December 1 – January 26, Evenings Night of Lights Trolley Tour – St. Augustine, FL 32084
This trolley tour is a holiday tradition for locals and visitors. The Annual Nights of Lights will brighten up the streets of The Ancient City with holiday flair with more than three million lights. Tickets: $72 per row for four guests. 844.388-6452
December 1- 31, 5:30 – 9:30 pm Colors of the Wild – Jacksonville Zoo, 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218
As the sun sets, the Zoo transforms into a magical wonderland, filled with lively colors and enchanting light. From the towering cherry blossoms of Asia to the native panthers and manatees of Florida, over one thousand lanterns tell a unique story highlighting diverse cultures around the world. Tickets: $27 plus. 904.757.4463
December 2 & 9, 12:45 pm iPhone/iPad Class – St. Johns County Council on Aging River House 79 Marine St,. St. Augustine, FL 32084
Class sessions will focus on different topics with hands on time to instruct participants in learning. The first class session will focus on learning more basics. The second class will provide instruction on the use of the Photos app to organize albums and make slide shows. Fee: $25. 904.209.3700
December 3, 8:00 pm – Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour with Jonathan Butler – Florida Theatre, 128 East Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Celebrate the holidays at the 27th anniversary edition of the longest-running jazz-based Christmas tour. Beginning the next era of this rich musical tradition, Koz and Friends will perform fresh renditions of timeless Christmas classics as well as a Chanukah medley. The tour reunites Koz with long-time musical partner, guitarist/singer Jonathan Butler. Tickets: $59 plus. 904.355.5661
December 7, 6:00 pm Green Cove Springs Christmas Parade
Featuring eighty groups and organizations marching through the city streets, this annual hometown event always makes attendees feel like they’re in a Hallmark Christmas movie. The route starts at the intersection of Houston Street and Highway 17 and will travel south on Highway 17
December 12, 2:30 pm Holiday Cooking Class
Share the holiday spirit and homemade baked goods. Back by popular demand this class is for people who love to bake, or want to learn how. Fee: $20. 904.209.3700
December 13, 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm December 14, 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm Jacksonville Holiday Marketplace
A festive shopping experience to get into the holiday spirit with unique gifts, delicious treats, and fun activities for the family. No cost to attend.
December 14, 7:30 pm & December 15, 3:00 pm Handel’s Messiah
Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 The Jacksonville Symphony is joined by solo voices and the full Jacksonville Symphony Chorus to deliver the uplifting and majestic gift of Handel’s Messiah. Shining with hope, inspiration and sheer joy, its message of faith has brought audiences to their feet since its premiere in 1742. Tickets: $33 plus. 904.354.5547
December 31, 8:00 pm New Years Eve Celebration USS Orleck Naval Museum, Navy Pier 610 East Bay Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Dance the night away with entertainment by Chris Thomas Project. Fireworks, cocktails, and heavy nibbles with the best view in town for ringing in the new year. Attire is dressy casual. No high heels allowed. Tickets: $40 plus. 904.789.7447