Winter Garden, FL – A Central Florida city known for its holiday celebrations is competing for national recognition in Hallmark’s 2026 Merriest Christmas Town contest.
Winter Garden was selected as one of 25 finalists nationwide and is the only Florida community included in the competition. The contest recognizes towns for holiday traditions, community involvement, neighborhood character and seasonal displays.
Public voting began Aug. 14 and continues through Sept. 4. Supporters can cast one vote per day using a valid email address. Hallmark judges will ultimately select the winner after considering public support and several contest criteria.
The winning community will receive the Merriest Christmas Town title and the opportunity to serve as a filming location for a future Hallmark holiday movie.
Winter Garden’s seasonal events are centered around its historic downtown district. Annual traditions include Light Up Winter Garden, the Winter Garden Christmas Parade and the Christmas Golf Cart Parade.
The city also hosts holiday activities such as a seasonal night market, visits with Santa, live entertainment and decorated areas throughout downtown. Winter Garden Fire Rescue conducts an annual Santa Run through neighborhoods within city limits.
Winter Garden previously received national attention for its holiday atmosphere when it was featured during a 2023 Merriest Main Street segment connected to NBC’s TODAY.
The city is competing against communities in states including Texas, New Jersey, Washington, North Carolina, Massachusetts and California.
All 25 finalists receive recognition as official Hallmark Christmas Towns. The national winner is expected to be announced after voting and judging are completed later this year.
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