Gingerbread Extravaganza -- More than a beloved holiday tradition!

This beloved, family-friendly Jacksonville tradition -- celebrating its 20th anniversary this year -- was founded by the Rotary Club of South Jacksonville in 2003 as a fundraiser to benefit other nonprofits, including the historical society, and was hosted by the club through 2010. The Jacksonville Historical Society became the host of the event in 2011 and it is held in Old St. Andrew's Church, 317 A. Philip Randolph Blvd.

The event is our major fundraiser, which proceeds enable us to maintain an extensive archive and research library of photographs, newspaper clippings, books, artifacts and other collectible ephemera pertaining to Jacksonville history. Why does that matter? Awareness of the past fosters a sense of place and identity in the present. Jacksonville’s stories allow us to understand who has been here before, what they did, and what happened as a result. Learning and sharing Jacksonville’s stories with others is how we take ownership of this place and become its citizens. That is the value of history, and that is why, after more than 93 years, the Jacksonville Historical Society is more relevant than ever.

Any donation is welcome! Sponsorship levels include:

Up to $500 – Stocking Stuffers
$501-$1000 – Santa’s Elves
$1,001-$2,500 – Santa’s Reindeers: Sponsors at this level currently include the Jaguars Foundation/ 1st DownTown Jacksonville
$2,501-$5,000 – Holiday Stars: Sponsors at this level currently include the Jess and Brewster J. Durkee Foundation
$5,001-$10,000 – Holiday Angels
$10,000+ – Presenting Sponsors: Our marquee level sponsors currently include VyStar Credit Union, Delores Barr Weaver Forever Event Fund, Kristanna Broward Barnes, and the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville