Embrace the holiday season at this year's Light Up Ocala with twinkling lights, entertainment, and more
- Alastair Mac
- 1 hour ago
- 3 min read
Light Up Ocala is a longstanding community tradition to kick off the holidays that attracts thousands to downtown Ocala.
Every year, downtown Ocala transforms into a festive wonderland with breathtaking string lights and holiday decorations.
Celebrating the start of the holiday season, this year's Light Up Ocala takes place on Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 3 - 8 pm at the Ocala Historic Downtown Square, located at 1 SE Broadway Street, Ocala.
Light Up Ocala features merry fun for all ages. Watch the flipping of the switch and marvel at thousands of lights across the downtown area, revealing a dazzling array of colorful hues and holiday displays.
The annual lighting ceremony will begin at approximately 6:30 pm. The theme for this year’s event is, “Celebrate the Spirit of Downtown,” so make your way to the square before then to enjoy the view!
In addition to the big switch on, bring your little ones and participate in an interactive kids' zone. Cheer with the crowd at the Junior Sunshine Parade with a guest appearance from Santa and dive into the ultimate holiday extravaganza.
Check out the latest Christmas and Holiday News from throughout Central Florida. From the theme parks, to the attractions, shopping malls and resort hotels, you will be dazzled with holiday cheer, including the most spectacular events at the theme parks and attractions, glittering community events and parades, plus, magical parties, eats and treats, and so much more!
In addition to the thousands of twinkling lights, Light Up Ocala includes three entertainment zones throughout the downtown area that will feature live music and performers, plus don't miss the Junior Sunshine Parade, and more than 100 vendors the whole family will enjoy.
Stage One – Sponsored by HCA Florida Hospital
Stage one located at the Square – SE Broadway and Magnolia Avenue will feature live music by Audio Exchange, from 4 to 8:30 pm. Plus, enjoy photo opportunities at the holiday tree.
Stage Two – Sponsored by Advent Health
Stage two located at Citizens’ Circle – Fort King Street and Osceola Avenue is where you will discover the evenst community showcase featuring a variety of local dance and performance groups, 4 to 8:30 pm. Plus, this si hwere to enjoy photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Midtown Street Party – Sponsored by Wawa
Located on the corner of NE First Street and NE First Avenue, the Midtown Street Party will feature a Live DJ, Acrobatic Variety Show and Powerskip Shows, from 4 to 8:45 pm.
Junior Sunshine Parade
At 4:30 pm, the Junior Sunshine Parade will begin at the corner of S Magnolia Avenue and E Fort King Street. The parade will make its way through downtown, going past the gazebo, up to NE First Street, and then returning to SE First Avenue and E Fort King Street.
The parade will include performances from local dance studios, Fort King Middle School Falcon Band, Girl Scouts Troops, and a special appearance by Santa.
For more details:
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Before attending any of the events listed on Gotta Go Orlando, you should contact the organizer or venue to confirm that the event is taking place as information, changes, and cancellations can occur.
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