News Summary
This holiday season, 119 million Americans are expected to travel to celebrate with loved ones, marking a notable increase in travel numbers surpassing pre-pandemic levels. With families reconnecting, many will opt for road trips while others take to the skies. Tallahassee is embracing the festive spirit with its annual Winter Festival, and affordable travel options make holiday outings accessible. Whether driving or flying, the season promises joy and unforgettable memories.
Holiday Cheer in Full Swing as Travel Surge Hits the Nation
More Americans Ready to Hit the Road
This holiday season, a whopping 119 million Americans are expected to pack their bags and head out to celebrate with loved ones. The excitement in the air is palpable as families prepare for cherished gatherings, a tradition that has been rekindled after the past few years of ups and downs. Among this vast crowd, about 7 million brave travelers will take to the skies, while a significant majority, roughly 107 million, will opt for the good old road trip to make their holiday dreams come true.
Family Ties and New Beginnings
In Crawfordville, Florida, the spirit of the season shines bright for the Mitchell family. They are eagerly awaiting the chance to meet their new grandbaby, Kylie Lynn, marking a special milestone made sweeter by the embrace of familial connections. For the Mitchells, this is particularly poignant considering their recent loss of parents, and this gathering is more than just a chance to celebrate – it’s about holding family close during meaningful times.
Similarly, Peggy Delarosa, who’s traveling from New Orleans to Cocoa Beach, speaks of the joy that comes from being with family, including her ever-loving 14-year-old pup, Gracie. The warmth of family togetherness during the holidays is something many can relate to, making all the travel worthwhile.
Record Travel Numbers
This year’s travel surge marks a notable increase, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by an impressive 65,000 travelers. This uptick is sure to keep bustling airports like Tallahassee International Airport buzzing with activity. Locals eagerly flock to the terminal, ready to unite with loved ones for joyful holiday festivities.
A Festive Touch in Tallahassee
Tallahassee is kicking off the holiday spirit with its annual Winter Festival, a vibrant event drawing residents and visitors alike. Scheduled for December 7, the festival runs from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. and features a delightful lineup of activities. From the dramatic tree lighting at 6 p.m. to the exhilarating Jingle Bell Run, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The festival’s highlight is undoubtedly the nighttime parade, beginning at 7:15 p.m.. Picture float displays decorated with festive flair and even fake snow to capture that winter wonderland essence. As local communities come together for the Winter Festival, the holiday spirit is electrifying, with various entertainment stages arranged throughout McCarty Park.
Travel Deals and Choices
For those looking to soar through the sky instead of navigating highways, JetBlue has launched its enticing “Win at Winter Sale,” featuring one-way fares starting at just $49. This sale runs from November 11 through February 12, making holiday travel more accessible than ever.
When it comes to staying in Tallahassee, travelers will be pleased to know it’s been highlighted as the most economical vacation spot in Florida. With an average cost of just $275 for a one-night stay, budget-conscious visitors can enjoy their time without breaking the bank. And average entertainment costs are affordable too, at only $12, with many local attractions—including the historic Florida State Capitol—free to enjoy.
Affordable hotels like the four-star Hotel Duval, priced under $160 a night, and the Aloft Tallahassee Downtown with a range of modern amenities, make spending time in this charming city a great option for holiday travelers.
More Fun in the Sunshine State
For those considering other fun spots in Florida, destinations like Everglades National Park, Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral, and Miami offer lovely options, with one-night stays ranging from $287 to $296. But with such a lively atmosphere in Tallahassee, locals and visitors are sure to find plenty to love and celebrate right where they are.
So, whether you’re driving home for the holidays or flying to your next adventure, the season is shaping up to be one filled with laughter, joy, and unforgettable memories. Travel safely and enjoy every magical moment!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Tallahassee’s Theatre Tallahassee to Premiere Unique Holiday Show “Plaid Tidings” Directed by Billy Lister
Additional Resources
- WTXL: Christmas Eve Traveler’s Anticipation
- Only In Your State: Winter Festival in Tallahassee
- News-Journal: JetBlue Holiday Travel Deals
- Travel + Leisure: Affordable Florida Vacation
- The Tallahassee 100: Holiday Events You Won’t Want to Miss
- Wikipedia: Florida
- Google Search: Holiday Travel 2024
- Google Scholar: Holiday Travel Studies
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Holiday Travel
- Google News: Holiday Travel 2024
Author: STAFF HERE TALLAHASSEE WRITER
The TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETallahassee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tallahassee, Leon County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Springtime Tallahassee, Tallahassee Jazz & Blues Festival, and LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Big Bend, plus leading businesses in education, healthcare, and insurance that power the local economy such as Florida State University, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, and Capital Health Plan. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
