Clay County comes alive each holiday season with Christmas in Clay—beloved traditions, sparkling events, and festive community gatherings. This guide features just a few of the highlights, but there is much more to explore. Be sure to visit the full calendar of events and download the Explore Clay Mobile App to follow the Christmas in Clay tour and plan your holiday adventures.
Whitey’s Fish Camp Annual Lighted Boat Parade (Fleming Island)
Why limit parades to the streets when you can enjoy one on the water? Whitey’s Fish Camp hosts a unique Lighted Boat Parade, where vessels are decked out in holiday lights and float across Doctors Lake. With live music, raffles, and auctions benefiting nonprofits, this waterfront celebration is festive fun for a good cause!
Hometown Holiday at Clarke House Park (Orange Park)
Few events capture the holiday spirit quite like Hometown Holiday. Visitors can tour the beautifully decorated Clarke House, shop with local vendors for gifts, visit Santa, and enjoy delicious bites from food trucks. The highlight of the evening is the enchanting lighted trail that winds through the park, complete with music and festive displays.
Lighting of Town Hall Park (Orange Park)
This beloved Orange Park tradition feels cozy and nostalgic. Guests gather for cookies, hot cocoa, and a reading of a Christmas classic before the big countdown begins. When the lights finally flicker on, Town Hall Park glows with festive charm, marking the official start of the holiday season.
Parade of Trees in Spring Park (Green Cove Springs)
Every year, Spring Park transforms into a glowing forest of over 100 decorated trees surrounding the spring and playground. Sponsored by families, schools, and local organizations, each tree is uniquely designed, turning the park into a magical walkway of lights. The display is free to enjoy and serves as a wonderful reminder of the community’s creativity and spirit.
Special Holiday Treats
With so much to see and do during the holiday season, it’s nice to pause and enjoy something sweet. Clay County’s cafes and coffee shops are full of festive flavors this time of year, making it easy to treat yourself or indulge in winter treats with friends.
Royal Moose Coffee Co. (Middleburg)
Royal Moose Coffee Company is a bright and welcoming spot in Middleburg, known for its craft coffee, creative seasonal drinks, and fun atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping in for a festive latte or grabbing a fresh pastry before exploring the area, it’s a great place to settle in and enjoy a cozy winter moment.
Spring Park Coffee (Green Cove Springs)
Known for their freshly roasted beans, Spring Park Coffee is a cozy cafe for festive flavors like Christmas cookie lattes, gingerbread lattes, and peppermint hot chocolate. Paired with one of their homemade pastries, it’s the perfect place to stop at during a cool winter day in Green Cove Springs.
Urban Bean Coffeehouse Café (Orange Park)
Urban Bean is a local gem that shines especially bright during the holidays. Seasonal drinks like peppermint and eggnog lattes pair perfectly with their hearty breakfast plates, savory lunches, or scratch-made desserts. It’s a warm, welcoming spot to sip, snack, and soak in the holiday cheer.
From glowing parades and nostalgic stage shows to holiday markets and cozy cafés, Clay County offers countless ways to celebrate the season. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, sipping on seasonal lattes, or gathering with family under the twinkling lights, each event is a chance to make memories. This year, plan to enjoy the many holiday festivities happening across the county — you won’t want to miss a moment of the magic. Download the Explore Clay Mobile App and check out the Christmas in Clay tour to make exploring even easier.