The

Demings

Digest


December 2025

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings joins the Three and a Half Men Quartet to launch the 2025 Holiday Toy Drive.

Season’s Greetings,


I hope you enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving surrounded by friends and loved ones. As we close out 2025, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the dedicated public servants of Orange County Government. It has been an honor to work alongside such a talented and passionate group of professionals who make our community a great place to live, work and play.


I also want to thank everyone for the tremendous support shown for this year’s Holiday Toy Drive. There is still time to participate by dropping off a new, unwrapped toy at one of our in-person locations. Each donation directly benefits local families through Orange County youth and family agencies. To learn more, visit our webpage.

Mayor's Holiday Toy Drive

There is still time to donate to the Orange County Mayor’s Holiday Toy Drive! Help make the holidays merry and bright for local children by donating a new, unwrapped toy at one of our drop-off locations across Orange County. All donations benefit local youth and family agencies.



Opportunities to give:

FOX 35 Shop & Drop Event: Friday, December 5

In-Person Donation Deadline: Monday, December 8

In the News

Orange County Leads the Way in Public Safety Investment

For seven consecutive years, Orange County has dedicated more than half of its annual budget to public safety. It is an investment unmatched by most counties in Florida. Under the leadership of Mayor Jerry L. Demings, this commitment, funded through property taxes, reflects a deeply held belief that a safe community is the foundation for prosperity, growth and quality of life.

From Nominees to Notables: Celebrating Our Standout Citizens

Established in 2002, the Citizen of the Year and Community Awards celebrate residents who have dedicated their time, energy and resources to making Orange County one of the best places to live. More than 200 individuals have received these honors since the program's inception, reflecting the remarkable spirit of leadership and service that defines our community.

More local stories:

Curbside Collection Holiday Schedule

There will be no curbside collection in unincorporated Orange County on Christmas Day, December 25. During that week, Thursday customers will be serviced on Friday, and Friday customers will be serviced on Saturday. Visit ocfl.net/HolidayCurbsideCollection for more information. 


Other Important Notices:

  • Starting Monday, December 29, curbside collection days are changing across Orange County. Check your new day: ocfl.net/CollectionSchedule
  • New Year’s Day (Thursday, January 1) will follow a regular collection schedule.

Mayor's Open House and Job Fair

Meet your elected officials and learn how local government works for you. Orange County Human Resources will host a countywide job fair, and families can enjoy interactive activities for kids.


Save the Date:

When: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Orange County Administration Center, 201 S. Rosalind Ave., Orlando, FL 32801

More info: ocfl.net/OpenHouse



Affordable Housing Trust Fund

Finding a safe, affordable place to live shouldn’t be out of reach. Through both public and private partnerships, Orange County’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund is helping build and preserve homes for families of all income levels. Take our housing survey.


Learn more about how local investments are turning into real progress:

Community Calendar

ArtsInOrlando.com

Upcoming Winter Season


Explore local arts, workshops and performances all season long.

Orange County Library System

All Month


Enjoy holiday programming, author talks and resources throughout December.

Orange County Regional History Center

All Month


Experience interactive holiday events all month.

Tree Lighting Celebration

December 5, 5 p.m.


Ring in the holidays with the lighting of the City of Orlando’s Christmas tree at Lake Eola Park.

Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade

December 6, 9 a.m.


Join the fun as more than 80 community groups fill Park Avenue with music, color and holiday cheer.

Christmas Golf Cart Parade

December 6, 6 p.m.


Watch decorated golf carts make their way through historic downtown Winter Garden.

Pine Hills Parade

December 6, 9 a.m.


Celebrate talent and diversity at this family-friendly event featuring a holiday parade.

Jolly Jamboree

December 13, 1 p.m.


Bring the family to Ocoee’s Jolly Jamboree and Holiday Dog Parade featuring rides, games and music.

Chanukah with Chabad of South Orlando

All Month



Join Chabad of South Orlando for several community events throughout December.

Facebook      Instagram      LinkedIn      X      YouTube

View as Webpage