Light Up Ocala

Last night, Doug and I went to the downtown square for the annual "Light Up Ocala!" Christmas event.  We had heard a lot of great things about it from our realtor and social media, so we really wanted to try it.  We weren't there five minutes before we both realized that it wasn't for us.  It was a lot like the North Webster Mermaid Festival complete with a junior parade, fair food booths, bouncy house and vendor tents.  We talked about leaving, but decided to stick it out since we were already there.

We first walked through the downtown blocks checking out all of the vendors.  We saw a lot of local businesses and crafts to buy.  I got a kick out of the costumed Grinch who had a long line of families waiting to take pictures.  We circled the area and made it back to our original spot by the time the parade started.  It was filled with girl scout troops, twirling groups, a middle school band and dance schools.  The groups were festive, especially the girls dressed as snowmen.

When the parade was over, we headed straight to the Lodge Bar and Grill across from the downtown square.  Doug had wanted to try it.  This was the perfect time as the parade got over at 5 p.m. and the lighting of the tree wasn't until 6:30.  The lodge was packed, but we got a table fairly easily.  We tried a few beers and a Bavarian pretzel.  We both enjoyed the snack and loved the atmosphere.  It reminded me of a Michigan bar with wood paneled walls and deer hanging on them as well.

We spent the next forty-five minutes walking to the park and people watching.  We couldn't believe the lines at the food booths.  There had to be at least 100 people in line for Kona Ice.  At 6:20, we got a spot on the corner and waited for the lighting ceremony.  Once again, I thought about leaving.  It was incredibly crowded and I was getting a little bit panicky.  We made it to 6:30, however, and saw the Christmas Tree and Palm Tress light up the square.  We left shortly afterward, thankful to be on the road home without getting stuck in traffic.  

We called Phil on the way home to see if he wanted to watch the Florida vs. Missouri game with us.  We arrived home with Marco's Pizza before he and Molly knocked on the front door.  I set up the projector in the backyard.  The white fence made a perfect screen.  Doug got the fire pit started and we enjoyed a quiet rest of the evening.  I was glad that we had tried "Light Up Ocala!," but decided that it was a one and done for me.