Hometown Holidays: Christmas Fun in Putnam County, FL
It’s almost that time of year when we put on our cozy pajamas, curl up with some hot chocolate, and binge watch all of our favorite Hallmark Christmas movies. While it’s great to get whisked away to a small-town Christmas daydream for two hours at a time, it’s even better to actually get to visit one of those settings. Luckily, there’s a place to find that warm holiday spirit you’re seeking. Putnam County offers that nostalgic, hometown Christmas feeling and goes all out during this time of year.
With lights, parades, markets, and more, Putnam County is one of the best places in Florida to visit during Christmas. The Sunshine State may not be known for snow and ice, but even though we don’t expect a white Christmas here, you’ll even have the chance to ice skate. Putnam County gets the seal of approval from both Santa and the Grinch – and yes, they’ll both be visiting this Christmas season, too.
The Christmas festivities kick off before you’ve even finished your Thanksgiving leftovers. Here are a few of the best ways to celebrate the magic of the season when visiting Putnam County.
November 28th - December 21st (Thursday - Sunday)
December 22nd - 24th (Monday - Wednesday)
11:00 am - 10:00 pm
FREE
120 South 7th Street, Palatka, FL 32177
The Historic Coca-Cola Bottling Building (Located in the same building as Azalea City Brewing Company)
You’ve heard about the Christmas markets in Europe, and now you have the chance to feel the same ambience, but without the jetlag. This upscale, cozy shopping experience starts right after Thanksgiving and goes through Christmas Eve. Enjoy live entertainment, photo opportunities, and yummy holiday treats, while you walk among the Christmas chalets and shop for unique gifts made by authentic, local artisans. If you don’t want to wrap your gifts, you can even take advantage of onsite gift wrapping.
November 28th
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
FREE
St. Johns Avenue, Downtown Palatka
In one of the most anticipated events of the season, the longest-running Christmas parade in the area has a plethora of participants who wind their way through Palatka’s downtown. This is the 115th year of this parade, and it’s always a great way to kick off the season. Stick around after the parade, too. Santa will be hanging out and will be there to greet all of the kiddos.
December 6th
9:00 am - 2:00 pm
FREE
Putnam County Courthouse
410 St. Johns Avenue Palatka, FL 32177
The grounds of the Putnam County Courthouse transform into a fun and festive experience for the Palatka Farmers Market, and brings together a variety of local vendors who showcase their handmade creations. The December market will have a holiday theme, and the Grinch himself will even be in attendance.
December 6th
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
FREE with park admission ($5 per car, $2 walk-in)
Ravine Gardens State Park
1600 Twigg Street Palatka, FL 32177
In one of the most festive competitions of the Christmas season, Ravine Gardens will be hosting a gingerbread house contest. Build yours at home, and bring it out on December 6th to be judged. Then stay and enjoy a day of Christmas fun in the park with vendors, music, Christmas crafts for the kits, food trucks, and more.
Palatka Porchfest Music Festival
December 6th
11:00 am - 7:00 pm
FREE
South Historic Neighborhood
Grand Gables Bed and Breakfast (Main Stage)
603 Emmett Street Palatka, FL 32177
The street is blocked off for one of the area’s most unique music festivals. The opening act and headliner will both play on the porch of the spectacular Grand Gables Bed and Breakfast, while other musicians will play throughout the day on other porches in the South Historic Neighborhood. Visitors can enjoy food and beer while listening to a wide variety of genres – including Celtic and Cajun Zydeco. There will be local artisans there as well, and this is another great spot to shop for unique Christmas gifts.
December 6th
12:00 pm - 5:00 pm
FREE
Eva Lyon Park
100 South Summit Street Crescent City, FL 32112
The day starts with a parade at noon, and then leads into a day of fun that includes a holiday market, music, food, and carolers. Once the sun sets, the entire park will sparkle with thousands of lights while visitors enjoy cookies and hot cocoa. This is also the perfect opportunity to meet Santa – he’s known to make an appearance every year. The park will light up every night until February, but there’s nothing quite like being there when they flip the switch and officially kick off Christmas.
December 11th - December 14th
5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
$10 admission (Ages 4 and under are free)
Putnam County Fairgrounds and Expo Center
118 Fairgrounds Road East Palatka, FL 32131
See the Putnam County Fairgrounds lit up like never before as you take a walk through Christmas Light Lane. Enjoy live Nativity displays and make your way to Santa’s Village where you can have your picture taken with Santa. There will also be ice skating, food trucks, vendors, games, and children’s Christmas crafts.
December 20th
10:00 am
FREE with park admission ($5 per car, $2 walk-in)
Ravine Gardens State Park1600 Twigg Street Palatka, FL 32177
Bring the family out to the Historic Garden Club within the park and enjoy storytime with a reading of a holiday favorite – How the Grinch Stole Christmas. There will also be caroling, a live pianist, and refreshments.
Putnam County brings the magic of Christmas to life unlike any other place in Florida, and we can’t wait to welcome you. With so many ways to celebrate, plan to stay a few days to make the most of the season. You’ll find a variety of accommodations, and plenty to keep you busy. Download the Visit Putnam FL app for Apple or Android to learn more about all of the great things to do in our piece of paradise.