Jump into 2026 at De Leon Springs State Park's De Leon Dunk, First Day Hike and Pancake Eating Contest
- Alastair Mac
- 5 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Guests visiting De Leon Springs State Park on New Year's Day can enjoy the parks signature January 1 events.
Historic De Leon Springs State Park located on a stunning natural spring and on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, is gearing up to welcome guests to a trio of popular January 1 events including the De Leon Dunk from 7 am to 8 am when everyone jumps into the spring for a refreshing big splash,
What a great way to kickstart your mind and body for 2026, by taking a dip in the 72° spring pool at DeLeon Springs. It is a fun-filled family event that offers a wide range of activities, including park amenities, excursions, outdoor games, and more!
Another popular event on New Year's Day that everyone can enjoy is the First Day Hike, offered at 10 am or 2 pm led by a park ranger.
Plus, don't miss the De Leon’s Pancake Eating Contest from 9 am to 11 am at the Old Sugar Mill Pancake House. Get ready to batter up and flip into the New Year the legendary Pancake Eating Contest!
If you’re 18 or older and think you’ve got the stomach for it, this is your chance to stack up against the competition. The griddle will be hot, the syrup will be flowing, and the stakes have never been fluffier. Bring your A-game, because this pancake party is sure to be stack-tacular! Whether you’re in it for the glory, the carbs, or just to batter up some fun, you won’t want to miss this flipping good time.
Winner receives a trophy, $100 Visa Card and bragging rights with photo on the Wall of Fame. Contestants must be ages 18 and up.
Looking for more fun events and things to do in Central Florida? Check out our Events Guide. We also publish weekly and monthly event guides with the can’t-miss happenings throughout Central Florida.
De Leon Springs State Park is located at 601 Ponce de Leon Blvd. in De Leon Springs, offering bird watching, paddling, fishing, hiking, picnicking and boat tours. Regular wildlife viewing includes otters, alligators, manatees, ospreys, turtles and bald eagles.
Open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. to dusk, admission cost is $6 per vehicle. For details on the January 1 events and other park activities, go to www.deleonspringsadventures.com
Outdoor activities and rentals at De Leon Springs State Park are managed by Adventures Unbound by Guest Services, passionate about the transformative power of travel and immersive experiences that promise extraordinary adventures and profound moments of discovery.
For more information on Adventures Unbound by Guest Services and their Sunshine Collection of Florida State Parks, call 888-688-7538 or go to:
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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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