Time for Celebrations, Seasonal Festivals Come to Crystal River, Florida

Cooler temperatures and a dizzying lineup of fun-filled festivals and seasonal celebrations make fall and winter an especially attractive time to Discover Crystal River, Florida. From stone crabs and scarecrows, to bluegrass, blue crabs and barbecue, the fall and winter event season is an open invitation to come celebrate the tastes, traditions and tunes at the heart of Crystal River and Florida’s Citrus County.

Hernando Dragon Boat Festival – Nov. 9, Hernando

The largest “small boat” dragon boat festival in the United States, this event draws more than 5,000 people to the scenic Lake Hernando. In 2018, the event had 75 teams participating in the fun and competitive races. All event proceeds benefit the Citrus County Education Foundation. Learn more at PamDragonBoat.com.

Homosassa Arts, Crafts & Seafood Festival – Nov. 9 -10, Homosassa

The 45th annual festival is back for two days of live entertainment, juried art shows, true crafts, delicious local seafood and more. Stroll the booth for a close-up view of original paintings, handcrafted wood and jewelry. Tickets are just $3 for adults and free for children under 12. Proceeds benefit the organizations supported by the Homosassa Civic Club. Visit HomosassaSeafoodFestival.org for details.

Ozello Arts, Crafts & Blue Crab Festival – Nov. 30, Crystal River


Sound like a crazy combination? A day full of fresh, locally caught blue crab and locally made arts and crafts makes it crazy good! Find more details at Ozello.net.

Celebration of Light – December, Homosassa

Enjoy Sebastian’s Winter Wonderland, a synchronized light and sound show, open to the community through Christmas Eve. The community can expect to see different entertainment and refreshments nightly. Donations will benefit the Friends of Homosassa Springs. Stay tuned for updates and details.

Crystal River Christmas Tree Lighting Festival – Dec. 6, Crystal River

It will be a very Merry Grinchmas at the annual Christmas tree lighting in Downtown Crystal River. Kick off the holiday season in a twinkling winter wonderland with food, drinks, falling snow and Santa Claus. Learn more at CrystalRiverFl.org.

Floral City Heritage Days – Dec. 6-7, Floral City

Step back in time to explore the early days of charming Floral City, as volunteers dressed in period attire lead tours of historic homes and the museum. Demonstrations, horse cart rides and more make this event fun for all ages. FloralCityHC.org

Fort Cooper Nights of Lights – Dec. 13-15, Inverness

Enjoy music and refreshments, roast s’mores and walk under a canopy of sparkling holiday lights at Fort Cooper State Park. Instead of an entrance fee, guests are asked to bring a food item or toy for the Citrus United Basket of Inverness or pet feed for Citrus County Animal Services. More details to follow.

Homosassa River Christmas Boat Parade – December, Homosassa

A true Florida-style holiday parade, watch as holiday-themed boats float down the Homosassa waterfront. Event details will be available soon.

Light Up Inverness – Dec. 14, Inverness

Train rides, live music, lights and an appearance by Santa himself combine to make this an ideal Florida Christmas event. Learn more about this festive event at CitrusCountyChamber.com.

Florida Manatee Festival – Jan. 18 -19, 2020, Crystal River

The 33rd Annual Florida Manatee Festival returns with tours, music, food and more. This is set to be an epic year as Crystal River celebrates the area’s most beloved resident. Visit GoManteeFest.com for event details as they become available.