Complete Guide to Christmas and Holiday Events in Orlando 2026
Orlando offers a sparkling selection of events to celebrate the holidays, including light-up events, parades, movie nights, concerts, and more.
Orlando is a truly magical place to celebrate Christmas and the Holidays, and whether you're a local looking for inspiration, or a visitor looking forward to experiencing the holidays in the sunshine, we've unwrapped all the best things to do throughout the holiday season in Central Florida.
So what's happening for the holidays in Orlando? Delight in fairytale decor and out of this world celebrations at the theme parks and attractions, join in the festive fun at neighborhood parades and light-up events. Then experience holiday movies under the stars, photos with Santa, horse drawn carriage rides, train rides, ice skating, nightly snowfalls, and fireworks in the sky.
Bars and restaurants will offer special cocktails and festive feasts, theaters entertain with holiday spectaculars. Enough holiday fun? No way! Stay at hotels and resorts for festive fun and delicious eats and treats, and don't forget your Christmas shopping at holiday pop-up markets, malls and outlets!
Plus, everywhere you look you'll see spectacular miles of glittering garland and tens of thousands of twinkling lights that will cheer even the meanest of Grinches.
Best of all you'll be swapping out cold weather for mild-weather cheer! The average temperature in the winter tends to hang around the mid-70s, perfect for a hot chocolate without having to wrap up warm.
Orlando Christmas and Holiday Guide 2026
Orlando transforms into a true winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering everything from massive theme park celebrations and twinkling light displays to cozy neighborhood festivals and unique local holiday events.
With so much to enjoy throughoutN ovember and December in Orlando, we've brought together a comprehensive guide to the best events and things to do for the holidays throughout Central Florida, so you don't have to miss any of the festive fun.
From the magic of the theme parks at Christmas, to small town holiday parades and festive celebrations, we've got you covered with a sleigh-full of the best things to do throughout Central Florida this ho-ho-holiday season.
As we get ever closer to the holiday season we will be frequently updated this ever so nice Christmas and Holiday Guide, so check back often or you might just end up on Santa's naughty list! Plus, for the latest Christmas and holiday news from Orlando, CLICK HERE.
Holidays at the Theme Parks & Attractions
When winter arrives, Central Florida undergoes a magical transformation, turning world-famous theme parks and attractions into glowing, snow-dusted wonderlands. Celebrating Christmas and the holiday season at Orlando’s theme parks and local attractions is an experience like no other—where palm trees meet twinkling lights, temperate weather replaces freezing blizzards, and world-class entertainment brings seasonal stories to life.
Whether you are dreaming of sipping warm Butterbeer on cobblestone streets, floating past illuminated aquatic gardens, or watching "snow" fall softly onto Main Street, Orlando delivers a festive experience unlike anywhere else.
We've brought together all the holly jolly special events for the holidays at the theme parks and attractions in Orlando and the surrounding areas, for even more Christmas magic, check back soon
November 6 - January 4
Gather your family and friends at SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration featuring a winter wonderland of fun for all ages. Celebrate the holidays with experiences that bring the season to life including twinkling lights throughout the park and immersive holiday zones with festive fun for all the family. Plus, don't miss the dazzling choice of live shows and seasonal entertainment, and a highlight for the kids is the special meet-and-greets with Santa Claus and beloved characters. Throughout the park enjoy seasonal food, holiday drinks, and festive shopping experiences. End each night at SeaWorld Orlando with a festive firework show and dazzling reflections that light up the sky in a brilliant holiday finale.
November 7 - January 5, Select Nights
Celebrate the season in style with a ticket to this 5-hour event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios—select nights from November 7, 2026, to January 5, 2027! During this after-hours holiday party, 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 8 - December 22, 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. 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 13 - January 6
Dreaming of a perfect Disney Christmas? As soon as you enter the Magic Kingdom discover oh-so-jolly holiday trimmings and touches along Main Street, U.S.A. and throughout the park. 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. Plus, join your “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.” You can also delight in a festive-yet-familiar adventure when the beloved Jungle Cruise undergoes a yuletide transformation and becomes the Jingle Cruise!
November 13 - January 6
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 offers the perfect amount of touching holiday charm! Beautiful, vintage decor is adorned everywhere throughout Hollywood Studios, As night falls, experience “Sunset Seasons Greetings” 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.”
November 13 - January 6
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. .
November 13 - January 6
Disney Springs is the perfect spot for holiday shopping, alongside dazzling decorations and the popular Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll. 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. 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. On select nights, guests may be able to listen to a rotating lineup of regional and local bands. 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 13 - January 4
Experience the wonders of the holidays throughout Busch Gardens Christmas Town, where Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is transformed into a celebration filled with festive cheer. This holiday season, gather with family and friends to create unforgettable memories on select dates from November 13, 2026, through January 4, 2027. Every corner of the park comes alive with dazzling lights, festive entertainment, holiday shopping, seasonal flavors, and Christmas traditions and more. From the moment you enter the park until the end of your visit, you'll be immersed in the sights, sounds, and spirit of the season. Best of all, Christmas Town is included with your Busch Gardens admission.
November 14 - January 3
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 resort, and revel in the holiday spirit as they experience the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort with Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter across three theme parks, Grinchmas, Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, Snoggletog at How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, festive décor at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and more. Plus, guests can enjoy delicious holiday-themed menu items at various dining locations, shop a collection of seasonal merchandise, and enjoy the festive fun at Universal CityWalk, complete with festive decorations, live entertainment and holiday cocktails. Guests can also enjoy holiday festivities at all Universal Orlando Resort hotels.
November 14 – Spring 2027
Snowcat Ridge located in Dade City is Florida’s only alpine snow park with real snow, featuring a 400-foot-long snow tubing hill, 10,000 square-foot snow play dome, outdoor ice-skating ribbon and oval, Santa’s Christmas Lane with meet-and-greet opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus, Eskimo Outpost with private party igloo rental, and Alpine Village with food, drinks, a magical music and light show, shopping and more.
November 20 - January 3
Step into a holiday wonderland at the Gardens during the day, where thousands of poinsettias and seasonal blooms transform the landscape into a dazzling celebration of color, beauty, and cheer. Wander through 50 acres of enchanting vignettes and container gardens, discovering handcrafted horticultural displays and delightful surprises around every corner. Come stroll, explore, and discover the joy of the holidays in a setting where nature takes center stage. Let the beauty and warmth of the Gardens fill your season with wonder and yuletide cheer.
November 21 - January 3, Select Dates
Sleigh into the jolliest time of year with Holidays at LEGOLAND Florida Resort! Surprise your family with bricktastic holiday fun coming down the chimney, including tons of holly jolly LEGO décor and lights, a gigantic LEGO Christmas Tree, and festive LEGO entertainment. Plus, meet the Minifigure in the red suit, LEGO Santa, and his cheery LEGO Holiday Minifigure crew throughout the Park. The icing on top of the fruitcake - Holidays at LEGOLAND is included in General Park Admission!
November 21 - January 3
Deck the halls with tons of COLOR! Enjoy holiday fun the Crayola way at Colorful Christmas. Make handmade gifts from the heart, complete a seasonal scavenger hunt and more! Create holiday memories this season at Crayola Experience Orlando in the Florida Mall.
November 27 - December 30
Explore a world of heartwarming holiday traditions—and create a holiday tradition of your own—at a seasonal event brimming with merry music, global cuisine and fun for everyone. Experience the Voices of Liberty as Dickens Carolers with holiday tunes in signature Victorian attire. Witness a retelling of the nativity story at the Candlelight Processional at the America Gardens Theatre with celebrity narrators bringing the story of Christmas to life. Plus, he Holiday Storytellers at World Showcase will share festive traditions and bring holiday tales to life. The Holiday Kitchens will feature heartwarming recipes and festive flavors from around the world, and Living with the Land features sparkling Christmas lights and dazzling decor
November 27 - December 30, Select Dates
It’s the most wonderful time of the year at ZooTampa with the return of Christmas in the Wild, featuring one of Tampa Bay’s largest light displays, delectable holiday treats, amazing wildlife and new festive adventures. This year is bigger, better, and brighter than ever, with festive entertainment that the whole family will enjoy. Christmas in the Wild is included with a ZooTampa Membership or Zoo Fun ticket.
December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20
Celebrate the season with a splash of sunshine and a whole lot of holiday cheer at Gatorland’s Holiday Ho, Ho, Ho-Down 2026! This beloved holiday tradition returns with festive fun for the whole family, featuring joyful holiday music, dazzling seasonal décor, interactive characters, and delicious seasonal treats available for purchase. Capture the spirit of a true Florida Christmas with a photo alongside Gator Claus in his swamp-ready sleigh, come face-to-face with the mischievous Krampus Croc, and sing along as the Florida Skunk Ape belts out his favorite “cryptid carols.” Guests can also explore a variety of unique arts and crafts vendors for one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, then wrap up their visit at the iconic Gatorland gift shop for exclusive souvenirs. All this holiday magic—plus the alligators, wildlife, and crowd-pleasing shows that have made Gatorland a Florida favorite since 1949—is included with regular park admission, making Holiday Ho, Ho, Ho-Down the perfect way to make merry, Gatorland style!
Christmas and Holiday Events
During the Holidays, Central Florida trades chilly temperatures for warm sunshine, palm trees wrapped in twinkling lights, and world-class celebrations that stretch from mid-November straight into the New Year.
Whether you are looking to immerse yourself in the blockbusters events at the entertainment districts and resorts to the glowing charm of local neighborhood events, Orlando offers an unforgettable Christmas for everyone.
There is a huge choice of Christmas and holiday events in Orlando and the surround areas, and we've brought together all the best events here in one convienient place, for an even bigger list (as long as Santa's nice list!), check back soon.
November 1 - January 17
Step into a season of splendor and wonder with the Stetson Mansion Christmas Tour, an enchanting Christmas experience in DeLand where elegance, history, and holiday magic come together. Whether it's the glow of candlelight dancing across the sixteen original parquet floors, antique mirrors, or the quiet magic of a perfectly decorated tree, the Gilded Noel Christmas Spectacular Mansion Tour captures the spirit of Christmas in its most refined and unforgettable form.This is more than just a tour—it's a celebration of elegance, tradition, and the magic of Christmas.
November 7 - January 10
Twinkling lights, themed trees, and timeless holiday charm — “A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition” is back at the Appleton Museum of Art, Ocala. Visitors can enjoy beautifully decorated themed trees, the ever-popular Dickens Village miniature, an extensive nutcracker collection, handmade Santas from around the world, and much more.
November 13 - January 3
Experience so much Christmas at Gaylord Palms with dazzling displays, tempting treats, holiday shows, and festive activities throughout the resort. Their signature attraction, ice! featuring The Polar Express brings beloved scenes to life through colorful, colossal ice sculptures. Plus, glide down frosty lanes with ice tubing thrills, be amazed by the dazzling, award-winning POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance show, and discover even more holiday fun around every corner. Whether you're staying overnight or visiting for the day, it's the ultimate way to create lasting holiday memories together!
November 13 - January 17
During the holiday season, Grandview Clydesdale Farm, located in Dunnellon, decorates with Christmas elegance equal to that of the Clydesdales. Book an evening tour to experience the stunning farm light up at night with Christmas lights, trees, cookies, and feeding sessions with the horses.
November 14 - 22
For nearly four decades, the Council of 101’s Festival of Trees has marked the start of the holiday season in Orlando. The tradition returns to the Orlando Museum of Art, Nov. 14–22, with its 40th annual celebration themed “Forty Seasons of Joy” Guests will be surrounded by dazzling displays including more than 50 designer-decorated trees, festive wreaths, gingerbread creations, holiday vignettes, and tabletop displays. Visitors can shop in the Holiday Boutique, stroll Santa Claus Lane, enjoy live entertainment scheduled daily, and dine in the Festival Café. On weekends, Santa Claus will be on hand for photos and meet-and-greets from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. New events include creative holiday workshops.
November 19 - December 25, Select Dates
Join the Promenade at Sunset Walk for their Holiday Nights Celebration, featuring Santa Claus and his Mischievous Elves, towering toy soldiers, and the nightly lighting of the 40-foot animated Christmas tree at 6:30 pm. Don’t miss nightly “snow falls,” delicious s’more fire pits, and the Pearl Express train tours.
November 19
Festival After 5 returns! Celebrate the Festival's 40th year with an evening of holiday cheer, festive treats, shopping, and the magic of Festival of Trees after dark.
November 19
A heartfelt Thanksgiving celebration honoring seniors at Dr. James R. Smith Neighborhood Center, 1723 Bruton Boulevard, Orlando with a delicious meal, gratitude, fellowship, and recognition for the contributions they make to the community.
November 20
Celebrate the holiday season at Oranges & Ornaments: A Festival of Trees and Wreaths on November 20! Explore beautifully decorated, uniquely themed trees and wreaths while enjoying seasonal entertainment, a raffle, and more! All proceeds directly support the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation’s work to preserve and share the history, culture, and archives of West Orange County.
November 20
A festive family event for all ages! The event includes all access to the Festival of Trees plus an opportunity to visit Santa Claus Lane to meet and have a photo with Santa Claus. Entertainment includes story time with Mrs. Claus, holiday balloons, festive face painters, live holiday music sing-along, and reindeer stilt walkers. Dinner is available with a family-friendly menu in the Holiday Cafe.
November 20
Kick off the holiday season in the heart of Orlando at the annual I-Drive District Holiday Tree Lighting! Gather with family and friends at ICON Park for an evening filled with festive cheer, dazzling lights, and joyful sounds. Enjoy live performances that will get you into the holiday spirit, and don’t miss the chance to see our special guest help light up the towering tree in all its seasonal splendor. With the glow of the lights, the magic of music, and the warmth of community, this is a holiday tradition you won’t want to miss!
November 20
The Bahia Shriners FEZtival of Trees in Apokpa is a spectacular display of beautifully decorated holiday trees, each paired with gifts and treasures — and every tree will go home with a lucky winner! Guests can purchase raffle tickets for the chance to win their favorite tree, along with all of the gifts that come with it. It’s what makes the FEZtival such a fun and unique holiday experience. And while the trees take center stage, visitors can also enjoy Santa, baked goodies, and craft vendors offering unique gifts for holiday shopping.
November 21 - December 20, Select Dates
Santa's Christmas Tree Forest in Eustis is a working tree farm. Guests have the unique opportunity to cut a real Florida Christmas tree in the field. That's right! We provide the saw, we provide the live tree, and you get to do the cutting! Plus, the kids will love the giant culvert slide, barrel train rides, trike track, duck races and so much more in the Jolly Acres play area. Jack’s Barnyard petting zoo is the place to visit with lot's of farm animal friends, with hayrides and bounce pillows completing the fun!
November 21
Fort Christmas Historical Park's Barnyard Banter programs are fun and educational for all ages! On Saturday, November 21, from 1-2 p.m., the program is Historic Thanksgiving. Learn how Orange County pioneers celebrated Thanksgiving. This is a FREE program, open to the public.
November 21
The city comes alive when the Christmas lights are turned on in Elizabeth Evans Park, Sunset Park and Donnelley Park. Drone show, pictures with Santa, entertainment, food vendors, and fireworks. FREE event.
November 21
The holidays kick off in a big way on November 21, 2026 as Downtown Clermont transforms into a winter wonderland for Clermont Celebrates! Enjoy Snow, Santa, Local Vendors, Live Music, and a Kids Zone. Presented by AdventHealth, this beloved community tradition is the perfect night to make memories, shop local, and celebrate the season together in the heart of Downtown Clermont. Mark “Going,” invite the family, and get ready for some holiday magic!
November 21
It’s the most wonderful time of the year… it’s Jingle Eve! Get ready for the BEST party of the year for more than 20 years running. Jingle Eve is the annual kickoff of the Orlando holiday season. Spanning stretches of Orange Avenue and Virginia Drive, as well as Gaston Edwards Park, families and adults alike find no shortage of yuletide festivities. From beer gardens to music, local artisans, food trucks, a children’s holiday village, and special event promotions by Ivanhoe Village retailers, restaurants, and bars. The evening culminates with fireworks displayed high above the shores of Lake Ivanhoe. Jingle Eve is free and open to the public, with the exception of a premium “12 Wines of Christmas” walk.
November 25 - January 2
The open-air ice-skating rink returns to Grande Lakes Orlando. Set against the backdrop of the resort's expansive lawn, the rink will be accompanied by the debut of Rinkside Brasserie, an elevated dining experience featuring an à la carte menu of seasonal dishes. Guests can also enjoy the Fireside Lounge, a cozy winter retreat offering gourmet s'mores and additional selections from the Rinkside Brasserie menu.
November 26
Seniors First is celebrating 60 years of service with a 37-year Thanksgiving tradition. Join more than 5,000 runners, joggers and walkers at the beautiful Lake Eola bright and early Thanksgiving morning and burn some calories before you feast! Many dressed in full costumes or Thanksgiving themed hats, hit the course for a morning of fun in this annual “Race to End Senior Hunger”, which raises money for Meals on Wheels and other programs that support seniors in our community.
November 27 - January 3
Let your heart take flight this holiday season at Bok Tower Gardens, where the beauty of the season comes alive in every corner. Stroll through breathtaking displays of vibrant poinsettias, fragrant evergreens, and festive annuals, and marvel at a gorgeously decorated Christmas trees that sparkles with holiday cheer. Step back in time at El Retiro, a magnificent 20-room estate adorned for the season, and each afternoon, the enchanting sounds of The Singing Tower fill the air, adding a magical soundtrack to your visit.
November 27 - December 31
Orlando’s new holiday tradition is just around the corner.Visit downtown Orlando for the 2026 Frontyard Holiday Festival at Dr. Phillips Center supported by AdventHealth. The festival transforms Dr. Phillips Center’s three-acre Frontyard into a holiday destination with live performances, twinkling light displays, nightly snowfall, movie nights, holiday gift shopping, fire pits, family-friendly games, food and drinks, and more. Admission is free, with select activities, food and beverages available for purchase.
November 27 - December 24
Located at the Florida Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds, Christmas Lane features over 1.5 million twinkling lights, 200+ decorated trees, carnival rides, Santa & Mrs. Claus, live entertainment, and more.
November 27 - December 24
Sign your waiver, get your bow saw and begin the hunt for the perfect tree. You have a choice of a Sand Pine, Carolina Sapphire, Arizona Cypress or Red Cedar. In the barn they have very specialized Christmas ornaments for sale to commemorate your day to the farm as well as pictures with the big guy himself---Santa !!!!!
November 27 - 29
Spend Thanksgiving Weekend surrounded by art and light at The Morse Museum. While the Museum is closed Thanksgiving Day, they are open free to the public from Friday through Sunday in celebration of the holiday, with live music on Friday, Nov. 27 from 5 - 8 pm.
November 27
This year’s 39th Annual Light-Up Eustis will be held in Ferran Park on Friday, Nov. 27, 2026, from 5 - 9 pm. Enjoy food and craft vendors in the park, FREE pictures with Santa, and more!
November 27
Get cozy at the Ice Factory’s Holiday Pajama Party! Wear your favorite, comfiest pajamas and hit the ice while a live DJ plays holiday tunes to get everyone in the spirit! Enjoy an 8 oz cup of hot chocolate and a cookie, one of each included with every paid admission! Gather your family and friends for a night of cozy pajamas, holiday music, sweet treats, and ice-skating fun!
November 28
Join us for the enchanting Tree Lighting Ceremony 2026 in the heart of Celebration on November 28th! This beloved annual event is a magical experience to kick off the holiday season. Witness the beautiful transformation of the Celebration Town Center as we illuminate the night with thousands of twinkling lights and festive cheer. Enjoy live entertainment, delightful holiday treats, and a variety of activities for all ages.
November 28 - December 31
Join Celebration for the enchanting Now Snowing Nightly, a seasonal celebration for families and friends of all ages. Kicking off on November 28, 2026, this daily event transforms the Celebration Town Center into a winter wonderland, where you can immerse yourself in the festive spirit and create unforgettable memories. As you stroll through the beautifully decorated streets of Celebration, enjoy the falling snowflakes, listen to joyful holiday music, and enjoy a variety of fun activities. Children can meet Santa Claus, indulge in seasonal treats from local vendors, and participate in holiday crafts.
November 29
Join Wekiva Island as Santa and Mrs. Claus officially kick off the holiday season by lighting the HUGE 30-foot-tall Christmas tree at 7 pm. The snow flurries will be flying, Stilt walkers will be wandering and there will be plenty of holiday cheer. Explore Santa’s Workshop and leave your letter to Santa! Don’t forget to bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to Kids House. The holiday fun is waiting for you!
November 29 - December 25
Wekiva Island’s beloved Winter Wonderland returns this December, bringing even more holiday magic to the river. Wander through the enchanting Christmas Tree Forest, marvel at our iconic 30-foot Christmas tree, and enjoy magical nightly “snow” flurries. Visit Santa in his Workshop, meet your favorite holiday characters, shop local with our Holiday Market, and experience not one, but two immersive holiday cabanas. Returning after last year’s popular debut, the North Pole Nook is back—joined by the all-new Elf Lounge for even more festive fun.
December 3
Each year, the Morse Museum helps launch the holiday season in Winter Park when it lights up Tiffany Windows in Central Park and presents the Bach Festival Choir and Brass Ensemble in concert. This December is the 48th annual celebration of Christmas in the Park. The event was started by Hugh and Jeannette McKean, the Morse Museum’s benefactors, in 1979 as a way to share a part of their rare Tiffany collection with the public in an informal setting. Today, the Morse and the City of Winter Park co-sponsor the event.
December 3
A Little Drummer Boy Tree Lighting Experience at Center Lake Park in Oviedo, including a special show after the tree lighting! Join us for the "Little Drummer" themed Tree Lighting Experience at Center Lake Park in Oviedo. There will be live animals, FREE photos with Santa! Characters galore! Carolers! Food trucks, vendors and more! Stay tuned for a special surprise when the tree lights this year. The Tree Lighting is happening at 6:30pm. Live entertainment on the Amphitheater with Groove Slayers playing a menagerie of music for all ages to enjoy. Lots of vendor booth activities for families to enjoy including coloring pages, face painting and even caracatures brought to you by our Oviedo Police Community
December 3
Join the City of Winter Haven and Main Street Winter Haven as we kick off the holiday season together at our annual Tree Lighting in Central Park! Thursday, December 3, 2026. Entertainment begins at 6 pm - Tree Lighting at 7 pm. Enjoy festive live performances and the magic of the season with family and friends.
December 4 - 24, Select Dates
Throughout the Holiday season, Cotton Farm in Weirsdale transforms into Cottom Farm’s Christmas Village. Bring the whole family and enjoy a relaxed, walk-through Christmas experience featuring a beautifully decorated Christmas Village, a cozy hayride around the lake, visit Santa’s Southern Home, shop The Merry Market with local vendors, and visit the bounce houses and train rides for kids.
December 4 - 20, Select Dates
Holiday magic awaits the whole family at Central Florida’s favorite holiday event - Oh, What Fun! Holiday Festival at Lake Nona Town Center each December. Watch as Lake Nona Town Center transforms into a winter wonderland with a calendar full of celebrations and events including Storytime with Santa & Mrs. Claus, Holiday Movies, Holiday Market, Fa La La La Bar at Lake Nona Wave Hotel, Evergreen Tree Trail, and more.
December 4 - 19, Fridays and Saturdays
Every Friday and Saturday, join Lake Nona in "Lake Snow-na" as Lake Nona Town Center transforms into a winter wonderland. Enjoy snow-themed entertainment, live performances, and our signature nightly snowfall. It's a magical Florida moment the whole family will love.
December 4
Celebrate the first night of Oh, What Fun! as Lake Nona Town Center transforms into Peppermint Square for a magical Tree Lighting celebration, presented by AdventHealth.
Join us on December 4 at 6 pm as we light Lake Nona’s spectacular 24-foot Christmas tree, glowing with twinkle lights and holiday cheer. Enjoy live entertainment, festive treats, and merry moments around every corner as we officially welcome the holiday season.
December 4
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer invites Central Florida residents and visitors to kick-off the holiday season in downtown Orlando and help countdown to the lighting of the City of Orlando’s Christmas tree at Lake Eola Park’s Washington Plaza. The event will include holiday performances at the Lake Eola Amphitheater, food trucks and the return of the Merry Market. Enjoy snowfall in Florida, shop local from over 30 vendors and be sure to stop by for a visit with Santa!
December 4
Join the City of Lake Mary on Friday, December 4 at Central Park as they kick off the holiday season with an evening full of holiday cheer, family fun, and festive magic! Visit Santa & Mrs. Claus. Enjoy delicious food & local vendors. Kids Activity Zone. Skating Rink. Spectacular light shows. Bring the whole family, grab your friends, and come celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with the Lake Mary community!
December 4
Join us for a magical night at Light Up Sanford, the City’s Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 4 at 6:30 pm. Experience the enchantment of downtown as we illuminate the night while enjoying holiday entertainment, a visit from Ol’ Saint Nick, his helpers, and more!
December 4
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with the City of Longwood at Christmas in the Park: Tree Lighting & Concert! Gather your family and friends at Reiter Park as we kick off the Christmas season with the lighting of the City’s Christmas tree and an evening of festive entertainment. City of Longwood Christmas Tree Lighting. Live holiday music featuring your favorite songs of the season. Local food trucks with tasty bites available for purchase. Holiday cheer for the whole family. Come enjoy the music, grab a bite to eat and celebrate the start of the holiday season with your Longwood community! Admission is free.
December 4
Join us downtown for Clermont’s annual tree lighting at City Hall Park and throughout Downtown Clermont! Step back in time and celebrate the holiday season with an 1980s-inspired “Christmas Rewind” theme! Enjoy a festive evening filled with live music, food trucks, local vendors, carolers, and plenty of photo opportunities. Be sure to stop by The Clermont Historic Village for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, provided by the Kiwanis Club of South Lake. Put on your best ’80s holiday style and get ready to rewind the clock, spread some Christmas cheer, and light up Clermont! We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
December 4
This December, Old Town is inviting you to help bring joy to kids of all ages right here in Osceola County. Bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate during our Friday and Saturday Night Car Shows and Cruise, and help us make sure every child in our community has something to unwrap this holiday season. Santa and his Christmas helpers will be in attendance, ready to greet you, collect your donations, and spread a little extra holiday cheer. Every toy and dollar collected goes directly to the Osceola Council on Aging, so your generosity stays close to home and makes a real difference for local families.
December 4
Held in Central Park, Winter Park along Park Avenue, Winter On The Avenue is a kickoff to the holiday season. Come out for our annual tree-lighting ceremony, Chanukah menorah lighting ceremony, strolling carolers, s'mores, snow slides, the announcement of holiday art contest winners, children's choirs, Popcorn Flicks in the park, and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus.
December 4
Join the fun at the Eustis First Friday Street Party from 6 - 9 pm. The family-friendly monthly street parties host a wide variety of food, vendors and live music in Historic Downtown Eustis, and this December enjoy festive fun for all the family.
December 4
Join the City of Lake Mary on Friday, December 4th at Central Park as they kick off the holiday season with an evening full of holiday cheer, family fun, and festive magic! Visit Santa & Mrs. Claus. Enjoy delicious food & local vendors, kids activity zone. skating rink, spectacular light shows, and more. Bring the whole family, grab your friends, and come celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with the Lake Mary community!
December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20
Nestled in the rolling hills of Clermont, Southern Hill Farms is the perfect place to experience the magic of the holiday season. Enjoy festive fun for the whole family, including snow showers, holiday movies, seasonal treats, Christmas shopping in the Southern Hill Farms Merry Market and so much more! Make cherished memories with friends and family while enjoying holiday fun on the farm. Set against the scenic backdrop of our hilltop location, you’ll find twinkling lights, cozy fire pits, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The Southern Hill Farms Food Trucks and Bakery will offer delicious meals and seasonal treats, while the Southern Hill Farms Market features handcrafted candles, sugar scrubs, local raw honey, jams and unique holiday gifts.
December 5 - 6
The first weekend every December is the Celebration Holiday Home Tour and Magical Marketplace with Sparkle Soirée. Enjoy exclusive access inside seasonally decorated homes throughout Celebration and welcome the holiday season.
December 5 - 6
This free event includes a chance to write a letter to Santa, drop it in the mailbox and take a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus! Shop craft vendor booths for handmade items. There will be pioneer demonstrators: weaving, Civil War camp, cane grinding and syrup making, spinning, blacksmithing, broom making, lace making, early cow camp, wood carving, early tractors and more!
December 5
It’s time for joy and celebration! Come and enjoy the holiday festivities at Winter Wonderland this season. Experience an evening with one of the longest-running traditions in our city: the 44th annual Holiday Parade featuring local talent and businesses, and the annual Christmas tree lighting. Enjoy local entertainment and a visit from Santa Claus!
December 5
Maitland's annual Season of Light holiday celebration will be from 5 to 8:30 pm, Saturday, Dec. 5, at Lake Lily Park at the corner of Maitland Avenue and Orlando Avenue. Bring the family for fireworks, holiday lights, Santa, a big snow slide, carnival games, kids crafts, food, vendors, festive music and more. Admission is free.
December 5
Start off your holiday festivities with us at Avalon Park’s annual Avalon Aglow event on December 5th! Starting at 3 pm, enjoy the food and festivities while also catching live performances and a parade around Downtown Avalon. Make sure to stay for the fireworks later on to end your night. Every year, Avalon Aglow brings the whole community together to celebrate the upcoming holidays. This event is free for everyone to enjoy. Watch as Avalon Park transforms into a winter wonderland with train rides and even an appearance by Santa Claus. After enjoying the festivities, make sure to grab a bite to eat from one of the many vendors and watch the holiday parade or even one of the local live performances. Finish off the night at Avalon Lake to enjoy Orlando’s premier fireworks show!
December 5
The City of Casselberry will host the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, December 5, 2026 from 5 pm to 8 pm at Lake Concord Park. It will be a festive night of great singing, entertainment and holiday surprises. Highlights will include a special visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus, the traditional count down lighting of the holiday tree, holiday vendors and several performing groups from various local schools.
December 5
Kick off the most wonderful time of the year at Deck the Mall, Oviedo Mall's annual holiday celebration happening Saturday, December 5. We're ringing in the season with a full day of festive fun for the entire family. Explore a holiday marketplace filled with local vendors, artists, makers, unique gifts, sweet treats, and plenty of surprises while checking names off your shopping list at your favorite Oviedo Mall stores. And because this is Deck the Mall, we're doing a little more than hanging some garland and calling it festive. Expect holiday entertainment, family-friendly activities, seasonal shopping specials, festive photo opportunities, and more surprises throughout the day as the mall transforms into a celebration of everything we love about the season.
December 5
It’s time for joy and celebration! Come and enjoy the holiday festivities at Winter Wonderland this season in Central Winds Park. Experience an evening with one of the longest-running traditions in Winter Springs, the 44th Annual Holiday Parade featuring local talent and businesses, and the annual Christmas tree lighting. Enjoy local entertainment and a visit from Santa Claus!
December 5
Get ready to dash through the sunshine for the Oh, What Fun! Run 5k at Lake Nona Town Center on December 5 at 7:30 am! Lace up your running shoes, dress in your best holiday and celebrate the season with a fun-filled run.
December 5
Shake up story time with sensory play at Orlando Family Stage! Children 0-24 months engage in dramatic play, music, and storytelling that fosters early developmental milestones. Each class has a unique theme that stimulates imagination, movement, and social skills. Two adults per child maximum.
December 5
Trade flip-flops for flippers as playful penguins waddle their way into the Florida sunshine! This fun and engaging class is designed for guardians and their toddlers to embark on a journey of creative play through Loch Haven Park with Orlando Family Stage.
December 5
The City of Altamonte Springs and Duke Energy proudly continue the tradition of illuminating Cranes Roost Park with an evening of live music, entertainment, fireworks, train rides and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Experience the magic as the park comes to life with dazzling holiday displays, featuring thousands of sparkling lights and a magnificent 60-foot tree adorned with ornaments and garland.
December 5
Santa is coming to Curry Ford West! Bring the kids, the family, and even your four-legged friends to Hourglass Brewing for an afternoon of holiday memories and professional photos with Santa!
December 5
Kick off the holiday season at the DeBary Christmas Tree Lighting Event! There is fun for all ages, including live music, games, crafts, free mini-train rides, and photos with Santa! Plus, the Chili Cook-Off! For just $2, you can taste all the entries from local chefs! Cash and cards are both accepted with proceeds going to the DeBary Volunteer Firemen's Association.
End the night with a beautiful Laser Light Show and tree lighting celebration!
December 5
The Gingerbread Run is returning this winter to Give Kids The World Village in Kissimmee, and for the third year in a row, the run takes place at night - under the holiday lights! You'll have the chance to run, roll or stroll a 5K through the whimsical storybook village illuminated by the famous holiday lights! Can't make it in person?
December 5
Spend a free, festive day at the museum at the annual Holiday Community Day, Enjoy “A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition,” the Community Tree Display and other special exhibitions, along with festive crafts in the Artspace. Plus, enjoy face painting, and holiday photos with one complimentary printed photo, plus a digital image sent by text. Museum admission and all activities are free.
December 5
Step into the magic of the holidays and experience one of Sanford’s most beloved traditions! The Holiday Tour of Homes invites you to celebrate the charm, beauty, and spirit of the season with a self-guided driving tour through some of the city’s most enchanting neighborhoods — Mayfair, Sanford Heights, and the Historic District. Plus, meet local artisans and community members at the Holiday Market located in Magnolia Square.
December 6, 13, 20
Make Sunday your favorite night of the week at Sunday Family Fun Days during Oh, What Fun!, presented by AdventHealth. Bring the whole crew to Peppermint Square for family-friendly activities, festive entertainment, and holiday magic. Settle in on the lawn for heartwarming performances by local school choirs, dance teams, and youth music ensembles. Enjoy snowfall on the hour, festive photo opportunities, a rotating holiday market, seasonal treats and sips, special merchandise, and Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Santa’s Cottage.
December 6
Celebrate Hanukkah with us as we bless and light the menorah in a special ceremony to commemorate the Festival of Lights. Enjoy live entertainment including a DJ, stilt walker, children's performers, face painters, traditional foods, and hands-on activities for the whole family.
December 6
Krampus returns to The Milk District for KrampusFest at The Plaza Live! One of the region’s largest Krampus-themed celebrations, this one-day-only festival brings thousands of holiday misfits together for a wonderfully weird way to kick off the season.
December 6
Kick off the holiday season with one of Leesburg's most cherished Christmas traditions! Join us on Sunday, December 6 at Ski Beach Park for an unforgettable evening filled with holiday magic, family fun, and dazzling lights Before the big moment, enjoy delicious food from local vendors, let the kids burn off some energy in the bounce houses, and watch their faces light up with festive face painting. Be sure to bring your camera for a special meet and greet with Santa Claus, who will help lead the crowd in the exciting countdown to flip the switch and illuminate Ski Beach Park with thousands of sparkling Christmas lights!
December 11
Celebrate the holidays with the City of Longwood at the annual Celebrate the Season event! Join the holiday fun at Reiter Park for a festive evening filled with holiday fun for the whole family. Enjoy photo opportunities with Santa, music by DJ Dennis, live performances, kids activities, and more. NEW FOR 2026: Stay through the end of the evening for a spectacular holiday-themed fireworks show to close out Celebrate the Season!
December 11
Join us at Engelwood Neighborhood Center, 6123 La Costa Drive, Orlando For Santa's Workshop, a complimentary holiday event that encompasses our entire building and gets everyone into the season's spirit.
December 12 - 13
The 46th annual Holiday Tour of Homes, now sponsored by the GFWC Mount Dora Woman’s Club will feature six area homes, each offering their own unique style and special decorations. All proceeds from the 2026 tour will be donated to LovExtension, a local volunteer-run 501(c)(3) non-profit organization providing nutritional, emotional, and social support to homebound elderly and disabled individuals.
December 12
All aboard for a magical holiday adventure! The Polar Express Train Ride brings the wonder of the season to life with festive charm, holiday excitement, and memorable moments along the way. Step into the spirit of the season and experience the joy of this beloved holiday tradition. Outside in The Plaza, near Primark.
December 12
Get ready to experience a day filled with holiday magic in Historic Downtown Leesburg on Saturday, December 12! The festivities begin in Towne Square with an afternoon of family fun, festive entertainment, and holiday cheer. Enjoy live music from The 789's. Glide across the ice skating rink, race down the snow slide, browse unique handcrafted merchandise vendors, savor delicious food from local favorites, and be sure to visit with Santa Claus himself. As the sun sets and the excitement builds, Main Street will transform into a winter wonderland for the 59th Annual Christmas Parade.
December 12
Come celebrate Christmas with the critters at Christmas in the Cloud hosted at Amazing Animals INC's wildlife preserve! Experience the magic of the season with our wonderful critters at Christmas in the Cloud. Enjoy meeting Santa Claus and Mrs Claus, a petting zoo, family-friendly activities, food trucks, vendors and opportunities to meet and learn about the anaimal ambassadors.
December 12
Bring the family to Cracker Country in Tampa for a great day experiencing the sights, sounds, and smells of an old-fashioned country Christmas. Learn how the holiday traditions of the 19th century differ from those of the 21st through hands-on historical interpretations, carols, traditional decorations, and more! Visitors will also have the opportunity to step into the daily rhythms of 19th‑century life and discover how closely holiday preparations were tied to the land and the seasons. Long before modern conveniences, families spent weeks preparing for Christmas by preserving foods, sewing garments, and crafting decorations by hand.
December 13
Join us Sunday, December 13 from 1 - 6 pm in Historic Downtown Sanford for a festive Jingle Jam Edition of the Sanford Food Truck Fiesta! We’re wrapping up the year with 40+ food trucks, craft beer, local vendors, live music, outdoor bars and plenty of holiday cheer. Come hungry, grab a drink and spend the afternoon eating your way through downtown with friends, family and your four-legged crew. Expect all the Food Truck Fiesta favorites with a little extra Christmas spirit mixed in.
December 15, 22, 29
The City of Winter Garden presents Holiday Flix at the Garden. These holiday classic movies appeal to all ages and conjure past holiday memories -- and help to create new ones. See these festive flix in the timeless ambiance of the Garden Theatre on Plant while visiting the Holiday Wonderland in historic downtown Winter Garden.
December 17
A festive holiday celebration at Dr. James R. Smith Neighborhood Center, 1723 Bruton Boulevard, Orlando featuring seasonal entertainment, music, refreshments, and joyful activities that bring seniors together to celebrate the spirit of the season.
December 19 - 20
Holiday Matsuri is the festively themed Anime, Gaming, and Cosplay convention with holiday cheer in Orlando, Every December thousands of attendees come together at the Orange County Convention Center during the holidays to celebrate their favorite fandoms, all with a holiday twist. Check out our seasonal spin on convention favorites including cosplay contests, interactive workshops & panels, holiday shopping, gaming tournaments, dances and much more.
December 19
Enjoy a festive run or walk through the enchanting pathways of SeaWorld Orlando. Embrace the holiday spirit with the jingling sounds of bells along the route and celebrate your finish in our Winter Wonderland, complete with delightful holiday treats for everyone! Now celebrating 29 years of holiday cheer and unforgettable memories. Together with WFTV - 9 Family Connection, Track Shack supports the AdventHealth for Children’s pediatric cancer program and Toys for Tots.
December 19
Mens Closet, in partnership with its non-profit organization MC Community Care, Mandell Law and HOS are excited to give away Christmas toys to families in our community. We're thrilled to spread holiday cheer and host a festive community event! This event is open and free to the public. We will have toys for children, face painting, balloon animals, a gaming truck, workshops, free food, music and multiple vendors on site. Join us this holiday season to give back to the community.
December 19
Fort Christmas Historical Park's Barnyard Banter programs are fun and educational for all ages! On Saturday, December 19, from 1-2 p.m., the program is the Christmas Post Office. Learn about the importance of the historic Christmas Post Office, which was relocated to the park and renovated, and the job of being postmaster, especially at Christmas time. This is a FREE program, open to the public.
December 24
Spend Christmas Eve surrounded by art and light at The Morse Museum. The museum offers free admission and live holiday music, inviting guests to reflect and celebrate the beauty of the season. The museum is open 9.30 am - 4 pm, with live music from 1 - 4 pm.
December 24
Grab your boards and Santa hats, the biggest party on the east coast takes place on Christmas Eve morning, as hundreds of Surfing Santas and thousands of spectators come together on Cocoa Beach for a morning of family fun on the beach! Surfing Santas is an annual Cocoa Beach tradition that brings hundreds of surfers dressed up as Santa, and whether you surf or you’re looking to join in the holiday spirit, there’s no other beach having this much fun on Christmas Eve! Hundreds of surfers and thousands of spectators dressed in holiday-themed outfits are expected to participate this year, with live music, Hawaiian dance demonstrations, and the ever popular costume content.
Christmas Parades
Holiday parades bring festive floats to local neighborhoods, sparkling boats to inland lakes, and neighborhood golf cart processions to communities across Central Florida. Every November and December, locals break out the folding chairs, pack thermoses of hot cocoa, and line the curbs and waters edge for a beloved local tradition: the neighborhood Christmas Parade.
These homegrown celebrations offer a charmingly authentic slice of Central Florida life. At small-town parades, the festive soundtrack is provided by local high school marching bands, vintage fire trucks, and tumbling dance troupes, all leading up to the most anticipated guest of the night: Santa Claus riding high atop a decorated ladder truck.
December 3
The Junior League of Greater Lakeland and the City of Lakeland are proud to host the 45th annual Lakeland Christmas Parade! The parade will take place in Downtown Lakeland Thursday, December 3, 2026. A fireworks display over Lake Mirror will kick off the festivities at 7 pm, immediately followed by the parade kicking off from the RP Funding Center. The 1.25-mile route leaves the RP Funding Center, making its way down Lemon Street, twisting and turning through Downtown Lakeland.
December 5
The Winter Park Chamber of Commerce is proud to host the 74th annual Winter Park “Ye Olde Hometown” Christmas Parade. The event has been held each December for more than 65 years, making it the oldest continuous holiday parade in Central Florida. Each year the parade travels down Park Avenue, starting at Cole Avenue and proceeding south, turning at New England Avenue and ending at Pennsylvania Avenue. More than 80 organizations participate including marching bands, local police and fire departments, scouting groups, local dignitaries and, of course, Santa Claus.
December 5
An old-fashioned Christmas Parade through the streets of downtown Mount Dora where you'll enjoy floats, bands, dancers, candy and Santa. FREE event.
December 5
Come out and enjoy the 34th Annual Lighted Boat Christmas Parade on Lake Dora. The parade begins at the lighthouse on Grantham Pointe (Tremain St & Liberty Ave) and can be seen in various locations on the lake. Local boat owners compete for best in light show display and originality.
December 5
Celebrate the holiday season with Winter Springs at this year’s 44th Annual Holiday Parade, featuring local talent, businesses, and Santa Claus. Plus, don't miss the Tree Lighting, and Walkthrough Light Display, Gather with family, friends, and neighbors for live entertainment, festive cheer, and more.
December 5
Get ready to turn up the holiday spirit with our “Christmas Rewind: Holiday Mixtape” theme, a festive throwback to the 1980s! Join us at 10 am for our annual holiday parade, departing from Waterfront Park and making its way through Historic Downtown. Enjoy a totally rad celebration featuring festive floats, marching bands, and many local groups bringing the sights and sounds of the ’80s to life! Everyone is invited to join the fun,whether you’re cheering from the sidelines or becoming part of the parade. So, grab your leg warmers, tease that hair, and get ready to rewind the holidays!
December 5
Bring a lawn chair or blanket and head to your favorite spot for this annual holiday event. A long-standing Winter Garden holiday tradition will delight spectators and bring in holiday cheer! Do not forget to look for the Big Guy himself at the end of the parade! The Winter Garden Christmas Parade kicks off at 10:00 am on Dillard Street at the Palmetto Street intersection (by Wells Fargo) proceeds north on Dillard Street, then heads west/left on Plant Street through historic downtown and concludes at Park Avenue.
December 5
Join the 14th Annual Winter Garden Christmas Golf Cart Parade for an amazing sight of festive, elaborately decorated golf carts making their way through historic downtown to spread holiday cheer. Following the Parade, the golf cart entries will park throughout downtown for spectators to get a closer look at the holiday-themed masterpieces.
December 5
Celebrate the holiday season with one of Longwood’s favorite traditions — the Longwood Christmas Parade! Held annually on the first Saturday in December, the parade brings holiday cheer to Ronald Reagan Boulevard with stunning cars, festive floats, seasonal characters, marching bands, community groups, food, and much more!
December 5
On the first Saturday of every December, the sights and sounds of Christmas take over Downtown Tavares. It all begins at 5 pm with the Christmas parade, followed by plenty of fun, activities, and holiday cheer to put you in the Christmas spirit. Enjoy live entertainment, "ice" skating, photo op spots, snowstorms, a giant Christmas tree, a movie in the park, food vendors, and much more. Don't forget the highlight of the evening: visits from Santa!
December 5
The Winter Parade is back at the City of Oviedo! This year;s unforgettable Winter Parade will be having a brand new Pre-Parade Celebration at the Oviedo Amphitheatre. Come enjoy a performance by School of Rock Oviedo and browse local vendors from 4 - 6.30 pm. Parade route starts at the Gym & Aquatic Center at approximately 7pm and flows through Oviedo Boulevard ending at the corner of Center Lake Lane, Boardwalkd and Windy Pine!
December 5
Join us before our weekly Car Cruise as residents from Sherwood Forest RV Resort roll out their personal golf carts, each one decked out with lights and decorations for the season!
Golf carts will begin arriving at 6:30 pm and will parade down Main Street before our Car Cruise kicks off at 8:30 pm. Come catch the lights, festive decor, and holiday spirit as they roll through Old Town!
December 6
The beloved Leesburg Christmas Boat Parade - Leesburg's Christmas on the Water returns to beautiful Lake Harris on December 6, hosted by the Leesburg Boating Club. Find the perfect spot along the shoreline and enjoy a spectacular parade of beautifully decorated boats as they glide across the water.
December 5, 12, 19
Christmas on East Lake Toho is about to get a whole lot brighter! All aboard the beautifully decorated Lillie for three magical Saturday nights as Lillie leads the Community Christmas Boat Parade around East Lake Toho on Saturday, Dec. 5, 12, and 19. Welcome drink included, appetizers, grazing table with meats, cheeses, fresh fruit, pastries and sweet bites. As decorated boats join the Lillie and light up the lake, passengers will help choose the Top 3 decorated boats of the night!
December 12
Join the City of Sanford on Saturday, December 12th at 6 pm for the spectacular “Holiday Parade of Lights” in Downtown Sanford! Witness illuminated floats, dazzling vehicles, thrilling dance groups and marching bands by local schools, businesses and community organizations showcasing their holiday spirit along the one-mile route. Don’t miss out on this captivating celebration!
December 12
Light up your holiday season at Festival of Lights in downtown Kissimmee! Enjoy an unforgettable evening filled with holiday spirit, family fun, and community joy. This magical event brings together residents, businesses, and groups from across the city to illuminate the streets with spectacular floats and festive displays. Watch in wonder as illuminated floats, joyful characters, and holiday spirit light up the streets in a celebration you won’t want to miss.
December 12
Get ready to experience a day filled with holiday magic in Historic Downtown Leesburg on Saturday, December 12! The festivities begin in Towne Square with an afternoon of family fun, festive entertainment, and holiday cheer. As the sun sets and the excitement builds, Main Street will transform into a winter wonderland for the 59th Annual Christmas Parade. This year's theme, "LET IT SNOW," invites participants and spectators alike to celebrate the season with dazzling displays inspired by snowfall, winter magic, and the joy of Christmas.
December 12
The Winter Park Holiday Boat Parade will take place on Saturday, December 12, 2026, at Dinky Dock Park.
December 13
The annual City of DeBary Christmas Parade returns on December 13, with the parade taking place along Highway 17/92, starting at Spring Vista Drive at 3pm and concluding at Poinsetta Drive.
Christmas Lights and Holiday Displays
When the sun sets over Central Florida’s palms and pines, locals trade its year-round sunshine for an entirely different kind of glow. Long before the holiday season officially peaks, neighborhoods, botanical gardens, historic estates, and roadside landmarks across the region transform into sparkling winter wonderlands.
Far beyond the choreographed pyrotechnics of the theme pakrs, Central Florida’s holiday lights tell a diverse, homegrown story. Here, you can wander through multi-acre botanical gardens wrapped in millions of synchronized LED vines, marvel at historic mansion lawns blanketed in vintage displays, or stroll through residential neighborhoods where homeowners turn entire cul-de-sacs into glowing, synchronized block parties.
For our complete guide to all the best Christmas lights and holiday displays in Orlando and the surrounding area this year, check back soon.
November 13 - January 17
This holiday season, Orlando’s most dazzling tradition will once again illuminate the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. The magical displays of Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild will return on select nights from November 13, 2026, to January 17, 2027. The festival features larger-than-life handcrafted lanterns illuminated by more than 10,000 LED lights. This year’s displays will take guests on a journey through space, North American Animals, the Polar experience and traditional Chinese lanterns, blending color, light and sound to create a celebration of art, culture, nature and imagination.
November 13 - January 6
Discover an incredible collection of decorated trees throughout Disney Springs. Pick up a complimentary map to help you find 19 trees shimmering with a festive glow. Each map includes stickers for you to match the corresponding icon of each tree. Once your map is complete, bring it to one of the redemption locations for a special surprise!
November 14 - 22
For nearly four decades, the Council of 101’s Festival of Trees has marked the start of the holiday season in Orlando. The tradition returns to the Orlando Museum of Art, Nov. 14–22, with its 40th annual celebration themed “Forty Seasons of Joy” Guests will be surrounded by dazzling displays including more than 50 designer-decorated trees, festive wreaths, gingerbread creations, holiday vignettes, and tabletop displays.
November 20 - January 3
Created by Creative City Project, Orlando’s Harry P. Leu Gardens will once again transform into a stunning, winter wonderland during “Dazzling Nights” – a holiday adventure that gives guests of every age the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable, mile-long, interactive holiday experience! More than a light show, Dazzling Nights features world-class live music, immersive worlds, interactive experiences, unique play areas and fantastic food and beverage. Dazzling Nights continues to wow, and 2026 brings more holiday magic to Harry P. Leu Gardens with new immersive environments, large-scale light installations and more live entertainment throughout the journey, including a brand-new, high-energy dance show.
November 20 - January 3
Step into a holiday wonderland at the Gardens during the day, where thousands of poinsettias and seasonal blooms transform the landscape into a dazzling celebration of color, beauty, and cheer. Wander through 50 acres of enchanting vignettes and container gardens, discovering handcrafted horticultural displays and delightful surprises around every corner. Every turn offers something new to see, creating a festive experience that delights the senses and captures the magic of the season.
November 20 - December 27
After a 2 year absence, the world’s largest Christmas Light Maze returns this November to light up Tropicana Field in St Petersburg, with an all‑new story and light maze adventure. The impressive 10-acre light maze is themed this year to 'Night of the Nutcrackers', Full of surprises and fully immersive, the nutcrackers – who are ostensibly the guardians of magic – have gone missing, and maze explorers are challenged to find all eight of them and help restore the holiday magic. In addition to the light maze, magic awaits with a massive Christmas Tree, ice skating, a snow slide, ferris wheel, live entertainment, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a holiday market for seasonal shopping, plus amazing food and drink.
November 20 - January 2
Magic of Lights returns to Daytona International Speedway for a festive drive-through experience filled with more than one million lights and dazzling holiday displays. Enjoy new attractions and returning favorites from the comfort of your vehicle.
November 21 - January 3
Step Into the Enchanted Forest of Trees featuring 100 trees, thousands of twinkling lights, and endless holiday magic. Each holiday season, Victory Pointe transforms into Clermont’s Enchanted Forest of Trees, a spectacular display filled with beautifully decorated trees created by local businesses, organizations and community groups
November 21 - January 18
The 33rd Annual Nights of Lights dazzles with more than three million lights adorning every corner of the historic district for two months. This award-winning holiday lights display runs from Saturday, November 21, 2026, to January 18, 2027, in historic downtown St. Augustine. During the seasonal display, businesses downtown stay open later, letting you dine with a view of the lights and browse the shops in the decorated buildings.
November 23 - December 27, Select Dates
Gather at Largo Central Park for a holiday stroll through beautiful holiday light displays! Enjoy a variety of crafts and activities throughout the month for all ages, including a ferris wheel and carousel, a campfire and food. This family-friendly annual tradition presented by the City of Largo is one of the most spectacular displays of holiday lights in Pinellas County. Come and take a stroll through over two million LED lights throughout the park! Park admission is free. Rides are $6 each.
November 26 - December 27
Every holiday season the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds transforms into Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village, bringing holiday magic, dazzling lights, and festive fun for all the family. Highlight of the event is a nearly two-mile drive-thru of continuous light features followed by a festive walking visit to Santa’s Village, filled with activities and treats that tempt the young and young-at-heart, such as Santa’s barnyard, holiday movies, visits with Santa, carnival rides and more.
November 27 - January 1
Discover the magic of the season as you wander beneath the Cathedral of Lights, ride the Holiday Carousel, explore charming boutiques, savor award-winning dining, and experience the festive displays that transform Park Avenue into a destination filled with holiday wonder and timeless traditions. Holidays on Park is a cherished holiday tradition that brings residents home, welcomes visitors from across the region, and creates unforgettable experiences that inspire families to return year after year.
November 27 - January 2
This holiday season, stop by the Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo for the annual Holiday Lights in the Gardens! Stroll through a winter wonderland with music, entertainment, shopping, concessions and expansive gardens twinkling with more than 1 million colorful holiday lights, plus laser projections at the 100-acre Florida Botanical Gardens.
December 1 - January 3
The Main Street Holiday Stroll is an immersive holiday experience that will put the jolly in everyone's step. Stroll through the outdoor, picturesque, season-long display open every day. Located on South Main Street between West Plant Street and West Joiner Street, the Main Street Holiday Stroll area is closed to vehicular traffic allowing for a comfortable pedestrian-only experience to enjoy the sights, as well as to shop and dine. Features include:
Collection of Festive Christmas Trees, Seasonal Decorations, Decorated Store Fronts, Holiday Photo Vignette Stations, and more.
December 1 - 31
With almost 10,000 LED lights and over 2,100 individual lighting channels, The DeLand Christmas Light Show is an event you won't want to miss! Watch from your car and listen over the radio on station (107.1) You can bring a blanket, chairs, and a picnic dinner and enjoy the show in a dedicated area up close.
December 3 - 27, Select Dates
Visit the 6th Annual Holiday Light Show at International Market World in Auburndale. The Wonderland Of Lights features hundreds of displays to delight the entire family! Drive through a breathtaking world of twinkling lights, dazzling displays, and pure holiday magic from the comfort of your car.
December 4 - 27, Select Dates
This annual animated holiday light extravaganza has become a must-see tradition to so many households. The front façade of Winter Garden City Hall becomes the canvas for a spectacular holiday-animated spectacular synchronized to holiday music. The free, outdoor light show will be held for 11 nights this year, so mark your calendars!
December 4 - 18, Friday Nights
There’s something magical about Christmas lights reflecting across the water. This December, come aboard the beautifully decorated Lillie for a special Friday-night Christmas cruise on East Lake Toho in St. Cloud. As the sun sets, the Lillie comes alive with Christmas lights! Sit back, relax and enjoy two hours on the water surrounded by twinkling lights, Christmas music and the peaceful beauty of East Lake Toho at night.
December 5 – January 1
The City of Altamonte Springs once again celebrate the tradition of lighting up Cranes Roost Park throughout the Holidays, with live music, entertainment, fireworks, train rides, visits from Santa and more. Plus, each night watch as the park comes alive with spectacular holiday displays featuring 200,000 lights and a 60-foot tree decorated with thousands of ornaments and garland.
December 6 - 20
Bring the family to enjoy a festive and free stroll through Gateway Park, beautifully illuminated with thousands of Christmas lights, motion displays, and holiday decorations! Free hot cocoa and candy canes will be provided to all guests Friday- Sunday.
Where to Meet Santa Claus
From the snow-dusted wonderlands of Central Florida's theme parks and attractions to local malls, rustic farms, and festive town squares, Orlando and its surrounding neighborhoods offer countless ways for believers of all ages to share their wish lists with Santa Claus.
What makes meeting Santa in Central Florida so special is the sheer variety of settings. Where else can you whisper your Christmas wishes to a tropical-attire Santa rocking a Hawaiian aloha shirt, catch him arriving by seaplane on a shimmering chain of lakes, or visit him inside an elaborate, life-sized gingerbread house crafted entirely from sugar and spice?
Listed here is a selection of the best places to meet Santa Claus this Christmas, our complete guide is coming soon.
November 6
Jingle all the way to The Mall at Millenia as we welcome Santa for the season.
The festivities begin with a DJ dance party and a visit from our whimsical Hollyville friends. Then gather close as Santa lands on the Neiman Marcus rooftop for our signature tree lighting, before settling in for holiday photos through Christmas Eve.
November 6 - December 24
Santa is in residence November 6 through December 24. Reserve a private photo experience and create a keepsake your family will treasure.
November 13 - December 24
Visit with Santa and share a jolly moment together at his marketplace near Disney’s Pin Traders. And, visit Once Upon a Toy for letters to Santa, where you can send a letter directly to the North Pole.
November 13 - December 24
The entire family can enjoy The Santa Workshop Experience at I-Drive's entertainment destination ICON Park, which has been magically transformed into a winter wonderland, where families can partake in the annual tradition of taking holiday pictures together and the kiddos can meet the main man in person, Santa Claus!
November 13 - December 24
The ultimate holiday tradition awaits at The Florida Mall in Orlando. And Santa is making a list and checking it twice – so reserve your photos with Santa today! Santa arrives on Friday, November 13th and will beat the mall through December 24th. Book early to ensure your spot to see Santa.
November 14
A morning of making memories with Santa Claus. Enjoy a hot breakfast, face-painters, crafts, balloon artists, and lots of celebration for the entire family and of course a photo op with Santa Clause. Your ticket includes early access to the Festival of Trees after the event.
November 15
A morning of making memories with Santa Claus. Enjoy a hot breakfast, face-painters, crafts, balloon artists, and lots of celebration for the entire family and of course a photo op with Santa Clause. Your ticket includes early access to the Festival of Trees after the event.
November 20
The event includes all access to the Festival of Trees plus an opportunity to visit Santa Claus Lane to meet and have a photo with Santa Claus. Entertainment includes story time with Mrs. Claus, holiday balloons, festive face painters, live holiday music sing-along, and reindeer stilt walkers. Dinner is available with a family-friendly menu in the Holiday Cafe.
November 21, December 1, 8, and 15
The sweetest holiday tradition is back! Step into the magic of the season with Dinner with Santa Claus! Join The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers at Disney's BoardWalk for an enchanting evening where holiday dreams come to life, featuring a decadent three-course dinner, special one-on-one moments with Santa, and a take-home gift to treasure long after the evening end.
November 21
A morning of making memories with Santa Claus. Enjoy a hot breakfast, face-painters, crafts, balloon artists, and lots of celebration for the entire family and of course a photo op with Santa Clause. Your ticket includes early access to the Festival of Trees after the event.
November 27 - December 24, Select Dates
The magic of the holidays is at the Oviedo Mall, and Santa Claus is closer than you think. Bring your family for professional photos with Santa. Make a reservation now! Enjoy a one-hour semi-private experience with Santa, complete with songs, stories and professional photo packages.
November 27
Skip the Black Friday crowds and set sail for holiday magic! Leave the busy shopping behind and celebrate the season with a festive lunch cruise aboard the beautiful Barbara Lee. Cruise the sparkling waters of Lake Monroe and the scenic St. Johns River while creating unforgettable Christmas memories with family and friends.
November 28
Orlando Mom is excited to announce our 4th annual Cookies with Santa event presented by Nemours Children’s Health! Enjoy a fun, family filled holiday event on Sunday November 28 from 10 am to 12 p, at the Orlando Family Stage in beautiful downtown Orlando!
November 29 - December 20, Select Dates
Explore Santa’s Workshop at Wekiva Island! Take your Holiday photos in front of the Glistening Present Wall, check out the sweet treats in Mrs. Claus’ Bakery, write a letter to Santa in his office, giggle and dance with the busy Elves-then share your Christmas wishes with Santa & Mrs. Claus!
December 4 - 20, Friday - Sunday
Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Santa's Cottage located in Lake Nona Town Center for story time and a sing-along experience, then meet and greet St. Nick and his sweetheart and take the perfect holiday photo with them.
December 4, 11, 21
City of Ocoee Parks and Leisure Services will host Cookies and Cocoa with Santa on December 4th, December 11th, & December 21st. This event will be held at the Withers Maguire House. Enjoy a visit with Santa, cookies, hot cocoa, pictures and more.
December 6
Don’t miss the second annual Signing Santa: A Deaf-Friendly Holiday Event, featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus in a welcoming ASL experience for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Each guest will receive one complimentary printed photo along with a digital image sent by text. Families are invited to stop by, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and enjoy a festive holiday experience at the museum. This event is free, and no reservation is required.
December 6
Caring Santa is a special, sensory-friendly experience - exclusively for children with special needs and their families on Sunday, December 6. Santa is located in Center Court. Photos will be taken and available for purchase at this event.
December 6
Start your morning with a sweet treat and explore Santa’s Workshop! Enjoy fresh gourmet donuts and Wekiva Island's Hot Cocoa Bar while visiting with Santa!
December 7 - 12
The Winter Garden Fire Rescue Annual Santa Run brings Santa and his sleigh through City neighborhoods. The moving parade takes place between 5:45 - 9 pm each designated night as Santa, along with his elves (firefighter, police, and city helpers), spread holiday cheer, music, and treats along the way.
December 7 - 10
The City of Casselberry, the Casselberry Police Department and the Seminole County Fire Department will team up to escort Santa and his elves throughout the streets of the City tossing candy to all the good children and maybe a few grown-ups too during the 2026 Santa Run in December. Each night the Santa Run route starts at City Hall at 6 pm and ends at approximately 9 pm at City Hall.
December 12, 13, 19, 20 and 24
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with the annual Breakfast with Santa at Maria & Enzo's at Disney Springs. Gather loved ones to savor a festive, family-style breakfast surrounded by holiday cheer and sweeping views of Lake Buena Vista. After filling their bellies with sweet and savory breakfast classics, guests will visit with Kris Kringle himself, where they can share holiday wishes and receive a keepsake photo of the experience.
December 12 and 15
Get ready for some holiday magic! Santa and Mrs. Claus are coming to DeBary, and they will be cruising through the streets, excited to see all the good boys and girl. Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit the North Sector (North of Highbanks) on Dec. 12 and South Sector (South of Highbanks) on Dec. 15.
December 21 - 23
Enjoy a delicious holiday breakfast with family and friends in the Rainforest. Take pictures with Santa, write letters to Santa, and more!
December 21
Celebrate the magic of the season with a festive Santa & Mrs. Claus High Tea Cruise aboard the elegant Barbara Lee! Enjoy a charming 2-hour holiday cruise filled with delicious treats, warm beverages, and a special meet & greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Christmas Shopping
Listed here is a selection of the holiday markets in Orlando this year, our complete guide is coming soon.
Get ready for a weekend filled with holiday shopping, home inspiration, unique gifts, seasonal decor, specialty vendors, and so much more all under one roof. Whether you are looking to get a jump start on your holiday shopping, find something special for your home, or simply enjoy a festive weekend out with family and friends, this is an event you will not want to miss!
November 13 - 15
The highly anticipated 4th Annual Ocala Holiday Craft Show is retuning to the World Equestrian Center from November 13-15, 2026. This event, a beacon of artistic expression and community, builds on the phenomenal success of our first show. Picture a kaleidoscope of over 350 artisans and crafters, each weaving their unique magic into the fabric of this grand event.
November 13 - 15
Kick off the holiday season at the Junior League of Tampa Holiday Gift Market, a premier shopping experience featuring more than 200 specialty merchants from the Tampa Bay area and beyond. Browse a wide variety of unique gifts, including apparel, jewelry, home décor, gourmet foods, artwork, candles, pet products, holiday treasures, and much more, all in one festive location.
November 20 - 21
Mark your calendars for the Melbourne Auditorium Holiday Market, happening Friday, November 20, and Saturday, November 21! Shop for holiday finds, support local vendors and enjoy festive entertainment throughout this two-day event. Plus, bring the kids out Friday evening for some extra holiday magic!
November 21
The Haven Holiday Market, featuring more than 250 vendors, is a great place for you to get your holiday shopping started. Visit Central Park in Winter Haven on November 21, to check out all of the local vendors. Plus enjoy live music, kids arts and crafts, food trucks, and the opportunity to meet several local authors and purchase their books.
November 21
Come experience a taste of Europe right here in Kissimmee at the European Christmas Market! Get into the holiday spirit with traditional food, drinks, and crafts from various European countries. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and maybe even find the perfect gift for your loved ones. The market will be held at Krush Brau Park Portal Immersion Center, so mark your calendars and join us for a merry time!
November 25 - January 2
A signature highlight of the festive season at Grande Lakes Orlando, the annual Christmas Market returns November 25 through January 2. Open to both resort guests and the public, the European-inspired market will feature a collection of artisanal chalets showcasing a curated selection of culinary specialties and unique holiday gifts. Beyond the market, guests can enjoy an abundant collection of festive activities, including family gingerbread decorating, ornament-making sessions, face painting, and a Build Your Own Birdie workshop.
November 29
Join Wekiva Island for a magical afternoon at their Annual Holiday Market! Wander through a wonderland of holiday cheer as numerous local vendors showcase unique gifts, crafts and treats. Vendors will be tucked under our Solar Array, while others will be nestled among our Christmas Tree Forest, creating the perfect backdrop for holiday shopping. Enjoy the festive spirit, support local makers, and find one-of-a-kind treasures for everyone on your list-all in the beautiful setting of Wekiva Island!
December 4 - 5
A Festive Community Christmas Market at Pioneers Headquarters, 10123 William Carey Dr. Orlando. Join us for Christmas Village at Pioneers Headquarters on the Lake — a festive lakeside Christmas market welcoming the community with local vendors, live music, family activities, warm hospitality, and a magical holiday atmosphere.
December 5 - 6
Don’t miss this opportunity to find Christmas items for your home at Renninger's in Mount Dora. Antiques, vintage items, and handmade crafts.
December 5
Kick off the most wonderful time of the year at Deck the Mall, Oviedo Mall's annual holiday celebration happening Saturday, December 5. Explore a holiday marketplace filled with local vendors, artists, makers, unique gifts, sweet treats, and plenty of surprises while checking names off your shopping list at your favorite Oviedo Mall stores. And because this is Deck the Mall, we're doing a little more than hanging some garland and calling it festive. Expect holiday entertainment, family-friendly activities, seasonal shopping specials, festive photo opportunities, and more surprises throughout the day as the mall transforms into a celebration of everything we love about the season.
December 5
Space Coast's largest Holiday Food Festival & Craft Fair is back! Featuring Tasting Menus priced at only $1–$5 per item, offering you the chance to sample the best from the Space Coast and beyond — all in one place! Plus, HUGE HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR Marketplace featuring local businesses, crafters, artists, and specialty artisans! Immerse yourself in the magic of lights and holiday decorations throughout the event!
December 5
Kids Markets are exciting, family-friendly farmers market-style events for kids ages 5-17!
December 5
The Downtown Pavilion area is transformed into a festive, open-air holiday market bustling with rows of vendor booths, live entertainment, downtown holiday trolleys, and more! A centrally located stage will provide rotating holiday entertainment including Dickens Carolers, live music, and school chorus groups. Santa will be there too for photos and to hear wish lists! The weather is even predicting snow flurries!
December 6
Mrs Claus Holiday Bazaar takes place at East Lake County Chamber of Commerce, 24214 Sorrento Ave, Sorrento, with home made crafts, delicous foods, Gift ideas for the holidays, Holiday Decor, Baked goods, and Home Goods. ALSO Light Up Sorrento - Santa Claus comes in by Fire Truck to get Free Photos!
December 11
Step into the wonder of the holidays at our beloved Jingle Jangle Market! As you stroll through our charming historic downtown, you’ll be surrounded by twinkling lights, festive music, and the joyful spirit that makes Plant City so special. Whether you're shopping for the perfect handcrafted gift, savoring holiday treats, or simply soaking in the magic with those you love—this fun evening is all about creating memories that will warm your heart for years to come.
December 12 - 13
The Lake County Holiday Expo at Lake County Fairgrounds, 2125 Biscayne Boulevard, Eustis has something for everyone! Explore a variety of vendors offering everything from handmade crafts, home renovation ideas, toys, tasty treats and so much more. We can't wait to see you there!
December 12
The heart behind The Joyful Market is to create a place where all can experience joy through creativity and community. The Joyful Market is a Christmas market created to bring people together to experience joy through creativity and community at The Conduit Orlando.
December 19
Join Downtown Vintage Market on December 19th, 2026 for their first ever Holiday market! Downtown Vintage Market will be at Citizens Circle in downtown Ocala from 12 pm to 6 pm with 50+ vintage and handmade vendors, food trucks and treats, and live music!
December 20
Stop pretending that a gift card was "the plan all along." We’ve got handmade stuff for every impossible-to-shop-for crisis on your list! On December 20th, from 12 pm - 6 pm, we’re decking the halls (or should we say streets??) of The Milk District with 300 of Orlando’s best local artists, food trucks, and live music! Happening the Sunday before Christmas, this is often your last chance to shop local before the big day. Instead of battling crowds at the mall or buying from billionaires online, come stroll through our hood and shop one-of-a-kind art, vintage records, crochet plushies, handmade candles, and sooo much more! And of course, Santa Cow will be making an appearance.
December 20
Join the Sunny Vibes Holiday Market hosted by Elevate Local Shops at the vibrant Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company! Experience a festive atmosphere filled with local charm and holiday cheer.
Holiday Concerts and Christmas Shows
When November ad December arrives, Central Florida’s cultural calendar swells with a joyful celebration of entertainment. From soaring orchestral performances and holiday ballet traditions to intimate, candlelit concerts and open-air symphonies beneath the stars, the region offers a rich array of seasonal entertainment for the season.
Add in several festive plays and musicals, together with comedy, cabaret and childrens theater, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season.
Listed here is a selection of the holiday concerts and Christmas shows in Orlando this year, our complete guide is coming soon.
November 13 - January 3
Back by popular demand to Christmas at Gaylord Plams, the award-winning, immersive cirque holiday show returns, based on the acclaimed POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance storybook and TV special. Join three best friends as they share their remarkable talents and Christmas joy with the world. Experience new gravity-defying circus acts, more magic illusions, original music, and show-stopping costumes in this 35-minute Broadway-style holiday spectacle. Live performance meets animation to create this one-of-a-kind, high-flying adventure.
November 23 - December 27, Select Dates
Charlie Brown is determined to discover what Christmas is really all about. Surrounded by holiday excitement, flashy decorations, and a chaotic Christmas pageant, he struggles to find meaning in a season that feels increasingly commercialized and overwhelming. When he chooses a tiny, overlooked Christmas tree, his friends are quick to dismiss it, but Charlie Brown’s simple act of kindness ultimately reminds everyone what truly matters. Filled with the beloved Peanuts characters, Vince Guaraldi’s iconic music, and timeless holiday charm, A Charlie Brown Christmas celebrates friendship, hope, and the joy of seeing beauty where others may not.
November 25 - December 24, Select Dates
The annual tradition continues at Orlando Shakes with the return of one of Central Florida’s favorite holiday classics! The miserly and miserable Ebenezer Scrooge greets each Christmas with a “bah humbug,” until he is visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. Come see this classic, heartwarming story at Orlando Shakes – a magical and musical spectacle for the whole family!
November 20 – December 20, Select Dates
Do the holidays stress you out?! This light-hearted musical comedy is designed to de-stress and refresh one and all with holiday cheer! Armed with a copy of "A Christmas Survival Guide," the characters charge into the holidays searching for the true meaning of the season. Featuring well-loved songs, mashups of old classics, and wonderful comedic originals, you'll learn how to survive the season in ways that are both hilarious and heartwarming.
November 20 – December 20, Select Dates
Rock-n-roll legends light up the holidays at Theater West End in Sanford as Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Elvis Presley reunite for a night of electrifying music and festive nostalgia. Revel in heartwarming stories, dazzling performances, and classic Christmas hits that turn Sun Records into a winter wonderland.
November 20 - December 13, Select Dates
Based on the motion picture A Christmas Story distributed by Warner Bros. A Christmas Story, The Musical brings the beloved 1983 film to hilarious life on stage at Straz Center in Tampa.. Set in 1940s Indiana, young Ralphie Parker is determined to convince everyone that his dream gift—the official Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200-Shot Range Model Air Rifle - is exactly what he needs for Christmas. Along the way, he faces unforgettable obstacles, including an infamous glowing leg lamp, humiliating pink bunny pajamas, a maniacal department store Santa, and the ultimate triple-dog-dare.
November 18 - 29, Select Dates
In a winter wonderland inspired by the poem, ’Twas the Night Before… is a festive flurry of love and cheer created especially for families, featuring the incredible acrobatics Cirque du Soleil is known for – from a mesmerizing aerial straps duo and daring hoop diving, to gravity-defying hair suspension and high-energy dancing – performed by a cast of 26 artists from all over the world. The show features lovable characters and a soundtrack including Christmas favorites reinvented by Cirque du Soleil. See it on stage at the Straz Center in Tampa.
November 18
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for over 40 years! Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics in the distinctive Mannheim sound. The program includes 15 musicians playing more than 20 instruments against a backdrop of dazzling multimedia effects – capturing the spirit of the season in an immersive yet intimate setting. Catch this amazing show at King Center in Melbourne.
November 19 - 20
Central Florida Ballet presents A Christmas Nutcracker Tale at Steinmetz Hall, featuring live music performed by the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras, this production brings Tchaikovsky's enchanting score to life. A Christmas Nutcracker Tale boasts sophisticated pyrotechnics that highlight magical moments, fiber-optic technology that illuminates moving props and phosphorescent paint that accentuates scenic backdrops. The Arabian Dance features breathtaking aerialists performing gravity-defying tricks, adding to the magic of the experience.
November 20 - 21
Join us for a heartwarming twist on the classic Nutcracker! This high-energy performance features company dancers from Xtreme Dance Studio, showcasing their talents while supporting a great cause. Over the years, Xtreme Dance Studio has raised over $160,000 for Base Camp, a local organization helping families battling cancer. All proceeds from this show will go directly to Base Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation, providing crucial resources to Central Florida families facing cancer and life-threatening illness.
November 21
Derek Hough Dance for the Holidays is a joyous celebration of the most festive time of the year! With jingle bells and sleigh bells, holiday carols and cheer, Hough’s latest dance spectacular is a show stopping event for the whole family. Fans will be thrilled and delighted as Hough and his cast of phenomenal dancers bring your favorite holiday tunes to life through dance, from the well sung classics to modern pop hits with all of the incredible choreography, exciting stage production and dance mastery that audiences have come to expect. Catch the show at King Center in Melbourne.
November 21
With her signature electronic violin in hand, the boundlessly creative Lindsey Stirling returns with an enchanting show to set off the holiday season. Be dazzled by this platinum-selling violinist and dancer as she performs a selection of holiday classics and original songs from her album Snow Waltz in a dazzling show complete with stunning visuals.
November 24
CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE dazzles with a brilliantly breathtaking holiday spectacular for the entire family. As the original cirque holiday theatrical event, this annual tradition wraps a Broadway-style production around awe-inspiring contemporary circus arts. Guests of all ages will be on the edge of their seats as a cast of holiday characters come to life, captivating audiences while defying gravity. Reimagined for 2026, CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE features original music, fresh twists on beloved holiday favorites sung live, new sets, dazzling scenery, and stunning costumes – making it the ultimate holiday show for audiences at King Center in Melbourne.
November 25
The Unauthorized Hallmark(ish) Parody Musical comes to Walt Disney Theater. telling the story of Holly, an overworked big-city executive who returns to her quirky small hometown to save Christmas. Along the way, she juggles an old flame, a looming corporate merger, a cookie contest conspiracy and a moose on the loose. Packed with your favorite holiday movie tropes and original pop songs like “Judge That Cookie” and “It Feels Like Christmas (Because It Is Literally Christmas),” this musical comedy puts a hilarious twist on the classic holiday movies you already know and love.
November 28 - 29
Deck the halls in Judson's Live with fiddles and strings this holiday season when Grammy-winning husband-and-wife duo Mark and Maggie O’Connor bring their signature mix of classical and American roots music to An Appalachian Christmas.
November 28
Join your Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra at Steinmetz Hall and experience the magic of the holiday season this year, bigger, better, and more fabulous than ever! Orlando favorite Michael James Scott returns to the stage fresh off his decade on Broadway and TV run to celebrate the holiday season in a way only his bold and fierce stage presence can! Featuring holiday favorites, old and new, a sing-along, a visit from Santa, and more, this is one holiday performance you don’t want to miss!
November 28
Get into the holiday spirit with this exciting spin on a classic holiday tale at Walt Disney Theater.. In this original adaptation of The Nutcracker, written and produced by Beverly Page, the rich pageantry of holiday traditions meets the vibrant cultural diversity of Central Florida. Take a journey with Clare through her enchanting dream as she travels with the Chocolate Nutcracker and the Sugar Plum Fairy around the world. Together, they embark on a lively adventure through Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Haiti, India, Puerto Rico and other lands on their way to the Kingdom of Toys. A treat for the entire family, this performance will delight audiences just in time for the holiday season.
November 28
Featuring Opera Orlando, the Orlando Choral Society, and the Winter Garden Community Choir. With special performances by renowned guest artists Dr. Jeffery Redding and Gabriel Priesser, alongside featured pianists Julian Bond and Carol Stein. Step into the magic of the season at Garden Theatre on Plant with a spectacular theatrical celebration of song, dance, and decades of treasured downtown holiday memories. Featuring Grammy Award-winning talent and celebrated local performers, this unforgettable production will bring the spirit and traditions of the holidays to life onstage.
November 28
Begin the holidays at King Center in Melbourne with beloved favorites for the whole family. From the brisk charm of Winter Wonderland and the bright energy of Carol of the Bells to the timeless glow of White Christmas. With outstanding vocal soloists, a visit from Santa, and a festive Holiday Sing-Along, this concert is a warm start to the season.
November 28
You’re invited to join brothers Joel and Luke for this special LIVE experience. for KING & COUNTRY is the award-winning Christian pop duo of Australian-born brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone. Known for their powerful vocals, cinematic sound, and inspiring messages of faith and hope, they have become one of contemporary Christian music's most celebrated acts.
November 29
The Grand Floridian Society Orchestra for decades was a beloved six-piece musical ensemble performing at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa in Walt Disney World. They are renowned for their classic swing, jazz, Disney tunes, and popular standards. The orchestra continues providing elegant and nostalgic soundtrack for Blue Bamboo guests and bring a sense of charm to every performance.
December 4 - 27, Select Dates
A Central Florida Holiday Tradition at Steinmetz Hall - Step into a magical world of wonder and adventure with The Nutcracker, a timeless holiday tradition. This enchanting performance follows Clara, a young girl whose Christmas Eve takes an extraordinary turn when her special Nutcracker doll comes to life. As the story unfolds, Clara is whisked away on a fantastical journey through magical realms, from a battle with the fearsome Mouse King to an enchanting Snow Kingdom. With the help of the Nutcracker, Clara bravely confronts dangers and celebrates with whimsical characters, including the Sugar Plum Fairy.
December 9 - 20, Select Dates
This beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life at Garden Theatre on Plant in Winter Garden as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve. When an angel, Clarence, shows him the positive impact he has had on his family and the people around him George realizes that he is loved.
December 2
From the runway to the cabaret stage, fashion designer Isaac Mizrahi has spent decades entertaining audiences as a performer, host and bestselling author. In this delightfully campy cabaret, Isaac Mizrahi: A Holiday Fruitcake, he brings his signature wit to a night of storytelling and songs. Backed by a sensational six-piece jazz band, Isaac turns his Judson's Live debut into a stylish celebration with an eclectic setlist that ranges from Cole Porter to Billie Eilish. This may be the one fruitcake you'll be happy to see this season.
December 3 - 4
Join over 300 majestic voices of the CFCArts Community Choir and members of the Symphony Orchestra at Northland Church for Believe: A Christmas Celebration, an unforgettable journey into the heart and soul of the holidays. This spectacular seasonal show is more than just a prerformance. It’s an immersive experience designed to reignite the powerful, enduring spiit of belief. Featuring beloved Christmas favorites and heartwarming seasonal stories, the choir will fill the stage with music that captures the joy, hope, and resilience of the holidays.
December 4
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy seasonal holiday favorites performed by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Music Director Eric Jacobsen. Holiday Pops takes place at Della Phillips Pavilion, Packing District Way, Orlando.
December 5 - 6
The only Nutcracker you must see this season! Celebrate the joy and wonder of the holiday with the Space Coast Ballet as they celebrate their 23rd Anniversary of bringing The Nutcracker to the King Center in Melbounre! This year Tchaikovsky's best-loved melodies will be performed again by the Brevard Symphony Orchestra!
December 5
Flamenco del Sol’s Cascanueces offers a bold and beautiful Spanish-themed twist on the classic holiday favorite. Filled with flamenco passion, stunning movement, and a fresh cultural spin on The Nutcracker, this festive production brings music, dance, and tradition together in a truly unforgettable way. Live on stage at Ritz Theater Sanford.
December 5
Sing and swing along to beloved holiday classics for all ages! Celebrating our 10th Anniversary …Back where it all began a decade ago at the Blue Bamboo. Featuring xylophone virtuoso Heather Thorn with starlit vocalists Krissy Vavrek and Amy Parnell (from the Orlando Jazz Orchestra) singing everything from the Andrews Sisters to Ella Fitzgerald.
December 6
Don't miss Trisha Paytas when she brings Trishmas Live! to Hard Rock Live Orlando on Dec. 6. The festive tour promises to light up the holiday season as Paytas blends her signature humor, high-energy personality, and a mix of classic Christmas songs with original holiday surprises.
December 6
Celebrate the season with the Orlando Jazz Orchestra’s Holiday Show, featuring our swinging Dektette! Bring your holiday spirit and join Greg Parnell and the OJO for a joyful musical celebration for the whole family!
December 6
Bring your blanket and a picnic for a concert program of holiday favorites that will be sure to put everyone in the spirit of the season! This free concert is made possible by the Charlotte Julia Hollander Trust. Holiday Pops takes place at Central Park in Winter Park, 251 South Park Avenue, Winter Park.
December 7 - 8
For years, “The Michael Andrew Holiday Spectacular” was a beloved Central Florida holiday tradition, dazzling audiences with the glamour and joy of the classic Christmas television variety specials of the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s. Now, after more than a decade, the celebrated production returns — reimagined for an intimate and elegant evening at Orlando Shakes.
December 8 - 9
The award-winning, smash-hit stage production, The Golden Gals Live! A Christmas Musical, returns to the stage for its grand farewell. Starring drag superstars Ginger Minj, Gidget Galore, Mr Ms, and Tugboat The Queen, and featuring Tyler Scott, this hilarious holiday romp brings your favorite Miami seniors to life like never before at The Abbey in Orlando. Grab your wicker purse and your best shoulder pads, because this is the absolute
December 9 - 10
Swing into the season at Judson's Live when jazz chanteuse Svetlana returns, now accompanied the Orlando Jazz Orchestra. Be there when they light up the stage with vintage jazz and feel-good holiday classics all wrapped up in Svetlana’s signature sweet and sassy style.
December 11 - 20
What if the three wise men weren’t really all that wise? What if they were just three ordinary guys, avoiding conflicts at home, who happened upon the greatest story ever told? Set the entire story in modern-day America, sprinkle in a little redneck humor, and you have the smash A Good, Old Fashioned, Redneck Country Christmas!
December 11 - 12
Get ready to unwrap the magic of the season with A Big Band Christmas, featuring the award-winning CFCArts Big Band! This festive celebration is packed with holiday cheer, offering a dazzling array of musical surprises that will delight audiences of all ages. From fresh takes on classic carols to unexpected holiday hits, each performance is a musical gift waiting to be discovered. Perfect for families, holiday parties, and anyone looking to bask in the joyous spirit of the season.
December 11
Enjoy unforgettable Christmas classics made famous by Frank Sinatra, Michael Bublé, Ella Fitzgerald, Tony Bennett, The Carpenters, and many more, all performed with the infectious energy that has made The Buzzcatz a perennial audience favorite.
December 12
Magical Night of Hope is a one-of-a-kind Christmas concert experience at Give Kids The World in Kissimmee featuring some of your favorite creators from the Disney YouTube community, coming together for an unforgettable evening of music, inspiration, and holiday cheer.
December 12
Celebrate the season with a spectacular symphonic and choral concert at Lake Buena Vista High School Performing Arts Center, Orlando.
December 12
Bridging contemporary Christian, pop and soul, multi-platinum, two-time Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Lauren Daigle now brings her Behold Christmas Tour to our stage. Known for her uplifting lyrics and powerful vocals, Lauren saw breakout success with her album Look Up Child and has had multiple No. 1 albums on the Billboard Top Christian Albums chart.
December 12
19-time Billboard Number 1 artist, producer, and contemporary jazz guitarist Adam Hawley brings his acclaimed Adam Hawley Christmas tour to the Blue Bamboo for an unforgettable evening of music and holiday spirit.
December 13
Renowned singer Jonathan Karrant brings you a delightful evening at Judson's Live celebrating some of the most beloved holiday songs of all time. Jonathan's acclaimed holiday album Christmas Wish features Grammy-winning jazz legend Diane Schuur as well as distinguished artists Kenny Rampton, Joe Alterman and Houston Person. Jonathan will be performing some song selections from the album and sharing some of his favorite Christmas memories. Jonathan doesn't cover songs, he uncovers them. The evening will leave you filled with the holiday spirit!
December 13
Sanford Jazz Ensemble Holiday Concert at Ritz Theater Sanford is a festive live jazz concert featuring holiday favorites, spirited performances, and the timeless sound of the season. With vibrant arrangements and cheerful musical flair, this holiday event is sure to fill the room with warmth, joy, and seasonal cheer.
December 13
Journey to Bethlehem is a live, family-friendly Christmas musical that brings the timeless story of hope, faith and love to life through powerful music, storytelling and theatrical performance. Featuring vocalists, musicians and dancers, the production offers a Broadway-style holiday experience designed for audiences of all ages at Walt Disney Theater.
December 15 - 16
There's no cozier Christmas than an Irish Christmas. Settle in for lively fiddle tunes, spirited Irish dance and stories steeped in tradition. Join Judson's Live as Irish Christmas in America brings the warmth and wonder of the Emerald Isle to the intimate music lounge. Produced by acclaimed fiddler Oisín Mac Diarmada, this beloved holiday tradition brings together celebrated musicians, singers and dancers for a special two-night residency filled with humor and heart.
December 15
Inspired by the spirit of Vienna, the birthplace of orchestral music and home to some of the world’s most celebrated Christmas concerts, Vienna Light Orchestra presents an unforgettable holiday concert experience blending soaring soprano voices, lush symphonic arrangements and theatrical Christmas magic. Over 2,000 flickering candles illuminate a breathtaking Christmas tree forest as world-class musicians and vocalists bring beloved holiday classics to life, along with a few Christmas surprises along the way. Gather with the ones you love for an elegant and nostalgic evening filled with warmth, beauty and the timeless spirit of Christmas. Live in Walt Disney Theater.
December 16
Celebrate the holiday season with Handel’s Messiah at First United Methodist Church of Orlando. A masterpiece whose soaring choruses and unforgettable melodies have become a cherished tradition for audiences worldwide. Under the baton of Music Director Eric Jacobsen, join soloists, a choir, and your Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra as this powerful work tells a story of hope, triumph, and renewal. Experience the majesty of the iconic “Hallelujah” Chorus and the enduring beauty of one of classical music’s greatest achievements.
December 17
Celebrate the holiday season with Handel’s Messiah at Community Presbyterian Church, Kissimmee. A masterpiece whose soaring choruses and unforgettable melodies have become a cherished tradition for audiences worldwide. Under the baton of Music Director Eric Jacobsen, join soloists, a choir, and your Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra as this powerful work tells a story of hope, triumph, and renewal. Experience the majesty of the iconic “Hallelujah” Chorus and the enduring beauty of one of classical music’s greatest achievements.
December 18 - 22
Step into a world of enchantment this holiday season with Next Generation Ballet's Nutcracker, a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for generations. This cherished Tampa holiday tradition at Straz Center showcases the remarkable talent of the award-winning young dancers of Next Generation Ballet, performing alongside internationally acclaimed professional guest artists. Together, they bring extraordinary artistry, athleticism and storytelling to one of the most treasured works in classical ballet.
December 18
A jazz mass for the whole family. Patrick Lamb and a full live band reimagine Vince Guaraldi's beloved score — Linus and Lucy, Skating, Christmas Time Is Here — as a soul-soaked, horn-driven holiday concert. Familiar enough for the kids. Brilliant enough for the jazz crowd. A powerhouse vocalist and a world-class saxophonist in one performer. Come enjoy a night that becomes the night you do every December.
December 20
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Orlando. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Christmas Carols on Strings at The Abbey under the gentle glow of candlelight.
December 20
Storm Large returns to Judson's Live to spice up the season with her hilarious Holiday Ordeal that puts the accent on naughty, not nice. Backed by her band, Le Bonheur, this fearless vocalist mixes holiday favorites with rock ’n’ roll, cabaret and plenty of provocative humor that’s not being served at the kids’ table. Hear “2000 Miles,” “Hallelujah” and “Sock It to Me Santa,” plus “Somebody to Love,” the greatest holiday song never written for the holidays.
December 21 - 22
Why does Santa go to everyone’s house but ours? Why do we eat Chinese food on Dec. 25? And why is this song so darn catchy? Oy vey! A Jewish Boy’s Love Letter to Christmas is a warm, witty celebration of Adam Biner’s favorite time of year. He’ll share stories and sing holiday songs he fell in love with growing up as a Jewish boy in New Jersey. Backed by a full band, Adam will rock around his “Christmas Tree” as he sings hits like “All Alone on Christmas,” “The Christmas Song,” “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” and other holiday favorites. So don't be a putz! Join the fun at Judson's Live and celebrate the season with a cup of cheer. L'chaim!
December 21
The true spirit of Christmas lives in this heartwarming production of Charles Dicken’s holiday classic at KIng Center, Wool Audiences at King Cent, young and old, will leave the theater enchanted by this timeless tale of the miraculous redemption of Ebenezer Scrooge. Guided by the ghosts of Jacob Marley, and Christmas Past, Present and Future, the world’s most famous miser undergoes a magical, stirring transformation into a marvelous man of overflowing love, kindness and generosity. Live at King Center in Melbourne.
December 22
A Christmas with Soul brings the holidays to life with a spirited blend of Motown flair, soulful vocals, and festive stage energy. This live holiday concert delivers an uplifting evening of music, joy, and seasonal entertainment for audiences of all ages.
December 24
Step into the spotlight this holiday season at Dr Phillips Center with A Very Broadway Christmas. This high-energy production features your favorite Christmas songs from Broadway and beyond, performed with a live band, ensemble of dancers and leading vocalists straight from Broadway. Audiences will be treated to heartwarming holiday memories, show-stopping dance numbers and a magical appearance by Santa Claus himself, complete with a family photo-op.
December 24
Prepare for the celebration of Christmas with a beautiful program of sacred music before the Cathedral Church of Saint Luke's Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve from 10.30 - 11 pm at 130 N Magnolia Ave, Orlando.
December 27
A favorite holiday concert around the southeast, so popular it led to the recording of the music CD, “Artfully Christmas,” in 2025. Kelly/Scott Jazztet presents a beautifully creative program featuring their original arrangements of timeless sacred Christmas and seasonal songs nuanced in interpretive jazz styles of swing, Bossa Nova, Samba, light waltz, tender ballads, pop grooves, bluesy shuffles, New Orleans ‘feel,’ and more, weaved with a classical flavor. The two entertaining sets will also include ‘jazz standards’ song selections from the Great American Songbook.
December 27
Step into the magical world of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, one of the most beloved fairytales of all time, brought to life in a dazzling Broadway-style ballet production filled with beauty, humor, adventure, and theatrical magic. Live on stage at King Center Melbourne.
December 27
For more than 25 years, Straight No Chaser has turned holiday music into the feel-good soundtrack of the season. Come dressed in your favorite ugly Christmas sweater to Dr Phillips Center and cozy up to the warmth and joy of this year’s holiday concert, Making Spirits Bright. Featuring songs from Christmas Cheers, Holiday Spirits and tunes from their newest release, Holiday Road, you’ll want to put tickets to this spirited show on your Christmas wish list.
Christmas Dining and Holiday Treats
When the holiday season arrives in Orlando, the region’s culinary landscape undergoes as much of a transformation as its theme parks. Long-held family comfort food meets creative culinary wizardry, turning every corner of Central Florida into a feast for the senses.
Far beyond basic gingerbread and candy canes, Orlando’s holiday dining scene serves up a rich menu of experiences. Here, you can sip smoking mugs of hot Butterbeer on a brisk winter evening, indulge in multi-course international feasts from around the globe, or sit down to extravagant Christmas buffets curated by world-class chefs beneath glittering chandeliers.
Our completge guide to all the holiday treats in Orlando, and where to enjoy Christmas dining is comong soon.
November 21
Step into a festive setting filled with beautifully decorated trees, seasonal flavors, live music and an elevated brunch experience! Celebrate the season with Brunch Among the Trees, an elevated holiday dining experience surrounded by the beautifully decorated trees of Oranges & Ornaments. Guests will enjoy a relaxed brunch featuring seasonal dishes, artisanal pastries, citrus-inspired flavors, coffee, juices and festive beverages, all served in a warm and beautifully styled setting at the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation. Soft live music will set the tone as families, friends and community members gather beneath the trees for a memorable holiday morning.
Holiday Pop-Up Bars and Christmas Parties
When the sun goes down on Central Florida’s sunny afternoons, Orlando’s nightlife scene undergoes a delightfully frosted transformation during the holidays. Local mixologists and entertainment venues swap their tropical tiki umbrellas for walls of tinsel, floor-to-ceiling vintage ornaments, and artificial blizzards, giving rise to the region's most festive after-dark phenomenon: immersive holiday pop-up bars and high-energy Christmas parties.
Far from your average night out, Orlando’s seasonal lounges and ticketed nighttime bashes offer an adults-only spin on holiday nostalgia. Here, you can sip smoking peppermint cocktails inside an igloo, sing along to synchronized retro carols beneath a canopy of glowing neon lights, or dance the night away at glitzy, throwback holiday galas that capture the magic of the season with a heavy pour of holiday cheer.
Listed here is a small selection of holiday pop-up bars and Christmas parties in 2026, our complete guide is coming soon.
November 13
Join us for the opening night TreeView Party for the 2026 Orlando Museum of Art Festival of Trees on Friday, November 13th beginning at 7pm. Dressed in your best holiday chic attire, celebrate an enchanted evening at the museum to enjoy an exclusive first look at the display of designer-decorated Christmas trees.
November 14
Break out your boldest holiday knit and join us! Enjoy live music, a cash bar with festive cocktails, and a lively costume contest that crowns the tackiest (and most fabulous) sweaters of the night. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season—festive, fabulous, and just a little bit tacky.
November 21
Ring in the holiday season with an evening that sparkles! The Sip & Sleigh Cocktail Party brings together the magic of the holidays with the energy of a festive night out. Enjoy special entertainment and seasonal cocktails, while also taking in the beautifully decorated trees and inspiring holiday tablescapes of the Festival.
December 19
Orlando Pub Crawl is happy to spread joy again this holiday season on this holiday bar crawl with 4 full size premium drinks included.
December 19
Get ready for a magical night at 13+ venues at The Pointe Orlando filled with festive cheer at the SantaCon Ultimate Holiday Bar Crawl! Enjoy themed cocktails, exciting holiday activities, and FOUR FREE premium drinks with your party pass!
December 19
Celebrate the holiday season with an unforgettable night out at our SantaCon Bar Crawl on December 19th in Downtown Orlando! Dress in your most festive Santa attire and join fellow merrymakers as we explore the best bars and pubs, each boasting cheerful decorations and a joyous atmosphere.
Congratulations! You've made it to the end of our comprehensive guide to celebrating Christmas and the Holidays in Central Florida. Happy Holidays from our family to yours.
Before going to any event listed on Gotta Go Orlando, it's advisable to reach out to the organizer or venue to verify the event's status, as details, changes, and cancellations may happen. Gotta Go Orlando do not organize any of the events listed on our website.
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