One of Lakeland’s most popular holiday traditions is getting even bigger this year.
Following the overwhelming success of last year’s Christmas in Lakeland, city leaders have approved plans to move the event to The Lake District, allowing for a larger celebration with improved parking, traffic flow and additional holiday activities.
The Lakeland Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the new event plan during its meeting Tuesday night. The expanded celebration will take place on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026, and will combine Christmas in Lakeland with the city’s annual Christmas Parade into one community-wide event.
After reviewing last year’s celebration, city staff determined that the event’s biggest challenges were parking and traffic due to the unexpectedly large crowds at the I.H. Clubhouse.
To address those concerns, the city partnered with Romspen Investment Corporation, owner of The Lake District, to relocate the event to the mixed-use development along Canada Road. The new venue offers significantly more parking, a larger event footprint and additional opportunities to expand holiday attractions.
The evening will once again feature Lakeland’s signature Christmas drone show, making the city one of the few communities in the region to host the high-tech holiday attraction. Lakeland became the first city in West Tennessee to present a Christmas drone show last year, drawing thousands of spectators.
Sky Elements LLC will return to produce this year’s aerial performance using 250 commercial drones during a 12-minute synchronized show.
Mayor Josh Roman explained that the show’s length is limited by drone battery life.
“If we wanted it to go longer there would need to be a backup set of another 250 drones, which would essentially double the price,” Roman said.
The mayor also said this year’s drone presentation will place a greater emphasis on the Christmas story while bringing back popular holiday favorites such as Santa, snowmen and Christmas lights that delighted crowds during last year’s performance.
In addition to the drone show, the celebration will also feature the Lakeland Christmas Parade, including performances by the Lakeland Prep marching band, along with holiday music, festive lighting, seasonal décor and other family-friendly activities that will be announced in the coming months.
The free event is expected to once again draw visitors from throughout the Mid-South, with city leaders hoping the expanded venue will provide an even better experience for residents and guests alike.
“I’m truly excited to kick off Lakeland’s 50th birthday with this amazing celebration,” Mayor Roman said.
