Contrary to popular belief, Tallahassee isn't so bad during the holidays. There's tons of lights, celebrations, and special nights that are fun for all ages. Tallahassee has tons to offer, and aside from your possible homesickness, it makes for a really good holiday break. It might not snow here, but the city is still just as beautiful for a night on the town with that special someone, accompanied by some hot chocolate and a warm blanket. So-- staying in town for the break? Just want to have some holiday fun? Here are 8 fun holiday adventures to experience in Tally!
1. Seeing the Lights at Dorothy B. Oven.
If you have never been to Dorothy B. Oven, you have not seen some of the beautiful nature Tallahassee has to offer. During the holidays, they completely decorate the park with Christmas lights and give out hot chocolate, hot apple cider, and have carolers singing throughout the park. It's like our version of Central Park -- just like in the movies!
2. Ice Skating at the Centre of Tallahassee.
All of my fellow native Tallahassians know this place better as the Tallahassee Mall, but since being revamped, the Centre of Tallahassee has created a (fake) ice skating rink. Though it runs you about $10 an hour, you can experience something you'll never see here in Florida otherwise!
3. Rollerskating.
Want a warm place to come and enjoy some fun? Skate World is the place for you! There's no ice, but it's a great place to enjoy your perfect Christmas time date. There is food, skating, fun, and is a family facility that really brings out your inner kid again!
4. The Celebration of Lights/Jingle Bell Run.
Next Saturday, December 3rd, there is the annual Jingle Bell Run and Celebration of Lights happening right down the street from campus. If you can't enjoy other holiday treats, at least make it to this one. This parade is one you'll never forget, and the tree lighting ceremony is absolutely a must see.
5. Local Christmas Shopping.
There are plenty of really amazing and fun boutiques here in Tally that are great for some of your Christmas shopping needs. If you're shopping for a lady in your life, try checking out Loli & the Bean, or even M&M Monogramming. If you're shopping for that special guy, check out Nic's Toggery!
6. LeMoyne Center for the Visual Arts.
This one is for all you art lovers. Aside from the home-based art collections they display, at their annual holiday show they also set up plenty of lights and Christmas trees with beautifully hand-made ornaments hanging from them. From hand blown ornaments to figurines, they've got the one you might be looking to put on yours at home!
7. The Nutcracker Ballet.
Whether you love dance performances or not, this is an annual tradition for locals to attend. Every year, the Tallahassee ballet puts on their Nutcracker ballet performance and it never fails to impress the audience. Check out their website for dates, times, and tickets!
8. Southwood Light Show.
Southwood always has always been considered one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in town, and their Christmas displays are no different. It was a tradition for my family to go and view their light show every Christmas Eve, so if you will be in town until then, go and enjoy some holiday cheer and excitement at their light displays!
Whether it be through art, the beauty of Christmas, or even through a little retail therapy -- Tallahassee has you covered to get you in the holiday spirit this season!
