Christmas in DeLand is a Little Different This Year

The Covid Grinch trotted into December and tried to snatch Christmas joy from Volusia County. He figured it would be easy, but Volusia County is still filled with holiday merriment. This the first year in recent memory the Downtown Christmas Parade was cancelled. It may look a little different (and aren’t we getting used to that at this point), but it’s still jolly!

No matter where you are in Volusia County, you can still enjoy the beauty of the season… socially distanced, of course. Here are a few things that will bring joy to kids from one to 99:

• The Magic of Lights at Daytona International Speedway is a slow drive thru Christmas light display that takes you through the parking lot of the speedway and even under the stands. You never have to worry about leaving your car during this 20-30 minute drive. Tickets start at $25 and the event runs most nights through the first of the year. Visit https://magicoflights.com/ to learn more and purchase tickets.
  
• The Daytona Beach Drive-In Christian Church offers a “Drive thru Bethlehem” experience December 17-20 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. This free event is an annual tradition, complete with live animals, of the church always draws a crowd. Drivers can tune into a radio station to hear the narration of the Christmas story as they drive through the  loop. ‘Taxes” (donations) are accepted by Roman guards on majestic horses as you exit. Thankfully, unlike real Roman guards, they don’t demand payment and will happily wave as you pass. More information is found at https://www.driveinchurch.net/Drive-Through-Bethlehem-9-72449.html
  
• If the kids still want to see “The Big Guy” this season, Bass Pro Shops offer a great opportunity to see him. Go online and book an appointment. When you arrive and get in line to see Santa, the helpful elves will take everyone’s temperature. Santa is comfortably seated behind plexiglass that is cleaned between each visitor. Kids are allowed to remove their masks as they tell him their christmas wishes and pose for a free photo. After the wishes are made and the assurance is given that the kiddies are on the nice list, you’ll have an opportunity to  purchase additional photos. Then, enjoy the giant fish tank and shop for some gifts, or head to one of the many restaurants in the area. If you time it right, you may even catch the fountain show in the center of the One Daytona Plaza. Santa’s Wonderland reservations can be made at https://www.basspro.com/shop/en/santas-wonderland
  
• A great way to see Christmas lights with some fresh air and a fun “train ride” is to venture to Lake Helen for the Butler Express. Departing from the Lake Helen Equestrian Center at 321 Pleasant St, the Butler Express chugs around Lake Helen to scope out the local displays. There is a minimal cash fee per person and the rides often sell out each weekend. The Butler Express runs on Friday and Saturday evenings. Visit their Facebook page for more information and updates.