Tropical Christmas Cards at UTC: A Walkable Holiday Art Gallery
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Every December, when the lights sparkle at University Town Center (UTC) and the sidewalks glow under strings of bulbs, my family and I head over for one holiday tradition we never skip—the UTC Christmas Cards Sarasota display. This walkable art gallery is created by local school kids, who paint giant 4×8 wooden Christmas cards filled with holiday cheer. Some cards are polished, others playful, but all carry the charm of youthful imagination.
Through the years, UTC has expanded its holiday offerings to include carriage rides, live concerts, an outdoor movie series, ice skating, and themed decorations. Yet the Christmas cards remain one of my favorite traditions.
Did You Know?
The UTC Christmas Cards Sarasota display has featured artwork from hundreds of local students each year, ranging from kindergarten through high school.
UTC Christmas Cards Sarasota: Tropical Spin on Christmas
What makes this holiday art gallery truly unique are the tropical themes that pop up among the Santas and snowmen. You’ll spot palm trees strung with Christmas lights, flamingos in Santa hats, and sunset beaches with “Merry Christmas from Florida” splashed across the sand.
These designs capture the Sarasota lifestyle perfectly—where Christmas might mean palm trees instead of pine trees, and holiday gatherings often happen outdoors under a warm Gulf breeze. For visitors dreaming of Sarasota living, these tropical cards show just how different—and delightful—the holidays can look here.
Did You Know?
The flamingo has quietly become Sarasota’s unofficial holiday mascot, often appearing in student designs wearing Santa hats or perched beside decorated palm trees.
A Tradition Within a Tradition @ Christmas & the UTC
The cards are only one part of UTC’s larger holiday celebration, which has become the biggest and most elaborate in the Sarasota-Bradenton-Venice area. Highlights include:
•Horse-drawn carriage rides through decorated streets
•Live concerts on the green
•Outdoor Christmas movies each week
•Santa’s arrival and photos
•Ice skating under the stars
•Gorgeous tree decorations inside the mall
•Themed vignettes, including Great Britain–inspired holiday alley
The Christmas cards may not be the flashiest part of the celebration, but they’re the most personal. They give the community’s children a way to showcase their creativity, and they give us all a reason to smile.
Did You Know?
Horse-drawn carriage rides at UTC were originally offered just a few weekends per season but became so popular that they now run throughout most of December.
Why The Annual Christmas Cards At The UTC Matter
For me, the UTC Christmas Cards Sarasota display has become a touchstone of the season. Each December, my wife and I stroll the sidewalks, sometimes joined by our two adult kids if their schedules allow. We pause to admire the artwork, laugh at the playful ones, and marvel at the skill in others.
It’s more than just painted plywood—it’s a reminder of community, tradition, and the joy of seeing the holidays through the eyes of children.
By the way, the UTC holiday season features over a million lights and dozens of themed displays, making it one of the largest free holiday attractions in Southwest Florida.
Did You Know?
Some families return year after year to find their child’s artwork on display — making the UTC Christmas Cards Sarasota exhibit a tradition that grows right alongside the kids who paint them.
Plan Your Sarasota Holiday
If you’re planning to visit during the holiday season, don’t miss the walkable card gallery at UTC. It’s free, festive, and one of those Sarasota experiences you’ll want to share with family and friends.
Follow my Sarasota Lifestyle Events Calendar for what’s happening in the Sarasota area and make sure you:
🎄 Explore UTC holiday happenings
🎁 Discover Holiday Splendor at The Ringling
🍂 Plan ahead with 15 Fall Activities in Sarasota
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Hi, I’m Mike – real estate agent, photographer, and blogger. Come along as I dive into all things Sarasota, Florida, share insider tips and exciting stories that make this place special. For 20+ years, I’ve helped countless people buy and sell property. Before I transitioned to full-time real estate, I taught high school English & coached basketball.”
