SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration™ at SeaWorld® Orlando

Holly Jolly Christmas & Holiday Season Events in Orlando

Updated for 2023! Every holiday season, Orlando’s world-famous theme parks and resort hotels dazzle with jubilant cheer, miles of garland and a galaxy of twinkling lights. Holiday traditions and joyful celebrations transform Orlando — Theme Park Capital of the World — into a magical wonderland guaranteed to have your family singing “fa-la-la-la” all the way here and back home again.

Celebrate with delightful events, parades and lights, including several low- and no-cost options or included with theme park admission. Because the holidays are a joyous time — and no destination is more joyous than Orlando.

Please note: Gallery contains images from the 2022 holiday season and earlier.

  • Our  theme parks aren’t the only places where you can deck the halls when you visit Orlando this holiday season. See some of holly, jolly events taking place beyond the parks this year, including options for all ages, and check back for more as they get added.

    Special Holiday Season Events

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    Eola Wonderland at Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando’s Thornton Park District

    Eola Winter Wonderland (Through Dec. 23, 2023)

    The most wonderful time of the year is here in Orlando. Throughout November and December, the city invites visitors and residents alike to celebrate the holidays with family-friendly holiday events, large-scale decorations, and activities for all ages to enjoy during Eola Winter Wonderland. The fun takes place at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando’s Thornton Park District.

    Discover: Things to Do in Thornton Park District

    Creative City Project installations 2023
    Dazzling Nights by Creative City Project at Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando (Jesse Walsh)

    Dazzling Nights 2023 (Select Nights, Nov. 17, 2023 – Jan. 6, 2024)

    Presented by Creative City Project, this annual tradition is back for its fourth year and bigger and more interactive than ever. Transforming the 50-acre Harry P. Leu Gardens into a stunning winter wonderland featuring a million dazzling lights, shining forests, magical displays, music and beautiful sculptures, the family-friendly Dazzling Nights invites you to embark on an unforgettable, interactive holiday adventure.

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    This year’s edition features the return of popular immersive environments, plus enchanting new surprises. Elements include hundreds of hanging Moroccan lanterns; interactive pads that light up when you jump on them; a forest with thousands of laser beams; a brand-new light show with 100 10-foot light tubes synced to music; a 30-foot tree in splendid, shimmering gold; upgraded food and drinks; and of course, snow. Leu Gardens is part of Orlando’s Audubon Park Garden District.

    Discover: Things to Do in Orlando Neighborhoods

    2022 Give Kids the World Night of a Million Nights event

    Holiday Nights at Island H2O Live! (Select Nights, Nov. 8 – Dec. 31, 2023)

    At Holiday Nights at Island H2O Live!, immerse yourself in a winter wonderland illuminated with dazzling lights and filled with immersive family activities, nightly entertainment, holiday card-worthy photo ops and more. Island H2O Live! is adjacent to Margaritaville Resort Orlando near Walt Disney World® Resort.

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    Winter Park Christmas Parade Near Orlando

    Winter Park Christmas Events (Nov. 30 – Dec. 2 & Dec. 24, 2023)

    The Winter Park Christmas Parade (Dec. 2) has been bringing Santa and Mrs. Claus to its upscale namesake city for more than 70 years. Not only is this Central Florida’s oldest continuous holiday parade, but it provides a great opportunity to check out everything else Winter Park has to offer. You are also invited to the charming city’s annual tree lighting at Winter on the Avenue (Dec. 1), featuring strolling carolers, a Chanukah menorah lighting ceremony, s’mores, children’s choirs, The Bubble Bus, Popcorn Flicks in the Park, and of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus.

    Discover: Things to Do in Winter Park

    During Christmas in the Park (Nov. 30), The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art lights up Tiffany windows and present the Bach Festival Choir and Brass Ensemble in concert. Admission to all three events is free, and the Morse Museum will also offer free admission from 1 – 4 p.m. on Dec. 24 for its Christmas Eve Celebration.

    Promotional image for Lake Nona's annual Oh, What Fun! annual holiday event.

    Oh, What Fun!® Holiday Festival (Dec. 7 – 23, 2023)

    Held in Lake Nona close to Orlando International Airport, Oh, What Fun! is a magical, open-air winter wonderland with nightly snowfalls, live entertainment, classic Christmas tales with Santa and Mrs. Claus, fun photo ops, and memorable encounters designed to amaze and enchant. It will also kick off Hanukkah with a menorah blessing and lighting, music, and fun for all.

    Discover: Things to Do in Lake Nona

    Gatorland’s Holiday Ho-Ho-Ho Down (Saturdays & Sundays Through Dec. 17, 2023)

    Gatorland’s Holiday Ho Ho Ho-Down features holiday displays, interactive characters, and the most Floridian holiday photo opportunity of the season with Gatorland’s own Gator Claus on his very unique sleigh, his merry elves, and the Krampus Croc along with other holiday characters. All the family-friendly holiday fun is included with admission to Gatorland.

    Save on discount tickets: Gatorland

    Fun Spot’s Huge Christmas (Through Jan. 1, 2024)

    Get your jolly on at Fun Spot’s Huge Christmas, a family-friendly yuletide event that brings festive fun to Fun Spot America in Orlando and Kissimmee. Enjoy dazzling decor, tasty holiday treats, themed Foto Spots and more, much of which at no extra cost to you.

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    Crayola Experience Musical Light Show for the holidays
    Colorful Christmas at Crayola Experience in Orlando

    Colorful Christmas at Crayola Experience (Nov. 18, 2023 – Jan. 7, 2024)

    Experience the holidays Crayola-style at Colorful Christmas, hosted by Crayola Experience at The Florida Mall®. Included with admission, it’s your chance to help Santa save the holiday season while enjoying snow-tastic adventures. You can also meet animatronic characters, step inside a life-sized snowglobe, watch a light show, and craft unique gifts from the heart. It’s a holiday hullabaloo with snow much to do.

    Save on discount tickets: Crayola Experience

    Kids meet Santa at The Santa Workshop Experience at ICON Park
    Santa Workshop Experience at ICON Park®, Part of Orlando’s International Drive Entertainment District

    Santa Workshop Experience at ICON Park® (Nov. 24 – Dec. 26, 2023)

    At ICON Park® on International Drive, the Santa Workshop Experience is a Christmas photo session like no other. This ticketed attraction includes free covered parking (plus free valet parking after 4 p.m.), unlimited cellphone and video use with your advance reservation, a free ride on The Wheel in a private holiday capsule, and discounted admission to The Wheel for additional riders.

    Discover: Things to Do at ICON Park

    Fishmas Extravaganza at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium (Through Jan. 1, 2024)

    Also at ICON Park, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium is making waves this holiday season with the launch of its fin-tastic Fishmas Extravaganza. Get transported to a magical underwater world and be enchanted by a unique blend of festive charm and marine marvels, all included with regular admission.

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    Holinights Celebration (Select Dates, Nov. 17 – Dec. 25, 2023)

    Join the Holinights Celebration at Promenade at Sunset Walk, featuring Santa Claus, mischievous elves, towering toy soldiers, live music and the nightly lighting of the 42-foot Illuminated Holinights Christmas Tree. You can also enjoy craft and street markets, car shows, and more, plus free admission and parking. Promenade at Sunset Walk is adjacent to Margaritaville Resort Orlando near Walt Disney World® Resort.

    Festive Holiday Dinner Show at Capone’s Dinner & Show (Select Nights Through Dec. 30, 2023)

    In Kissimmee close to Walt Disney World® Resort, Capone’s Dinner & Show is hosting a special Festive Holiday Dinner Show, with a four-course meal and unlimited beverages (including alcohol) also included with the price of admission.

    Santa’s Mission Possible at Pirates Dinner Adventure (Select Nights Through Dec. 25, 2023)

    Santa’s sleigh is bringing him all the way from the North Pole to Central Florida to celebrate the holidays at Pirates Dinner Adventure, part of the International Drive Entertainment District. Santa’s Mission Possible presents a swashbuckling adventure paired with a three-course meal and unlimited soft drinks. Limited-edition themed cocktails and mocktails are also available for purchase.

    Santa Photos at Premier Malls (Through Dec. 24, 2023)

    Santa photo opportunities await at Orlando’s premier shopping malls, The Mall at Millenia (event details) and The Florida Mall® (event details). Both offer numerous photo packages and require advance reservations.

    Now Snowing (Nov. 25 – Dec. 31, 2023)

    Hosted by Celebration Town Center close to Walt Disney World, Now Snowing presents winter fun with horse drawn carriage rides, train rides for the kids, ice skating, carolers and of course, photos with Santa.

    Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild at Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens (Select Dates Through Jan. 14, 2024)

    Experience the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens like never before during Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild. Marvel at dozens of all-new, hand-constructed lantern displays illuminated by thousands of LED lights as you wind your way around the zoo. Food and beverages will also be available for purchase. This ticketed event takes place in Sanford, about 35 minutes north of our main tourism districts.

    Holidays in Space at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (Dec. 15 – 24 & 26 – 30, 2023)

    Holidays in Space at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex features a Holiday Village full of galactic celebrations, live street performances, games, and plenty of holiday decor, all included with admission. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is on Florida’s east coast, about an hour from Orlando.

    Save on discount tickets: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

    Magic of Lights at Daytona International Speedway (Through Dec. 31, 2023)

    This holiday season, Daytona International Speedway transforms into a holiday wonderland during Magic of Lights, a specially ticketed holiday drive-through tradition featuring over one million lights. Daytona is on Florida’s east coast about an hour from Orlando.

    Holiday Season Arts

    A blue Christmas ornament hanging on a pine tree

    Stage Productions 


    Concerts


    More Holiday Arts

  • See how Orlando’s world-famous theme parks are celebrating the holiday season in 2023, with most events included with park admission.

    Save on discount tickets: Orlando Theme Parks

    Holidays at Walt Disney World® Resort

    Walt Disney World holidays at Magic Kingdom Park
    MICKEY’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARTY at MAGIC KINGDOM® Park, Part of WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort in Orlando

    Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom® Park (Select Nights, Nov. 9 – Dec. 22, 2023)

    At Walt Disney World® Resort, get ready for a magical holiday gathering with your loved ones — and some familiar Disney Characters — during the specially ticketed Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. When Mickey celebrates the season, Magic Kingdom® Park lights up with excitement for guests of all ages. Joyful music fills the air. Disney Characters don their most festive attire, and enchanting entertainment lies around almost every turn.

    Save on discount tickets: MICKEY’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARTY

    Throughout the evening, you can:

    • Delight in the amazingly festive Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks show;
    • Gather to watch Disney Characters give a yuletide nod to the season during Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade;
    • Get the perfect picture with Disney pals dressed in their Christmas best;
    • Discover holiday overlays for iconic attractions such as Space Mountain® and Jungle Cruise®;
    • Make your night extra sweet when you explore Magic Kingdom Park searching for cookies and cocoa;
    • Take in the elaborate decorations that bring the spirit of the season to life;
    • And so much more.

    Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party ends on Dec. 22, 2023, so get your tickets now. Even if you’re not attending this specially ticketed event, you can look forward to holiday delights throughout Magic Kingdom Park during normal operating hours.

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    DISNEY JOLLYWOOD NIGHTS at DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS®, Part of WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort in Orlando (©Disney)

    Disney  Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios® (Select Nights, Nov. 11 – Dec. 20, 2023)

    This festive season, Disney’s Hollywood Studios® will host a brand-new nighttime party, Disney Jollywood Nights, on 10 select evenings. The separately ticketed event, which runs from 8:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m., invites you to experience a glamorous evening full of merry mashups, delicious tastes and sips, iconic throwback characters, and a holiday vibe full of glitz and sparkle.

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    For an extra dose of cheer, the party wraps with the return of the nighttime spectacular, “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” Other highlights include:

    • Glimmering, festive entertainment inspired by different genres, with red-carpet moments and dapper decor;
    • After-hours access to thrilling rides and coasters;
    • The chance to pal around with your favorite Disney friends throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios;
    • Delicious holiday tastes and sips (available for purchase);
    • And so much more.

    Disney Jollywood Nights is a limited-capacity holiday party, so securing your tickets early is encouraged. You can also look forward to festive fun throughout the park during normal hours, including the Sunset Seasons Greetings projection show on Hollywood Tower Hotel, the Santa Claus Merry Motorcade, Minnie’s Holiday Dine at Hollywood & Vine, and more.

    Walt Disney World holidays at Epcot
    Candlelight Processional at EPCOT® International Festival of the Holidays, Part of WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort in Orlando (©Disney)

    EPCOT® International Festival of the Holidays (Nov. 24 – Dec. 30, 2023)

    Surround yourself with seasonal sights, sounds and flavors during the EPCOT® International Festival of the Holidays, a beloved extravaganza boasting themed Holiday Kitchens and a scrumptious Holiday Cookie Stroll.

    Save on discount tickets: WALT DISNEY WORLD Resort

    You can also hear the stirring story of Christmas presented by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by an orchestra and massed choir. It’s part of the famous Candlelight Processional, held nightly during the festival’s run.

    Even the Guardians of the Galaxy are getting in on the fun by trading their classic-hits playlist for a mash-up of seasonal jams at Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. Then, behold heartwarming performances around World Showcase, including Canadian Holiday Voyageurs, Las Posadas with Mariachi Cobre, the Chinese Lion Dance, and holiday storytellers.

    This joyous celebration is included with admission to EPCOT®, with food and beverages being available for purchase.

    Walt Disney World holidays at Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park
    Merry Menagerie at DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM® Theme Park, Part of WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort in Orlando (©Disney)

    Holidays at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park (Nov. 11 – Dec. 31, 2023)

    At Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park, experience the magic of nature with a holiday twist. Be sure to swing by Discovery River to wave hello to some of your favorite Disney Characters aboard decked-out flotillas. Included with park admission, highlights include:

    • Merry Menagerie: Delight in winter wonders as Discovery Island® springs to life with artisan-sculpted puppets of arctic animals — like penguins, reindeer, foxes and polar bears.
    • Santa Claus Festive Flotilla: See Santa Claus as he sails down the Discovery River to a jolly, world-beat holiday soundtrack.
    • Discovery Island Drummers Festive Flotilla: Feel the beat as a colorful group of percussionists cruise along the Discovery River.

    Plus, check out holiday-themed decor and Tree of Life® Awakenings — Holiday Edition, where the beloved tree shimmers and sparkles each evening, accompanied by a heartwarming musical score.

    Guests are transported to a magical winter wonderland  when they visit Disney Springs during the holiday season, complete with Santa's Chalet, the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail and entertainment abounds.
    Meet Santa Claus at DISNEY SPRINGS®, Part of WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort in Orlando (©Disney)

    Holidays at Disney Springs® (Nov. 11 – Dec. 31, 2023)

    More holiday fun can be enjoyed at Disney Springs®, including dazzling decor and gift ideas galore. Meet Santa Claus, enjoy festive holiday tunes with live performers and DJs, and encounter Toy Soldier Stilt Walkers and Snowflake Skaters. Flurries are also in the forecast with a magical evening snowfall over Disney Springs Town Center — the perfect complement to the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth. Best of all, admission and parking are free.

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    SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration at SeaWorld® Orlando (©SeaWorld)

    SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration™ at SeaWorld® Orlando (Select Dates, Nov. 10, 2023 – Jan. 2, 2024)

    The award-winning SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration returns with the sights, sounds and flavors of the holiday season. Included with theme park admission, the event transforms SeaWorld® Orlando into a winter wonderland with more than 3 million sparkling lights. Enjoy all the family-friendly holiday entertainment, from the iconic Sea of Trees that dance to music as they light up the central lagoon, to delicious holiday treats. Experience fan-favorite holiday shows and seasonal entertainment throughout the park. And be sure to stay late to finish your evening with an impressive holiday firework show.

    Save on discount tickets: SeaWorld Orlando

    Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort 2021
    Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, Part of Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort

    Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort (Nov. 17 – Dec. 31, 2023)

    However you holiday, “You Do Yule” during Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort. Whether you’re feeling merry or full of mischief, this is the place to let loose and set your festive side free.

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    Join the celebration of Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ as Hogwarts™ castle lights up for the holidays and festive decor brightens up the streets of Hogsmeade™ and Diagon Alley™. Enjoy a hot Butterbeer™ while both the Frog Choir and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees put a holiday spin on their performances.

    Larger-than-life balloons float through the streets of Universal Studios Florida in Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, along with appearances by the Minions from Illumination’s Despicable Me and some of your favorite characters from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek and Madagascar films. Get together with the resident Whos in Universals Islands of Adventure, where you can enjoy the music and fun of The Grinchmas™ Who-liday Spectacular starring the Grinch™.

    Holiday parade at Universal Orlando Resort 2021
    Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, Part of Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort

    There are even more festivities in store around every corner of Universal Orlando Resort. You’ll find tasty holiday food and drinks, character encounters and more. And to top it all off, you’ll want to stay at one of Universal’s spectacular hotels, where you’ll find even more themed food, decorations and festivities.

    From breathtaking hotels to Universal CityWalk to thrill-packed theme parks, “You Do Yule” this holiday season at Universal Orlando Resort, with all festivities included with park admission.

    WIZARDING WORLD and all related trademarks, characters, names, and indicia are © &™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s22)

    Prices, times, dates, entertainment, event and/or experience details are subject to changes and/or cancellation without notice. Dr. Seuss properties TM & © 2023 Dr. Seuss Enterprises, L.P. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade & Related Characters © 2023 Macy’s Inc. © 2023 DreamWorks Animation LLC. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2023 Universal Studios. All rights reserved.

    Kids pose with a toy soldier at Christmas Bricktacular at Legoland Florida Resort
    Holidays at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort Near Orlando

    Holidays at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort (Select Dates, Nov. 24 – Dec. 31, 2023)

    At LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, this jolly time of year features a giant LEGO® Christmas tree, unforgettable seasonal shows, holiday characters, special treats, LEGO activities, twinkling lights and more during Holidays at LEGOLAND. An extra special gift for you: This festive event is included in general admission.

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There’s Always More to Do in Orlando

Promotional image for Lake Nona's annual Oh, What Fun! annual holiday event.
Courtesy Oh, What Fun! in Orlando’s Lake Nona Neighborhood

Holiday festivities aren’t the only can’t-miss events waiting for you in Orlando this fall and winter. See what else is happening during your next visit, and make plans to join the fun.

If you need help plotting your getaway, take advantage of our free planning resources, or reach out to our Vacation Planning Services team via Live Chat or by phone at +1 407-363-5872. You can also stock up on authorized discount tickets for theme parks, attractions and experiences at Visit Orlando powered by BestofOrlando.com and take advantage of other special offers. It’s the best way to enjoy a wondrous holiday season in Orlando.

Map of Holiday Events in Orlando

Use this interactive map to deck the halls at all of Orlando’s holiday celebrations in 2023. (Click here if you found us via Google and don’t see a map or images)