City Events Bring Holiday Cheer

Published on March 28, 2024

DunedinInsightHoliday

Written by Emily Hoban, Recreation Coordinator
Dunedin Parks & Recreation

As the holiday season approaches, Dunedin Parks & Recreation is proud to usher in a wave of cheer and unity for the local community, following a difficult and challenging hurricane season. Despite the trials that came with the storms, the resilient spirit of Dunedin’s residents is set to shine bright as we celebrate the holiday season. This year, we are more excited than ever to present our annual holiday celebrations and festivities, featuring the beloved Holiday Street Parade and Old Fashioned Christmas.

The holiday magic begins with a Tree Lighting Ceremony at City Hall on December 5th. Although a little different this year, it’s a long-standing tradition that fills the city with warmth and anticipation. This ceremony serves as the starting point for a month of events that bring seasonal cheer and allow everyone to reconnect and share in the spirit of the season. With the lighting of the grand tree, Dunedin transforms into a dazzling holiday destination, inviting everyone to celebrate the season.

Our signature event, the Holiday Street Parade and Old Fashioned Christmas, follows shortly after and is one you won’t want to miss. On Saturday, December 14th the streets of Downtown Dunedin will come alive with a parade full of beautifully decorated floats, spirited marching bands, talented performers, and of course, Santa Claus! This magical procession brings together families and friends, filling the air with excitement as the community gathers to celebrate the joys of the holiday season.

But the festivities don’t end when the parade is over. Downtown transforms you back in time with nostalgic holiday traditions like horse-drawn carriage rides through the streets, surrounded by festive lights and the sounds of Christmas carolers singing classic tunes. Local bands will also perform holiday favorites, bringing a lively energy that fills downtown with the joyous sounds of the season.

There’s no shortage of activities for children either. Little ones can get creative with holiday crafts, glide down snow slides, and experience the thrill of ice skating—a rare treat in Florida! The combination of these activities offers families a chance to make lasting memories and enjoy holiday traditions that feel like something out of a storybook!

The sense of togetherness is at the core of this year’s celebrations. After enduring a tough hurricane season, the residents of Dunedin have shown strength and resilience. Our holiday events are an opportunity to celebrate that spirit, reconnect with one another, and enjoy the season's joys. Dunedin Parks & Recreation is honored to host these events, and we are eager to spread happiness, create memories, and bring our community closer than ever before.

On behalf of the City of Dunedin’s Parks & Recreation Department, I wish you and your family a healthy, happy, and joyous holiday season.

Holiday events to celebrate throughout the month of December:

  • December 5: Tree Lighting Ceremony
  • December 7: Breakfast with Santa
  • December 8: Dunedin Community Chorus Presents: “Holiday Concert”
  • December 11: Santa’s Calling
  • December 15: Dunedin Concert Band Presents: “Holiday Extravaganza”
  • December 20: Kids Night Out–Holly Jolly Holiday Bash

To learn more about Dunedin’s holiday events, please visit www.DunedinGov.com/events.

 

 

 

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