Here 's where to see Santa in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis

Once again, Santa has taken note that historic Mount Dora is arguably the best little Christmas town in Florida and for kids there is no place better to be during the holiday season.   Eustis and Tavares also turn on massive amounts of Christmas charm, so there are plenty of fun opportunities for Santa encounters in all three cities. 

In addition to the Santa photo ops at the Light Up events in Eustis and Mount Dora, he will also be in downtown Mount Dora for free photos on Dec. 1 from 6 p.m. in Sunset Park near the musical Christmas tree during the annual Christmas Walk. While you're there, check Mount Dora Marina's impressive holiday lights display at the waterfront.

Next up for Santa sightings are the small-town Christmas parades on December 2 in downtown Mount Dora (10 a.m.) and downtown Tavares (5:30 p.m.).

The big jolly guy also makes his festive presence known during his 3-night Mount Dora Santa Tour throughout the city's neighborhoods on December 4, 6 and 7.  Kids can listen for the sound of loud sirens announcing Santa's visit as he is escorted by a motorcade of Mount Dora's first responders and elves. The nightly tour routes start at 7 p.m. and the routes are available here. 

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Every Friday night after Thanksgiving and until December 22, kids can also see Santa at the Snow Flakes on the Lake event in downtown Eustis' Feran Park.  The family can also enjoy 10 minutes of snow flurries every half an hour until 9 p.m.  
 
Santa is also a well-known dog lover and will be visiting downtown's Piglet's Pantry at 400 N. Donnelly Street for photo ops with fur babies.   The $20 sitting fee is donated to a local animal rescue organization.

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Even the shyest kids have a fun way to connect with Santa in Mount Dora.  All children can drop their letters to Santa in his custom red mailbox sitting alongside a quiet Mount Dora street lined with historic cottages.  Mrs. Claus personally replies to all letters that are received early enough and that include a return address.  The mailbox is located at 201 W. 11th Avenue.
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