Orlando is pulling out all the stops to make this holiday season unforgettable! From dazzling lights to whimsical parades, visitors can enjoy over 20 unique celebrations across the city. With warm weather, festive vibes, and events for all ages, Orlando tops the charts as a dream holiday destination. Whether you’re drawn to theme parks or crave local festivities, this city offers magical holiday experiences that promise to make your season bright.

Orlando shines brightest during the holidays, with over 20 dazzling events that turn the city into a warm, sunny winter wonderland!

Orlando’s Theme Parks: A Wonderland of Holiday Cheer

Orlando’s theme parks go all out for the holidays, transforming into winter wonderlands filled with charm and sparkle. Each park brings something special to the season, with activities to please all ages.

• Walt Disney World: The magic starts early at Disney, with Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in the Magic Kingdom and Disney Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios. Experience the festive fireworks, parades, snowfall on Main Street, and live shows with beloved Disney characters.
• Universal Orlando: Get into the spirit with Grinchmas at Islands of Adventure and celebrate Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where the magic of the holidays comes alive with themed decor, holiday parades, and even a special appearance from the Grinch.
• SeaWorld Orlando: SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration transforms the park into a sea of lights and holiday fun, featuring live performances, character dining, and a breathtaking fireworks finale.
• LEGOLAND Florida: Here, the kids can build their own holiday magic, surrounded by sparkling lights, LEGO sculptures, and an enormous LEGO Christmas tree.

Family-Friendly Festivities Beyond the Theme Parks

Orlando’s holiday spirit extends beyond the famous theme parks. Families can enjoy unique events that bring a local twist to the season, with entertainment that’s both magical and memorable.

• Asian Lantern Festival: Central Florida Zoo hosts a stunning lantern display that combines tradition with creativity, lighting up the zoo with over 10,000 LED lights across handcrafted lanterns.
• Festival of Trees: Hosted by the Orlando Museum of Art, this event showcases designer trees and wreaths, artisanal gingerbread houses, and pop-up holiday shops.
• I-Drive Tree Lighting: On November 22, catch the glittering tree lighting ceremony on International Drive, complete with live performances and holiday characters.
• Jingle Eve at Ivanhoe Village: This free event offers a festive mix of food, music, and arts and crafts, topped off with fireworks to mark the season.

Enchanting Holiday Experiences at Gardens and Historic Venues

Orlando’s gardens and historic areas turn into magical holiday retreats, with interactive light displays, unique seasonal events, and memorable performances that celebrate the beauty of the season.

• Dazzling Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens: Walk through enchanting lights, shimmering sculptures, and magical forests at this immersive, family-friendly holiday event.
• Historic Holiday Experience: The Orange County Regional History Center brings the magic of yesteryear with caroling, storytelling, crafts, and even Santa Claus himself for a memorable day of fun.
• Holiday Performances: Catch classic holiday performances like Elf in Concert and The Nutcracker at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. For a more whimsical experience, see Cirque Mechanics’ aerial acrobatics during their Winter Wonder Shoppe performance.

Hotels and Resorts Add a Dash of Festive Luxury

Orlando’s luxury hotels take holiday cheer to the next level with exclusive events and unique experiences for guests of all ages. From interactive workshops to gourmet dining, these hotels make it easy to experience the magic of the season in style.

• Gaylord Palms Resort ICE!: This iconic event features a new theme inspired by the holiday film “Elf” with sculptures hand-carved from two million pounds of ice, creating a frosty wonderland.
• Four Seasons Resort Orlando: With a retro roller rink, festive cabanas, and holiday-themed dining, this resort offers an elegant escape, perfect for a family holiday or romantic getaway.
• Ritz-Carlton Orlando: Indulge in hands-on activities, such as gingerbread house decorating and Santa’s Teddy Bear Tea, perfect for creating new family holiday traditions.
• The ette Hotel Afternoon Tea: For a sophisticated twist on the season, this signature tea experience offers delicious pastries and premium teas, adding a touch of London holiday flair.

Final Thoughts: Orlando is Calling You to Celebrate the Season!

Orlando’s holiday lineup is nothing short of spectacular. From the thrills of theme parks to the charm of local celebrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This season, Orlando invites you to make memories under its festive lights, with warm days, star-studded nights, and holiday cheer around every corner.