Spend Winter on the Water in Jacksonville

The holidays are coming and family-friendly, fun events fill the calendar this season in Jacksonville.

Experience holiday extravaganzas, dazzling boat parades, extraordinary light displays and much more. Find out why everyone wants to spend their “Winter On The Water” in Jacksonville with these events that will surely get you in the holiday spirit!

Holiday Events You Can't Miss

Deck the Chairs

November 25, 2026-January 1, 2027
A holiday tradition like no other takes place at Seawalk Pavilion in Jacksonville Beach! Check out the incredibly decorated lifeguard stands on display and watch holiday performances at Deck the Chairs.

Christmas Made in the South

November 27-29
Get started on your holiday shopping at the Prime F. Osborn Convention Center at the annual Christmas Made in the South event.

Jacksonville Light Boat Parade

November 28
The Jacksonville Light Boat Parade will be held Saturday, November 28, 2026 on the St. Johns River. Vessels of all shapes and sizes adorn their hulls with festive decorations as they float along the north and south banks of the St. Johns River.

TaxSlayer Gator Bowl

December 30
This annual college football game is held at EverBank Stadium in Downtown, attracting thousands of visitors. Come experience the excitement as the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl treats fans to one of the most exciting college bowl games.

New Year’s Eve Celebration

December 31
The City of Jacksonville invites you to say goodbye to 2026 and welcome in the New Year at the annual New Year's Eve Fireworks. The waterfront and skyline will serve as a backdrop for this amazing display over the St. Johns River. Fireworks will begin at exactly midnight.

Best Light Displays

Deck the Chairs

November 25, 2026-January 1, 2027
A Christmas tradition like no other takes place at Seawalk Pavilion in Jacksonville Beach! Check out the incredibly decorated lifeguard stands on display and watch holiday performances.

Blackhawk Bluff Christmas Lights Display

TBD
One of the best lights displays in North Florida with the entire neighborhood decorated in lights. You can drive through the Christmas lights display on Sunday thru Thursday 6 to 10 pm and Friday & Saturday 6 to 11 pm.

Riverside Avondale Luminaria

December 20, 2026
Now in its 42nd year, Luminaria is one of the premier holiday events in the Riverside Avondale communities. Since 1984, friends and neighbors have come together to light up the sidewalks as a way to socialize and commemorate the season.