Some of us have spent weeks - okay, months - counting down the days until we can start celebrating Christmas. (*cough* like my roommate, Sara *cough*). We’ve received questions on must-visit events and holiday date ideas so here’s a few of our top picks for Christmas festivities you won’t want to miss - be it a date or a family night.

🎄 The Lakeland Christmas Parade: A Night at the North Pole

The annual parade will take place on Thursday, Dec. 6, starting at the RP Funding Center, weaving through downtown, and making its way down to Lemon Street. Fireworks on Lake Mirror will kick off the parade at 7 p.m.

🎄 Have a Beer with Santa

Make a toast with Santa while enjoying beer at Swan Brewing on Wednesday, Dec. 19 from 6 - 9 p.m. A professional photographer will be there to make the night a memorable one by taking pictures of you, the kids, and even your pets with Santa. All proceeds will go to Lakeland Loves.

🎄 Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker

It may be biased coming from someone who’s family is from Russia, but this performance will make for an impressive date or a family night with (as New York Times called it) “kids wide-eyed with delight!” The event will be held on Thursday, Dec. 20 at the RP Funding Center.

🎄 Holly Jolly Jingle Bell Jog

Join the festive 5k jog for adults and a reindeer dash for the kids on Saturday, Dec. 15. Following the race, stick around for the DJ and Santa. And just to throw it out there, “holly jolly attire is encouraged!”

🎄 Snowfest 2018

The 38th Annual Snowfest on Dec. 8 in Munn Park will bring in inflatables, food vendors + mountains of snow. Receive a ticket by bringing two canned goods or paying $1. All proceeds will benefit local charities.

December can be the most hectic month of the year. Blink and it’s over. I encourage you to take in every moment and make the most of all the preparations, holiday parties + gift-giving. Oh, and here’s the direct link for purchasing tickets to the Nutcracker. You’re welcome.

- Jessica