FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Dec. 15, 2017

CONTACT: DEP Press Office, 850.245.2112, DEPNews@dep.state.fl.us

Enjoy Festive Events at Florida State Parks Throughout December 

~Find a fun event to partake in this holiday season at Florida State Parks~

Holiday lights at Washington Oaks Garden State Park.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - The holiday season is officially here and DEP's Florida Park Service is proud to announce statewide events for all Florida residents and visitors to participate in this month. With 175 state parks, trails and historic sites, there are a wide range of events to choose from.

“Florida's 175 state parks preserve more than 800,000 acres of pristine Florida habitat, perfect for exploring with family and friends," said Florida Park Service Director Eric Draper. “This holiday season, we encourage Florida's residents and visitors to spend time enjoying Florida's great outdoors at one of our beautiful state parks."

This weekend, bring your appetite for homemade sugar cookie decorating at Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park, Saturday, Dec. 16. Children are invited to get creative by making homemade holiday gifts during Oscar Scherer State Park's Critter Crafts for Kids event, also on Dec. 16. Saturday evening, bring the whole family and a warm blanket to Ravine Gardens State Park for a holiday light show and caroling event. Sunday, Dec. 17, join Santa Claus and several adoptable dogs for a "pack walk" at Silver Springs State Park. This event, hosted in partnership with Marion County Animal Services, will lead participants and their furry friends through the park's gardens and trails.

Many other festive activities will be offered throughout the month at Florida State Parks. To find an event near you, click here.  

About Florida State Parks, Greenways and Trails 

The Florida Park Service is the proud recipient of three National Gold Medals for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, making Florida America’s first three-time Gold Medal winner. The awards were received in 1999, 2005 and 2013 from the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration and the National Recreation and Park Association.

Florida’s 175 state parks, trails and historic sites inspire residents and visitors with recreation opportunities and scenic beauty that help strengthen families, educate children, expand local economies and foster community pride. With nearly 800,000 acres, 100 miles of beaches and more than 1,500 miles of multi-use trails, residents and visitors should plan to visit soon and often to enjoy Florida’s natural treasures. Download the Florida State Parks Pocket Ranger® mobile app, available on iTunes and Android Market, to plan your trip and enhance your experience. For more information, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org

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