Historic OUC Holiday Lighting – Orlando’s Holiday Kick Off

An Orlando tradition since the 1950s, the 12-foot-high “Happy Holidays” sign that sits atop the historic OUC building in Ivanhoe Village will once again serve as a festive beacon of the holiday season once again being lit up starting on the evening of November 16th. Orlando City Commissioner Robert Stuart will flip the switch to usher in yuletide cheer to Ivanhoe Village and surrounding areas, even visible to passing motorists on I-4.

2018 represents the 5-year anniversary of the return of the sign, which was restored in 2013 after it was realized that the sign still lay on the roof of OUC’s historic building in Ivanhoe Village. This began a massive fundraising effort by then-Ivanhoe Village Main Street Director Scottie Campbell. To honor his commitment to bring the sign back to its electrified, festive glory, Campbell will serve as honorary co-chair for the evening’s festivities and will be on-hand with Commissioner Stuart to light the sign for the first time this season.

Remarks will begin at 6 PM in Lake Ivanhoe Park, across the street from the historic building. Comments will be followed by the official flip of the switch. The sign lighting also marks the beginning of a weekend of fun in Ivanhoe Village with their signature event, Jingle Eve, taking place on Saturday evening, November 17th. Free* and open to the public, Jingle Eve combines food trucks, shopping and dining, beer and wine gardens, a premium wine walk*, live music, artist and vendor booths, a kids’ zone, Santa Claus, and more! And the whole evening culminates in a festive fireworks display high above Lake Ivanhoe.

The public is invited. Festivities will continue afterward at local Ivanhoe Village businesses, including The Hammered Lamb. Parking is limited. Ride-sharing and bicycling are encouraged.