Tallahassee Gears Up for 38th Annual Winter Festival
TALLAHASSEE, FL – The city is set to sparkle as it hosts the 38th annual Winter Festival, a grand celebration of lights, music, and the arts, on Saturday, December 7, from 3 PM to 10 PM. This popular event is expected to attract more than 100,000 visitors to downtown Tallahassee, locally renowned as a vibrant hub for festivities.
What to Expect
The festival promises a festive atmosphere featuring a stroll down Candy Cane Lane, where attendees can immerse themselves in holiday cheer. There will be four stages of live entertainment showcasing a variety of performances throughout the day. Food enthusiasts can delight in a diverse array of delicious treats from numerous food vendors, making it an event for all ages.
Key Events and Timings
A highlight of the festival will be the lighting ceremony at 6 PM on the Parade Judge’s Platform, located on South Monroe Street at Bloxham Park. This moment will kick off a series of exciting activities. Immediately after the lights illuminate the downtown area at 6:15 PM, thousands of runners donned in festive attire will participate in the Capital Health Plan Jingle Bell Run. This spirited race will wind through the heart of downtown, concluding at Park Avenue and Monroe Street.
The night of celebration continues with the Nighttime Holiday Parade, scheduled to begin at 7:15 PM. Sponsored by the City of Tallahassee Electric and Gas Utility, the parade will feature over 60 entries and will march along Monroe Street from Tennessee Street to Apalachee Parkway, ensuring a festive spectacle filled with holiday spirit.
Parking and Road Closures
Those planning to attend are encouraged to arrive early, as traffic may become congested. Paid parking will be available at the Kleman Plaza parking garage and another garage at 215 South Calhoun Street. Meanwhile, free on-street parking options will be accessible, except where roads are closed for the event.
Road closures will begin at 7 AM on December 7 along Adams Street (between Call and Jefferson streets) and along the Chain of Parks. Event staging will occur on Monroe Street from Brevard to Tennessee Streets, with intersections shut from 4 PM to 11 PM. Both the holiday parade and the Jingle Bell Run routes will experience closures from 5 PM to 11 PM. Detour roads will include Brevard, Bronough, Gadsden, and Gaines Streets.
Additional Information
For those reliant on public transportation, adjustments to StarMetro’s Saturday routes are expected. Commuters are advised to check with StarMetro for specific detour information.
The Winter Festival is coordinated by the City of Tallahassee’s Parks, Recreation, and Neighborhood Affairs Department (PRNA). Anyone seeking more details about the event, including road closures and parking options, can visit Talgov.com or contact PRNA at 850-891-3866.
With its enchanting displays and festive events, the annual Winter Festival is poised to bring bright holiday cheer to all who attend.
