One way that families are unique are the traditions they uphold. I’m sure you don’t have to think too hard to remember those traditions and memories that you looked forward to every year as a child. No two families have the same traditions, especially during the holidays. However, they probably do involve similar experiences of things like driving around the neighborhood to view Christmas lights or opening one present on Christmas Eve.

​In Florida, it can be challenging to develop tradition, especially if you are a relatively new resident. There aren’t any places to go sledding. Shorts and flip flops are often the attire of choice instead of a traditional holiday sweater. Although you may not be accustomed to Christmas in the Sunshine State, it doesn’t mean that you can enjoy the holiday season as much or more than anywhere else. 

To help with your holiday traditions, we thought we would suggest ten ideas that your family can do in our area to make this holiday a success and hopefully a success for years to come.

1. The DeLand Jaycees Christmas Parade

2. Lake Helen Tour of Homes and Churches

3. Stetson Mansion Christmas Spectacular

4. DeLand St. Johns River Boat Parade

5. DeLand Festival of Trees

6. Neighborhood Christmas lights in subdivisions such as Victoria Park, Saddlebrook, and Bent Oaks. 

7. Orange City Christmas Village and Parade

8. Lighting of the Stetson University Yule Log.

9. DeLand Tour of Homes (every other year)

10. Visit a Christmas Eve candlelight church service.

What traditions does your family follow? What new traditions are you looking forward to starting?