Jacksonville's Victorian Christmas
Living in Medford, we are so lucky to have Jacksonville as one of our next door neighbors. It is the cutest little historic town that has enough character on any ordinary day, but boy do they know how to celebrate the holidays. When Jacksonville gets dressed up for the holidays it is simply enchanting!
The Saturday after Thanksgiving they kick things off with Jacksonville's Tree Lighting Ceremony and their merchants are open for a special open house. We love the small town Christmas that Jacksonville hosts, almost like you are stepping right into a Dickens novel. As we stroll the streets soaking it all in, we love running into Father Christmas and his elves, who are always ready to offer a "Ha, Ha, Ha" and a candy cane. He is by far Olivia's favorite as she knows that he is "the" Father Christmas and not just another helper. :)
Most the time it is REALLY cold so we usually stop into one of the local coffee shops to grab some hot cocoa or cider so that we can enjoy the Christmas wreaths, garland and window displays.
There are even carolers out, to add to the Christmas cheer!
Following the tree lighting ceremony on the first or second Saturday of December is the annual Victorian Christmas Parade. Jacksonville's parades are always a treat. We enjoy the local marchers, dancers and singers, and when Father Christmas makes his grand appearance in his “sleigh”, you can hear the gasps of joy as all of the children vie for his attention.
When the parade is over we head over to take pictures with Father Christmas and his elves. You can also take Trolley Rides, sip cider, and tour the historic houses in Jacksonville.
If you plan on going the tree lighting ceremony will be on Saturday, November 25th and the Victorian Christmas Parade will be on Saturday, December 3rd.
Father Christmas will be available for photos between November 26th and December 17th at the entrance of the Beekman Bank from 11am-4pm. Bring your cellphone, photos are free
FULL SCHEDULE
Saturday, November 25th, 5pm - Tree Lighting Ceremony
Saturday, December 2nd, 10am - Victorian Christmas Parade
December 2nd - 30th- Trolley Tours
November 25th -December 17th Beekaman House Victorian Christmas Tours
See the a comprehensive list of Holiday Events around southern Oregon on our page HERE.
