Editor’s note: This event has been canceled for 2016 but we certainly hope it returns next year! We apologize for the misinformation.
If you’re looking for some enchanting winter scenery, you don’t have to leave Florida to find it. Although we don’t have sled rides or skiing, you can still find winter wonderlands created with charming displays and twinkling lights. This event at one of our popular state parks is one of the most dazzling we’ve seen. Unfortunately, it has been canceled for this year, but we still hope everyone will get a chance to see it in the future.
Here are a few things we loved about the holiday transformation at Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon.
Flickr/Darryl Kenyon
Children and adults enjoyed the “Santa Over The Rainbow” event, and it became a favorite local holiday tradition.
Flickr/Darryl Kenyon
This state park has always been full of natural beauty, but it shined even brighter when decorated with over half a million dazzling lights.
Flickr/Darryl Kenyon
This event was an unforgettable way to experience the true beauty of a Florida Christmas.
Flickr/Darryl Kenyon
Children were delighted by Santa’s nontraditional arrival as he cruised down the river on a decorated pontoon boat.
Flickr/Darryl Kenyon
The hundreds of thousands of lights were truly spectacular when reflected on the water, lighting up the park’s waterfalls and other stunning features.
Flickr/Darryl Kenyon
The nights were filled with festive music and stories, with food and handmade Christmas gifts available for purchase.
Flickr/Darryl Kenyon
Who says you can’t find a winter wonderland in Florida? The beauty of this park easily matched any snow-filled landscape (and you don’t even have to worry about the cold). We sure hope the park will bring back the event next year!
Flickr/Darryl Kenyon
Please call the park at 352-465-8555 for more information on Rainbow Springs State Park or to (nicely) ask them when they will bring back this event.
Flickr/Darryl Kenyon
Rainbow Springs State Park: 10830 SW 180th Avenue Rd, Dunnellon, FL 34432.
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