Julie Cannavino
Feel the chill in the air? It is a sure sign that the holiday season has arrived. With cooler temperatures expected through the weekend, it is a perfect time to embrace the festive spirit and enjoy the many events Nassau County has to offer.
Kick off the weekend by attending the 3rd Annual Nassau County Christmas Tree Lighting and Bicentennial event Friday, Dec. 6 from 5-8 p.m. at the Robert M. Foster Justice Center, 76347 Veterans Way, Yulee. This wonderful event marks the grand finale of Nassau County’s Bicentennial celebrations. Join your neighbors for a night of holiday cheer. This free family-friendly event will put you in the holiday spirit with performances by the Nassau Community Band and the Royal Amelia Dance Academy. There will also be activities for all ages and interests, including a holiday vendor market, train rides, Santa village’s photo ops, food trucks and a kids zone.
In addition, visit the Vision 2050 tent, which will be transformed into a winter wonderland. You can journey through the candy cane forest, explore the sea of swirly twirly gumdrops, and stroll along jingle bells beach. stop by peppermint point, chestnut cove, and other festive stations to share your thoughts on the vision plan’s goals, actions, and final growth scenario. You will collect festive stickers at each station in the vision tent to win a prize that will add sparkle to your holiday season.
Continue the weekend festivities in Fernandina Beach with the beautiful lighted christmas parade down Centre Street Saturday, Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. This dazzling parade, hosted by America’s Youth, is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season. The parade will start in Central Park and will follow the typical parade route down Centre Street. After the parade, be sure to head over to Central Park and stop by the festive vendors, enjoy live music, and get a bite to eat.
These community events are a fantastic opportunity to create lasting memories with loved ones and connect with your neighbors.
Julie Cannavino is library director for the Nassau County Public Library System. She has a master’s degree in library science and has worked in school and college libraries, as well as public libraries. Questions or comments? Contact her at jcannavino@nassaucountyfl.com.