It’s a Jolly Holiday at Jolly Creek Festival and Marketplace
Last week I attended the kick-off event for Jolly Creek Festival and Marketplace at Boggy Creek Airboats. I know many of us haven’t had a lot to be Jolly for this year, and might not be in the Christmas spirit, but don’t fret, it can still be a jolly holiday. There are still a lot of fun activities that you can do with the kids this year and Jolly Creek is one of them.
What is Jolly Creek Festival and Marketplace?
Jolly Creek is an outdoor Christmas festival featuring musical acts, Santa, holiday food, crafts and more
Jolly Creek Musical Acts
Jolly Creek features three different musical acts that will definitely get you in the holiday spirit. The first is Jolly Creek Society Orchestra (formerly the Grand Floridian Orchestra) that play all your Christmas favorites. The second is the Vocalitas, which is a “60s girl group” and lastly is The Mistletones. The Mistletones sing acapella Christmas carols with a twist. My favorite by far was the Mistletones, and that’s the one my daughter preferred also.
Not all musical acts perform every night. Check the entertainment schedule to see which acts or performing on the night that you plan to attend.
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Things to do at Jolly Creek Festival and Marketplace
Ride an Airboat – Airboat rides are still available during the festival. While it is dark out and you won’t really be able to see any wildlife, it is still a fun ride.
Make S’mores – S’mores kits are available for purchase for the kids (and adults) to make s’mores over the fire. Kits range from $5 to $9 and there are gluten free options available.
Do a craft – Kids crafts are also available for purchase. My daughter made a pair of earrings and there are other crafts, such as holiday wreaths and trees that kids can make. Prices vary based on what craft is chosen.
See Santa – Santa Claus will be making an appearance at the festival. Santa Claus is located in his airboat, and kids are able to talk to him. You are also able to take some socially distanced shots with Santa. We got some cute shots of my daughter even though she wasn’t able to get up close.
Play in the Snow – There are multiple “snow” falls a night at Jolly Creek. Kids can play in the snow and play with the moving Christmas trees.
Jolly Creek Food
Jolly Creek is offering food for sale at the festival that can be enjoyed while watching the show. We tried holiday tots made with stuffing cranberry sauce and turkey. They were pretty good. You can also get this combo on a sandwich. They also offer brisket, sausage, chips, cookies and more food options. Of course, all this food needs some libations. There are fun holiday drinks for both adults and kids.
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The Marketplace
The Marketplace is a great place to get some of your shopping done for the holidays. Local artists will be out selling their wares such as candles, soap, jewelry and more. The marketplace is located right outside the entrance of Boggy Creek Airboats, so you are able to go shopping even if you are not attending the event.
Dates
The festival will take place every weekend from November 20 until January 2. It will also take place on Thanksgiving night and everyday from December 18 until January 2. Monday, December 20 is a special night where you are able to bring your dog with you. There will also be a special party on New Year’s Eve.
Cost
The cost varies based on the night that you choose. Costs range from $20 to $37 for adults/$14 to $19 for kids 10 and under/$19 to $22 for Seniors.
The New Year’s Eve party is $129 for adults/$117 for kids 10 and under
We were guests at the Jolly Creek Festival and Marketplace Media Event in order to facilitate this review, but as always, all opinions are our own.
Location
Boggy Creek Airboats
2001 E Southport Road
Kissimmee, FL 34746
