Black Friday doesn’t have to be all about early hours and door-busting sales. Escape from the large shopping crowds and kick off the Holidays with really Christmas cheer.

There are two different tree lighting ceremonies both complete with Christmas Carols and Holiday lights that will make even the adults feel like a kid again. The rumor is even Santa is going to show up.

Here are our top picks for Black Friday Holiday cheer.

Enchanted Tree Lighting Ceremony
Friday, Nov. 25 at 5 p.m.
Hyde Park Village
621 W Snow Circle, Tampa FL 33606

Hyde Park Village will begin the Holiday Season by the lighting of a 30-foot Christmas tree at this event Tampa event.  Enjoy carols, hot cocoa, entertainment, kid’s activities, a street festival, beer truck and a cigar stand. The kids will delight in Santa’s arrival in the Village and they can visit with him in his cottage. Leashed pets are welcomed.

St. Petersburg Tree Lighting
Friday, Nov. 25 at 5 p.m.
North Straub Park
Fifth Avenue NE and Bayshore Drive
St. Petersburg FL 33701

St. Petersburg Mayor Bill Foster will help throw the switch to light the city’s holiday tree. There will be light displays along the downtown waterfront. Entertainment includes Radio Disney, the St. Petersburg Community Band and the Lutheran Church of the Cross Vesper Bells Choir.

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