As the holiday season approaches, West Volusia transforms into a hub of festive cheer and spooky thrills. Whether you’re drawn to spine-chilling haunted hotels, dazzling light displays or charming local festivals, there’s something for everyone. Experience the magic of CoolCraft Christmas with its seasonal beverages, soak in the spooky atmosphere of a haunted hotel or enjoy the grandeur of one of the “Top 10 Best Attractions in the US.” From the family-friendly Monsters on Mainstreet to the enchanting Candlelight Tours at DeBary Hall, discover the events that make this season unforgettable. Dive into the guide to explore the best of West Volusia’s holiday events and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Explore or Stay in a Haunted Hotel
Step into the spine-chilling world of the Hotel Cassadaga, renowned for its paranormal connections and timeless 20th-century charm. This historic hotel transforms into a real haunted house experience where you’ll encounter genuine scares—no animatronics or props here! Face the monsters of your nightmares up close and personal. While you’re there, explore the nearby spiritualist community of Cassadaga, known for its mediums and mystical connections. However you decide to experience it, it’s something you won’t soon forget!
The Historical Society’s Cemetery Walk
For a unique Halloween experience that combines education with a touch of history, join the West Volusia Historical Society’s annual Cemetery Walk. This year’s theme is the 1920s, and the tour will bring to life the stories of notable figures from the past, with fascinating anecdotes and historical insights. Wander through the historic cemetery and learn about the intriguing personalities who shaped the community. With possible special performances and surprises along the way, this event offers a captivating and educational alternative to traditional Halloween festivities.
Candlelight Tours at DeBary Hall Historic Site
Let the flicker of candlelight guide you through the eerie past of DeBary Hall Historic Site during the Creepy Candlelight Tours. Guests will be captivated by spine-tingling tales as they explore the narrow hallways and darkened rooms once inhabited by 19th-century wine merchant Frederick deBary and his family. If you miss the Halloween tour, don’t worry! A similar, less spooky version takes place in December, where the 19th-century hunting lodge is adorned with Christmas trees, wreaths, and festive decorations. Tickets for both tours are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot for a unique and unforgettable visit to this historic site by contacting DeBary Hall Historic Site.
Monsters on Mainstreet
Where else can you find Beetlejuice, Dracula, and a Mandalorian handing out candy in front of an olive oil shop on Halloween night? For a safe and family-friendly Trick-or-Treat experience, look no further than MainStreet DeLand’s Monsters on Mainstreet. This beloved event transforms Downtown DeLand’s mainstreet in a Halloween town, with local businesses and community members coming together to celebrate the spooky season. Bring the whole family to join in the fun, trick or treat, and make some magical Halloween memories!
Join the Fall Country Jamboree at Barberville
Forget Disney’s Country Bear Jamboree—this is the real deal! The 48th Annual Fall Country Jamboree at Barberville Pioneer Settlement, happening on November 2 and 3, offers an authentic taste of Florida’s rich history and folk culture. Dive into pioneer life with historical demonstrations, reenactments, and artisan showcases. Enjoy live performances by Florida musicians, participate in hands-on activities for children, and savor delicious Florida Cracker-style food. It’s a two-day festival that celebrates tradition and family fun in Central Florida!
Check Out the Fall Festival of the Arts – DeLand
One of the biggest fall events in West Volusia, the Fall Festival of the Arts – DeLand, takes over Downtown DeLand the weekend before Thanksgiving on November 23 and 24. This vibrant festival brings together both established and emerging artists to showcase imaginative and juried artwork. Stroll through the creative hub, interact with artists, and enjoy live performances within DeLand’s lively artistic community. The family-friendly event features activities that inspire young minds, along with local cuisine from restaurants, pubs, and wine bars. Don’t miss out on this celebration of creativity and culture!
Have a Very Merry CoolCraft Christmas
West Volusia Tourism’s award-winning Beverage Trail gets a festive makeover with CoolCraft Christmas! Throughout December, this beloved event brings holiday cheer to West Volusia with a special selection of beverages crafted to celebrate the season. Explore a delightful array of seasonal drinks, from spiced ales and festive cocktails to winter-themed coffees and hot chocolates. Each beverage is inspired by the spirit of the holidays, making it the perfect way to enjoy the season’s magic. Join us for a merry month of taste sensations and holiday festivities, and experience why CoolCraft Christmas is a must-visit event for beverage enthusiasts and holiday lovers alike. A Holiday event you won’t want to miss.
Light Up DeLand
Experience the magic of the holidays at the award-winning Light Up DeLand festival, an event straight out of a Hallmark movie! As you stroll through the charming, light-filled streets of DeLand’s acclaimed MainStreet community, warm up with a mug of hot cocoa and soak in the festive atmosphere. But the highlight of the evening? Santa Claus himself skydiving out of an airplane to make his grand entrance! Thousands gather to witness this thrilling spectacle, culminating in Santa lighting up the Christmas tree. Mark your calendars for December 6th, 2024, and bring the whole family to enjoy this unforgettable new holiday tradition.
A Spectacular Display at the Stetson Mansion
Step into the grandeur of the Christmas Mansion for 2024 “Christmas Spectacular!” at Stetson Mansion in DeLand. Built in 1886 for famed hat maker and philanthropist John B. Stetson, this winter retreat was the only richly detailed “Gilded Age” mansion built in Florida. Now rescued, restored and updated, its current residents are carrying on the tradition of extravagant displays with an event that has been named among the “Top 10 Christmas Homes” by Bob Vila, “Best Holiday Home Tours in America” in the USA TODAY’s “10Best” Readers’ Choice Awards and among the “Top 10 Best Attractions in the US” by TripAdvisor. Guided and Self-guided tours of Stetson Mansion Christmas Spectacular include 10 room themes with over-the-top decorations of elegant and reverent displays which complement the mansion’s rich architectural details. The 60-75-minute tours are held multiple times a day from November 1, 2024, through January 18, 2025.
More information on West Volusia County’s Holiday events and more can be picked up at 116 W. New York Avenue in Downtown DeLand, FL or can be found online at www.visitwestvolusia.com. Please call 386-734-0162 for more information.