City of Sanford’s 2026 Holiday Season Events

Known as a vibrant destination in Central Florida, the City of Sanford offers a year-round lineup of special events, arts and culture, live entertainment, craft breweries, distilleries, and diverse culinary experiences. As the holiday season approaches, the City invites residents and visitors to celebrate the season and enjoy a variety of upcoming, City-sponsored events. Mark your calendars and make plans to experience the holiday festivities happening throughout Sanford through the end of the year.  Happy Holidays!
 
Toys for Tots Soap Box Derby Rally
7 AM on Saturday, November 7^th at Mike Kirby Park
Stock, Super Stock and Master Derby Racers compete in double-elimination morning races and single-elimination afternoon race while driving real change and creating happier holidays for those less fortunate. 
 
Veterans Day  
11 AM Ceremony on Wednesday, November 11^th at Veterans Memorial Park
7 PM Film Viewing - The Six Triple Eight - on Wednesday, November 11^th at the Ritz Theater
The 11 AM Ceremony’s keynote address will be provided by Vanessa Thomas, the State Women Veterans' Coordinator at the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs (FDVA) with special recognition of Sanford resident Edna Cross Burton, who served in the historic 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion during World War II.  At 7 PM, Tyler Perry’s World War II drama, The Six Triple Eight -  highlighting the heroic true story of the only all-African American, all-female unit sent overseas during World War II - will be shown free of charge.
 
Sanford Senior Center Thanksgiving Party
11 AM on Thursday, November 12^th at the Sanford Civic Center
The City of Sanford Senior Center and TUF – The United Front (Transforming and Uplifting Families) invite senior to a Thanksgiving Luncheon with delicious food, live music, raffle prizes, and community fellowship as we celebrate the season of gratitude together. Limited seating available – register now for this free holiday event.
 
Family Craft Day
10 AM on Saturday, November 28^th at the Sanford Museum
Bring the family to downtown Sanford for our annual free celebration of creativity, local history, and Small Business Saturday! Hands-on stations let children create take-home projects, while families can enjoy light refreshments and take a trip through history.
 

Sanford Senior Center Holiday Party
11 AM on Thursday, December 3rd at the Sanford Civic Center
Celebrate the Holidays with friends at our Senior Citizen Holiday Luncheon, sponsored by the City of Sanford Senior Center and TUF - The United Front (Transforming and Uplifting Families) . Register now for this free event and indulge in delicious food, exciting raffle prizes, and live music. Limited seating available.
 
Light Up Sanford – Tree Lighting Ceremony
6:30 PM on Friday, December 4^th in Magnolia Square
Experience the enchantment of the Magnolia Square Christmas Tree and historic downtown Sanford as we illuminate the night. Get ready for holiday entertainment, a visit from 'Ole Saint Nick and his helpers!
 
Paws & Claus
10 AM on Saturday, December 5^th in Ft. Mellon Park
The Sanford Fire Department and the Seminole County Animal Services invite all members of the family, including the 4-legged members, to celebrate the season with photos with Santa, vendors and pet adoptions. 
 
Sanford Joyfest
6 PM on Thursday, December 10^th in Magnolia Square
The Sanford Police Department, Sanford Fire Department, and a bunch of our friends will bring the holiday party to Magnolia Square. Santa, Mrs. Claus, the Sanford Police Elves will all be there spreading the joy of the holidays.
 
Holiday Parade of Lights
6 PM on Saturday, December 12^th on 1^st Street, Downtown Sanford
This parade celebrates our entire community! Watch local schools, businesses, and organizations share their holiday spirit with illuminated floats, decorated vehicles, dance groups, and marching bands along the one-mile route.
 
Central Florida Soap Box Derby Holiday Rally
7 AM on Saturday, January 2^nd and Sunday, January 3^rd at Mike Kirby Park
Ride in the new year in a soap box derby car at the CFSBD Holiday Rally. Central Florida Soap Box Derby and the City of Sanford sponsor this holiday rally. Car and driver must meet AASBD standards. One double and one single elimination race each day.
 
The City’s event calendar at www.sanfordfl.gov/events has all the details of these exciting events and many more!
 
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