7 Ways To Celebrate An Old-Fashioned Christmas

If Too Many Twinkle-lighted Palm trees and Christmas boat parades make your heart yearn for the trappings of an old-fashioned holiday, let nostalgia be your guide. Central Florida buzzes with seasonal activities of every festive stripe, and we’ve found seven ways guaranteed to light that holiday fire.

- Jennie Hess

1. EXPLORE THE GARDENS

A family excursion to Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales is worth the trip to check out the unspoiled beauty of this National Historic Landmark, celebrating Christmas Nov. 25-Jan. 8. Stroll among poinsettia, amaryllis and bromeliad displays and check out the Christmas tree of 350 bromeliads just outside the historic Pinewood Estate. The iconic 205-foot Singing Tower carillon serenades visitors with live holiday concerts. The garden’s calendar of special events includes walking tours, a wreath workshop, and holiday gingerbread house decorating with Mrs. Claus. Step into a time machine to the 1940s for “Holi-DAYS at Pinewood Estate” each Tuesday, Nov. 29-Dec. 27 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Included in admission, this weekly event showcases vintage Model A cars and meet-and-greets with historical characters of the ‘40s and “surprise personalities from the past.” Admission: $20 adults; $9 children 5-12. Workshops and some events are priced separately. boktowergardens.org/christmas

2. HOP A SLED, STRAP ON ICE SKATES

On Dec. 12, Donnelly Park in Mount Dora turns into a familyfun wintertime paradise during Mount Dora Christmas in the Park with Snow as 60 tons of fluffy ice is sprayed across the hilly landscape. The free event, from 5-9 p.m., attracts thousands of outdoor enthusiasts who can’t wait to grab a sled and participate in the cool running. Donate a canned food item or a new, unwrapped toy and you’ll get a “fast-pass” ticket to ride. Then test your Olympic mettle with some fancy twirls on the ice skating rink before grabbing a treat from the concession area. Holiday decorations light up the night, and Santa takes wish-list requests on the porch of City Hall from 7-9 p.m. mountdorachristmas.com

3. REVEL IN VICTORIAN OPULENCE