By Brianna Brinker, Staff Writer
Have you ever wanted to walk through flurries of snow in Florida? Or ride on a hayride through a tunnel of Christmas lights? Head on over to the Dade City’s Christmas Market located at Lake Lola Road, only ten short minutes away from Saint Leo University.
The market was opened for Dec. 6 and 7 and is open for its final weekend on the 13 and 14, so don’t miss out! The tickets are $10 for adults, and it lasts from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The Dady City Christmas Market gives you all the Christmas feelings from the moment you walk in. Including an igloo with a snowy surprise at the end of it, Christmas lights that light up the whole field, animals that you can hand feed and pet, and pony rides from the miniature pony, Macho, the Christmas Market has it all.
More Christmas festivities that you can’t miss are the Elf Show performed by a family who does tricks that will leave you shocked, as well as the infamous Santa Claus who you can get a picture with and get a special peppermint treat from.
Vendors were lined up selling the most perfect Christmas gifts. Including beautiful cross necklaces, candles that smell like Christmas trees, handcrafted water bottles with colorful designs, and crocheted stuffed animals.
Delicious hot chocolate and coffee kept visitors warm while searching for the perfect gift at the market. Topping the beverage with whipped cream and chocolate syrup made every sip feel like you are sitting by the fireplace watching a Christmas movie.
Jeff McDougal, a former worker at Saint Leo University in the 80s who also runs the business of J & L Freezy Treats with his wife, Lynn McDougal, shared what he likes about working at the Christmas Market.
He said, “Dade City is special to us in how they are supportive and encouraging to the vendors, they are consistent with investing back into the venue to bring new and exciting attractions.”
McDougal also shared his personal favorite drink, which is, “Santa’s Hat.” The drink is “our twist on a Shirley Temple, dressed to look like a Christmas hat. Complete with a cherry on top.”
Venders also provided yummy food options as well. Including steaks and skewers, Filipino food, pastries, and different kinds of desserts.
You don’t want to miss an experience like this. Take a photo next to the Christmas trees, sip on some cocoa, and enjoy the Christmas lights under the beautiful night sky at the Dade City Christmas Market.
1 Comment
Sounds like a great event . Thank you for letting me know , I will go next year for sure