Christmas, Florida

Christmas In Florida???

Post Office In Christmas

We always knew there was a town in Florida named Christmas. On this road trip we were determined to visit the town named after the most celebrated holiday. Our first stop was the Christmas Post Office, they begin stamping Christmas mail December 1st.  The permanent Christmas tree on the corner of Fort Christmas Rd and Highway 50 is the first sign you've arrived in this small town. The Fort Christmas State Park sign tempted us to explore what it had to offer.

There really Is A Christmas, Florida

Permanent Christmas Tree

As we traveled the Fort Christmas Road,  we thought we missed it, but just keep going past the Christmas cemetery you'll see the historical park on the left.  

Come Explore Fort Christmas Historical Park With Me!!!

Fort Christmas was built in Christmas, Florida during the second Seminole War.  Construction began on Christmas day 1837(per wikipedia)

 This is a full scale replica of the original Fort which was about a mile away.  The museum with artifacts dating from the Seminole war period is really interesting.  Florida Cracker houses and farm buildings with period pieces that show rural Florida life from 1870's thru 1930s are worth touring. The 1906 school house and cafeteria is a must see. 

 Fort Christmas has picnic areas which makes it great for family picnics or reunions.  A large playground, and basketball courts are a hit with the kids.  The attendant informed us, every first Weekend of December the Fort is the spot of "Cracker Christmas" a local festival filled with music and crafts.  If you miss the festival there's a gift shop filled with crafts and other items. Don't forget to see the school house and cafeteria.  

The Out House

There is so much to see at the park and museum.  I love the park, did I mention it's free! The kids will enjoy the park's playground and all the room to roam. You would need to assist them when touring the farm houses, as the period pieces are very delicate.  Overall a very short and sweet place to visit.  Give yourself about 2 full hours or longer if you'll be picnicking.   On the way out don't forget to visit the little town of Christmas. Not much going on but the park is a step back in time! Its a thirty minute ride from Orlando International Airport and an hour ride from Daytona Beach.

Fort Christmas State Park

1300 N Fort Christmas Road

Christmas, Florida 32709

Tel: (407) 254-9312