Winter Wonders & Festive Lights: Embracing the Holiday Season in West Volusia

Winter Wonders & Festive Lights: Embracing the Holiday Season in West Volusia

The holiday season is one of the most enchanting times to visit West Volusia. From historic downtown streets decked in lights to festive performances, craft fairs, and family traditions, December brings out the very best of this vibrant community.

Holiday Entertainment

Holiday entertainment takes center stage throughout December, beginning with Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn at the historic Athens Theatre now through December 14. This heartwarming production dazzles with classic songs, festive dance numbers, and timeless charm. The theatre continues its holiday lineup with Christmas Swing featuring the Great American Big Band (December 17) and Stars of Broadway, Voices of Tomorrow (December 19). On December 21, the always-captivating Phantasmagoria troupe returns with A Very Dickens Christmas, bringing Charles Dickens’ spirited tales to life.

A woman standing in front of a christmas tree

Seasonal Traditions and Local Markets

Seasonal traditions also shine throughout West Volusia’s historic sites. CoolCraft Christmas (now–December 31) invites visitors on a festive tasting tour of breweries, coffee shops, wineries, and cocktail lounges—each offering a holiday-themed drink. The Mistletoe March (December 1–January 2) turns Downtown DeLand into a playful scavenger hunt for toy soldiers, while Jingle and Mingle at Artisan Alley (December 11) offers an evening of shopping, sales, and live excitement. For a glimpse into Christmases past, guests can enjoy DeLand House Candlelight Tours (December 12–13) or explore the beautifully illuminated halls of DeBary Hall during its Holiday Candlelight Tours (December 19–20).

Family-Friendly Holiday Events

December brings a full slate of family favorites as well. A Florida Christmas Remembered at Barberville Pioneer Settlement (December 13) features living history demonstrations, music, vendors, and Santa. Families can enjoy multiple “Breakfast with Santa” events, crafts and photos at “Selfies with Santa,” and the always-popular DeLand Christmas Boat Parade on the St. Johns River (December 13). The Lake Helen Christmas Home Tour, holiday craft fairs, and Grinch Fest add even more small-town charm.

A person sitting at a table in front of a building

Festive Outdoor Activities

Outdoor enthusiasts can lace up for festive fitness events including the Deltona Jingle Jog 5K (December 21) and the Holiday Stress Buster 5K in Lake Helen (December 24). Visitors can also enjoy special teas, markets, and holiday workshops throughout the season.

Ring in the New Year in West Volusia

The festivities culminate on New Year’s Eve with parties at The Center at Deltona and Café DaVinci—both offering dinner, music, and plenty of celebration as West Volusia rings in 2026.

For a complete list of events, check the VisitWestVolusia.com Calendar of Events and make your holiday getaway one to remember.

WEST VOLUSIA COUNTY VISITOR CENTER
116 W. New York Avenue in Downtown DeLand, FL
VisitWestVolusia.com | (386) 734-0162

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