It’s Christmastime in Dunedin, and we love seeing the holiday spirit displayed around town. In our opinion, it’s one of the best displays in all of Tampa Bay! So many groups come together to light up our community – from the City and the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce to organizations like the VFW and all of our downtown merchants.

From all-out decorations to family-friendly events, here’s what you can see in our very merry community this year:

Holiday Lamp Post Decorating Contest

Downtown Dunedin merchants, City of Dunedin departments, and our local non-profits have all enlisted in this year’s “Operation Twinkle.” Their mission, which they’ve chosen to accept, is to dress up our local lamp posts on Main Street and Douglas Avenue in the holiday spirit!

We think they’ve done a tremendous job, and already set the bar high for next year. Check out some of our favorites here.

On December 8th, participating lamp posts will be adjudicated and a prize will be awarded to the top three. Stay tuned to find out who won!

Christmas Boat Parade and Tree Lighting

Ring in the holidays during this traditional waterfront celebration as decorated boats parade through the Marina. Festivities during this event also include Santa’s arrival (on the last boat of the parade), holiday music, S’Mores, and the tree lighting ceremony in Edgewater Park.

Stop by our sister restaurant, Bon Appétit, for drinks and dinner on their waterfront terrace!

WHEN: December 4th from 6 PM – 9 PM

WHERE: Along the Dunedin coastline from Marker 1 Marina to Union Street.

City of Dunedin Decorations

We LOVE the City of Dunedin’s commitment to creating a beautiful space for all to enjoy, but this month they’ve taken it to another level. In addition to the usual public art, you can now find boughs of holly, tinsel and garland, wreaths, and more strung up around our downtown district! Check out some of our favorites below:

City of Dunedin Events

While sledding, skiing, and snow angels may be off the table, the City of Dunedin is hosting a bunch of awesome events to bring the Christmas spirit to the city! Check out our list below and click for more details:

Seasonal Stocking Stuffers

Dunedin is our favorite place in the world, but we know it wouldn’t be what it is without a strong community of locally-owned businesses. That’s why this year, we’re encouraging everyone to shop Dunedin for the holidays!

Whether it’s a Bon Appétit Group gift card (which can be used at either Bon Appétit Restaurant or Café Alfresco 😉), some new accouterments from Spoiled Rotten, or simply quality time spent doing something in the area – we have a whole list of ideas for you! Check out our 7+ Local Gift Ideas for the Holidays!