 December 2025
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Holiday Office Closures & Solid Waste Collection Services Schedule December 25 & December 26Christmas Day (Thursday, December 25) and Day After Christmas (Friday, December 26): • All City Government Offices will be closed on Thursday, December 25 and Friday, December 26. • On Thursday, December 25, there will be NO Solid Waste Collection Services (trash, yard waste, bulk items). Services will resume on your next scheduled collection day. • On Friday, December 26, there will be Regular Solid Waste Collection Services.
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SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN Winter Garden Fire Rescue Annual Santa RunDecember 8 - 13
The Winter Garden Fire Rescue Annual SANTA RUN brings Santa and his sleigh full of elves (firefighters, police, City staff) through neighborhoods located within City limits. The fast-moving parade spreads holiday music, treats, and good cheer along the way! Santa Run Schedule, 5:45 - 9:00 pm: Please check Santa’s nightly route maps by clicking links below for the estimated time of Santa’s arrival and to find a nearby viewing location. • Monday, December 8 - North West Winter Garden • Tuesday, December 9 - North East Winter Garden • Wednesday, December 10 - South Winter Garden: CR 545 Corridor (West Side) • Thursday, December 11 - South Winter Garden: CR 545 Corridor (East Side) • Friday, December 12 - South Winter Garden: CR 535 / Daniel’s Road Corridor • Saturday, December 13 - South Winter Garden: Beulah / Windermere Road Corridor
An alternate date is scheduled for Monday, December 15, if weather interrupts one of Santa’s visits.
Due to safety concerns, please refrain from parking on the street during your neighborhood’s Santa Run. Street parking, especially parking on both sides of street, may prohibit the parade from going down a street. Please note that due to significant community growth, not all neighborhoods/streets can be accommodated.
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Light Up Winter Garden - December 5The City of Winter Garden presents the 38th annual Light Up Winter Garden, a free community event to welcome the holiday season! In addition to the lighting of historic downtown, the event includes holiday entertainment and activities for all ages, including a children's snow area, meet and greet with a variety of holiday characters, and themed photo stations. A festive night to make merry memories! Friday, December 5 6:00 – 9:00 pm (Lighting, 6:15 pm) 300 W. Plant Street/Downtown Winter Garden | Free to attend Thank you to our sponsor, Duke Energy.
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Winter Garden Christmas Parade - December 6A long-standing community holiday tradition that delights spectators and is perfect for all ages. Grab a lawn chair or blanket and head to your favorite viewing spot for the annual Winter Garden Christmas Parade. The parade will kick off on Dillard Street at the Palmetto Street intersection (by Wells Fargo), proceed north on Dillard Street, then head west on Plant Street through historic downtown and conclude at Park Avenue. Saturday, December 6 Kickoff at 10:00 am South Dillard Street & West Plant Street, Downtown Winter Garden | Free to attend
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Holiday Night Market -December 6The Holiday Night Market transforms the Downtown Pavilion area into a festive, open-air marketplace bustling with market stalls of holiday goods for sale such as decorations, unique gifts, festive treats, and more. Plus, dinner selections to grab a bite. Live holiday entertainment such as Dickens Carolers and other musical groups will add to the festive atmosphere. Visit and take photos with Santa. The weather is even predicting snow flurries! Hop on a complimentary trolley ride to the nearby Main Street Holiday Stroll for even more merriment. Saturday, December 6 | 4:00 - 8:00 pm Downtown Pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Avenue | Free to attend
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Winter Garden Christmas Golf Cart Parade -December 6The 13th annual Winter Garden Christmas Golf Cart Parade is an amazing sight of elaborately decorated golf carts making their way through historic downtown to spread holiday cheer. Bring a chair or blanket, grab a viewing spot along West Plant Street, and be ready to be amazed. Following the Parade, the golf cart entries will park throughout downtown for bystanders to get a closer look at the holiday-themed masterpieces. The Parade is hosted by the City of Winter Garden and co-sponsored by The West Orange Junior Service League. Saturday, December 6 | Kickoff at 6:00 pm Historic Downtown | Free to attend
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$5 HoLIDAy flix at the gardenGather family and friends to enjoy a Holiday Flix at the Garden. These holiday classics appeal to all ages and conjure past holiday memories -- and help to create new ones. Budget-friendly concessions too! See these festive flix in the timeless ambiance of the Garden Theatre while visiting the holiday wonderland of historic downtown. Ticket: $5 each (no added fees or tax) PURCHASE TICKETS MOVIE SCHEDULE:"White Christmas" (NR) | Sunday, December 7 @ 2:00 pm "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" (PG-13) | Tuesday, December 9 @ 7:00 pm "Gremlins" (PG) | Thursday, December 11 @ 7:00 pm "A Christmas Story" (PG) | Sunday, December 14 @ 7:00 pm "Die Hard" (R*) | Tuesday, December 16 @ 7:00 pm "The Santa Clause (PG), Tuesday, December 23 @ 10:00 am *For "Die Hard," individuals under 17 years old must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at least 21 years of age. Please be prepared to show valid photo ID for age verification.
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Holiday live performances at the gaRDENBe sure to catch these special holiday live performances when they come to our hometown historic Garden Theatre on Plant. Holiday entertainment for all ages! ALL IS CALM Musical (Orlando Opera)The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation is thrilled to partner with Opera Orlando to present two powerful performances of the musical "All Is Calm: This nonfiction story tells the moving tale of the 1914 Christmas Truce during World War I. Out of the violence a silence, then a song. A German soldier steps into No Man’s Land singing “Stille Nacht.” Thus begins an extraordinary night of camaraderie, music, and sharing a message of peace and humanity amidst the conflict. Saturday, December 20 at 7:30 pm Sunday, December 21 at 2:00 pm PURCHASE TICKETS
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Charles Dickens' A Christmas CarolCharles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol has enchanted audiences the world over and has become a beloved Christmas tradition for families everywhere. This powerful tale of redemption follows Ebenezer Scrooge on his epic journey from curmudgeon to benevolent saint. More than two dozen timeless Christmas carols are woven throughout this glorious production, the ghosts of Jacob Marley, Christmas Past, Present, and Future are alternately horrifying and hilarious, and you will be awestruck and spellbound by the tremendous humor and heartfelt sentiment in this spectacular theatre event. Celebrate the true Spirit of Christmas with this splendid show, filled with haunting special effects and an enormous dose of laughter. The touring production of A Christmas Carol is delightful and thoroughly entertaining, the perfect Winter Garden holiday event for all. Monday, December 22 at 2:00 pm Monday, December 22 at 8:00 pm PURCHASE TICKETS
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Main Street Holiday Stroll December 5 - January 4The Main Street Holiday Stroll is an immersive holiday experience that will put the jolly in everyone's step. Stroll through this picturesque, season-long display open every day from December 5 through January 4. Located on South Main Street between West Plant Street and West Joiner Street, this complimentary festive addition to downtown's Holiday Wonderland provides another option to make merry memories with family and friends. Created by the City of Winter Garden, this area is pedestrian-only (closed to vehicular traffic from December 1 - January 7 to also allow for set up and break down).
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De-light-ful Decorations Contest for Residents Judging: December 16 & 17 5:30 pm Deadline to Enter: Friday, December 12Drag out the lights, hang the garland, put out your holiday yard decorations, and enter your residence in the City of Winter Garden's De-light-ful Decorations Contest! Festive presentations of outdoor decorations could win prizes up to $100 – plus bragging rights! Judging will take place on Tuesday, December 16, and Wednesday, December 17, starting at 5:30 pm. The contest is free to enter, and all residents must be within the City limits of Winter Garden. Click here to enter contest. Deadline to enter is Friday, December 12, 2025. Questions, call Parks & Recreation at 407.656.4155.
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Downtown Roads CLOSED for Community Holiday Events: December 5 - 6
West Plant Street from Dillard Street to Park Avenue, and portions of adjoining side streets, will close to vehicles and become pedestrian only from Friday, December 5, at 2:00 pm through Saturday, December 6, at approximately 11:00 pm. In addition, on December 6, 9:45 am - 10:30 am, there will be an intermittent closure of Dillard Street from Highway 50 to Plant Street.
The road closures will allow downtown to become pedestrian only for the City’s community holiday events. Parking will be available at the City’s public parking lots and at offsite locations. Shuttle services will be available for some of the events. South Main Street Closure for Main Street Holiday Stroll: December 1 - January 7South Main Street between West Plant Street and West Joiner Street will be closed to vehicular traffic from December 1 through January 7 to allow for a pedestrian-only Main Street Holiday Stroll. The closure dates include set-up and break down of the display area, which will be open December 5 - January 4. Visit the holiday events' website pages for more road closure and parking information.
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A Merry Winter Garden Light ShowA Merry Winter Garden Light Show has become an annual tradition to so many households. Do not miss this spectacular animated show synchronized to holiday music projected onto the front façade of Winter Garden City Hall on select nights this month. December 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27 | 6:00 – 9:00 pm Winter Garden City Hall, 300 W. Plant Street | Free
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Visit with Santa at the Farmers MarketDecember 13 & 20Jolly Old Saint Nicholas will make a special visit to the Winter Garden Farmers Market on December 13 & 20 (9:00 am – 12:00 pm). Don your festive apparel to pose for photos with Santa. A nearby kids' craft table will provide the tools to draft a wish letter to Santa -- hand deliver the letter or drop it in the special mailbox. The Winter Garden Farmers Market is OPEN EVERY SATURDAY in DECEMBER with holiday décor, flowers, desserts, gifts, fresh produce, and everything to make holiday gatherings extra special. Every Saturday | Market | 8:00 am – 1:00 pm Visit with Santa | December 13 & 20 | 9:00 am -12:00 pm | Free Downtown Pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Avenue
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Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours
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Take a magical tour experience through festive downtown amidst twinkling lights and holiday decorations. Tours depart every 20 minutes. The Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours are provided by SOUL Haven Ranch, available on select nights this month. December 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 29, 30 | 5:30 – 9:30 pm Downtown Pavilion,104 S. Lakeview Avenue Fee and reservation required
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Preschool Holiday Program - December 19Preschoolers (ages 3 - 5) are invited to enjoy a cup of hot cocoa and story time with Mrs. Claus, create a holiday themed craft, and meet and greet Santa Claus. Hosted by the Parks & Recreation Department, all preschoolers are welcome along with bringing a friend or a group. Preschool classes are welcome too but should first call 407.656.4155 in advance to register. Friday, December 19 | 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Age | 3 – 5 years old Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard Street | Free
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School Holiday CampsArts and Crafts, activities, sport and much more! Spend this year’s spring break with your friends, counselors and the Winter Garden Parks and Recreation staff. A qualified, well-trained staff will provide a safe and outstanding break for your child. Camp is open to all children in kindergarten through 8th grade. Campers must bring a packed lunch, snacks and a water bottle to camp every day. Camp Dates: Winter Break | December 22, 23, 24, 26, 29, 30, 31 and January 5 Presidents' Day | February 16 7:00 am – 6:00 pm Grades | Kindergarten through 8th grade $26 City Resident | $34 Nonresident, per day Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard Street
Advance registration required Questions, 407.656.4155
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Holiday Gifts for Kids Program Donation Drop Off through December 12The Winter Garden Police Athletic League (WGPAL) is accepting donations of unwrapped toys or gift cards through Friday, December 12, for the annual Holiday Gift for Kids program. All donations help children right in your own community. Donations are tax deductible. DONATION IDEAS: • Board Games • Sport Balls • Puzzles • Remote Control Vehicles • Legos • Matchbox Cars • Dolls • Bicycles for All Ages • Arts & Crafts Sets • Jewelry Kits • Infant Toys • Action Figures • Gift Cards Now - December 12 Winter Garden Police Department, 251 W. Plant Street
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Holiday Gifts for Kids Registration Deadline Ends December 5Registration ends Friday, December 5, for the Winter Garden Police Athletic League, Inc. (WGPAL), annual Holiday Gifts for Kids program. The program provides presents to Winter Garden youth in need, ages newborn – 12 years old. To register, pick up and return an application at one of the following locations or hand it to a police officer on patrol today:
Winter Garden Police Department – 251 W. Plant Street City Hall – 300 W. Plant Street Maxey Center – 830 Klondike Street Mildred Dixon Activity Center – 303 S.W. Crown Pointe Road Jessie Brock Community Center – 310 N. Dillard Street
When registering, ALL of the following documents are required and must be verified: • Birth certificate or court/custody paperwork (only parent or legal guardian can register a child) • Current water or utility bill for the Winter Garden address they reside • Proof of government assistance (WIC, food stamps, etc.) • Some type of identification (driver’s license, ID card, passport, etc.) • Child must be age 12 or younger Note: You are not registered for the program until you have been contacted by the Community Liaison Unit and given a HGFK ticket with a scheduled pickup date and time. Download Application. Questions, call 407.656.3636 ext. 5416.
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City Hall is Drop Off Site for Reading Reindeer Book Drive: Through Dec. 5Once again, the City of Winter Garden is participating in the Observer Media Group's Reading Reindeer literacy program that gifts new books to underserved West Orange County children during the holidays. Through Friday, December 5, please drop off new books for children (newborn - 17 years of age) in the donation bin located inside the lobby of Winter Garden City Hall, 300 W. Plant Street (M-F, 7:30 am - 5:30 pm). Thank you!
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Orlando Urban Sketchers Exhibit at City HallBe sure to stop in City Hall to see the amazing works of the Orlando Urban Sketchers on display for a limited time. Curated by the Winter Garden Art Association, the exhibit is a compilation of on-location drawings as the artists captured scenes and everyday life using ink, watercolor, and pencil to take us on a visual journey of our community. Exhibit Dates | Now – January 5 Monday – Friday, 7:30 am – 5:30 pm (excluding holidays) Art in Public Places Gallery at City Hall, 300 W. Plant Street | Free
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Sign Up Now for Free Citizens CPR Class -January 17Interested in learning how to take a hands-on approach toward saving lives? The City of Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department is offering a free, 90-minute Citizens CPR Class to the community. Class size is limited to 12 participants and fills quickly so secure your spot now (select "Recreation Classes"). The program will cover: - Hands Only Adult and Child CPR - Proper AED use - Adult and Child Choking Upon completion, participants will earn a certificate acknowledging their successful demonstration and learned concepts detailed in the program. Saturday | January 17 9:30 – 11:00 am or 11:30 am – 1:00 pm (select one session) Fire Department Headquarters Training Room, 1 East Cypress Street | Free
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Live Holiday Music Every Friday in DecemberEnjoy live holiday music every Friday night in December, 7:00-9:00 pm, in the center of Downtown at Centennial Plaza. Hosted by the City of Winter Garden, the event is free. This month's Fridays on the Plaza musical line up:
- December 6 - Light Up Winter Garden
- December 13 - Dickens Carolers
- December 20 - Mistletones
- December 27 - Paul Q-Pek
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SAVE THE DATE for Upcoming 2026 City Events: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration: Monday, January 19 | 11:00 am - 4:00 pm Historic Downtown | Free Admission EVENT DETAILS
Winter Garden Music Festival: Saturday, February 21 | 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Historic Downtown | Free Admission
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Winter Fun with Parks and Recreation!
Click here to find out more about Parks & Recreation programs, classes, sports leagues, etc. Questions, call 407.656.4155. Register at https://enroll.wgplay.com. All programs are held at Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard Street, unless noted otherwise. COOKIE DECORATING CLASS Discover the art of cookie decorating with Food Network finalist and professional pastry chef, Bev Hansen. This 2.5-hour, hands-on workshop is designed for all skill levels, ages 10 & up. Last day to register is seven calendar days before class date. Wednesday | December 17 | 5:30 – 8:00 pm Age | 10 years and older (Students 10-17 years of age must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older, who must also purchase a registration.) $50 Resident / $55 Nonresident MINI CAKE DECORATING CLASS Unleash your inner cake artist in this hands-on decorating class led by Food Network finalist and professional pastry chef, Bev Hansen. This 2.5-hour workshop is perfect for any skill level, ages 10 & up. Last day to register is seven calendar days before class date. Monday | December 15 | 5:30 – 8:00 pm Age | 10 years and older (Students 10-17 years of age must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older, who must also purchase a registration.) $75 Resident / $80 Nonresident SACRED SONIC ALCHEMY Guided by Stormy Lake, Sacred Sonic Alchemy uses the sacred language of frequency and vibration to promote healing, calm the nervous system, and restore balance. Experience the transformative resonance of Alchemy Crystal Singing Bowls, and occasionally the Endocrine Bowl method, as you connect with your energy body on a profound level. Thursday | December 11 | 7:00 – 8:15 pm Age | 12 years and older $30 Resident / $35 Nonresident YOUTH SOCCER – SPRING LEAGUE Cheer on your child while they have a great time with friends! This recreational program emphasizes an environment that is fun for all ages. We focus on each child through positive coaching, teamwork, sportsmanship, skill development, and more! Fee includes an eight-week season, an end of season award, a team jersey, and team socks. We want you! Head coaches pay only $10 for one child’s registration fee. Paid officials are also needed. Resident registration | December 3 – January 2 Nonresident registration | December 17 – January 2 Registration may close early due to limited availability in each age division. Age | 4 – 13 years old (age as of September 1, 2025) $115 Resident / $145 Nonresident Braddock Park, 13460 Lake Butler Boulevard Important Dates: U8 & U10 Skills Evaluation | January 10 Practices | Begin the week of January 26 Games | Start Saturday, February 7
ACTIVE 50+ I WANT TO KNOW Join us to learn more about this useful topic and walk away with more knowledge and some new ideas. Tuesday, December 30 | “Useful Apps for Seniors Using Either iPhone or an Android,” by Ethan Watford, Orange County Library System 1:30 – 2:30 pm | Free WORLD EQUESTRIAN CENTER WINTER WONDERLAND – OCALA, FL \With over one million twinkling lights and show-stopping decorations, it’s the best time of the year at the World Equestrian Center. Winter Wonderland promises to bring merriment and cheer to all this holiday season. Dutch treat early dinner. Fee includes transportation and admission. Thursday, December 18 | 2:00 - 9:00 pm $18 Resident / $21 Nonresident
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2025 SHREDDING EVENT Recycles Nearly 18,000 Pounds of Paper Save the Date: Next Shredding Event is Nov. 7, 2026Nearly 500 residents took advantage of the City of Winter Garden's annual FREE Shredding Event (Nov. 8, 2025) to dispose of unneeded sensitive documents. A total of 17,750 pounds of paper was shredded securely -- and RECYCLED! You can mark your calendars and start gathering sensitive documents for the next Free Shredding Event on Saturday, November 7, 2026. This event is provided courtesy of the City of Winter Garden exclusively for our residents.
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City of Winter Garden Staff Donate Thanksgiving Meal Baskets City of Winter Garden staff collectively donated 80 Thanksgiving meal baskets and a total of $1,285 in grocery gift cards for its annual employee food drive. The donations were presented to the Christian Service Center that serves West Orange County residents in need.
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Winter Garden Art Association SOBO Art Gallery 127 S. Boyd Street 407.347.7996 wgart.org
Tuesday – Friday, 11:00 am – 5:00 pm Saturday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Free Admission
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CURRENT EXHIBITION Home for the HolidaysEmbrace the joy and nostalgia of the holiday season through art that evokes the warmth of home and cherished traditions. Exhibit Dates | Now – January 3 Free Admission CALL TO ARTISTS Visit the “Call to Artists” website page regularly for themes of upcoming exhibitions and submit online the FIRST through the TENTH of the month prior to an exhibition. FAMILY EVENTDetails & Registration Create a Gingerbread House SOBO provides one preassembled base, house, EVERYTHING you could want to design your masterpiece, and step-by-step guidance. A popular, fun family event that sells out so act quickly to register. Saturday, December 13 | 3:00 – 4:30 pm $52 per house for 1 adult with 1 child $6 each for additional artists working on the same house
WORKSHOPS & CLASSES Details and Registration Yin Yoga with Olga Relax, restore, and unwind in a peaceful candlelight setting. Candlelight Yin Yoga combines the beauty of art with the healing power of yoga. Mondays | 10:30 am $15 paid at class | Drop In Technique Tuesday @ Two Schedule and Details A different instructor and technique are featured every week. Pick up new tips and techniques while enjoying the Open Artist Studio Space. Tuesdays | 2:00 – 4:00 pm | Studio Room Open to all. Free to members & first-time visitors. Artist Night Studio: Life Drawing Model is available to draw every session. Wednesdays | 6:30 – 9:00 pm 18 years and older only $10 member / $15 nonmember (collected at sign in) ART FOR KIDS Details and Registration
Wednesday Art Clubs Age | 2nd grade – Middle School| 4:00 -5:00 pm $15 each session, includes all materials. CUSTOM SPECIAL EVENTS BECOME A MEMBER VOLUNTEER
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Central Florida Railroad MuseumTuesday – Friday | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Saturday | 10:00 am - 3:00 pm 101 S. Boyd Street cfrhs.org | 407.656.0559 Free Admission Downtown Walking Tour This 90-minute, one-mile walking tour takes guests through downtown Winter Garden, sharing history and tales from its railroad past. Printed guides provided to guests. Meet at the Railroad Museum at 8:30 am, 101 S. Boyd Street. Saturday, December 13 | 8:30 - 10:00 am | Free Admission Presentation: From Railroads to Rosie's - The Evolution of the Church Street BlockAuthor and historian Rick Kilby presents the history of Church Street Station in downtown Orlando, from its time as a railroad station to it rebirth as a premier nighttime entertainment complex. Saturday, December 13 | 1:30 - 3:00 pm | Free Admission (limited space, click here to register) EXHIBITION: Railroad Depots of Central FloridaRailroads arrived in Orange County in 1880, and their steel rails quickly spread throughout the region. Goods and passengers arrived and departed at dozens of Central Florida depots, allowing for convenient connections to and from points north and south. This photo exhibition features depots long departed and some that remain in use today. Now – March 7 | Free Admission
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Winter Garden Heritage Museum ExhibitTuesday – Saturday | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm 1 N. Main Street | wghf.org | 407.656.3244 Free Admission
EXHIBITION Champions of West Orange County: A Legacy of Athletic ExcellenceSponsored by AdventHealth This dynamic showcase celebrates the remarkable athletes who have emerged from our community, highlighting their incredible achievements across various sports - from baseball and basketball to soccer and swimming. The exhibition invites sports enthusiasts of all ages to connect with the spirit of competition, resilience, and community pride.
Now – January 31 | Free Admission EVENTSHome for the Holidays with Jim Crescitelli (Lunch & Learn)Sponsored by AdventHealth With Jim’s warmth, wit, and deep knowledge, the presentation offers more than history; it’s a celebration of the people, places, and moments that make West Orange County so special. Gather with friends, neighbors, and fellow history lovers for a Heritage Lunch & Learn experience that captures the spirit of the season and the timeless character of our hometown. Lunch will be provided. Thursday, December 11 | 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Heller Hall, 21 E. Plant Street | Free Admission All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 Musical (Orlando Opera)Sponsored by AdventHealth
Featuring Opera Orlando, this nonfiction show tells the moving story of the 1914 Christmas Truce during World War I. Out of the violence, a silence… then a song: A German soldier steps into No Man’s Land singing “Stille Nacht." Thus begins an extraordinary night of camaraderie, music, and sharing a message of peace and humanity amidst the conflict. Saturday, December 20 | 7:30 pm Sunday, December 21 | 2:00 pm Garden Theatre on Plant, 160 W. Plant Street Tickets | Purchase at teachtix.com
Winter Garden Heritage Museum
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City is Hiring:Mechanic II, Lift Station Operator, Collection Field Technician II, 911 Dispatchers, Building Inspector / Plans Examiner I, Events Coordinator, and School Crossing Guards
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The City currently has great career opportunities available! The City offers competitive wages and full-time employees are eligible for generous benefits, pension, & tuition reimbursement plan. Click here to review all available positions and for additional information on position responsibilities and minimum qualifications. Several examples of our career opportunities include: PUBLIC SERVICES: Collection Field Technician II – Wastewater Collection System Operator (Full-Time): Minimum of two (2) years of experience with wastewater collection systems to include pipeline cleaning and maintenance, pipeline repair and rehabilitation; and an understanding of inflow, infiltration, and basic system inspection and testing. Must have knowledge and experience with pump installation and repair and lift station equipment and maintenance. Possession of a valid Florida Water & Pollution Control Operations Association Wastewater Collection System Operator C Certificate is preferred. Possession of a valid Florida CDL Driver’s License Class B with air brake and tanker endorsements within 90 days. High school diploma or GED certification preferred. Must be available and willing to answer emergency or service calls after normal working hours. Lift Station Operator (Full-Time): Perform responsible skilled labor including the repair, maintenance, adjustment, inspection and have a knowledge of the mechanical and electrical equipment involving lift stations. Performs a variety of maintenance, construction, repair or location tasks involving lift station, force mains, etc. Minimum of three (3) years’ experience as a Field Technician I or related experience. Possession of a valid FWPCOA Class “C” Wastewater Collection Certification. Florida CDL Driver License Class “B” with air brakes and tanker endorsements. Based on FMCSA regulations, applicants for employment and existing employees in positions requiring a CDL are subject to pre-employment, post-employment, and ongoing testing for controlled substances and alcohol as a condition of employment. High school diploma or GED equivalent preferred. Must be available and willing to answer emergency or service calls after normal working hours. BUILDING INSPECTION: Building Inspector / Plans Examiner I (Full-Time): This technical position is responsible for field inspections and re-inspections of new buildings, structures, and additions to existing buildings/structures at appropriate increments of the construction period to ensure compliance with the Florida Building Code and other adopted City Codes and Specifications. High School diploma or GED equivalent minimum. Must hold a combination of postsecondary education in the field of construction or a related field totaling four (4) years’ experience, of which a minimum of one (1) year is hands-on experience in construction, building code inspection, or plans review. Requires a Statue 468 State of Florida Standard Inspector license as a Residential Inspector, as well as one (1) of the following Commercial Licenses: Building, Electrical, Mechanical, or Plumbing or the ability to obtain provisional licenses within 120 days of hire from the Building Code Administrators and Inspectors Board. Preference will be given to those already holding Standard Residential Inspector and a Standard Commercial Inspector Certificate. An employee with a Provisional License will be required to obtain a Standard License before the expiration of the Provisional Certificate. Must have availability to provide damage assessment assistance during times of local emergencies. Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver’s License and good driving record. FLEET MAINTENANCE: Mechanic II (Full-Time): This is highly skilled work in the maintenance and repair of large pumps, motors, compressors, gasoline and diesel driven automotive and related heavy equipment. The employee of this class performs tasks in the mechanical repair and maintenance of automobiles, light and heavy-duty trucks, transit buses, tractors, graders, fire trucks, pumps, gas compressors, heat exchangers, sanitation hydraulic packer trucks, and other related equipment. Employees work under general supervision using independent judgment and initiative as to method of repair after receiving work order. Must be available to work night, weekend and holiday shifts. Work is reviewed while in progress and at the completion of the job. This position reports to the Fleet Manager. A.S.E. certification in heavy duty brakes required along with one other ASE certification. Must have a high school diploma with additional technical training and a minimum of three years of experience in heavy truck equipment repair or five years of automotive and light truck repair. Must have a Florida commercial driver license or the ability to obtain the license within 6 months of employment.
PUBLIC SAFETY: 911 Dispatchers (Full-time): Experienced or Trainees. Coordinate incoming calls for service with Police resources, assess/prioritize calls, dispatch Officers, maintain/monitor Officer responses, conduct/enter inquiries, relay information, and help with lifesaving instructions. Must have the ability to type proficiently at a minimum speed of thirty (30) words per minute. An online assessment is required. . SIGN-ON BONUS for 911 Dispatchers! There is a $2,000 sign-on bonus for entry level candidates and up to $5,000 for experienced Dispatchers. School Crossing Guard (Part-Time): Regulates, directs, and controls pedestrians at a designated school crossing while children are going to and from school. Works with considerable independence under the general supervision of a Police Sergeant. Must be at least 18 years of age. Must not have been convicted of a felony. Must not have been convicted of a misdemeanor involving moral character, false statements, perjury, or domestic violence. High school diploma or equivalent required. Must successfully pass a medical assessment exam and complete the required training for a School Crossing Guard before starting the position. Must obtain the Florida School Crossing Guard Certification. Must pass a Police Department background screening PARKS: Events Coordinator (Full-Time): The position is responsible for assisting with the coordination, support, and ongoing monitoring of all City events, which requires flexibility and availability to be on-site during all events, including days, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Key responsibilities include assisting with the planning, marketing, production, and execution of City-wide special events, as well as providing support, as assigned, for other City-sponsored community events and priorities. Excellent logistical planning and coordination skills; well-developed critical thinking skills; and a proven ability to exercise independent and sound judgement; and appreciate, value, and consider diverse perspectives while being able to persuade, negotiate, influence, and participate collaboratively with partners and stakeholders in this role is vital to its success. This position reports directly to the Parks and Recreation Director. Must have three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in event planning, with at least two (2) years in a coordination and/or supervisory role, or the equivalent combination of education, experience, and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
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Participate in Your CityThere are many different ways you can participate in your City government. Here are some options for you to consider: VOLUNTEER - The City of Winter Garden has a number of advisory boards and committees that welcome your participation. Most have monthly meetings and require only a few hours of volunteer time per month. For those interested in serving, please complete the Board Interest Form. To find out more, contact the City Clerk's office at 407.656.4111, ext. 2297, or stop by City Hall at 300 W. Plant Street. JOIN A CLASS OR LEAGUE - Sign up for one of the many classes or leagues offered by the City of Winter Garden Parks and Recreation Department. ATTEND A MEETING - Open to the public, attend a City meeting to find out firsthand what is happening in your community. MEETING SCHEDULE - Please see this month's meeting schedule below, subject to change. All meetings are held in the Commission Chambers at City Hall, 300 W. Plant Street. Architecture Review and Historic Preservation Board Meeting Tuesday, December 16, 6:30 pm City Commission Meeting* Thursday, December 11 , 6:30 pm Thursday, December 25, 6:30 pm - CANCELLED Code Enforcement Board Meeting Tuesday, December 2, 6:15 pm Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Board Tuesday, December 9, 5:30 pm Development Review Committee Meeting Wednesday, December 3, 9:30 am Wednesday, December 17, 9:30 am Wednesday, December 31, 9:30 am Planning & Zoning Board Meeting Monday, December 1, 6:30 pm Visit the City of Winter Garden calendar for meeting updates, as well as to find out about additional meetings and events. *City Commission Meeting recordings are available the next business day following the meeting, Click here to listen.
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