It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in the communities around Mission Inn! As holiday lights and decorations go up throughout the area, there’s a lot for visitors to see and do to celebrate the season.

Mount Dora has a festive glow from more than 2 million sparkling lights draped throughout its charming downtown to brighten the holiday season. This upcoming weekend promises to be bustling as the lakefront town hosts its family-friendly holiday street party on Nov. 30, its annual Christmas Parade on Dec. 1, and its Lighted Boat Christmas Parade on Dec. 2.

Tavares also has a Christmas parade and celebration on Dec. 1 as well as a special train ride offered numerous times throughout the month. Children of all ages will delight in hopping aboard the Polar Express for an hour-long trip from Tavares to the North Pole. The experience recreates the Christmas magic of the popular children’s book and movie. Passengers will be served hot cocoa along the way by dancing chefs, interact with movie characters, hear a reading of the book, and visit with Santa and his elves at the North Pole. Tickets range from $48 to $182 and can be purchased at the Tavares train station or by calling (352) 742-7200.

The many other holiday experiences in the area include a self-guided tour of Mount Dora homes, a Christmas tea and caroling at the Howey Mansion on Dec. 9, and the popular Wine & Chocolate festival Dec. 7-9 at Lakeridge Winery in Clermont with live music, arts and crafts, and winery tours.
With so many unique events and activities for the holidays nearby, book a stay at Mission Inn and take advantage of some of these special ways to celebrate the season. For reservations, call (352) 268-9574 or send email to reservations@missioninnresort.com.