ORMOND BEACH, Fla. – News 6 is highlighting spots around Central Florida that are decked out for the holidays.
This journey during the most wonderful time of the year led us to the Rose Villa Southern Table and Bar in Ormond Beach, which has transformed into a “Gingerbread Fantasy.”
Pat Sullivan, the owner of the historic spot, has brought this display back for its third year, he said.
“I’m still getting goosebumps every time I see it,” Sullivan said.
The two-story building is decorated with gingerbread men, lollipops, wreaths, Christmas trees and more.
[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos]
The display also features a nod to Central Florida’s racing history, as there is a gingerbread replica of the Bluebird car. This car was originally driven by Sir Malcom Campbell, who challenged to beat world speed records in Daytona Beach in the 1930s, according to Volusia County’s website.
The “Gingerbread Fantasy” holiday overlay started at the restaurant in 2021, Sullivan said. He also hired Orlando-based B Morrow Productions to bring his gingerbread house concept to life. This company has done production design at theme parks, hotels, zoos and more, according to its website.
“And during that time, obviously Disney wasn’t doing a lot ... everything was kind of shut down still, and so they had time and the effort and the energy, and they put this amazing thing together for us,” Sullivan said.
To add on, Sylvia Hererra, executive chef of the Rose Villa, has introduced some off-menu featured items as part of the holiday season, such as a gingerbread cocktail to match the display.
“I think as soon as people come in the door, even before that, they feel something that kind of separates us from your ordinary restaurant,” Hererra said. “There’s just a lot of charm and history here.”
All in all, both Sullivan and Hererra said they love how they can share the holiday spirit with the Ormond Beach community through the “Gingerbread Fantasy.”
“I think we’re really blessed to have the kind of community that appreciates this. It resonates with everyone who lives around here, when they drive by and they see us all decorated, and they love it,” Hererra said.
Have your own impressive decorations? News 6 wants to see photos of your holiday lights display!
Share photos of your decorated home and you could be featured on WKMG-TV.
Starting Nov. 15, we’re showcasing a home every Friday leading up to the New Year, along with the story behind the design.
In addition, all the homes will be displayed on ClickOrlando.com for the whole community to enjoy.
To submit a photo or video, visit our PinIt! page. Choose “Holidays” for the Channel and “Lights/Home Decorations” as the Category. Be sure to include your name and location in the caption — you might just hear from us soon.
For a more detailed look at where to find Christmas lights around Central Florida, click here.
Check out our county-by-county guide for Central Florida holiday events this season by clicking here.
Check out the Florida Foodie podcast. You can find every episode in the media player below: