Winter Garden is bringing its hometown holiday charm to the national spotlight after being named one of 25 Official Hallmark Christmas Towns. Although the Central Florida community did not take home the overall title, its recognition highlights the historic downtown, seasonal celebrations, and local traditions that make it a popular holiday destination.
Central Florida has its own share of Christmas magic, and Winter Garden is getting national recognition for it. Hallmark Channel selected the city as one of 25 finalists in its inaugural 2026 Merriest Christmas Towns Contest, putting its holiday celebrations alongside communities from across the country.
The competition invited communities to showcase the traditions, decorations, and community spirit that make their towns special during the holiday season. Winter Garden stood out for its historic downtown, festive atmosphere, and seasonal events that bring residents and visitors together.
While Carlinville, Illinois, was ultimately named Hallmark’s Merriest Christmas Town of 2026, Winter Garden earned the distinction of being an Official Hallmark Christmas Town, a designation awarded to all 25 finalists.
The recognition gives the Central Florida city another reason to welcome visitors looking for a festive holiday experience.
What Makes Winter Garden a Hallmark Christmas Town?
Winter Garden’s historic downtown is at the center of its holiday appeal. During the Christmas season, Plant Street and the surrounding area transform with decorations, illuminated displays, seasonal entertainment, and opportunities for holiday shopping and dining.
The city’s annual ‘Tis the Season celebration brings a variety of activities to downtown, creating an extended holiday experience for families and visitors.
Among the community’s longstanding traditions is Light Up Winter Garden, which kicks off the holiday season with festive entertainment and the lighting of the downtown area. The annual Christmas parade also draws spectators to historic downtown for a morning of seasonal floats, performers, and community celebrations.
Other attractions include holiday music, strolling performers, decorated storefronts and opportunities to enjoy local restaurants and shops.
These traditions reflect the community atmosphere and neighborhood character that Hallmark considered when selecting its finalists.
Winter Garden Receives Official Hallmark Recognition
Although Winter Garden did not win the overall competition, its finalist status comes with an official distinction.
According to the City of Winter Garden, Hallmark has recognized all 25 finalists as Official Hallmark Christmas Towns. The city can display the official designation and use its Hallmark Christmas Town seal for two years.
Winter Garden will also be featured in Hallmark’s Official Guide to Hallmark’s Merriest Christmas Towns 2026.
To celebrate the recognition, the city plans to install a special Official Hallmark Christmas Town photo station at Centennial Plaza in historic downtown. The display will include a replica of the official seal, giving visitors an opportunity to take photos and commemorate the designation.
Explore Winter Garden’s 2026 Holiday Celebrations
The Hallmark recognition arrives as Winter Garden prepares for another season of holiday programming.
The city’s 2026 ‘Tis the Season schedule includes several events and attractions throughout November and December, with many activities taking place in historic downtown.
Highlights include:
- Light Up Winter Garden: The 39th annual celebration takes place December 4, featuring live entertainment, holiday activities, and the lighting ceremony.
- Winter Garden Christmas Parade: Scheduled for December 6, this longtime community tradition brings festive floats and entertainment to downtown.
- A Merry Winter Garden Light Show: City Hall will host a free animated projection show synchronized with holiday music on select evenings December 4–27.
- Main Street Holiday Stroll: Running December 1 through January 3, 2027, this pedestrian-friendly experience features decorated storefronts, Christmas trees, overhead lights, and holiday photo opportunities.
- Holiday Entertainment: Visitors can enjoy strolling performers, seasonal music, and live entertainment on select December evenings.
The city is also planning its Official Hallmark Christmas Town photo station at Centennial Plaza, giving visitors another reason to stop downtown during the holiday season.
With its historic setting, locally owned businesses, seasonal decorations, and community traditions, Winter Garden offers a distinctly Central Florida way to celebrate Christmas.
For more information about upcoming holiday events, visit the City of Winter Garden’s official website.
