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Downtown for the Holidays brings a sackful of Free Holiday Events to Downtown Orlando in December!

Central Florida residents and visitors can celebrate the holiday season at Downtown for the Holidays, a jam-packed calendar of christmas and holiday events in Downtown Orlando.

Downtown for the Holidays brings a sackful of Holiday Events for all to enjoy in Downtown Orlando

Experience the sights and sounds of the season when visiting Downtown for the Holidays in Downtown Orlando!


Throughout the entire month of December, downtown Orlando is offering a nice list of free holiday events for all to enjoy!


Experience the enchantment of the holiday stroll. Spread cheer by shopping locally at the Merry Market. Embrace the magic of the season at the Eola Wonderland. Enjoy a snowy Florida wonderland at Lake Eola Park. Encounter Santa himself at the Eola House, and so much more!


Read on for all the holly jolly holiday events in Downtown Orlando this holiday season.





Holiday Stroll
November 22 - January 6, 2024

A festive journey awaits as you embark on a holiday stroll between scenic Lake Eola Park to the vibrant Central Business District in downtown Orlando. The path is adorned with whimsical ornaments and oversized holiday decor, transforming the cityscape into a winter wonderland. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere as you meander through the heart of downtown Orlando, taking in the dazzling lights and joyful decorations that line your route. This holiday stroll promises a delightful fusion of nature, urban charm, and festive spirit, creating unforgettable memories along the way.



Jack Kazanzas Star Installation
November 24

An Orlando holiday tradition, the raising of the Jack Kazanzas Star 50 feet over Orange Avenue will take place the morning of Sunday, November 24 at 7 am. The more than 50-year tradition of raising the 600-pound golden star started in the 1950s. Since then, the Star has come to symbolize the start of the holiday season in downtown Orlando.  


Tree Lighting Celebration at Lake Eola Park 

December 6

Kickoff the holiday season on at the City of Orlando's annual Tree Lighting Celebration at Lake Eola Park. The highlight of the event is the lighting of the six-story Christmas tree featuring 88,000 animated lights. The event will include holiday performances at the Lake Eola Amphitheater, food trucks, and a holiday market.  



Eola Wonderland Christmas Tree Show

December 6 - January 6

Beginning December 6, the Eola Wonderland Christmas Tree comes alive with synchronized light and music. The show will take place at the following times: 5:45 pm, 6:45 pm, 7:45 pm, 8:45 pm, and 9:45 pm. The Christmas Tree is located at Lake Eola Park, by E. Washington St. and N. Rosalind Ave.


Clemwood Street Lights
December 6 - January 6

Experience the magic of the "2811 Clemwood Street Lights," now at Lake Eola Park(near the Eola House)for Downtown for the Holidays. Originally a beloved neighborhood display, this touching tribute honors lives lost to COVID-19, thanks to the generous donation from former homeowners. Don’t miss this seasonal highlight!


Merry Market
Select Dates December 6 – December 22

Support local this season when shopping the Merry Market. Here, you'll shop from local vendors with products ranging from soaps, candles, jewelry, and more! You will find the market on the east side of Lake Eola Park beginning Friday, December 6 and every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday following. The final day for the market is Sunday, December 22. The market will be open from 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm.


Experience snowfall in downtown Orlando this holiday season

Snowfall
Select Dates December 6 – December 22

Experience snowfall in downtown Orlando this holiday season! Snow will fall on Washington St. by the Lake Eola House (located near the intersection of E. Washington St. and N. Eola Dr.).  

Snow will fall for 15 minutes on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings beginning December 6 – Saturday, December 22 at 6:15 p.m., 7:15 p.m., 8:15 p.m., 9:15 p.m.


Holiday Train Schedule

December 6 – December 22

The train will be running on the North East Lawn at Lake Eola Park on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings beginning December 6 - 22 at 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.


Meet Santa at the Eola House Orlandop

Meet Santa

Select Dates December 7 – December 22

Meet Santa at the Eola House (512 E. Washington St., Orlando, FL 32801) every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm, from December 7 – 22. Best of all, the experience is free!

 

Holiday Movie at Lake Eola Park – The Santa Clause
December 7

Pack your blankets, chairs, and snacks for the whole family to enjoy The Santa Clause at East Lawn at Lake Eola Park. Showtime is at 7 pm.  


Holiday Movie at Lake Eola Park – ELF
December 13

Pack your blankets, chairs, and snacks for the whole family to enjoy Elf at  East Lawn at Lake Eola Park. Showtime is at 7 pm.


Christkindlmarkt (German Christmas Market) at Luminary Green Park
December 14 – 15

Experience the magic of a traditional German Christmas market at Luminary Green Park on December 14t - 15! From 11am to 10pm, immerse yourself in festive cheer with delicious treats, unique gifts, and holiday entertainment.


Violectric Holiday Show at Lake Eola Amphitheater

Violectric Holiday Show at Lake Eola Amphitheater
December 14

Performing together live on stage, renowned “Vinylinist” and Founder of Violectric, Michelle Jones, and the talented musicians of the Central Florida strings super-group, announce the exciting milestone 10th Annual Violectric Holiday Show rocking into the Lake Eola Amphitheater at Lake Eola Park on Saturday, December 14, 2024 starting at 7pm. Free and open to the public, the 90-minute live concert presented by the City of Orlando’s Department of Families, Parks and Recreation will feature traditional holiday songs like O Christmas Tree, The First Noel and Hanukkah, O Hanukkah mashed up with classic rock tunes and modern hits like Born to Run, Heroes and Sweet Dreams, delivering a fun-filled, energetic and highly unique holiday show unlike anything seen and heard before and simulcast around all of Lake Eola.  

Violectric has also teamed back up with Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando for the pet-friendly show. Attendees are encouraged to bring their pets and a cash donation for Pet Alliance. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also return for meet-and-greets and family and pet photos, plus more surprises.  


Sensory Night at Lake Eola Wonderland

Sensory Night
December 15

On Sunday, December 15, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm, immerse yourself in the magic of the holidays in a sensory-friendly environment. We've curated an evening of joy and comfort for everyone, featuring:


No/Low Music: Enjoy the festive atmosphere without stimulating sounds.

Quiet Place: A serene space with water, snacks, and calming vibes.

Fidget Spinners: Engage and relax with tactile sensory tools.

Noise-Canceling Headphones: Find tranquility amidst the holiday cheer.

Santa Line System: A thoughtful approach to meet Santa with ease.

Train Ride Line System: Hop aboard the holiday train stress-free!


Come and celebrate the magic of the season with us in a warm and inclusive setting.


Holiday Movie at Lake Eola Park – How the Grinch Stole Christmas
December 20

Pack your blankets, chairs, and snacks for the whole family to enjoy How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) at  East Lawn at Lake Eola Park. Showtime is at 7 pm.


Holiday Drone Show at Lake Eola Orlando

Holiday Drone Show
December 21

This show will feature a dazzling display of synchronized drones flying in formation to create beautiful holiday-themed designs in the night sky. Attendees will be able to sit back and watch the 15-minute light show from the comfort of their own blankets and lawn chairs. The show will be held on Saturday, December 21, with performances at 6:30 pm and 8 pm (both featuring the same program).


For more information:



 Downtown for the Holidays brings a sackful of Free Holiday Events for all to enjoy in Downtown Orlando

Gotta Go Orlando offers the latest entertainment news, together with all the latest events and things to do throughout Central Florida. We feature concerts, theater, culture, nightlife, food & drink. theme parks, attractions, festivals, events, and more.


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