Holiday Events in Orlando
Looking for fun things to do this December in Orlando? In this week’s blog post, we’ll highlight some festive events you can attend to get in the holiday spirit. From dazzling light displays to festive parades, Orlando offers an array of activities perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Whether it's the excitement of theme park celebrations or the charm of local holiday events, here's a glimpse into the many festive activities that Orlando has to offer during this joyous time of the year.
Winter Park - Holiday Boat Parade
Tomorrow, Saturday, December 9, at 6 p.m., the Winter Park Holiday Boat Parade, presented by the Rotary Club of Winter Park, transitions the holiday celebrations to the scenic Lake Virginia.
Families and friends are invited to convene at their lakeside backyards or at Dinky Dock Park to witness the stunning holiday decorations adorning boats and docks, meticulously crafted by local residents and businesses.
Lake Nona - Oh What Fun
Celebrate the Season at Lake Nona's Annual Holiday Festival!
Lake Nona Town Center transforms into a winter wonderland, Peppermint Square, for the "Oh, What Fun! Holiday Festival." The festival, free and open to all, occurs on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from December 7 to December 23, 2023.
The festivities commence with a Hanukkah celebration on December 7, featuring a menorah lighting, fire performers, live music, and children's activities. Peppermint Square will be adorned with holiday decorations, experience snowfalls and live entertainment.
Visitors can enjoy holiday treats from various pop-up food stands, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and create lasting memories at the photo wall or beside the 24-foot Christmas tree. The festival offers a range of activities: acrobatic shows on Fridays, snow-themed fun on Saturdays, and family activities on Sundays. There will be performances by local schools, carolers, bands, and dance parties hosted by Peppermint the Penguin, and a holiday market featuring local vendors offers unique gift options.
The festival also includes the Evergreen Tree Trail, leading to the Fa La La La Bar at the Lake Nona Wave Hotel, where adults can enjoy seasonal cocktails.
Santa's Cottage offers a chance for storytime and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, with advance booking required.
Come check out the holiday fun in Lake Nona this December!
Magic Kingdom - Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Prepare for a whimsical holiday celebration with your family and Disney friends at the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, an exclusive event at Walt Disney World® Resort. This festive occasion transforms Magic Kingdom® Park into a radiant holiday wonderland for all ages, filled with merry tunes, festively dressed Disney Characters, and a host of magical surprises.
During the event, guests can enjoy a variety of festive activities.
- Enjoy the spectacular Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks show.
- Watch beloved Disney Characters celebrate the holidays in Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.
- Capture memorable photos with Disney Characters in their holiday outfits.
- Experience holiday-themed versions of classic attractions like Space Mountain® and Jungle Cruise®.
- Embark on a sweet adventure across Magic Kingdom Park in search of cookies and cocoa.
- Marvel at the stunning decorations that capture the holiday spirit.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party concludes on December 22, 2023, so be sure to secure your tickets soon. Even if you're not at this special ticketed event, the holiday excitement continues throughout Magic Kingdom Park during regular hours.
Clemwood Street - Christmas Lights
Want to check out some spectacular Christmas lights this holiday season? Clemwood Street has some of the most beautiful in Orlando- don’t miss it!
Celebration - Now Snowing
Come join the 24th Annual Now Snowing event, a cherished Celebration Town Center tradition, happening every night from November 26th through December 31st.
Central Florida's premier "Snowing" event, Now Snowing, is known for its unique synthetic ice rink, performances by exceptional local young talents, and various special concerts throughout the season. This month-long Winter Wonderland Spectacular features Charles Dickens-style carolers, Santa photo opportunities, horse-drawn carriage rides, train rides, ice skating, and regular snowfalls at 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, and 9:00 PM. It's a nostalgic nod to classic family-oriented holiday celebrations.
Additionally, the event includes the Celebration Art Walk, a holiday-themed art festival on December 3rd, and the Hearts of Reality event on December 10th. Hearts of Reality brings together over 100 reality TV stars from shows like Survivor, Big Brother, and The Amazing Race to support Give Kids The World (www.heartsofreality.com).
You can find Celebration conveniently located between Highway 192 and Interstate 4 near Walt Disney World.
