When I was browsing winter events in Florida, I was surprised to learn that boat parades and outdoor movies were among things people can do in December.
After all, I grew up in Pittsburgh, where temperatures leading up to Christmas can plunge to the 20s and below and snow often covers the ground.
I have started to enjoy the 70-plus degree temperatures during Florida’s winter months, but I still miss the snow. I made it my mission to find ways to do my favorite holiday activities here in Florida.
First, I set out to Celebration. The city’s “Now Snowing” event lets children and families experience a bit of what winter looks like to me. A slushy imitation of snow imitation falls from the sky nightly on the hour, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
I didn’t set very high expectations, to be honest. After you’ve been spoiled by the real deal, it’s hard to replicate that experience.
Part of me wanted to hate the foamy imposter. It’s not cold, it’s slushy and gets really stuck to your feet. I wouldn’t advise sticking out your tongue to taste it, either.
But there was something truly heartwarming about seeing the look on the faces of children when they saw the “snow” falling, perhaps for the first time.
A huge snowboarding fan, I made a replica of that my next adventure.
It turned out that my next best option was at WinterClub in Winter Park. The indoor ski and snowboard facility features an “infinite slope,” which is basically a large treadmill with AstroTurf-type material on it.
I promise you, after more than eight years, I am a competent snowboarder. What I wasn’t prepared to encounter was a hill that starts and stops at will.
The indoor snow treadmill proved to be more “grabby” than regular snow, and let’s just say there was a big adjustment period.
David Scott, my instructor at WinterClub, said the environment forces your technique to be especially refined.
“The snow is more forgiving. Here, it’s a little more of an aggressive surface,” Scott said. “What we do, we have to make sure we’re doing it just right.”
Rather than having hundreds of feet of open slopes to carve and turn, I had maybe 13 or 14 feet. So I fell — a lot.
After a while, I started to get the feel for the system. In a state where snow and mountains are in short supply, this is a decent alternative.
It’s also a great option for folks to practice before taking a trip to the real mountains and resorts.
In the end, I’d say Florida has plenty of redeeming qualities during its “winter” months.
I think my favorite is that you might still find that perfect 80-degree day to hang out by the pool in December. Where else are you going to find that?
Merry Christmas and happy holidays, from your Central Florida Explorer.
