In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re sharing stories from around Lake Nona of the people, places and organizations supporting emotional well-being by inspiring a lasting passion for sport and movement.

Center Court, Center Stage
As the late afternoon sun fades over the USTA’s west courts, lights and shadows trade places. The hard lines of the courts, so sharp under midday sun, begin to soften as golden hour settles in.
Overhead, LED floodlights flicker awake, snapping bright halos into place above the nets. The courts become a floating stage as everything beyond the fences falls into blue-gray dusk.
Then, one by one, a distinct group of players begins to arrive.

Mondays at 6 p.m.
They meet at the net, trading greetings and smiles. Soon, the rhythm of racquets striking and shoes squeaking takes over.
They come from different backgrounds and generations. Some have been playing for years. Others are picking up a racquet for the first time.
What brings them together is simple: Monday nights. From 6 to 7:30 p.m., they gather for the USTA’s Military Tennis program.

What started in 2017 as a small group, just a handful of veterans finding common ground through the game, has grown into a welcomed weekly ritual.

Today, the program typically brings together 12 to 14 regular participants, with additional veterans from the Lake Nona VA Medical Center joining when they can.

Meeting in the Middle
They’ve served in every branch. Their experiences vary, but here, those differences matter less. Just as the overhead court lights bring uniformity to the court, everyone starts from the same place: one side of the net, one ball in play.

There’s structure to each session: warm-ups, drills, match play. But between points and games, there’s also space for conversation. With each serve, volley, and return, there’s room to recognize they’re creating new experiences from a shared past.

Why Tennis?
It’s easy to default to the line that tennis is “more than a game.” But here, it actually holds up.

If you’ve been inside USTA National Campus in Lake Nona, sat in the stands during a professional match, attended a lesson or clinic, or simply taken in the scale of the complex, it doesn’t feel like a cliché. It feels true.

For veterans and the instructors who teach them, tennis has a proven ability to spark passion and restore purpose.

By reducing equipment barriers and expanding access to courts and lessons, the United States Tennis Association is making the sport more accessible – and more meaningful – for those who serve and have served.

Beyond the Court
The program’s impact reaches well beyond Monday nights.

Participants have had the opportunity to travel to New York for the US Open, stepping onto the courts inside Arthur Ashe Stadium for clinics and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Recently, the Naval Academy Women’s team and retired Vice Admiral Sean Buck, former Superintendent of the Naval Academy, participated in the program – an experience many regular attendees still talk about.

Moments like these add to the program, but they don’t define it.

Most participants say what keeps them coming back is the familiarity. The consistency. The faces that show up, week after week.

Community Connection
As the United States Tennis Association Military Tennis program shows, a long-term passion for sport and movement can be a pathway back to connection. By bringing service members, veterans, and their families onto the court, the program creates space for physical activity, mental clarity, and something just as essential: community. It’s a philosophy that mirrors Lake Nona’s approach to wellness and isn’t built solely on gyms, trails, or fitness centers. It recognizes these places as hubs for shared experiences, support networks and the simple power of showing up together.

All veterans and service members are welcome to join the USTA Military Tennis program in Lake Nona at no cost. To register, contact tony.stingley@usta.com. If you’re not a veteran but would like to volunteer, learn more at: https://www.ustaflorida.com/about-us/volunteers/

“With Lake Nona among Central Florida’s fastest-growing communities, demand for convenient, high-quality retail and dining has surged, a gap Lake Nona West is positioned to fill,” said Joanne Ling, Senior Director of Commercial Sales, Leasing and Development at Tavistock Development Company. “That demand has translated into strong leasing momentum, and we have been intentional in curating a tenant mix that meets that demand while reflecting how people live and work here, creating a place that feels like an extension of daily life for residents while welcoming visitors.”

Newly signed retailers include the below encompassing 8,078 square feet:

Drybar, the cult-favorite blowout brand known for its signature styling services
Just Salad, a fast-casual concept redefining sustainable, health-forward dining
Gloss Nail Co., a female-owned nail studio specializing in natural nail care and Bio Sculpture Gel
Kilwins Ice Cream, famed confectionery and ice creamery known for its hand-crafted chocolates, premium ice cream and nostalgic in-store experiences.

The public art program, led by Chalk & Brush, will bring 30 murals to Lake Nona West, reflecting the character, natural landscape and evolving identity of the community. Founded by Cuban-born artist Cinthia “Cynno” Santos, the Miami-based studio is known for bold, graphic murals commissioned by brands like Spotify and Starbucks that often-become local landmarks. Art is central to Lake Nona’s identity and placemaking strategy. Lake Nona is home to the 50,000-square-foot Sculpture Garden adjacent to the Lake Nona Wave Hotel with masterpieces from one of the world’s largest private art collections. Upon completion this summer, Lake Nona West’s murals will be integrated across buildings and walkways, drawing inspiration from native flora, wildlife and the diverse communities that shape the area.

Shaded promenades and flexible gathering spaces will further enhance the walkable experience. The center will also include a 20-stall Level 3 electric vehicle charging hub powered by Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging, offering ultra-fast charging capabilities for visitors while they shop and dine.
Previously announced retailers, totaling more than 317,000 square feet, will open in phases, including:

Homesense (24,979 square feet)
Barnes & Noble (15,597 square feet) and Total Wine & More (20,157 square feet)
Target (149,247 square feet) as Lake Nona West’s anchor tenant
Dick’s Sporting Goods and Golf Galaxy (66,562 square feet)
JETSET Pilates (2,519 square feet)
Nordstrom Rack (25,893 square feet) and Sephora (4,741 square feet)
Dining offerings will include Cañonita (7,738 square feet), a Mexican culinary concept from Tavistock Restaurant Collection

Lake Nona West is located just minutes from Orlando International Airport on Lake Nona Boulevard, east of Boggy Creek Road. To learn more about Lake Nona West and project updates, visit www.LakeNona.com.

Outdoor art has always been part of the story here, shaping a sense of place that feels lived-in and approachable rather than confined to gallery walls. You might pass a sculpture on a morning walk, spot a mural near your favorite restaurant or find an installation that quietly becomes a local landmark.

Art is also essential for creating moments of connection. That’s intentional. Through Tavistock Development Company’s placemaking approach, it helps shape how the community moves, gathers and comes to life. This approach has helped turn Lake Nona into a place where creativity and culture show up naturally in daily life.
Here are six of Lake Nona’s most popular outdoor (and open to the public) art exhibitions. If they’re not on your weekend plans or part of your next date night, you’re missing out.

1. Sculpture Garden
A 50,000-square-foot open-air landscape of discovery, the Sculpture Garden presents a curated selection of works from The Lewis Collection. Designed as an immersive outdoor setting, it invites guests to explore these large-scale sculptures as they stand in contrast to – and complement – nature.

2. The Glass House
Part of Brooklyn-based artist Tom Fruin’s ICON Series, this commissioned work is crafted from reclaimed materials and informed by the language of sustainable design and American folk tradition. The result is a resplendent stained-glass structure that glows and shifts with the changing light.

3. The Beacon
A six-story landmark, “The Beacon” blends video, music and interactive light into a layered nighttime experience. Nearby, “Code Wall” features dichroic glass embedded with imagery and messages rendered in binary code. Created in collaboration with Lake Nona artist JEFRE, New York–based Michael Counts and 3-Legged Dog.

4. Prismatic Mural
Created alongside the launch of an 8,500-square-foot chiller plant designed to meet the community’s growing demand for central cooling, the Prismatic Mural brings color and scale to essential infrastructure. Composed of more than 20 distinct hues and realized with 225 gallons of paint, it stands as one of the newest additions to Lake Nona’s public art collection.

5. DNA Mural
Iconic and unforgettable, the DNA Garage mural wraps the structure’s hard-edged fins in cascading strands inspired by Central Florida’s citrus grove past. Vibrant oranges unfold into a surreal visual narrative, where helixes morph into sports iconography—a nod to the nearby Lake Nona Performance Club.

6. Pixon Apartment’s Art Scene
Bold, immersive works by three women artists transform Pixon’s shared spaces into a living gallery. Murals and installations draw on graffiti influences and the shimmering waters of Lake Nona’s surrounding lakes.

In these waning days of spring, it’s not just an ideal time to explore Lake Nona’s outdoor art. It’s an invitation to imagine calling it home.

Lake Nona is bustling with the ever-expanding network of health and wellness technology companies staking a claim in our region. These companies see the area not only as a greenfield for development, but as a place to launch bold ideas and test the limits of technology in a real-world setting.

The GuideWell Innovation Center has quietly grown into a confluence of talent and expertise, strengthened by its proximity and close relationships with the nearby UF Research & Academic Center and the UCF Lake Nona Cancer Center.

For investors, startups and industry leaders, it has become a proving ground for innovation in health and wellness technology.

For those who have watched this region grow from its roots as a destination for sports performance and medical excellence, it continues to capture the imagination.

What is the GuideWell Innovation Center? 

It’s a purpose-built hub for health care innovation located in Lake Nona’s thriving innovation ecosystem. It brings together startups, health systems, payers, academic partners and technology companies under one roof to drive transformative solutions in health care delivery, digital health, and wellness.

In short: the GuideWell Innovation Center is a space where bold ideas array and align with the people ready to turn them into reality.

What are some of its key features?

The center offers flexible workspace, collaboration zones, maker labs and state-of-the-art meeting facilities designed to promote creativity and silo-breaking problem solving. More than brick and mortar: It also houses mentorship and programming space where entrepreneurs can engage with industry experts, participate in pilot programs, and gain access to tailored business-building resources.

What types of companies can leverage GuideWell as a resource?
Health care startups, digital health innovators, medical technology developers, data analytics companies and any business focused on advancing patient outcomes or lowering the cost of care can leverage GuideWell’s resources. 

Innovation in action: Established health systems and insurers also partner with the center to pilot solutions and accelerate real-world impact.

What notable innovations have originated at the facility?
Since opening, the GuideWell Innovation Center has helped accelerate solutions in chronic disease management, remote patient monitoring, behavioral health support and care coordination technology. 

Jumping-off points: Several resident companies have successfully moved from prototype to pilot in clinical and community settings, with support from GuideWell’s network and ecosystem partners.

How does GuideWell fit into Lake Nona’s greater innovation corridor?
GuideWell is an integral part of Lake Nona’s innovation corridor, which spans sectors including life sciences, sports and performance, autonomous systems and digital health. 

Local impact: The center enables purposeful collaboration with nearby institutions such as the UCF College of Medicine, Nemours Children’s Health, and research partners across the corridor.

What is GuideWell’s impact on our region?
The center strengthens the local economy by attracting high-growth companies and talent to the region, generating jobs and fostering new investment. For residents: The innovations cultivated at GuideWell help improve access to care, support healthier lifestyles and ensure Lake Nona remains at the forefront of community-focused health advancements.

What’s next?
GuideWell continues to expand its programming, deepen partnerships with industry leaders, and support high-potential startups as they scale. Future initiatives: Larger pilot deployments with health systems, increased access to capital for resident companies and expanded community engagement to bring emerging health solutions from Lake Nona to broader markets are all in development.

Within a bustling timelapse in Lake Nona, some remarkable stories are unfolding and we love being able to shine a light on them.

For more information, visit: https://guidewellinnovation.com/about/

Maybe it’s the “love at first sight” feeling when you’re visiting a potential new home – and envision your future unfolding there.

Or the indelible memories that seem to happen so naturally in your favorite beach town, mountain retreat, or weekend getaway.

Or that “for those in the know” location that puts you in the heart of the action, without the crowds. 

In Lake Nona, we’re building a community full of reasons to fall in love every single day. From neighborhoods with homes for every stage of life to a flourishing arts and innovation scene, along with abundant open spaces to explore and amenities just minutes away, there’s something for everyone.

Even if you only need one reason, here are six reasons you’ll fall for Lake Nona – whether it’s your next local adventure or the next chapter of your life.

1. Room to Roam

It’s not something we’re trying to keep a secret. But once you visit our network of trails, pocket parks and community gardens, you’ll understand why it sometimes feels that way.

Partly because you don’t have to worry about finding clear space to walk, jog, or run. And partly because our trails go further, with more graceful dips, playful curves and gentle rises into nature, than most people realize.

We believe green corridors are one of the best ways to connect a community. That’s why we’re making focused efforts to rewild underutilized areas into native plant prairies and urban meadows.

2. Innovation That Works

The modern glass spires stretching into the skies around Lake Nona are more than a backdrop. For some of the most advanced wellness and health tech startups, they’re a signal that says: innovation happens here.

leAD Lake Nona Sports & Health Tech Accelerator, Nestre, the GuideWell Innovation Center, and the UCF Lake Nona Life Sciences Incubator – all call Lake Nona home.

For those working in tech, health care, or the industries that support them, the opportunities for career growth, community building and peer mentorship are only part of the story.

As a Verizon 5G Innovation Hub, Lake Nona Town Center gives businesses the ability to operate faster and serve customers in cutting-edge ways. That same wireless technology powers experiences across the community, from fiber-optic internet speeds up to 200 times faster than the U.S. average to state-of-the-art fitness programs and WHIT House, a living example of how innovation-led communities can support healthier lives.

3. Made to Move

As one of Lake Nona’s earliest community anchors, Lake Nona Golf & Country Club helped establish the area as a destination for top-of-their-game international athletes. That early focus on wellness became a defining principle, woven into the community’s design. Today, residents and guests can find their perfect match – whether that’s on the court, in a class or on a team, it’s part of a lifestyle that keeps them moving.

Lake Nona Performance Club
Where the science of fitness meets the art of recovery. With a wide range of classes, it’s easy to fall into a routine that fits.

Boxi Park Beach Volleyball Courts

Now featuring four additional courts, improved viewing areas and enhanced amenities designed for players of all levels.

USTA National Campus

Did you know the USTA’s headquarters are located right here in Lake Nona? This groundbreaking facility offers opportunities to elevate your game and explore a whole world of racketology.

Boxi Park Run Club

Weekly group runs, plus networking, training tips and info on local races.

4. Center of Attention

Close enough to everything a city like Orlando has to offer, while still leaving room to grow. Lake Nona’s location strikes that balance. With easy access to major transportation – including proximity to Orlando International Airport – and attractions like downtown Orlando just 20 minutes away and Atlantic Coast beaches within 45 minutes, it’s easy to fall in love with where you are.

Anchored around Lake Nona Town Center, purposeful planning keeps everyday essentials close to home – often just a bike ride away. And with options like e-bikes and scooters available through Move Nona’s partnership with Bird, getting around without getting in your car isn’t just a perk, it’s peak convenience.

5. Heart of Arts

The arts are integral here. Both the backdrop and the main attraction, they’re woven into Lake Nona’s community design rather than layered on after the fact. Open spaces are adorned with installations by local and international artists that offer unexpected moments of reflection throughout the day. Dedicated monthly and annual events bring neighbors together while giving artists a public stage.

Create Your Own Art Stroll – Lake Nona is home to dozens of art installations by local, international, and master artists, including JEFRË, Colette Miller, Tom Fruin, LeDania, Arturo Di Modica, Henry Moore, and Fernando Botero.

Attend the Lake Nona Arts Festival –  This annual two-day festival in Lake Nona Town Center showcases everything from paintings and sculpture to photography and handcrafted jewelry – alongside live entertainment and opportunities to meet artists and purchase their work.

6. Welcome Home

Amenities, location and commercial opportunities can make a place appealing – but what truly makes it home is a sense of community.

That starts with homes designed for every stage of life, and neighborhoods built to encourage connection. When these bonds strengthen, neighbors become friends, gatherings become traditions and familiarity turns into belonging.

Neighborhoods like Laureate Park embody this spirit, offering a mix of colorful bungalows, townhomes and multi-story homes – all connected by parks and shared spaces designed to bring people together.

As Lake Nona continues to grow, so do the reasons to love living here. There’s always something new to discover – more events in the making, more amenities being added and more opportunities to connect.

For future business owners looking to expand, and future homeowners ready to put down roots, a bigger, bolder and brighter future is on the horizon. 

We hope you’ll be part of it.

So, we won’t start the year by retreading worn out phrases or recycling old ideas. 

Our take on resolutions is simple: they don’t need to be an internal struggle carried solely on your shoulders. Even if you’re charting your resolution progress every day on TikTok in a 30-day viral fitness challenge, you don’t have to go it alone.

We invite you to explore ways to connect with our curated list of wellness resources right here in Lake Nona. Each has been handpicked by our editorial team not just for location, but for a shared commitment to supporting healthier, more balanced lives in real, tangible ways.

From achieving fitness goals to learning how to take a deep breath through mental wellbeing, join us on a tour of Lake Nona’s opportunities for healthier living to start the year.

Focus on Physical Wellness at Lake Nona Performance Club

There’s no question that physical wellness is a satisfying and worthwhile resolution. In Lake Nona, we’re fortunate to have a resource like Lake Nona Performance Club (LNPC) right in our own backyard.

With more than 150 machines, 100+ group classes, three pools, two courts and an indoor track and turf, LNPC offers something for nearly every fitness goal. Beyond traditional workouts, members and non-members also have access to on-site dietitians, massages and facials in The Spa at LNPC, Child Watch and a state-of-the-art self-service Recovery Room.

Why we love them: This month, LNPC is offering a six-week weight management program, along with smaller, tailored personal training through its Jumpstart program – both open to non-members.

Learn more at lakenonaperformanceclub.com.

Discover Wellness Through Resiliency at Upgrade Labs

One of only a handful of its kind in the U.S., Upgrade Labs brings advanced wellness technology (also known as “biohacking”) to Lake Nona with a focus on recovery, performance and cognitive function.

The lab’s mission is to be the world’s first Human Upgrade™ Center, offering services such as AI-driven strength training, cryotherapy, PEMF therapy, and lymphatic massage – each designed to improve energy, strength and longevity. 

How it helps support your goals: You don’t need to be a professional athlete, or even a full-time Lake Nona resident, to reap the benefits of these state-of-the-art offerings. Those curious to get started can begin with a complimentary body scan, which provides meaningful insights into how your body is truly performing.

Explore Upgrade’s intro offer today.

Practice mindfulness at Chopra Mind-Body Zone

Resolutions that support both mind and body often work best, reinforcing one another over time. Located within Lake Nona Performance Club, the Chopra Mind-Body Zone (MBZ) offers a space to slow down, reset and move with intention.

Visitors can practice meditation, join yoga or hot pilates classes, reformer pilates and explore movement that complements strength training and high-intensity workouts. Classes provide a grounded introduction to mindfulness for both beginners and seasoned practitioners.

What sets them apart: Mind-Body Zone (MBZ)’s instructors bring a thoughtful approach to movement and mindfulness, helping students build strength, flexibility and focus.

LNPC members can add MBZ to their membership or pay for a drop in class, and non-members can join for a separate fee. There is also a 10 class pack option for non members.

See which classes are right for you at Chopra Mind-Body Zone MBZ’s January class schedule.

Wellness down to a science at Fountain Life

Fountain Life is a cutting-edge startup in Lake Nona that’s redefining preventive care and longevity science. Using advanced diagnostics, the team combines AI insights from over 15 billion data points to create a comprehensive picture of your health – detecting potential issues decades before symptoms appear. Their services are designed to be accessible and easy to navigate, with three membership levels offering personalized care, therapeutics and health insights.

Did you know? Fountain Life was founded by a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and former USAF Flight Surgeon, an award-winning serial healthcare entrepreneur and none other than motivational speaker, Tony Robbins.

Find the membership that’s right for you and get started today.

Good resolutions don’t just enrich our own lives, they allow us to connect with others and build stronger communities – one good habit at a time.

What are your wellness resolutions this year? How does living or working in Lake Nona support your efforts to stay active and mindful? We’d love to hear from you.

Lake Nona West continues strong retail and wellness leasing activity ahead of its 2026 opening

ORLANDO, Fla. (Dec. 17, 2025) – Tavistock Development Company today announced Sephora and JETSET Pilates as the newest tenants joining Lake Nona West’s expanding mix of national brands, as the retail destination moves toward its 2026 debut.

Located just minutes from Orlando International Airport, Lake Nona West is situated on Lake Nona Boulevard, east of Boggy Creek Road. The 405,000-square-foot lifestyle center will feature a curated blend of shops, dining and entertainment, anchored by Target. The center’s tenant lineup includes Nordstrom Rack, Barnes & Noble, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy Performance Center, Total Wine & More, Homesense and Cañonita, an elevated Mexican culinary concept from the Tavistock Restaurant Collection.

Sephora’s arrival adds a top-tier beauty destination to the mix. Lake Nona West has also confirmed a lease for JETSET Pilates, a modern, fast-growing, luxury boutique fitness brand that expands the center’s offerings in fitness, beauty and self-care.

“Sephora represents the type of experiential, lifestyle-driven retail that continues to expand in Lake Nona, as the area attracts national brands looking to serve this growing market,” said Skipper Peek, senior vice president of commercial sales and development at Tavistock Development. “The addition of new wellness concepts like JETSET Pilates speaks to the kind of destination Lake Nona West is becoming for residents and visitors.”

Set across 54 walkable acres, Lake Nona West will feature shaded promenades, art-lined plazas and flexible gathering spaces that reflect Lake Nona’s signature approach to thoughtful placemaking. Lake Nona West will also include a 20-stall Level 3 electric vehicle charging hub powered by Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging. With ultra-fast speeds of up to 400 kW, the hub will be open to all EV drivers and designed to provide a seamless charging experience while visitors shop or dine.

Sephora and JETSET Pilates join a growing list of tenants slated for Lake Nona West’s 2026 summer opening. Additional announcements are expected as the team continues to refine a first-class mix of retail, dining, wellness and lifestyle experiences.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Yusila Ramirez
Director of Communications, Tavistock U.S.
407-630-0965
yusila.ramirez@tavistock.com

For leasing information:
jling@tavistock.com

To learn more about Lake Nona West and project updates, visit LakeNona.com.

But before we turn our attention forward, our community is taking stock to reflect on what made 2025 memorable.

A lot unfolded this year — an inaugural art show, a tribute to fallen heroes, more neighborhood offerings for residents. 

To see what happened in Lake Nona and why it mattered, here are a few events that helped shape 2025.

Siemens Energy Relocation

What happened? In August, Siemens Energy announced it would move its Orlando-based offices to the innovation hub in Lake Nona Town Center. The move will bring 3,000 employees to its new 242,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility.

Why it matters: Siemens’ relocation gives the energy sector a foothold within Lake Nona’s diverse mix of technology companies that include biotech, AI, healthcare, bionics and telecommunications. Together, these businesses strengthen our infrastructure and support the community in ways a residential development cannot achieve on its own.

Welcome Additions: Lake Nona West
What happened? Five new big-name tenants joined the momentum behind Lake Nona’s latest commercial property: Nordstrom Rack, Barnes & Noble, Homesense, Total Wine & More, and the stylish, popular casual dining restaurant Cañonita.

Why it’s kind of a big deal: These additions fill an important retail niche for current and future residents. Lake Nona West is expanding the neighborhood experience with outdoor, walkable pathways, vibrant art murals, easily accessible parking, and a central location — all just a bike ride from home.

First Ever: Lake Nona Arts Festival
What made 2025 special? Art is essential to any livable community, and with Orlando’s international arts scene on the rise, launching our own festival marked a major milestone. In its inaugural year, the Lake Nona Arts Festival welcomed more than 100 local and national artists, offering them a global stage to showcase their work and compete for $30,000 in cash awards. Held over two lively and festive days this past February at the Lake Nona Wave Hotel, a few of this year’s winners include:

Richard Wilson

David Figueroa

Nicholas Barnes

Why we’re excited about 2026: Artist submissions are now open, setting the stage for an even more impressive lineup in year two.

9/11 Stair Climb
What was it? For over five years, Lake Nona has hosted its annual 9/11 Stair Climb to honor the lives lost in the tragic events of September 11, 2001. This year’s event took place at the Lake Nona DNA Garage. Participants climbed 110 flights of stairs — the same number as in the towers — as a symbolic tribute.

What made this year’s event stand out: In 2025, climbers added a burpee for every person who died when the towers fell 24 years ago, adding an extra layer of challenge and reflection. This annual event continues to empower participants, commemorate the fallen and serve as a poignant reminder that every step matters.

Veterans Day Highlights

We were honored: For the first time, the City of Orlando’s annual Veterans Day parade took place in Lake Nona. The 26th annual event, hosted by Mayor Buddy Dyer and the Veterans Advisory Council, celebrated those who have served our nation. The 2025 parade theme, “Service to Our Nation,” recognized the dedication and sacrifice of military members past and present.

Why we’re humbled: The decision to move the parade to Lake Nona was made in partnership with local Veterans groups, in part to highlight the impact of Lake Nona’s VA hospital and the growing community of Veterans in the area. The parade offered a fresh perspective in a new setting and became one of the largest in Orlando’s history, with thousands attending. Eighty-four groups were represented, including veteran organizations and JROTC/ROTC units from UCF and local high schools.

Building a world-class community doesn’t happen overnight. But some years lay the foundation for a stronger future. In 2025, we made bold strides that will shape our region for years to come, creating a place that enriches the lives of everyone who lives, works and plays here.

Will you build your future in Lake Nona?

This year’s Oh, What Fun! is packed with even more holiday magic, live entertainment and festive cheer for Lake Nonians of all ages.

If you’re thinking, “Wait, what’s Oh, What Fun?” it’s Lake Nona’s annual celebration of family, community and (corny as it may sound) pure wintry joy.

All December long, Lake Nona Town Center transforms into the epicenter of all things candy-striped, cozy and bright.

With so many ways to join in, we’ve put together an insider’s guide: what to do, where to stay and how to soak up every bit of the festive cheer.

By the end, you’ll be saying it yourself: Oh, how easy it is to make incredible holiday memories in Lake Nona!

1. The “Endless Family Fun” Itinerary

Like the soothing aroma of a tray of fresh gingerbread cookies right out of the oven, here’s an itinerary baked up for families, North Pole aficionados, and Santa fanatics alike.

​​Santa’s Cottage: Friday – Sunday, Dec. 5-21

It’s one of the most popular events for a reason! Where else can you step inside Santa’s Cottage for story time and a sing-along, then enjoy a meet-and-greet with St. Nick and his sweetheart?

Secret from the Elves: Santa’s schedule is packed between now and Christmas, so reservations are required and seating is limited. Tickets start at $35 per person. Private experiences are available for families who want an extra-special visit. Don’t miss out, book your spot today.

Opening Night & Tree Lighting: Friday, Dec. 5 (6–10 p.m.)
What better way to kick off the holidays than by joining the tree lighting ceremony in the heart of Lake Nona Town Center? Watch as a stunning 24-foot Christmas tree lights up the night, surrounded by music, ohs, ahs and plenty of holiday sparkle.

Christmas Holiday Parade: Saturday, Dec. 13 (5–6:30 p.m.)
Keep the holiday spirit rolling as a cavalcade of festive floats, sparkling with jewel-toned and candy-colored LEDs, make their way through Town Center. The parade begins at Laureate Park, but for the best view of the full procession, find a spot near Crescent Park at the start.

​​Family Fun Days: Dec. 7 and 14 (6-9 p.m.)

If there’s one event that sets Oh, What Fun apart from other holiday festivals, it’s Family Fun Days. You might expect a few carolers, but the main stage at Lake Nona Town Center comes alive with an impressive lineup of school choirs, dance teams and youth music groups, showcasing the holiday spirit and the creativity of the community. It’s a celebration of local talent that also serves as an impressive finale to a day of festivities.

Insider’s tip: Stress-free parking that’s literally free is available in all Lake Nona Town Center garages.

Code Wall Garage + Beacon 

Wave Garage

DNA Garage

2. The “Jingle, Jog & Stroll” Itinerary

For those who believe the best way to celebrate the season is by dashing happily through as much festive fun as possible, here’s a lineup of events to keep you moving (and merry).

Oh, What Fun! 5K Run: Sunday, Dec. 6

(Check-in at 6 a.m.; race begins at 7:30 a.m.)
Celebrate Oh, What Fun’s! opening weekend with our 2nd Annual 5K! Whether you’ve got a trophy room full of road race t-shirts and medals or just looking for a fun way to balance out those extra holiday cookies, this race is the perfect start to the season. Make sure you sign up before Dec. 1 to get an early-entrant discount. 

Another incentive? Every runner gets a commemorative medal and T-shirt.

Stroll Through Boxi Park: Anytime (Fridays-Sundays from Dec. 5-21)
Maybe you’re admiring your new race medal from that triumphant 5K finish. Maybe you’re hunting for brunch. Or maybe you just need an afternoon meetup before dinner plans take over. Whatever your quest, stroll through Boxi Park and check out the special holiday lineup – from craft beers and hand-crafted cocktails to live music and…shopping? Sure, why not! While you’re there, snag a gift card for someone special on your list; buy one during the holidays and you’ll get a bonus card. Plus, there’s plenty of holiday-themed activities in Boxi Park’s Kid Zone!

Insider’s tip: Prefer a reservation at your favorite Boxi Park restaurant? You can always reserve a table under the Main Pavilion, rain or shine.

Wind Down on the Evergreen Tree Trail: Happening nightly (Fridays-Sundays from Dec. 5-21)

As the day fades to twilight, take a stroll along the Evergreen Tree Trail, stretching from Town Center to the Lake Nona Wave Hotel. Local partners deck out trees in their most creative holiday finery. 

End Up at Wave

You’ve earned it. After a long day of holiday hustle, make your way to the Fa La La La Bar – Lake Nona Wave Hotel’s festive pop-up, fully stocked with effortless charm and tucked right into the hotel lobby. Soak up the holiday vibes and sip on seasonal potables and other hand-crafted cocktails.

Speaking from experience: They also have cake pops – they’re delicious.

The “Constant ‘Gram” Itinerary

If you’re a social media shutterbug, Oh, What Fun has an incredible amount of gram-worthy moments and selfies waiting for you to post. Here are a few of our top recommendations:

Enjoy Lake Snow-Na: In Peppermint Square, snowfall NOW happens DAILY throughout the entire celebration.

#foodstagram: Click and wander through the holiday market for pop-up stands and sweet-treat stations offering seasonal snacks and specialty beverages. 

Sweeten your feed: Stop by Before It Melts to sample (or fully commit to) a scoop of their Snickerdoodle ice cream.

All Around Town Center: Snap pics in front of photo walls, oversized ornaments and several festive backdrops – every corner is designed for a perfect shot. No filter needed.

Caption This as AMAZING: 

This year’s live entertainment will transport you straight into a winter wonderland with not one but two incredible acrobatic shows: Spirit of the Holidays Live Acrobatics Show (Friday nights) and A Very Peppermint Christmas Show (Saturday nights).

Both will deliver a mesmerizing mix of aerialists, dancers, gymnasts and balancing acts. The best part? There’s no bad spot to get a great shot. See the website for showtimes and more details.

Give us a Shout-Out: Tag us on Instagram @learnlakenona using #OhWhatFun.

Ready to make Oh, What Fun part of your holiday plans and your new favorite Lake Nona tradition? 

Whether you follow one of our itineraries or create your own, stay right in the middle of the magic. Explore accommodations here.

Lake Nona is part of that movement, with diverse, accessible installations for both residents and visitors. Nearly every corner features artwork that turns a simple walk into something inspiring.

Here are three different art strolls that showcase the best of Lake Nona’s creativity, architecture and arts.

The Big Stroll: Sculpture Garden in Full

Hiding in plain sight behind the Wave Hotel is a 50,000-square-foot outdoor gallery nestled among tropical palm fronds and fragrant flowers. The space features world-renowned sculptures from The Lewis Collection, ranging from monumental works to striking abstract pieces. It’s not just an art exhibit – it’s an experience you can literally walk through, with each turn revealing something new. 

Chances are you’ve passed by or caught glimpses before, but this is one to put on your must-see list: take the full loop and let it lead you straight into the heart of Lake Nona.

Center Stage: Art in the Heart of Town

Kick things off at the Wave Hotel, Lake Nona’s “Living Room.” Grab a creative cocktail, small plate or coffee, then step outside to see JEFRE’s glowing Braille-inspired installation illuminating the three-story garage.

From there, make your way toward Town Center, passing more of JEFRE’s work, including The Beacon and Code Wall, two interactive pieces that reveal special messages embedded in their “code” about Lake Nona’s vision. Continue your stroll and you’ll spot Disco Dog, JEFRE’s 35-foot stainless steel sculpture that’s reminiscent of the shimmering surfaces of our region’s many lakes.

End your walk at the Pixon apartments, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by Cecilia Lueza’s Equinox façade. Explore more custom art inside and out the Pixon building: digital prints, chalk renderings, and spray-painted works created by a trio of local artists.

The FlyBy: Quick Hits + Big Moments

If you’re looking for a route loaded with selfie-worthy moments, this sojourn is for you.

Kick off at the prismatic Chiller Plant mural and iconic Lake Nona sign. 

Then stop by the Global Angel Wings Project. Artist Colette Miller has painted wings across the world – and we’re honored to have a pair right here in Town Center.

Continue your flyby through to One Performance Plaza to behold the spectacular DNA Mural. Scan the QR codes found on the oversized orange fruit stickers to get the full experience!

Finish at Boxi Park, where you can wander into food, music, and new artistic experiences popping up all the time. Its modular setup of refurbished shipping containers was designed for exactly that: exploration.

DIY: Map Your Own Artistic Experience

There’s always more art to explore. Create your own route here in Lake Nona, or expand your journey to include one of Orlando’s many creative destinations. For a deeper dive, check out Arts in Orlando’s full art tour guide.

From unexpected installations in everyday spaces to immersive experiences that transport you, every stroll offers something new to discover.

Created your own ultimate art stroll idea? Tag us on social @LearnLakeNona when you find your favorite piece, or stop by the Lake Nona Information Center to chat with a friendly community ambassador.

We invite you to explore art throughout the region, wherever it takes you.