How to Have a Stress-Free Florida Christmas

It's that time of year again! The time when the humidity finally drops, the temperatures dip into the 60s, and people all over the state start putting up Christmas lights. That's right, Floridians, it's time to get ready for Christmas!

And what better way to get into the holiday spirit than by following these simple tips for having a stress-free Florida Christmas? Trust us, with our years of experience dealing with holiday hurricanes, power outages, and heat waves, we know a thing or two about how to make the most of our unique Christmas climate! Running around when it's still warm outside makes you sweat. Almost as much as I would worry about how I'm going to pay for all these gifts! So be sure to make a list—and check it twice!

Once you know who you need to buy gifts for, make a list of everyone and what you'd like to get them. This will help you stay organized and on budget. No need for any extra perspiration here in South West Florida. Not sure what to get someone? Deodorant!  No? Okay, a gift card is always a good choice!

By following these simple tips, you'll be able to have a stress-free Florida Christmas that you'll remember for years to come! And who knows - maybe you'll even set a new tradition or two in the process!

Don't even bother with the hassle of putting up a real tree in this heat - just pick up a nice fake one from your local store and be done with it. Plus, you'll save yourself the trouble of having to vacuum up pine needles every day!

You don't want to be spending your holiday budget on replacing burnt-out light bulbs - LEDs use much less power and will last for years. Not to mention, they don't produce nearly as much heat, so you won't have to worry about them adding to your electric bill.

Who wants to heat up their house by cooking a big bird in the oven? Instead, try grilling some seafood or making a festive salad. Your guests will still be impressed, and you'll stay cool in the process!

Just because it's December doesn't mean you can let your guard down when it comes to sun exposure. In fact, many people find that they burn more easily in the winter months because they don't expect it. So slather on some SPF 30 or higher before heading out to enjoy those beautiful Florida sunsets!

We all know that living in Florida means dealing with the occasional hurricane or tropical storm during Christmastime. The best way to deal with it is simply to be prepared - have an emergency kit ready with non-perishable food items, water, batteries, and first aid supplies. That way if a storm does hit, you'll be able to ride it out without any worries!

It's easy to overspend during the holidays, but it's important to set a budget and stick to it. Determine how much money you can realistically spend on gifts and don't go over that amount. Once you've reached your limit, stop shopping!

Avoid the crowds at the mall and do your shopping from the comfort of your own home. Not only is online shopping more convenient, but you'll also have a better chance of finding deals and discounts. Plus, with sites like Amazon Prime, you can get your gifts delivered right to your door—talk about stress-free!

Don't go overboard with your Christmas decorations—less is more! A few simple pieces (a string of lights, a decorated tree, etc.) will do the trick and save you time and money in the process. Now, where did I put those Santa hats for my Flamingo yard ornaments?

Throwing a holiday party can be fun but also stressful and expensive. Save yourself some money (and hassle) by having everyone bring their favorite dish or beverage to share. Not only will this lighten your load, but it will also give your guests something to do while they're at your party. Just remember those peanut butter cookies with the chocolate kisses on top. We love those.

The holidays don't have to be elaborate or extravagant—keep things simple this year and focus on what's truly important: spending time with those you love. Happy Holiday!

Photo Ops With Santa In Southwest Florida

Was there anything better as a child than preparing for your visit with Santa Claus?

We made our Christmas lists, checked them twice and prepared to sit on the jolly man's lap as we listed off all of the things we wanted him to bring on Christmas.

Heck, we even dealt with the itchy and scratchy Christmas outfits we were forced to wear for the special day.

And how could we forget about the moms and dads and grandparents standing at the beginning of the sometimes hour long lines we waited in?  There they were in all of their glory trying to get us to smile so they could snap our picture with the big guy and have another Christmas memory.  Truly a wonderful tradition.

While visiting with Santa was exciting for most kids, there were some kiddos who left terrified and maybe a little traumatized.  They did make for pretty good pictures though.  Haha

So, where can you make these memories with Santa in Southwest Florida this holiday season?  Of course he will be at the local malls, but we've found some other fun events where he'll make an appearance too!

Santa's helpers have been working hard decking the halls for you and your family, so don’t miss out on taking tree-mendous pics with St. Nick!

Pets are welcome too!  Let your fur kids and grand pups join in on the holiday fun! Get the family together to strike a pose with Santa to capture paw-fect holiday moments!

Children within all spectrums of special needs and their families are welcome to join us for our sensory-friendly visit and photos with Santa!

More Info

When:  November 17 - December 24

Where: Visit Santa at his Holiday Wonderland located at Dillard's Court.

Mark your calendars for the Annual Bell Tower Tree Lighting, Friday December 2nd 6pm-8pm!

Santa Claus will arrive to Bell Tower at 6:30 p.m. in a South Trail Fire Department fire truck at the main entrance near Grimaldi’s and Blue Pointe.

Following his arrival, the festivities will commence in Center Court with a special tree lighting ceremony and a meet-and-greet with Santa Claus, ideal for holiday photo opportunities. Filled with holiday cheer and decor, center court will also feature a bounce house, face painting and holiday games & activities plus so much more!

For more details, click here

Coral Oaks Golf Course

Come and Bring the family for a delicious breakfast and the kids get to meet SANTA!
$15. per Adult
$10. per child and 2 and under FREE

For more details, click here

Celebrate the season with Santa at Veterans Park Recreation Center.

Come join us for a magical Winter Wonderland event! Children can write letters to Santa, make holiday crafts, play games and use the photo booths for family holiday photos. Mr. and Mrs. Clause will arrive and children can put in their wish list in person and receive a gift. Hot cocoa & Cookies, dancers and a tree lighting will spread the holiday cheer!

For more details, click here

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2022 AT 10 AM – 2 PM

Come out to Santa's Block Party 2022 in front of the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center downtown Ft. Myers. Santa will arrive by Fire Truck. Children's workshop bags include crafts, crayons and a coloring book, a Publix decorate a cookie kit, a toy, candy and a ticket to ride the Holiday Express train. Bags are only $6 each. Tables will be set out on First Street for families to work together on crafts. Kits can also be brought home. There will be music and tons of outdoor entertainment. Additional train rides are available for $2 each. After the fun, come in for a photo with Santa, view the trees and get your raffle tickets. You may be a lucky winner of a beautifully decorated tree with tons of prizes!