current residents are carrying on the tradition of extravagant displays with an event that has been named among the “Top 10 Christmas Homes” by Bob Vila, “Best Holiday Home Tours in America” in the USA TODAY’s “10Best” Readers’ Choice Awards and among the
“Top 10 Best Attractions in the US” by TripAdvisor. Guided and Self-guided tours of Stetson Mansion Christmas Spectacular include 10 room themes with over-the-top decorations of elegant and reverent displays which complement the mansion’s rich architectural details. The 60-75-minute tours are held multiple times a day from November 1, 2025, through January 18, 2026.
Holiday Candlelight Tours at DeBary Hall
Experience the magic of the season at DeBary Hall Historic Site, where candlelight fills the 19th-century mansion with a warm glow that highlights its historic charm and festive décor. Guests are invited to enjoy an open-style evening tour through the beautifully adorned rooms, featuring sparkling trees, elegant wreaths, and timeless holiday touches. Once the winter retreat of the prominent DeBary family, the mansion offers a nostalgic glimpse into Christmases past in one of West Volusia’s most treasured landmarks.
More information on West Volusia County can be picked up in the Visitor Center located at 116 W. New York Avenue in Downtown DeLand, FL or can be found online at www.visitwestvolusia.com. Please call 386-734-0162 for more information.