Marketing and Events Assistant, Savanne Giroire
The holidays are in full swing and Downtown is delivering on all the family-friendly events. This holiday season, do something different and enjoy some cheer in the Bold City! Here’s a list of fun events to get you into the holiday spirit!
Little Learners: Winter Wonderland
December 1 @ 9:30. a.m.
Looking for a fun morning with the whole family? MOSH’s Little Learners programs provide guests with the opportunity to explore the Museum of Science and History and take part in hands-on activities in a fun and social environment! These programs are geared towards students ages 0-5 and their caregivers. Little Learners sessions take place monthly and provide children with circle time in the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium, STEM-based activity stations throughout the Museum, and passport stickers as proof of their visit.
Through the Winter Wonderland program, kiddos will discover why our Earth gets cold during the winter season, learn about liquid nitrogen in the JEA Science Theater, and participate in other activities throughout the Museum!
Dave Koz and Friends 25th Anniversary Christmas Tour
December 1 @ 8 – 10 pm
Jazz saxophonist Dave Koz presents Christmas with friends David Benoit, Rick Braun, Peter White and Rebecca Jade. Over two decades ago, GRAMMY® nominee Dave Koz launched his first-ever Christmas tour, and he’ll be at the Florida Theatre on December 1st. Learn more and check out the Dave Koz Christmas Tour VIP Experience here!
Cummer Museum Gift-Making Workshop
December 2 @ 5 – 7:30 pm
The Cummer’s Family Workshops are multigenerational 2-3 hours workshops with no age limit. This is your chance to create a fun and unique holiday gift out of clay with or for your loved ones! Make some awesome memories together inspired by the Museum’s art and gardens. There are two time slots available- one at 5 -7 p.m., and 5:30-7:30 p.m. Register for the workshop here.
The 2022 Winter Design Show: Flaunting the First Coast
December 2 @ 10:00 am – December 4 @ 4:00 pm
The Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital is hosting their 2022 Winter Design Show: Flaunting the First Coast. The three-day event from December 2-4, a reimagined version of The Women’s Board’s beloved Art & Antiques Show, will help raise funds for the NICU at Wolfson Children’s Hospital’s new Critical Care Tower. The show will feature more than 45 exhibitors, including local and nationally recognized designers, artists, antique dealers, and decor retailers. It will include a black-tie gala, the Children’s Fashion Show featuring Wolfson Children’s patients, and lectures from renowned speakers. Grab your tickets now!
Winter Wonderland: Santa’s Workshop at The MOSH
December 3rd, 12 – 4 p.m.
Santa and the elves are on their way over to MOSH for a day of Christmas cheer. Sign up your kiddos for this event at the MOSH for crafts, cookies, photos with Santa, and museum-wide access. Learn more and grab your tickets here!
20th Annual Gingerbread Extravaganza
December 8-28 @ 11 – 3:30 pm
Attend the 20th Annual Gingerbread Extravaganza! This event is considered to be one of Jacksonville’s most popular holiday traditions and is taking place at the historic Old St. Andrew’s Church. From December 8th to 27th, the church will be transformed into a winter wonderland featuring over 50 gingerbread creations as well as holiday displays, a bake shop, a gift shop and more! Old St. Andrew’s Church, on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, was built in 1887 and is the only major church in the city that survived the Great Fire of 1901. For some history and holiday fun, grab your tickets now!
Totally Lit! A Hanukkah Celebration!
December 20 @ 4:30-7:30 p.m.
Join James Weldon Johnson Park, Gili’s Kitchen, Catering and Bakery and the Jacksonville Jewish Center for the annual celebration of Hanukkah and its related traditions! On December 20th in James Weldon Johnson Park, bring the whole family and enjoy live music, storytelling and crafts, a menorah lighting ceremony, dreidel games and more. Beer and Kosher Wine will be available for purchase, and Gili’s Kitchen will provide food and sufganiyot (jelly Isreali doughnuts) also available for purchase. Learn more about the event here!
Celebrate Kwanza at the Ritz Theatre and Museum
December 26 – January 1, 2023
From Monday, December 26th through January 1st, 2023, join the Ritz Theatre and Museum for Kwanza celebrations. Featuring small business owners and vendors, the first day, Umoja (unity), is a community tradition. This day will be celebrated at New Life Community Church. The Kingdom Builder’s group is celebrating Kuumba (creativity) with live music and performers; Imani (faith) and the 160th Anniversary of Watch Night. Visit their website for more information on events and opportunities. If you are interested in vending at Umoja, email sfrinks@asmjax.com for more information. If you’re interested in more information about Kuumba/Imani/Watch Night, email kingdombuilderscomjax@gmail.com.
New Year’s Eve Run
December 31 @ 3 p.m.
Got an active family with plenty of energy, or looking to participate in fundraising for a great organization? The New Year’s Run presented by Bank of America is your perfect opportunity and will benefit Gator Bowl Charities! An official event of the Jacksonville Grand Prix, all participants will receive a race shirt and all finishers receive a custom-designed medal. Awards will be given to the top overall and age group winners. You’ll also be able to support Gator Bowl Charities by running for a child and donate $10 to support this wonderful cause. Register and learn more here!
Know of any more holiday events happening in Downtown? Let us know by submitting an event! For the full list of Downtown events, check out the DTJax Calendar. We wish you a happy holiday season, and remember to tag us at #DTJax for a chance to be featured on our socials!