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?️ Weather update: the event is still happening! Due to the rain, we will be moving inside the building and lighting the giant tree. The outdoor performances have been canceled, but the Santa meet & greet, holiday crafts, indoor entertainment, refreshment vendors, and horse & carriage rides will continue as planned.-
Experience the magic of the season at the City of Gainesville's annual Holiday Lights Celebration!
Join us for a festive evening of holiday cheer with dazzling lights, seasonal activities, and entertainment for all ages. ?
✨ Full schedule and event map: https://bit.ly/tcholidayprogram25
✨ El programa y el mapa de eventos: https://bit.ly/tcprograma25
✨ Parking Map: https://bit.ly/tcparking25
Date: December 6, 2025
Time: 5–8 p.m.
Location: Historic Thomas Center, 302 NE 6th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601
? Parking: The Thomas Center parking lot is designated for handicap parking only.
General parking is available at:
- Truist Bank (411 N Main St)
- Alachua County Supervisor of Elections (515 N Main St)
- Nearby street parking
Event highlights:
Garden lighting at 6 p.m.
Santa Claus Meet and Greet beginning at 6 p.m.
Holiday kids craft activities
Lighted tree
Horse and carriage rides
Luminarias
Live entertainment indoors all night long!
This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be available for purchase from Honey Nitro and Watts Bakery.
The horse and carriage rides are free and rain or shine. The sign-up line will open at 4:30 p.m. with the first ride at 5 p.m. You will be given a wristband with a time to return for your ride.
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Event brought to you by the City of Gainesville, the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department.
Luminarias courtesy of the Duckpond Neighborhood Association.
Holiday décor courtesy of the Thomas Center Associates.
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Event Venue
The Historic Thomas Center, 302 NE 6th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601-5234, United States
Tickets
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.