Just 30 miles west of Orlando, Lake County has charming holiday traditions that locals look forward to every year. We are inviting you to join in the festivities all December long and immerse yourself in Lake County’s small-town spirit.
Seasonal Celebrations & Parades
Mount Dora’s annual Christmas Walk, held on the first Friday in December, is “a celebration of lights, shopping and holiday fun” for all ages. This free, family-friendly event features street performers, pictures with Santa, and extended hours for downtown shops. Also in Mount Dora, families flock each year to the annual Snow in the Park, where you can go snow sledding in Florida! Local insider tip: You can get a sledding “fast pass” by donating an unwrapped toy.
When it comes to parades, small towns show up and show out! Holiday spirit and community pride will be on full display in early December. Groups ranging from local high school bands to civic groups to karate clubs will march through the streets of Lake County.
The Clermont Christmas Parade begins at Waterfront Park and passes through the historic downtown. While you’re in Clermont, visit the Enchanted Forest of Trees with more than 70 trees decorated by local organizations.
The Tavares Christmas Parade is the opening act to the city’s downtown celebration, which includes live entertainment, “snowstorms,” visits from Santa, and more.
The theme of Leesburg’s Christmas Festival and Parade is the “Gift of Christmas.” Festival goers will enjoy holiday shopping, ice skating, and surprise sightings of the Grinch and Elf on the Shelf.
Holiday Concerts
Holiday music is an intrinsic part of tradition in big cities and small towns alike. The sounds of the season can be heard in the area’s concert halls and performing arts venues.
The city of Mount Dora has invited the Stetson University Symphony Orchestra to perform a special holiday concert in Donnelly Park. Woodlands Lutheran Church, a local church in the small town of Montverde, will present a Messiah Concert featuring the Opera Orlando Chorus. Admission is free, but donations are suggested.
The historic Howey Mansion is hosting a ticketed concert by pianist Jacob Tolliver titled “Christmas & more.” Guests will see how the mansion would have been decorated for the season in the 1920s.
Lake County is also home to the Clermont Performing Arts Center, which has an entire season of musical acts and variety shows. During the holidays, they host festive shows sure to bring joy to audiences. Singer Scott Keo will perform a Michael Bublé Christmas Tribute, featuring Bublé’s classic songs. Another concert to add to your calendar is the Philharmonic Christmas Orchestral Holiday Celebration with 50 professional musicians. A new addition this year is the Lake Community Choir performing “A Wondrous Revelation,” which promises an inspiring evening of music.
New Year’s Eve
Mount Dora, nicknamed The Festival City, keeps the celebration going right into the new year. Their annual New Year’s Eve Celebration has become a local tradition. This lively street party has live music, games, food, and drinks. The event is free, but you should consider the VIP Experience, which includes a private lounge, catered appetizers, complimentary drinks, and a champagne fountain. Everyone will have a view of the fireworks show over Lake Dora at midnight.
There’s no need to travel to a big city for an extravagant New Year’s celebration. Visitors who enjoy a little luxury can find it here in Lake County. The New Year’s Eve Gala at the Mission Resort + Club has plenty of glitz and glamour. Dress your best and add some intrigue with a mask for this masquerade ball. Guests will ring in the new year with five courses of fine dining, an open bar, live entertainment, and dancing. Stay overnight at the resort by booking the NYE Package for Two.