Starlight Nights is Winter Haven’s newest Holiday tradition – a festival of lights celebrating the Holidays and the city’s wonderful Historic Downtown District.
Starlight Nights with 22,000 Lights
From December 1 through January 6 visitors can experience the magic of the Holiday’s with over 22,000 lights, extended shopping hours (Thursday – Saturday only), and food and drink specials! Downtown Winter Haven will be lit up from 5:30-10:00PM each night. Decorations will cover the Historic District, from US-17 to Lake Silver, and Central Avenue to 6th Street.
No Holiday festival would be complete without Santa and other magical photo opportunities! In addition to the lights and special appearances, Downtown business owners will be creating magical window displays as part of a window decorating contest. You’ll even find selfie stations in the park.
Holiday Events Happening in Downtown Winter Haven
Shop Small Saturday – November 25, 2023
Main Street Winter Haven proudly hosts Small Business Saturday, a festive event dedicated to supporting the local community. Embraced by the spirit of small businesses this event takes place in Historic Downtown Winter Haven. Check out each business participating with their specials and business hours in the event along with a map HERE!
Tree Lighting – November 30, 2023
The City of Winter Haven in coordination with Main Street Winter Haven will host the City’s Annual Tree Lighting in Central Park located in beautiful Historic Downtown Winter Haven. Enjoy Hunter Smith singing Christmas carols and Holiday hits! The first 100 children will enjoy free hot cocoa from Richard’s Fine Coffee and cookies courtesy of Gourmet Goodies!
- 6-6:30 pm – Enjoy hot Cocoa & Cookies
- 6:30-7 pm – Enjoy live music
- 7 pm – The official countdown for the Tree Lighting with special guests followed by a Holiday sing-a-long
Winter Haven Wonderland – December 1, 2023
The City of Winter Haven is excited to host the 2nd Annual Winter Haven Winter Wonderland. Here, families can visit our food vendors, work on holiday crafts, visit with Santa, and view ‘Frozen’ in Central Park. The crafts station and food trucks open at 6pm, and the movie will begin at 6:30pm.
Carols in the Park – December 2, 2023
The 34th Annual Carols in the Park presented by Citizens Bank and Trust is on December 2nd, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Carols in the Park will keep the holiday tradition alive with local school choirs performing holiday carols. There will be a new attraction – an Artificial Ice Skating Rink!
Starlight Skating – December 2, 2023
Get ready to glide into the holiday spirit as an enchanting ice skating rink arrives in Downtown Winter Haven for two unforgettable days on December 2nd and 3rd! Join the magical experience as the heart of the city is transformed into a winter wonderland, perfect for family fun, a date night, or a cheerful outing with friends. For more details and pricing, click HERE!
Starlight Stroll – December 9, 2023
Experience the magic of the Holiday Season as the city comes alive with twinkling Christmas lights and enchanting window displays. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets adorned with breathtaking lights and Holiday decorations. But that’s not all! As you wander through the illuminated streets, cast your vote for the “People’s Choice” (your favorite) window display. You’ll pick up your map of participating businesses at Main Street Winter Haven’s office at 5:30 pm.
Sidewalk Shopping – December 16, 2023
On December 16th, from 10am – 2pm, Central Avenue comes alive with a sidewalk shopping experience. Businesses are spreading the holiday spirit by utilizing our newly expanded sidewalks, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for all. You will be able to explore an array of local businesses offering special deals and unique finds right on newly renovated sidewalks. From boutique clothing to unique gifts, there’s something for everyone on your list.
There will even be FREE gift wrapping will be available at the Main Street Winter Haven office for anyone who shops in Downtown Winter Haven.
