Christmas In Okeechobee 2025

12/02/2025

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30 new holiday displays added to downtown Okeechobee

 

Posted 

Special to Lake Okeechobee News

Downtown Okeechobee is transforming into a holiday wonderland with the Christmas in Okeechobee campaign featuring 'Light Up Flagler Park', a large-scale lighting celebration featuring more than 250,000 LED lights throughout the city’s parks and public spaces.

The campaign is organized by Okeechobee Culture of Collaboration, a partnership between the City of Okeechobee, Okeechobee County Tourist Development Council, Okeechobee County Economic Development Corporation (OCEDC), Okeechobee Main Street, and numerous private-sector partners. This initiative highlights the community’s strong commitment to collaboration, local pride, supporting small businesses, and creating family-friendly holiday experiences.

“We are excited to bring a bigger and brighter Christmas celebration to Okeechobee,” said Kaylee King, President of the OCEDC. “This year’s lighting displays are the largest we’ve ever created, and we hope families from around the region will join us downtown to celebrate the season together.”

Christmas in Okeechobee will feature:

  • More than 250,000 LED lights illuminating downtown parks;
  • Festive displays, photo spots, and interactive light features;
  • Local vendors, holiday events, and family activities;
  • A walkable, seasonal atmosphere designed to support local tourism and downtown businesses.

Alex Tijerina, Director of Existing Industry for the OCEDC, explains, “The Christmas in Okeechobee campaign is all about bringing people downtown—to shop, dine, and enjoy the season together. By lighting up Flagler Park and coordinating festive events throughout the holidays, we hope to create a welcoming, walkable experience that draws both locals and visitors. This increased foot traffic not only strengthens our small businesses but also builds a stronger sense of community pride.”

 

The holiday lighting displays will remain open through January 13, 2026, giving families a free and festive way to enjoy the magic of Christmas in the heart of Okeechobee.

 

City Hall Christmas Tree Lighting is Tuesday, Dec. 2, at 5:30 p.m.

One of Okeechobee’s most cherished traditions, this annual ceremony includes festive music, the lighting of the City Hall Christmas tree, and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Afterward, families are invited to stroll through Flagler Park to enjoy 30 new decorative holiday elements added to the Light Up Flagler display—creating a bright and memorable kickoff to the season.

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