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Tallahassee Winter Festival
Tallahassee, FL
A celebration of lights, music, and arts with a parade and holiday displays.
About
Experience the magic of the 39th annual Tallahassee Winter Festival, a vibrant celebration of lights, music, and the arts. This beloved downtown event transforms the city into a festive wonderland with live entertainment across four stages, delicious food vendors, and unique arts and crafts merchants. Don't miss the enchanting Lighting Ceremony, the spirited Jingle Bell Run, and the dazzling Nighttime Holiday Parade. Candy Cane Lane offers a magical stroll through holiday displays, with a special children's activity area featuring holiday movies.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, and individuals seeking festive holiday entertainment.
Vibe
Festive, magical, community-oriented, celebratory.
Energy Level
Moderate to high, with walking and standing involved.
Budget
Free To Attend, With Costs For Food, Crafts, And The Jingle Bell Run.
Photo Friendly
High, with numerous light displays and festive activities.
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate, as some activities are outdoors.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Duration
3-7 hours per day
Ages
Family friendly
Schedule
Saturday, December 6, 2025 β’ 3 - 10 p.m. β’ Downtown. Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. Capital Health Plan Jingle Bell Run begins at 6:15 p.m. Nighttime Holiday Parade begins at 7:10 p.m. Candy Cane Lane opens Dec 6, 3-10pm, and nightly through Dec 19, 6-9pm (later on Dec 12-13).
Organizer
City of Tallahassee Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Affairs
Practical Information
Parking
Traffic will be heavy and many roads will be closed. StarMetroβs Saturday routes will be impacted. Patrons attending Winter Festival are encouraged to arrive early.
Accessibility
https://www.talgov.com/Main/accessibility
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Food & Drink
Food vendors available
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to navigate potential road closures and heavy traffic, and to secure a good viewing spot for the parade and lighting ceremony.
- Check the event website for specific road closure details and detour routes to plan your arrival and departure efficiently.
- Bring a blanket or chairs for comfortable viewing of the Lighting Ceremony and the Nighttime Holiday Parade.
- Explore Candy Cane Lane in McCarty Park after dark for a magical holiday stroll, and check the schedule for extended hours.
- Consider utilizing public transportation options, though be aware that StarMetro Saturday routes may be impacted by the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main attractions at the Winter Festival?
The festival features live entertainment on four stages, food vendors, arts and crafts, holiday displays like Candy Cane Lane, a Lighting Ceremony, the Jingle Bell Run, and a Nighttime Holiday Parade.
Is there anything for children to do?
Yes, there is a dedicated children's activity area on Kleman Plaza that will show family-friendly holiday movies from 6 PM to 10 PM.
When does Candy Cane Lane open?
Candy Cane Lane opens on December 6 from 3 PM to 10 PM and continues nightly through December 19, from 6 PM to 9 PM (with later hours on December 12-13).
What is the Jingle Bell Run?
The Jingle Bell Run is a 1.53-mile fun run/walk that takes place before the Winter Festival Parade on Saturday, December 6, at 6:15 PM.
What should I do about parking and traffic?
Traffic will be heavy and many roads will be closed. It is highly recommended to arrive early. Check the event website for specific road closure and detour information.