2025 Guide to Christmas & Holiday Events at Orlando Theme Parks
- Emma Walton
- 2 hours ago
- 13 min read
Here at Gotta Go Orlando we've brought together all the amazing Christmas and Holiday Season Events taking place in Orlando's theme parks this Holiday Season.
Anytime is a magical time to visit Orlando's theme parks, but we highly recommend a visit during the holidays! Orlando's theme parks celebrate with holiday decorations, special events, after-hours parties and so much more.
At Walt Disney World, sparkle and shine during the merriest season of the year at all four theme parks and beyond! At Magic Kingdom, discover oh-so-jolly holiday trimmings and touches along Main Street, U.S.A. and throughout the park. At Hollywood Studios, gaze in wonder as the Hollywood Tower Hotel is transformed nightly with holiday projections. Over at Animal kingdom, see Discovery Island come to life with artisan-sculpted puppets of arctic animals—like penguins, reindeer, foxes and polar bears. At EPCOT you will discover festive traditions from cultures around the world during EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays.
After hours events take place at Magic Kingdom, with Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party offering festive entertainment, a storybook holiday atmosphere, sweet treats and more. Another after hour event is Disney Jollywood Nights, celebrate the season in style with a ticket to this 5-hour event in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Moving onto Universal Orlando Resort, get ready for Holidays at Universal! Don't miss Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal's Holiday Parade featuring Macy's and Seuss Landing all spruced up for Grinchmas.
Find festive fun around every corner with holiday-themed entertainment, exclusive limited-time holidays food and drink offering, and New Year's celebrations at both Universal Studios Florida, and Islands of Adventure. Plus, there are even more festivities at Universal Orlando Resort's spectacular hotels.
Over at SeaWorld Orlando, gather your family and join all your festive friends at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration. See the park transformed into a winter wonderland sparkling with millions of beautiful Christmas lights. With plenty of holiday cheer, this event is sure to create unforgettable memories at a wondrous Christmas celebration you’ll only find at SeaWorld.
Plus, experience the ultimate holiday thrill with SeaWorld Orlando/s limited capacity Coasters After Dark: Christmas Edition! Enjoy a festive night filled with excitement as each ride transforms under twinkling lights, creating a perfect holiday atmosphere for family and friends.
At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, the holidays shine brightest at Busch Gardens Christmas Town! Celebrate the year with holiday cheer and gather with family and friends to create merry memories. Indulge in new holiday-inspired culinary delights and meet festive characters like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and friends. All under the nearly 70 miles of dazzling lights throughout the entire park. Experience Tampa Bay’s longest running holiday celebration, only at Busch Gardens Christmas Town.
Next, sleigh into the holly jolliest time of year as Holidays at LEGOLAND presented by Hallmark Channel returns to LEGOLAND Florida Resort! Surprise your family with tons of bricktastic holiday fun coming down the chimney, including an all-new ginormous LEGO brick-built Christmas Tree, a festive LEGO crew, new elf-tastic entertainment, and bunches of new holly jolly LEGO décor.
At Kennedy Space Center look in wonder at the festive holiday décor that has taken over the visitor complex. Décor includes - a 50 foot tree illuminating the Rocket Garden and Gateway with more than 61,000 pixels of light, the all-new Rocket Tree Trail sponsored by , six-foot-tall astronaut nutcrackers and more. You will also see the return of your favorite décor, such as the NASA meatball turned holiday ornament.
Read on for all the holly jolly details....
2025 Guide to Orlando Theme Park Christmas & Holiday Events
November 14 - December 31
Dreaming of a perfect Disney Christmas? As soon as guests pass through the Magic Kingdom park gates and have a clear view of Cinderella Castle from Main Street, U.S.A., guests will realize they are in the perfect spot to check off the holiday items on their personal bucket list.
This year, guests can join “Frozen” friends from Arendelle as Olaf and over 100 of his snowgie siblings add garlands, ornaments, wreaths and more to Cinderella Castle during the “Frozen Holiday Surprise.”
Magic Kingdom is home to some of the most iconic holiday picture spots across Walt Disney World, with plenty of beautiful areas to snap a photo worthy of a Christmas card.
With jolly holiday trimmings and touches along Main Street, U.S.A. and throughout the park, guests can smile, snap and share their perfect photos along a bright and merry Main Street.
November 7 - December 21, Select Dates
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a separately ticketed event that celebrates the most wonderful time of the year at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. This year, you’ll enjoy festive entertainment, overlays on classic rides, a storybook holiday atmosphere, and sweet treats.
This joyous, separately ticketed event includes exclusive meet and greets and themed entertainment, not to mention complimentary cookies and sips throughout the evening.
Marvel at Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, catch a merry stage show with Mickey Mouse and friends, and see your favorite holiday carols set to fireworks during Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show. Santa himself will be in attendance throughout the evening, as will several of your favorite Disney characters decked out in their holiday best.
November 28 - December 30
With fan-favorite snacks from around the world, entertainment that is sure to put a smile on your face and attractions that delight time and time again, EPCOT is the ultimate family destination for guests staying at Disney World this winter. Bells will be ringing, and choirs will be singing, so make sure to bring your cameras (and your appetite) when you pass through the entrance of this cheerful park.
During this time, experience the spirited “JOYFUL! Celebration of the Season” in CommuniCore Plaza featuring a combination of classic songs and updated arrangements with powerhouse vocalists, while the Voices of Liberty as Dickens Carolers delight guests inside The American Adventure Pavilion with holiday tunes in signature Victorian attire.
Witness a retelling of the nativity story at the popular Candlelight Processional at the America Gardens Theatre, held nightly. With celebrity narrators bringing the story of Christmas to life onstage, seating is first-come, first-served and often fills up fast during this popular performance, so plan ahead and make it a priority on your visit if you want to experience this stunning show.
Part of the charming allure of World Showcase during this time of the year are the Holiday Storytellers, sharing festive traditions and bringing holiday tales to life in their respective countries. Here’s some unique stories and performers you can expect to see during your visit this winter.
This year, the Holiday Kitchens across EPCOT are making a return for Festival of the Holidays with heartwarming recipes and festive flavors from around the world. Plus, you’ll be happy to know that the Holiday Cookie Stroll returns this season too. Also, Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition Scavenger Hunt returns, and Living with the Land transforms during the holiday season, with sparkling Christmas lights and dazzling decor.
November 14 - December 31
Whether you are listening to “Cool Yule” as you stroll down Sunset Boulevard, finding the perfect toy inside Mickey’s of Hollywood or stopping by Echo Lake to take a holiday picture with Gertie, Disney’s Hollywood Studios brings the perfect amount of touching holiday charm to your multi-day trip to Walt Disney World in 2025.
As night falls, experience the return of “Sunset Seasons Greetings” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with nightly holiday projections. Get ready to play the music and light the lights each evening, as holiday magic transforms the famous Hollywood Tower Hotel into a Muppets gingerbread masterpiece, a “Toy Story” toy hotel, a snowy corner of Arendelle and a Dickensian village from “Mickey’s Christmas Carol.”
Once entering the Hyperion Theater, guests can drift over to their seat and listen as the Royal Historians of Arendelle recount the frosty story of their enchanted kingdom. Watch closely as thrilling moments from the movie play on-screen and cheer as Anna, Elsa and Kristoff appear to sing along with the audience, and enjoy an unforgettable holiday finale featuring everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf.
Beautiful, vintage decor is adorned everywhere throughout Hollywood Studios, including Echo Lake, Sunset Boulevard and more. However, for an up-close way to spot some fun decor and meet some of your favorite toys, step into the world of Andy’s backyard and head to Toy Story Land to find larger-than-life seasonal decorations and friends dressed in seasonal attire.
Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear are dressed up in their holiday best during this time of the year, so make sure to swing by, take a picture fit for a holiday card and say “hey, howdy, hey” to your favorite toys!
Spot Minnie Mouse and friends at Hollywood & Vine during Minnie’s Holiday Dine, which hosts sensational soirees that mix festive music, decor and tantalizing menu items. Guests of all ages can celebrate the holidays with additional Disney Characters perfectly dressed for the season, while munching on great dishes.
November 8 - December 22, Select Nights
Experience an evening of festive fun—with a ticket to Disney Jollywood Nights. During this 5-hour holiday party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests can enjoy new and returning entertainment, including live entertainment, more than 20 unique character experiences. fun photo ops, favorite attractions with lower wait time. Specialty treats, snacks and beverages available for purchase, and more.
For an extra dose of cheer, the party wraps with the return of the nighttime spectacular, “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!”
November 14 - December 31
Looking to take a festive journey on the wild side this holiday season? Whether you’re looking to careen through snow-capped Himalayan peaks on a speeding train while avoiding the mythic Yeti on Expedition Everest or stick to more traditional holiday activities like greeting Disney characters in festive attire, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has something in store for guests of all ages during the upcoming holiday season.
For a truly enchanting holiday experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom amidst beautiful holiday decor, artisan-sculpted puppets of artic animals come to life around Discovery Island during the Merry Menagerie. Kids and families alike can spot penguins, reindeer, foxes, and polar bears, setting up the perfect photo opportunity for your yearly holiday card.
In addition, a dazzling visual display full of bright colors and animated imagery, the “Tree of Life Awakenings Holiday Edition” lights up Animal Kingdom as the majestic centerpiece of the park comes to life on nights when the park is open after dark in Discovery Island.
At Adventurers Outpost, meet and pose for a photo with world travelers Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse at their exploration headquarters, dressed in their best holiday outfits. The globetrotting couple is preparing for their next grand expedition, so make sure to snap a postcard-perfect picture to send to all your friends and family.
November 14 - December 31
Looking for a place to check off all the boxes on your little one’s Christmas list? Disney Springs is the place to be to find classic Disney merchandise, souvenirs and trends from some of the world’s most popular brands during the holidays, as well as world-class restaurants, casual eateries, family-friendly activities, live entertainment and unforgettable late-night fun for adults.
Disney Springs is the perfect spot for holiday shopping, alongside dazzling decorations and the popular Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth. Discover a wide collection of extravagantly decorated Christmas trees throughout Disney Springs, including elaborately themed Christmas trees inspired by Disney, Pixar, and Star Wars favorites.
Want to know about one of our favorite trees returning this year? Check out the returning Haunted Mansion-inspired tree featuring musical instruments, candlesticks and more — happy haunting and happy holidays!
For even more fun once you’re done searching for your favorite tree, make sure to also check out the magical nightly snowfall in the Town Center. Yes, even central Florida gets in on the wintry fun during this sensational time.
On select nights, guests may be able to listen to a rotating lineup of regional and local bands play live tunes on first-come, first-served seating at the Waterside Stage. Plus, make sure to stop by Disney’s Days of Christmas and World of Disney, where you can find a wide range of cheerful holiday collections. Also, Santa Claus will be stopping by Disney Springs through December 24, where you can take festive photos and share holiday wishes with jolly old St. Nick.
November 14 - December 31
With more than 25 Disney Resort hotels to choose from in the Disney Resorts Collection, there are plenty of ways to make this holiday season special for you and your loved ones. With special offers, stunning decor and countless moments of joy, there’s so much to see and do at each of the Disney Resort hotels during the holiday season.
November 7 - January 5
It’s the most wonderful time of the year at SeaWorld Orlando — and this year, the park is going bigger and brighter than ever before, and we are so excited as SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration is one of our favorite holiday traditions in Orlando!
The park magically transforms into a winter wonderland shimmering with millions of dazzling lights, creating the perfect backdrop for unforgettable holiday memories during SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, returning select dates November 7, 2025 through January 5, 2026.
Families can experience heart-warming shows, beloved characters, festive fireworks, and holiday traditions you’ll only find at SeaWorld, and best of all, SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration is included with park admission!
Every corner of SeaWorld shines bright with holiday cheer. Guests can stroll through the glistening Sea of Trees, where sparkling trees dance to holiday classics across the lagoon including a towering 70-foot centerpiece that lights up the night sky. Snow flurries fall along the Waterfront, toy soldiers march, ballerinas twirl, and festive fun fills the air as classic Christmas tunes set the scene.
This season, guests can experience fresh holiday sparkle throughout the park. Mrs. Claus’ Magic
Kitchen has been reimagined to blend beloved North Pole traditions with a dash of modern
flair, featuring baking tips, sweet surprises, and plenty of share-worthy moments. Plus, a beloved favorite returns as Clyde & Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas splashes back onto the stage with its signature heart and humor, delighting families once again this season.
From the Sesame Street Christmas Parade, where Elmo and friends lead a joyous holiday
procession, to the uplifting O Wondrous Night featuring over 30 carols, life-size puppets, and
live animals, SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration offers something for everyone.
Guests can also enjoy Elmo’s Christmas Wish Show in Seaport Theater and the stunning Winter Wonderland on Ice. Each night ends with Holiday Reflections: Fireworks Finale, a breathtaking display of lights and pyrotechnics set to holiday music that fills the sky with festive spirit.
Plus, for a unique Floridian Christmas twist, visitors can ice skate at Bayside Stadium, and glide across a beautiful rink alongside the lagoon.
November 8 - January 31
This holiday season, Aquatica Orlando will shine brighter than ever with the debut of ILLUMINATE – A Lantern Festival at Aquatica, a brand-new nighttime experience transforming the award-winning water park into a radiant realm of light and imagination.
Expanding upon beloved nighttime traditions like AquaGlow, this limited-time event introduces entirely new realms, interactive elements and sensory surprises that set it apart from anything seen before at Aquatica.
Beginning Nov. 8 and running select nights through Jan. 31, 2026, guests are invited to stroll through glowing walkways, discover majestic animal lanterns and explore five immersive realms of light from 6 to 10 p.m. Each realm features vibrant storytelling, interactive surprises, festive bites and photo-ready moments. During this nighttime event, pools and water slides will pause operations so guests can fully enjoy the immersive lantern experience.
November 14 - January 5
The holidays shine brighter than ever at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town, filling the season with holiday cheer and festive fun.
Beginning November 14 through January 5, the park transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland featuring millions of twinkling lights and two spectacular new additions — the ALL-NEW Holiday Skies Spectacular, featuring hundreds of drones synchronized to classic holiday music, and the ALL-NEW Serengeti Light Show, an immersive, multi-sensory light and music display across the park’s iconic Serengeti Plain.
The iconic Skyride will sparkle once again with festive lights, providing guests with breathtaking nighttime views of Busch Gardens dressed in its best holiday decor. Guests can also enjoy rides on fan-favorite attractions and coasters, including the recently returned Kumba, Phoenix Rising and more. Beloved holiday experiences like Santa’s North Pole Experience, the Holly Jolly Express, and dazzling shows such as Christmas on Ice will fill the air with festive magic for all ages.
Seasonal treats from holiday-flavored hot chocolates to freshly baked cookies exclusive to Christmas Town will add extra sweetness to the celebration. This year, guests can delight in all-new holiday-inspired menu items, explore the gingerbread cookie decorating station, and sip on a selection of new Christmas Town craft cocktails available throughout the park.
With unique holiday shopping, countless special holiday photo opportunities, and endless ways to create lasting memories, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town is the perfect holiday tradition for family and friends.
November 21 - January 4
Universal Orlando Resort is celebrating all things merry and bright during its destination-wide Holidays celebration – featuring a slate of festivities inspired by beloved characters and seasonal traditions from November 21 through January 4, 2026.
Guests can enjoy beautiful holiday décor throughout the entire destination – including select worlds at Universal Epic Universe – and revel in the holiday spirit as they enjoy exciting experiences at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, including Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Grinchmas, Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, and more.
Plus, guests can enjoy delicious holiday-themed menu items at various dining locations, shop a collection of seasonal merchandise, and book a variety of add-on experiences to enhance their visit, including The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast and the exclusive Universal Holiday Tour.
At Universal CityWalk, the Red Coconut Club will transform into the Green and Red Coconut Club for the holiday season, complete with festive decorations, live entertainment and holiday cocktails. Upstairs, guests will encounter Earl the Squirrel, who has brought his usual chaos and charm to Earl’s Twelve Days of Christmas.
Guests can also meet this beloved Universal character on select dates in CityWalk Plaza. Seasonal food and beverage offerings will also be available at restaurants throughout CityWalk like Bigfire and VIVO Italian Kitchen – and guests can enjoy a seasonal milkshake from The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen.
Guests can enjoy holiday festivities at all 11 Universal Orlando Resort hotels, which will be decked out with festive décor for the season.
Special menus and delicious holiday buffets will be offered for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s, and guests can join in on holiday celebrations including Christmas tree lightings, Hanukkah menorah lighting ceremonies, strolling carolers and more.
December 6 - 31, Select Dates
Sleigh into the jolliest time of year during Holidays at LEGOLAND Florida Resort Presented by the Hallmark Channel which returns with festive fun on select dates: December 6, 13, 20, and 24–31.
Families are invited to celebrate the season with twinkling lights, festive LEGO décor, interactive entertainment, and even a gigantic LEGO Christmas tree, transforming LEGOLAND Florida Resort into a whimsical winter wonderland.
Entertainment takes center stage with reindeer-approved shows, activities, and live performances spread across the Park. Plus, meet LEGO Santa, and his cheery LEGO Holiday Crew throughout the park, all included with General Park Admission, Annual Passes, and select Vacation Packages
December 19 - December 30, TBC
The stars are aligning for a brand-new show at Holidays in Space at Kennedy Space Center! Get ready for a nighttime spectacle that's out-of-this-world.
Holidays in Space at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a seasonal event that transforms the complex into a holiday-themed space wonderland. Festive holiday décor takes over the visitor complex throughout the entire month of December. The favorite 50-foot tree with more than 61,000 pixels of light returns this year, the expanded Rocket Tree Trail, six-foot-tall astronaut nutcrackers, the NASA meatball-turned-holiday ornament and so much more.
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