It truly ’tis the season to experience the magic of Christmas — literally, as of this week, unless you’re one of the Christmas-tree early birds (and hey, no harm in that).
We gave you a sneak peek at this year’s Enchanted Christmas Village in our Holiday Events Guide, and the fantastical family event kicks off this Friday, December 1 with the official arrival of Santa Claus.
Set in the most beautiful backdrop of Ponte Vedra’s Hope Pavilion, the Enchanted Christmas Village runs through December 23 and includes can’t-miss holiday highlights such as:
A million Christmas lights illuminating the Village, including a breathtaking fully animated Christmas tree lighting performance which takes place every hour, bringing the 30-foot tall tree to life.
Enjoy High Tea with the Claus Family, as Santa, Mrs. Claus and several of their very own North Pole Elves join your family for a delicious tea event inside the Enchanted Custom Igloo, which includes mini sandwiches, Christmas sweets and holiday beverages. Storytelling by Mrs. Claus herself is just one of the many fun and exciting activities you and your children can enjoy. Space is limited for the High Tea events, so purchase your tickets early!
Families and friends can also enjoy a wagon ride through the Enchanted Trail, as well as bounce houses, face art, a Mistletoe Gazebo, various musical guests and more, including photo opportunities with the one and only Santa Claus through North Pole Photography!
Located inside the Pavilion, the Crafts and Marketplace will be on hand for the adults to enjoy, featuring unique craft and gift shops, cookie decorating sponsored by Publix, gingerbread-house building and more. Also inside the barn lies the Ginger Bread Village, gorgeous designer Christmas trees, a sweet shop and more!
Christmas Karaoke, a Lip-Sync Contest, a Christmas Pajama Party and an Ugly Sweater Contest and other special events are also in store for Christmas-lovers of all ages.
Visit JacksonvilleChristmas.com for a full list of events and to purchase general admission tickets.
How is parking?
We were so excited to attend this as we have never been. I have to say we were disappointed. The lights were great, we enjoyed the hay ride, but it is way over priced for what you get. We spent 45 minutes here and that was it. The kids were done and ready to go. I was legitimately shocked when we got off the hay ride and realized that was it. Everyone was very nice and we liked it, but it is not worth the amount they charge in my opinion. I do have older kids ages 7 & 10 so maybe that is why we went through very quickly?