MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – Enjoy a festive weekend with plenty of holiday cheer and seasonal celebrations. From festivals and parades to Santa greetings for pups and people alike, this weekend’s events include something for everyone. Here are fun-filled jolly activities happening in the 352.
Santa Paws
- What: The Humane Society of Marion County joins forces with Scenthound and Sensational Selfies to invite pet lovers to join Santa and Mrs. Claus for a puppy photo shoot where guests can get photos of their pups with the iconic Christmas character with multiple photo packages available for purchase.
- When: Friday, Dec. 12 from 5-8 p.m.
- Where: Citizen’s Circle, 151 SE Broadway St., Ocala.
- Cost: $15 for one 5×7 image or $25 for two, $15 for a keychain and three wallet-size images, $30 for a keychain, two 5×7 images and a magnet sleeve and $5 to add a magnet sleeve to any purchase. All packages come with a digital copy.
Learn more here.
After Dark in the Park: “Elf”
- What: Join the community for a screening of the comedy Christmas classic, “Elf.” Purchasable concessions will be available at the park such as popcorn and soda. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for a comfortable viewing experience.
- When: Friday, Dec. 12 starting at 7 p.m.
- Where: Tuscawilla Park, 800 NE Sanches Ave., Ocala.
- Cost: Free to attend.
Learn more here.
3rd Annual Cookies with Santa
- What: Florida Advantage Reality Groups invites the community to the new location of Cookies with Santa where guests can get photos with Santa, enjoy fresh cookies and sip on classic hot cocoa while supplies last for holiday cheer and festive fun.
- When: Saturday, Dec. 13 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
- Where: Midtown Station, 235 NE Watula Ave., Ocala.
- Cost: Free to attend.
Learn more here.
70th Annual Ocala Parade
- What: Friends of the Ocala Christmas Parade invite the community to the 70th Annual Ocala Christmas Parade, which will be livestreamed to Marion County Public Schools YouTube channel. The theme this year will be “Christmas Through the Decades” as parade takes off from SE 25th Ave. and Fort King St. and travel through Silver Springs Boulevard to Tuscawilla Park.
- When: Saturday, Dec. 13 starting at 5:30 p.m.
- Where: The parade will take off from SE 25th Ave. and Fort King St., Ocala.
- Cost: Free to attend.
Learn more here.
Holly Jolly Arts and Crafts Festival
- What: Lake Sumter Landing will be host to the holiday arts and crafts festival featuring handcrafted items from a variety of vendors. Live entertainment will be featured throughout the day for festive touch for guests walking through the area. The two-day event will be a jolly opportunity to find last-minute gifts for friends and family.
- When: Saturday, Dec. 13 and Sunday, Dec. 14 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Where: Lake Sumter Landing Market Square, 1000 Lake Sumter Landing, The Villages.
- Cost: Free to attend.
Learn more here.
Brunch and Bubbles with Santa
- What: Enjoy brunch at Eaton Beach and get a photo with Santa at a decorated photo station. Santa’s elves will be walking around, guiding guests and assisting Santa. A kids’ activity table will be present to help occupy children and pass the time.
- When: Sunday, Dec. 14 from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
- Where: Eaton Beach’s Sandbar & Grill, 15790 SE 134th Ave., Weirsdale.
- Cost: Free to attend with priority to brunch guests.
Learn more here.