Christmas in the Quarry 2025: Holiday Lights in Central Florida

A Holiday Tradition at Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens

If you're looking for one of the most enchanting, family-friendly Christmas events near Gainesville, Ocala, or around Levy County, Christmas in the Quarry at Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens is a must-do every season! Our annual event has delighted people of all ages with glowing lights, seasonal music, festive treats, and holiday magic set within 20 acres of botanical gardens.

For 2025, our dates are:

December 13, 14, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23
Evenings run from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM

Whether you're local to Williston or planning a holiday outing from Gainesville, Ocala, The Villages, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, or surrounding communities, here’s what to expect, and why it’s the perfect family holiday tradition.

What to Expect: Lights, Music, Treats & More

When the sun dips and the gardens begin to glow, Christmas in the Quarry offers a fully immersive evening stroll through the illuminated pathways. Highlights include:

A dazzling light show throughout acres of trails
Live carolers providing a festive ambience
DIY ornament stations where kids (and parents) can make a keepsake
Seasonal food trucks and dessert vendors, plus hot beverages to warm you up
A vendor area and gift shop with seasonal merch
Santa visits or special holiday entertainment (depending on the night)
The whole experience is nestled in the natural beauty of Cedar Lakes’ garden setting

Because Cedar Lakes is a botanical garden set in a reclaimed limestone quarry, the layout, slopes, and garden features give the event a unique, dramatic atmosphere you won’t find in a standard light display.

Guests are welcome to arrive earlier in the day! Just pay regular daytime admission and keep your receipt, which grants access into the evening event. (See pricing below.)

Important note: Only service animals are permitted during the event. (No pets allowed.) Pets are welcome as always during the day under our regular pet policy.

Pricing & Admission Details

Evening Event Admission (only for Christmas in the Quarry)

Adults: $10.00
Children (6–13), military, first responders: $5.00
Children 5 and under: Free
Cedar Lakes members: Free

Full-Day Admission (includes garden access plus the evening event)

Adults (13+): $12.00 + tax
Children (6–13): $7.00 + tax
Children 5 and under: Free
Military (with ID): $6.00 + tax
First Responders (with ID): $6.00 + tax
Cedar Lakes members: Free

Tip: When you visit earlier in the day and purchase general admission, please ask for a wristband for entry to Christmas in the Quarry in the evening, so you can enjoy daytime gardens and stay for the Christmas walk after dark.

Why Christmas in the Quarry Stands Out

A unique garden setting
Many light displays are in parks or parking lots. Here, you’re walking through a botanical garden with varied terrain, plant collections, and dramatic elevation changes. The quarry backdrop adds character you won't see elsewhere.
It’s truly family-oriented
This event is designed to delight all ages: children can make ornaments, families can stroll together, and the gentle pace is ideal for grandparents, toddlers, or strollers (with some attention to ramp slopes).
Meaningful, local holiday experience
For people in Gainesville, Ocala, or rural parts of Levy County, this gives you something magical close to home, no long travel to big city displays. It’s perfect for tradition building for your own family or friends
Combines daytime & evening access
You get two experiences in one: the quiet beauty of the gardens by daylight, then the festive holiday magic after dark.
Supports local vendors & community
The vendor area and gift shop spotlight local artisans and makers. And food trucks bring in local flavor to your holiday evening.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit

Arrive early: Explore the gardens before sunset and get a good spot in the walking paths.
Dress in layers: Florida nights can cool off, bring jackets, blankets, or scarves.
Bring your camera or phone! This is a photo-friendly setting.
Watch for event dates that may feature special entertainment or Santa.
If your party includes someone with mobility concerns, plan your route and avoid steeper dips or stairs.
Check our website and social media accounts in advance in case of weather changes or schedule tweaks.
Budget extra time for wandering the vendor area and stopping for treats.
For out-of-town guests, check out our Where to Eat and Where to Stay pages for information on some of our favorite local spots nearby.

How to Get Here

Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens is located at 4990 NE 180th Ave, Williston, Florida, a manageable drive from many areas of Central and North Florida.

From Gainesville: Head south on SR 121 for an easy, straightforward trip.
From Ocala: Take US 27 west to Williston for a quick and simple route.
From Levy, Marion, and Alachua Counties and nearby areas: This is one of the closest and most spectacular holiday light experiences right in your backyard!

It’s also an easy day trip from several major metropolitan areas in Florida:

From Tampa: Take the Suncoast Parkway or US 19 north toward Williston.
From Jacksonville: Travel west on I-10, then head south on I-75 toward Ocala and Williston.
From Orlando: Take Florida’s Turnpike to I-75 north, then exit toward Williston in Ocala.

Build a New Holiday Tradition

Each December, Christmas in the Quarry becomes part of Central Florida’s holiday fabric. Whether you make it a family outing, a cozy date night, or a gathering with loved ones of all ages, the glowing lights, warm treats, and quiet garden paths help you slow down, breathe in the Christmas spirit, and create memories that last.

We hope to see you on one (or more!) of the nights in December 2025. Mark your calendars now. This magical celebration won’t disappoint.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates throughout the holiday season.