Update – September 30, 2025: This petition has been revised to remove any inaccuracies and to focus squarely on the core issue: the City of Winter Park’s request to rename “Christmas on Park” to “Holidays on Park”, and the Park Avenue District Board’s decision to move forward with the change.

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For over 70 years, Winter Park has come alive each December with our beloved Christmas events – a time when our community gathers amidst sparkling lights along Park Avenue and under the city’s Christmas tree in Central Park.

Now, we believe the celebration of Christmas in Winter Park is at risk. The City of Winter Park – contributing $90,000 in taxpayer funds toward this year’s holiday decor – has requested that the name “Christmas on Park” be changed to “Holidays on Park”. Alan Chambers, the Park Avenue district’s board president, has affirmed that the group will change the title of the website and event at the request of the City. 

This change is concerning as it sends the wrong message: that saying “Christmas” is somehow exclusionary. Christmas in Winter Park has always been a tradition that welcomes everyone. We can keep the spirit and name of Christmas alive and be welcoming at the same time.

We request that the Park Avenue district restore the name “Christmas on Park” and that the city and other local sponsors continue to support and fund the event under this name.

Inclusivity means lifting up all traditions, not erasing one. Winter Park can celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and other holidays by supporting events for each – without sacrificing the identity of one in the name of another.

By signing this petition, you’re affirming that saying “Merry Christmas” doesn’t leave anyone out.

Sign now to keep Winter Park’s Christmas traditions alive.