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HRT for Women in Christmas, FL
Discover Effortless Aging with Hormone Therapy for Women
There's real substance to the notion that every woman is different. No two person's attitudes, bodies, or goals in life are ever exactly the same. But if there's one thing that every person shares, it's that our bodies change as we get older. That's especially true for females over the age of 50. One day you wake up, roll out of bed, and attack the day with vigor and positivity.
The next day, it seems like your emotions are out of control. Despite dieting and healthy life choices, your weight won't go down. It seems like you're having to deal with uncomfortable hot flashes every other hour of the day. Life can be hard after 50, especially when it seems like your body is plotting against you.
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But the truth is, these changes are a completely normal part of the aging process for women. As you might be aware, this change is called menopause, and according to the NIH, more than one million women go through it every year. This change in life marks the end of your period. During this time, your hormones begin to deplete, causing a range of symptoms that can be difficult to deal with without professional help. Some of the most common symptoms of menopause include:
- Hot Flashes
- Vaginal Dryness
- Low Libido or Sexual Desire
- Mood Swings
- Lack of Focus
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Chronic Tiredness
- Increased Body Weight
Trying to juggle and cope with the symptoms of hormone deficiency can be rough for women and their partners because many of them are linked to nutrition, stress, and lack of exercise.
Fortunately, getting older and going through menopause doesn't have to be the worst time in your life. Hormone replacement therapy for women in Christmas, FL, can help correct the imbalances in your body that are brought on by menopause. These safe, proven treatments from NV Medical Orlando can help balance your hormones during menopause and even help you reclaim your youth.
AboutWhat is HRT for Women?
As a locally owned and operated shutter business, doing right by our customers is our top priority. We know that there are many options out there, so we at the Shutter Shop specialize in providing our customers the highest quality product at the most reasonable price.
We're able to offer impeccable customer service and high-quality shutters and blinds at low prices because, unlike others, we are the manufacturers. That means everything you order from the Shutter Shop is made right here in Georgetown, FL by our talented team. We're proud to say that products made here at The Shutter Shop are shipped to builders and homeowners all across the United States.
It all started when Shawn Reardon, The Shutter Shop's sole owner, and his wife moved from Santee to Georgetown in 2003. They were new to the ins and outs of shutters but wanted to start up a new business on the coast of South Carolina. They started out manufacturing plantation shutters only and a couple years later began manufacturing all exterior window coverings also.
How Does Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women Work?
At NV Medical Orlando, our HRT treatments for women include the use of pellets, which are about the size of a tic-tac and contain hormones like estrogen and testosterone. These pellets are implanted subcutaneously to supply your body with the hormones it needs. Each pellet contains a tiny number of bioidentical hormones that are released steadily into your bloodstream for up to five months.
Unlike other sexual health centers, every HRT treatment provided by our women's sexual health clinic is tailored to our patients. While natural hormone replacement therapy is effective for many women, every patient is different. That's why it's important that you speak with a board-certified doctor, like Gina Kirkpatrick, before starting any HRT treatment to make sure it's right for you.
Is HRT for Women in Christmas, FL, Right for You?
When a woman's hormones are balanced, there's a better chance that she will be able to live a happy, normal life. That's where the beauty of HRT for women begins to unfold because it balances hormones in your body that would otherwise be disrupted due to menopause.
HRT treatments for women are revolutionary in that they allow you to enjoy life without suffering through all the pitfalls associated with getting older. However, at NV Medical Orlando, our team understands that no two women have the same bodies or hormone imbalances. That's why our board-certified and fellowship-trained urologist, Gina Kirkpatrick, D.O., provides personalized HRT therapy options for women.
Is HRT treatment from NV Medical Orlando the answer to your mood, weight, and exhaustion problems? That's the million-dollar question we get almost every day. And honestly, it's difficult to say until we can see you in our office and conduct a thorough examination. What we can say is that when your hormones are balanced optimally during menopause, you have a much better chance of living a normal life without the overwhelming symptoms that many women experience.
At NV Medical Orlando, we prioritize helping women balance their hormones to live healthy, fulfilling lives. Our HRT therapy options aren't just about getting you on a regimen - it's about giving your body the nutrition and love it deserves through a patient-first approach.
DifferenceThe NV Medical Orlando Difference
Unlike some clinics that rush their patients into therapy, our team focuses on our patient's needs and goals first. To achieve those goals, we conduct thorough blood tests and comprehensively examine your health during your first visit. That way, we can discover your underlying problems, determine your hormone levels, and get a better sense of your needs.
After that, our dedicated physician will develop a personalized treatment plan for you. The goal of this plan is to outline your HRT journey so that we can balance your hormones and your whole body. During this process, we'll keep a close eye on your hormone replacement therapy for women in Christmas, FL. Like a web, HRT therapy covers several facets of female health. Each piece of that web works in tandem with others to make up how you feel. If we need to tweak aspects of your plan to help you feel better, we'll let you know and will adjust accordingly.
At the end of the day, we want you to feel safe, empowered, and like you're part of our family. After all, true HRT for women doesn't just balance hormones - it optimizes wellbeing and health, too. That's why NV Medical Orlando is dedicated to giving you a one-of-a-kind experience and specialized care, so you'll never feel like you're falling through the cracks.
Up to this point, we've talked about all the greatness that can come with HRT from NV Medical Orlando - but what are the actual benefits? Let's take a look.
Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women in Christmas, FL
Most women who consider natural hormone therapy are curious about its benefits and the results of long-term clinical investigations. Who wouldn't be? When it comes to the symptoms of menopause, natural estrogen therapy can be incredibly effective for conditions like lack of sleep, weight gain, excessive sweating, mood swings, and more.
In addition to promoting overall health, HRT for women can help reverse sexual symptoms of menopause, like vaginal dryness and general discomfort during intercourse.
When used as part of a comprehensive preventive healthcare plan, HRT can be an invaluable tool for women. That's because hormone therapies like estrogen treatment have been shown in clinical investigations to reduce the risk of serious concerns like osteoporosis and bone loss.
But that's just the start. Clinical studies report a wide range of HRT benefits, including:
- Improved Mood
- Better Memory
- Improved Concentration
- Longer and Healthier Sleep
- Fewer Hot Flashes
- Less Chance of Depression
- Optimized Vaginal Health
- Improved Muscle Mass and Strength
- Improved Blood Pressure
- Better Cholesterol Levels
- Less Risk of Alzheimer's
- Reduced Risk of Breast Cancer
To learn more about the benefits of HRT and whether treatment is right for you, contact our office today. If you're ready to feel better about getting older, NV Medical Orlando is here to help you every step of the way.
Your HRT Timeline
As we mentioned earlier, no two women will have the same hormone levels or HRT therapy needs. As such, every woman's timeline for menopause relief will be different. Generally, however, a standard HRT timeline may look like this:
Around week one, many women notice that they experience fewer hot flashes than normal. Some women notice these improvements only a few days after their first treatment.
After about two to three weeks of HRT for women in Christmas, FL, many women notice that they have less irritability, anxiety, and fewer mood swings. During this phase, hot flashes should continue diminishing, and sleep may improve. Other benefits of HRT, like increased libido and more energy, are also expected during this phase.
Starting around weeks three to four, many HRT patients will notice drastic improvements in menopausal symptoms.
Around weeks five and six, it's common for women to notice physical differences like healthier skin, less hair loss, and even weight loss. With time, these improvements become even more pronounced.
Additional Services for Optimal Female Health
At NV Medical Orlando, we don't only treat our patients for sexual health and wellness. Because Dr. Gina Kirkpatrick is a fellowship-trained urologist, our clinic has the capacity to treat all matters related to sexual health and wellness, including certain urologic conditions.
Vaginal Rejuvenation
Have you started to notice that things “down under†are different than they were years ago? Are you experiencing disconcerting symptoms such as:
- Burning
- Irritation After Sex
- Dryness
- Urinary Incontinence
- Unfulfilling Intercourse
- Vaginal Laxity (Lack of Tightness)
- Diminished Lubrication During Intercourse
If you've noticed any of the above symptoms, you may be dealing with vaginal or pelvic floor laxity. For women dealing with these issues, vaginal rejuvenation often answers their problems. Vaginal rejuvenation is an umbrella term that covers several vaginal corrective procedures. These procedures can correct problems that occur after giving birth or during menopause.
Traditionally, these conditions have been treated with invasive surgeries and with supplements like vaginal estrogen or hyaluronic acid. However, modern treatment options like laser vaginal rejuvenation are growing in popularity and can help women avoid the pitfalls of surgery.
In fact, study centers around the world are using monopolar radiofrequency for vaginal laxity in premenopausal women. Studies show that treatment is safe and helps improve vaginal laxity and other sexual dysfunctions. Additionally, anecdotal evidence shows that patients have less urine leakage when coughing, laughing, sneezing, and exercising.
If you're unsatisfied with the appearance of your vagina or have noticed increased looseness or diminished lubrication, don't lose hope. Vaginal rejuvenation, HRT for women in Christmas, FL, or a combo of the two may be right for you.
Vaginal Dryness
The primary cause of vaginal atrophy or vaginal dryness is the reduction of estrogen. Typically, women lose estrogen during and after menopause. Childbirth and hysterectomy can also be causes that reduce estrogen production. To help women restore natural levels of estrogen, thereby treating vaginal dryness, NV Medical Orlando offers three types of therapies:
Vaginal Therapy
Estrogen cream is applied intravaginally at night to improve vaginal blood flow, lubrication, and elasticity. Alternatively, women can choose s Hyaluronic Acid Vaginal Suppository, which provides hormone-free relief from vaginal dryness. This treatment is best for women who cannot undergo hormone replacement therapy.
Minimally Invasive Vaginal Therapy
Viveve Radiofrequency Technology, which uses cryogen-cooled radio frequencies to heat and cool vaginal tissue, is designed to improve:
- Blood Flow
- Vaginal Lubrication
- Vaginal Laxity
- Stress Urinary Incontinence
This popular treatment is performed discreetly, is painless, and usually takes less than an hour to complete.
Systemic Therapy
HRT for women in Christmas, FL, can be administered as oral pills, creams, pellets, or as injections under the skin. The specific type of hormones, their delivery mechanisms, and dosage levels are determined on a patient-by-patient basis after a detailed history, physical exam, and laboratory study.
Low Libido in Women
If you're a woman who finds herself lacking sexual desire or the act of sexual intercourse, you're not alone. In fact, research from 1999 shows that as much as 22% of women in the U.S. report low sex drive. Though this issue is often underreported, its causes and the available treatments are well-known.
Causes of low libido in women include:
Surgery
Hysterectomies often result in a drastic drop of testosterone and estrogen in a woman's body. This drop in hormones has been linked to low libido.
Medications
Some medicines that are used to treat depression and anxiety, specifically SSRIs that inhibit serotonin, have been demonstrated to reduce sexual arousal.
Hormones
Estrogen affects blood flow to vaginal and genital tissues. Reducing estrogen, which can occur during and after menopause, childbirth or surgical menopause created secondary to a hysterectomy can result in reduced vaginal blood flow and lubrication.
Overall Health
Studies on post-menopausal women have demonstrated that patients in poor health report lower sexual desire. In fact, symptoms like chronic pain, fatigue, and mood swings caused by chronic illnesses all contribute to decreased female libido.
Though low libido and the effects of unbalanced hormones can be concerning, treatment is available at NV Medical Orlando. First, a thorough physical exam and health history will be conducted to help our experts develop an optimal treatment plan for you. During your evaluation, you may be asked to complete a questionnaire that helps us assess your symptoms further. That way, we can craft an appropriate treatment regimen to address your symptoms and concerns.
The type of treatment recommended depends on your identified needs and may include hormone replacement therapy for women, vaginal treatments, oral medications, sexual therapies, or additional treatment regimens.
The Premier Choice for FDA-Approved HRT for Women in Christmas, FL
If you're a woman suffering day-to-day from the symptoms of menopause, now is the time to balance your hormones and reclaim your life. Sure, menopause is a natural process that occurs in almost every woman's body. But that doesn't mean you must forego treatments like HRT to make your transition easier. Who says the second half of your life can't be better than the first?
At NV Medical Orlando, we have helped countless women overcome the life-changing symptoms associated with menopause and hormone imbalances, and we're here for you, too. Contact our office today to schedule your evaluation and take the first step toward long-term relief.
407-730-4244
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Latest News in Christmas, FL
Getting ready for Christmas? Here are 8 Florida cities to visit to get in the holiday mood
Daytona Beach News-Journal Onlinehttps://www.news-journalonline.com/story/news/local/2023/12/13/florida-best-christmas-towns-list-clearwater-key-west-disney-mount-dora/71835656007/
Florida isn't really the place most people think of, when they think of "Christmas."We have plenty of festive lights and local celebrations, but generally not a lot of quaint, snow-covered villages. We have fir trees, but very few ...
Florida isn't really the place most people think of, when they think of "Christmas."
We have plenty of festive lights and local celebrations, but generally not a lot of quaint, snow-covered villages. We have fir trees, but very few reindeer. Not many of our homes come complete with fireplaces, unless you count patio barbecues. Our Christmas postcards invariably include a Santa in swim trunks, possibly near an alligator. The latest forecast for Christmas Day is for temps in the 70s, and rainy.
And yet when photo book site Mixbook ranked the 75 American towns with the "strongest Christmas vibes," based on a poll, they picked Clearwater as the 29th most Chrismassy, and St. Augustine as No. 54. Take that, Woodstock, Vermont!
Here are the places to go in the Sunshine State to get into the Christmas mood.
St. Augustine lights up the town
Do you like Christmas lights? You're probably not going to find more than the amazing spectacle of the Nation's Oldest City's "Nights of Lights," when they deck out their Spanish Colonial architecture every year with more than 3 million bulbs to set the skyline aglow.
According to its website, the lights adorn the city's downtown sidewalks to the rooftops, over the Bridge of Lions, along historic buildings, public spaces, hotels, restaurants, and inns throughout approximately 20 blocks of the historic district.
When HGTV released its list of the best small "Christmas towns" in every state and picked St. Augustine to represent Florida, saying, "No American city has done Christmas longer than St. Augustine."
"Visitors and locals enjoy festive carriage rides, boat tours along the illuminated Matanzas River, and walking tours that showcase the city's rich history and festive décor," Mixbook said in a release. "St. Augustine's unique Spanish heritage is also highlighted in its holiday traditions, adding a distinct flavor to the Christmas celebrations."
Clearwater has an electric light boat parade
Clearwater, like most cities and towns, has its Christmas celebrations and events. But they also have the annual "Holiday Lighted Boat Parade," which Mixbook liked for the "nautical charm" of the "boats adorned with festive lights and decorations" in the Intracoastal Waterway, a nice change to the traditional holiday parades.
There are frankly, lots of amazing decorated holiday boat parades in Florida in just about every city near a body of water, including nearby St. Petersburg and Tarpon Springs, but they didn't make Mixbook's list. Check your local events listings.
Christmas, Florida. There you go.
Christmas, Florida, halfway between Orlando and Titusville, isn't really the most Christmassy place in the state. The quiet, tiny census-designated place had just 2,439 people in the 2020 census, many of whom work in a different town, and not much in the way of big celebrations.
It does boast the world's largest alligator-shaped building (over 200 feet) and lots of Orlando TV station transmission towers, though. The town was included in John Green's novel, "Paper Towns" about teens searching for a missing friend among abandoned housing subdivisions near Orlando.
But visitors are greeted by a giant decorated tree all year long, and some residents keep their homes decorated year-round. And there are a lot of visitors around this time of year as they line up to get their holiday mail postmarked from the suddenly-very-busy Christmas Post Office and maybe get their cards and parcels stamped with festive commemorative images by Santa himself.
Christmas all year? :From Santa Claus, Indiana; to North Pole, Alaska, it's merry year-round in these 14 places
Mount Dora, lit up and picture-perfect
If you've ever wanted the feeling of walking through a Hallmark Channel Christmas movie picture-perfect small town, just come to Mount Dora and enjoy the many antique shops, art galleries and annual festivals as you stroll around the downtown area or head out by Lake Dora to enjoy the beautiful vista and occasional seaplane landing.
And every year, they give St. Augustine a run for its money with the Light Up Mount Dora event. This will be the 42nd annual event, when thousands of people come to see more than two million lights, musical performances, an aerial display, fireworks, a 40-foot Christmas tree and an appearance from Santa.
Orlando: This Mouse is stirring
Orlando has plenty of holiday displays, from the lights at Lake Eola to the magical tour of 1.6 million lights at the Give Kids the World Village to the dazzling display at the 50-acre Harry P. Leu Gardens to the Dinos in Lights exhibit at the Orlando Science Center. But what might have contributed to Orlando being the No. 1 holiday destination around the country, according to AAA, is Disney World, and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.
The party started in November, actually, and runs through Dec. 22 on select nights. There are special treats, complimentary seasonal sweets and beverages, character meet-and-greets you won't get any other time of the year, big holiday show extravaganzas, and "snow" falling from the sky. The party starts at 7 p.m. and runs to midnight, and you will need a separate ticket to attend.
Miami went full Christmas theme park
If Florida is somewhat less Christmassy than the rest of the states, Miami may be less Christmassy than other places in Florida. It can be hard to get into the yuletide spirit with 80-degree weather.
But it makes up for it with Santa's Enchanted Forest, the world's largest holiday theme park, now celebrating its 40th year with more than 100 attractions, rides, games and shows. See acrobats, magic shows, holiday displays, Santa Claus and many, many light displays, or ride the rides including the massive Ferris Wheel. Open through Jan. 7, 2024.
West Palm Beach invokes the sandy clause
You think your city has a big Christmas tree?
The one in West Palm Beach weighs 700 tons. Its name is Sandi.
Every year a new 35-foot sculpted holiday sand tree arises by the waterfront with thousands of lights synchronized to music, because that's how we do things in Florida. Along with other sand sculptures, in December Sandi becomes a centerpiece of a month of nightly music and light shows, with faux snow falling at The Square.
Or you can drive around and check out Delray Beach's 100-foot Christmas tree, or go to Palm Beach to check out the annual surfboard tree at The Royal Poinciana Plaza, created every year by different artists and designers. This year, the tree will be giving you the signature red, white and blue stripes of designer Thom Browne.
Florida, Palm Beach County traditions:Faux snow, giant sand Christmas trees, surfing Santas
Key West's Christmas party lasts a month, because Key West
If you're going to have a Florida Christmas, you might as well go full Florida and hit Key West. It's not a winter wonderland but it's a town that knows how to party with the month-long celebration of the tropical holiday, Key West Holiday Fest.
Take the Walk of Lights from Lazy Way Lane to the Ferry Terminal at Grinnell Street to see "light-bedecked palm trees, Christmas trees, ships, shops, restaurants and watering holes," according to KeyWestInns.com. Take a trolley tour, see the spectacular parades on land and sea, get out for the 5K Rudolph Nose Run, visit the ice skating rink at Key West Waterfront Winter Wonderland, and enjoy the many musical performances.
Or just hang out at the beach because it's still Florida and why not enjoy it?
Samantha Neely, USA TODAY Network-Florida, contributed to this story.
Florida's Christmas isn't the only town named for the holiday. Here's a short list.
Lianna Normanhttps://www.floridatoday.com/story/entertainment/2023/12/22/where-christmas-florida-states-with-christmas-named-towns/71997289007/
There’s a town in Florida where it’s always Christmas.Each December, Floridians from all over the state travel to the post office in Christmas, Florida to have their ...
There’s a town in Florida where it’s always Christmas.
Each December, Floridians from all over the state travel to the post office in Christmas, Florida to have their holiday mail stamped with reindeer, Santa Clauses and Christmas trees at a season-appropriate location.
And although the name of this small town stands out in Florida, there are other cities throughout the United States that have been named after the most wonderful time of the year.
Here’s a quick introduction to the festive town of Christmas, Florida and a short list of some towns in other states with Christmas-themed names.
What county is Christmas, Florida in?
The town of Christmas has around 1,600 residents and is situated in the greater Orlando-Kissimmee metropolitan area, about halfway between downtown Orlando and Kennedy Space Center.
The town is in Orange County and is, of course, known for holiday cheer. Even the streets have festive names, like Comet Street and Blitzen Avenue.
Why is it called Christmas, Florida?
In 1837, the longest of the three Seminole Wars was underway between United States soldiers looking for more control of native land and Florida’s native Seminole Indians.
On December 25, 1837, 2,000 U.S. soldiers arrived in what is now Christmas, Florida to build a fort and named it for the holiday. The town that followed took the same name.
Christmas’ first post office, which has since been replaced with a more modern one, was established almost 40 years later, in 1892. The fort, built during the second Seminole war, is still standing and available to tour.
The fort is closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, though, which means you can’t visit Fort Christmas on its birthday. Click this link for more information about the fort’s visiting hours.
Which states have towns named for Christmas?
Here’s a short list of towns in some other states that have Christmas-related names:
South Florida stores to adjust operating hours during Christmas, New Year's Day
Malcolm Shieldshttps://www.wpbf.com/article/florida-stores-to-adjust-operating-hours-during-christmas-new-years-day/46180094
With Christmas Day and New Year’s Day on the horizon, many South Florida stores and malls are adjusting their hours of operation for the holidays.Publix announced that it will be open until at 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve on Sunday, Dec. 24, while Christmas Day, Monday Dec. 25, its stores will be closed all day.Click here to find a Publix near you.Winn-Dixie along with Fresco y Más stores will be open until at 9 p.m. on Christmas Eve, ...
With Christmas Day and New Year’s Day on the horizon, many South Florida stores and malls are adjusting their hours of operation for the holidays.
Publix announced that it will be open until at 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve on Sunday, Dec. 24, while Christmas Day, Monday Dec. 25, its stores will be closed all day.
Click here to find a Publix near you.
Winn-Dixie along with Fresco y Más stores will be open until at 9 p.m. on Christmas Eve, Sunday, Dec. 24 and closed all day Christmas Day, Monday, Dec. 25.
For New Year’s Eve, all stories will be open until 10 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 31 and will operate during normal business hours on New Year's Day, Monday, Jan. 1.
Click here to find a Winn-Dixie and click here to find a Fresco y Más store near you.
Get the latest news updates with the WPBF 25 News app. You can download it here.
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CVS provided the following statement to WPBF 25 News last month on its holiday hours:
“Many CVS Pharmacy locations will be open during regular hours over the holidays. However, some stores may be closed or have reduced hours. We recommend that people call their local stores before visiting or check hours at cvs.com.”
Walgreens announced that its stores will be open during normal business hours on Sunday, Dec. 24.
On Monday, Dec. 25, most Walgreens stores will be open with adjusted operating hours from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., while its 24-hour stores will remain open.
Click here to locate a Walgreens store near you.
For information on Aldi stores, click here.
MALLS
PALM BEACH COUNTY
Tanger Outlets Palm Beach (West Palm Beach)
Saturday, December 23: 9 a.m. until 9 p.m.
Sunday, Christmas Eve: 8 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Monday, Christmas Day: Closed
Sunday, Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve: 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Monday, Jan. 1, 2024, New Year’s Day: 10 a.m. until 9 p.m.
Boynton Beach Mall
Christmas Eve: 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Christmas Day: Closed
New Year’s Eve: 11 a.m. until 6 p.m.
New Year’s Day: 11 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Town Center at Boca Raton
Christmas Eve: 8 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Christmas Day: Closed
New Year’s Eve: 11 a.m. until 6 p.m.
New Year’s Day: 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
The Gardens Mall (Palm Beach Gardens)
Christmas Eve: 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Christmas Day: Closed
New Year’s Eve: 12 p.m. until 6 p.m.
New Year’s Day: 10 a.m. until 8 p.m.
The Mall at Wellington Green (Wellington)
Christmas Eve: 8 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Christmas Day: 10 a.m. until 8 p.m.
New Year’s Eve: 11 a.m. until 6 p.m.
New Year’s Day: 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
INDIAN RIVER COUNTY
Indian River Mall (Vero Beach)
Christmas Eve: 9 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Christmas Day: Closed
New Year’s Eve: 12 p.m. until 6 p.m.
New Year’s Day: 11 a.m. until 7 p.m.
MARTIN COUNTY
Treasure Coast Square (Jensen Beach)
Christmas Eve: 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Christmas Day: Closed
New Year’s Eve: 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
New Year’s Day: 10 a.m. until 9 p.m.
Stay up-to-date: The latest headlines and weather from WPBF 25
A brief history and traditions of Christmas in Florida
Randy Jayehttps://www.observerlocalnews.com/news/2023/dec/25/a-brief-history-and-traditions-of-christmas-in-florida/
Editor's note: The following article was first published in Ormond Beach Historical Society's newsletter, and reposted here with permission from the author, local historian Randy Jaye.The first observance of Christmas in what is now the United States occurred in Florida in 1539. The Spanish conquistador Hernando de Soto and his expedition of 600 people including soldiers, slaves, craftsmen and 12 Catholic priests celebrated the Christmas holiday while encamped at the Apalachee town of Anhaica (present-day Tallahassee). This C...
Editor's note: The following article was first published in Ormond Beach Historical Society's newsletter, and reposted here with permission from the author, local historian Randy Jaye.
The first observance of Christmas in what is now the United States occurred in Florida in 1539. The Spanish conquistador Hernando de Soto and his expedition of 600 people including soldiers, slaves, craftsmen and 12 Catholic priests celebrated the Christmas holiday while encamped at the Apalachee town of Anhaica (present-day Tallahassee). This Christmas celebration lacked the present-day traditions of gift exchanges, eggnog and holiday songs. However, it included a traditional Catholic mass and a large feast (courtesy of the Apalachee food reserves that included maize and beans that were left behind when de Soto’s expedition forced these native people out of their settlement).
This first observance of Christmas was most likely not a very happy affair for de Soto’s expedition, as they were frequently attacked by the displaced native Apalachee people. The de Soto expedition reported that the Apalachee people even attempted to burn down their own town with flaming torches and arrows to chase the Spanish expedition away from their rightful lands.
19th century Florida Christmas trees
After the American Civil War an influx of people from northern states and immigrants from European countries started relocating to Florida to build settlements. Many of these post-Civil War settlers brought their traditional Christmas customs along, which included a traditional Christmas tree that was usually a cedar tree, Balsam fir, Douglas fir or Norfolk pine. Most of these kinds of tree species are not native to Florida. These new Floridians adapted by using native trees such as longleaf and sand pines.
Interestingly, most of the native Florida trees do not have branches that support heavy traditional Christmas ornaments, so many of these nineteenth-century Christmas trees were decorated with homemade lightweight items such as feathers, ribbons, shells and yarn.
Some Christmas traditions unique to Florida
In addition to Santa Claus being depicted in tropical settings on many vintage and current postcards and holiday cards, there are many other Christmas traditions unique to Florida.
Christmas decorations unique to Florida include turquoise and sand color themes. Christmas tree ornaments include starfish, seashells and Santa Claus wearing sun glasses, shorts, and flip flops.
Many Floridians have substituted traditional Christmas dinner menu staples such as roasted turkey or baked ham with seafood feasts. Traditional desserts such as apple and cherry pie are oftentimes substituted with key lime pie.
Surfing with Santa Claus was the idea of George Trosset, of Cocoa Beach. Dressing in a Santa suit or wearing tropical themed holiday shirts or swimwear on Christmas Eve to go surfing now attracts thousands of people to central Florida beaches.
The Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Walt Disney World features a huge magical celebration that includes caroling, dancing, holiday-themed treats and an incredible fireworks display. Snow-making machines provide falling snow for those who enjoy snowfall during the holidays.
Santa arrives without a reindeer-drawn sleigh in many places around Florida. In the city of Apalachicola, Santa sails into town on a working shrimp boat. In Cocoa Beach, Santa skydives into town and lands on the beach. At the National Marine Sanctuary in the Florida Keys, Santa has occasionally been spotted coming to town in scuba gear.
A swimming Santa Claus and his elves create a Christmas-themed show at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park as they join the traditional underwater production of "The Little Mermaid." This underwater mermaid show has become one of Florida’s most unique Christmas traditions.
Unique Christmas traditions in several Florida towns
Christmas, Florida (that’s correct — a Florida town is actually named after a Second Seminole War fort, called Fort Christmas, which was established on Dec. 25, 1837). The town’s streets are named after Santa’s reindeer and its post office is very popular around the holidays because of its “Christmas” postmark. The town hosts the annual Fort Christmas Cracker Christmas in December, which is a large craft fair with various types of food, quilting, handcrafts, wood carving, historical reenactments, and blacksmith demonstrations. Although this town is associated to “Old Florida” it seems it is as close to the North Pole as one can get in Florida.
Miami features Santa’s Enchanted Forest, which transforms Tropical Park into a winter wonderland with six million lights, 100 rides, games, and attractions. It is reportedly the largest Christmas-themed amusement park in the world. Bayfront Park sets up a giant 52-foot Christmas tree decorated with flowers and sparkling lights. The Miami Zoo features animal-shaped lights, Christmas carol sing-a-longs and lighted carousel rides.
Jacksonville boosts a very bright Christmas with the Morocco Shrine Center’s display of some of the brightest holiday lights in the state. The city’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Hemming Park features a 56-foot tall tree with over 78,000 bulbs and more than 100 ornaments. A nationally celebrated holiday display known as the Jax Beach Deck the Chairs (DTC) promotes arts and arts education through a community supported holiday exhibit, and includes over 40 American Red Cross lifeguard chairs that are decorated in holiday themes. In 2015, People Magazine recognized DTC in its top 50 list of America’s Unique Holiday Events.
Orlando’s theme parks including Universal Studios, Walt Disney World, and SeaWorld set up world-renowned Christmastime displays, host festive shows and create family-friendly fun for holiday lovers of all ages. Legoland sets up a giant lego brick Christmas tree.
Pensacola’s Winterfest features various holiday shows. The Winterfest Express Electric Train caters to children and features a ride through the holiday-themed lighted streets and a visit to Papa Noel (aka Cajun Santa). The Pensacola Lighted Boat Parade is a holiday season sparkling event that is said to be best witnessed from the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk.
Sarasota’s University Town Center features over four million lights in holiday shapes ranging from reindeer to Christmas trees. The Holidays on the Green event features carousel rides, horse-drawn carriage rides, ice-skating, and even “snow” tubing. The annual Gingerbread Festival features over 150 gingerbread houses made by local youth groups, schools, and businesses.
St. Augustine hosts the annual Night of Lights Festival where more than three million lights are draped on historic buildings, homes, wrapped around palm trees, and lined along roads and streets.
Tallahassee boosts a festive Christmas glow of twinkling lights. The annual Holiday Stroll Through Cascades Park features more than 20 performances including Christmas carol singing. Water fountains spray in tune to holiday songs.
West Palm Beach’s downtown Sandi Land hosts a 35-foot, 700-ton sand tree topped with a giant star and decorated with more than 5,000 lights. A music and light show is performed every 15 minutes each night during the Christmas season.
With all the unique Christmas traditions throughout Florida, who needs ice and snow for the holidays?
How many days to Christmas? Ultimate countdown guide to best holiday season around Florida
Cheryl McCloudhttps://www.tcpalm.com/story/news/2023/12/19/christmas-florida-norad-track-santa-weather-forecast-countdown-shipping-best-worst-travel-times/71968842007/
It's the most wonderful time of the year and we fill it with lights, music, good food and plenty of fun with family.And then we give it a distinctive Florida spin with surfing Santas, boat parades, and a giant sand sculpture of a Christmas tree. It just goes to show you don't necessarily need cold and snow to enjoy the season.So sit ...
It's the most wonderful time of the year and we fill it with lights, music, good food and plenty of fun with family.
And then we give it a distinctive Florida spin with surfing Santas, boat parades, and a giant sand sculpture of a Christmas tree. It just goes to show you don't necessarily need cold and snow to enjoy the season.
So sit back, turn down the air conditioning, grab a glass of eggnog or hot chocolate, and take a peek at your guide to Christmas around the Sunshine State. Yes, this peeking is allowed.
How many days until Christmas?
Let's count the days!
NORAD tracks Santa Claus on Christmas Eve
Where is Santa? Right now, he's still at the North Pole checking those lists — so you have time to get on the nice list — unless he popped down to Florida to blend in with the Surfing Santas in Cocoa Beach.
Keep watch on Christmas Eve as we livestream Santa's location from NORAD, which has been tracking Santa's travels on Dec. 24 since 1955.
Christmas 2023 shipping deadlines: You're running out of time
The latest date you can possibly send a package to arrive on Christmas is Dec. 21, which only applies to Priority Mail Express shipping and if the package is going somewhere in the contiguous United States.
Here are important holiday shipping dates listed on the USPS website:
What's the weather forecast in Florida for Christmas?
While a cold front dropped temperatures into the 30s, 40s and 50s across Florida a week before Christmas, don't expect the weather outside to stay "frightful."
By Christmas Eve, temperatures should head back up into 60s with Southwest and South Florida creeping back up into the 70s.
But what about Christmas? Will we see a repeat of last year, when Florida saw its coldest Christmas in over three decades?
As of Dec. 18, according to AccuWeather monthly forecasts, there's around a 60-75% chance of rain and a small chance of thunderstorms across the entire state on Christmas Day and a 25% chance on Christmas Eve. Southwest and South Florida may see more rain on Dec. 24.
Florida Christmas forecast:Christmastime is (nearly) here. Will it be cold or rainy in Florida for Christmas?
Bottom line: If you're looking for snow for Christmas, you'll have to head out of the state since Florida has a 0.0% chance of seeing snow on Christmas, according to Climate.gov’s data.
Traveling for Christmas? Here's what to expect
According to AAA, 115.2 million travelers will be heading 50 miles or more from home over the 10-day holiday period covering Christmas and New Year's, a 2.2% increase over last year and the second-highest year-end travel forecast since the organization began tracking holiday travel 23 years ago. Nearly 104 million travelers will be on the road, AAA said.
Florida may break its own record from last year, AAA spokesman Mark Jenkins said. An estimated 6.6 million Floridians are expected to travel for the holidays, a 3.4% increase over last year's 6.4 million.
AAA predicts that airports will be the busiest they have ever been over the holidays, with 7.5 million air travelers.
Best and worst times to travel for Christmas
According to transportation data site INRIX, Saturday, Dec. 23, Thursday, Dec. 28, and Saturday, Dec. 30 will be the most congested days on the road.
Flying? Here are the days anticipated to be the busiest for airports this Christmas season, according to a study by The Vacationer:
Here are the days that are anticipated to be the best/least busy for airports this Christmas season:
Expect to pay about the same as last year for gas
Gas prices are helping the boost in holiday traffic.
"As 2023 comes to a close, drivers can expect to pay about the same or less for a gallon of gas than they did last holiday season, when the Florida average on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day was $2.99 and $3.24, respectively," said AAA spokesman David Jenkins.
Stop by a Florida Christmas tree farm
Don't have a tree yet? There are several Christmas tree farms in Florida for a family-fun experience.
Who knows, a new tradition may be created, minus the frostbite.
What restaurants, grocery stores are open and closed in Florida for Christmas Day 2023
Want to avoid the kitchen on Christmas Day and concentrate on family and those gifts under the tree?
Here are restaurants, fast food locations and quick service spots in Florida that will be open on Christmas Day, as well as grocery stores and drug stores for those who need to run out for a forgotten item.
Best places to go for Christmas
Looking for someplace to help get you in the holiday spirit since shorts and T-shirt just aren't doing it?
HGTV released its list of the best small "Christmas towns" in every state and St. Johns County's St. Augustine was one of the featured holiday hotspots.
The city's "Nights of Lights," is one of the most breathtaking displays of holiday lighting in the world, according to HGTV.
Really, really want to see snow but don't want to face the traffic? Think about visiting Snowcat Ridge, Florida's only "alpine snow park." The park features a 60-foot-tall and 400-foot-long snow tubing hill, a 16,000-square-foot ice skating ribbon and an igloo filled with real snow. Snowcat Ridge is located in Dade City, northeast of Tampa.
And everything always looks bright at Florida's theme parks. From Orlando to Tampa Bay, the Sunshine State's theme parks are ringing in the holidays with special shows, treats and one-of-a-kind experiences.
Or check out Florida's first Great Wolf Lodge in Naples. The family-friendly resort features an indoor water park and other activities for all ages, including several holiday experiences that range from seasonal games to visits with Santa Claus.
Want even more ideas? Check out these suggestions, which range from a 700-ton sand sculpture of a Christmas tree to a visit to Christmas, Florida.
Holiday lights maps for Florida
No matter where you're heading for the holiday, these holiday lights stories and maps will help make the season bright:
Enjoy December's Cold Moon
It won't just be the holiday lights and decorations making Christmas brighter this year.
Sharing the week with the winter solstice, December's full moon — aptly named the Cold Moon — will add some extra glow to the holiday season on Tuesday, Dec. 26.
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