One of Ocala’s most beloved holiday traditions is back, adorning the first floor of the museum in full holiday cheer. “A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition” is the private collection of Dr. Paul and Joyce Urban and their daughters Katie, Kristie, Kassie and Karlie, who have lived in Ocala since 1989.
Joyce Urban’s love of Christmas began when she was a child in the city of Philadelphia. Every year she would go see the elaborate decorations at the department stores set up along the path she walked as she went to see Santa. This wonder of Christmas has stayed with her through the years. She began publicly displaying her collection in 1989 because she wanted to provide a place for children of all ages to come experience what she did as a child. Over the years her Christmas Tour has raised money for many local charities including Harvest International, Interfaith, Pilot Club, Women’s Pregnancy Center and the Counseling Resource Center where she worked as a counselor. In 2012, Joyce opened Urban Counseling where she continues her legacy of helping others.
The Urban Family is honored to loan a portion of their Christmas collection to the Appleton during the holiday season. Visitors can look forward to beautifully themed trees, the popular Dickens Village, an extensive nutcracker collection from around the world, and much more. The display is different every year!
Community Holiday Tree Display
Visit the first and second floor galleries to see 17 trees decorated by community groups, businesses and organizations. 2026 participating businesses and organizations include: Appleton Artspace, Art Approach, Artify Ocala/Marion Maker Collective, Arts in Health Ocala Metro, Better Together, Boys & Girls Club, Bridge to Hope, CAMPUS USA Credit Union, College Park Elementary, East Marion Elementary, El Bell’s Flower Truck, Hands Up Communications with LN Signs and Greater Marion County Association of the Deaf (GMCAD), Hiers-Baxley – Highland Memorial Park, Soleil Bakery, The LILAC Foundation, TJM Promos, and Urban Counseling.
Holiday Community Day
Saturday, December 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Spend a free, festive day at the museum at our annual Holiday Community Day, sponsored by Dr. Paul and Joyce Urban. Learn more