Get ready to embrace the festive season in Central Florida with an array of holiday events perfect for everyone! From dazzling light displays to magical performances, parades, and theme park extravaganzas, here’s your ultimate guide to Orlando’s 2024 holiday season. Make sure to check event links for details on dates, times, and ticketing. Bookmark this page to come back often for the entire season.
Theme Park & Resort Holiday Events
Orlando's world-famous theme parks take holiday magic to new heights! Each park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering everything from elaborate decorations to special holiday parades and shows. From meeting beloved characters in festive attire to taking in spectacular holiday lights and winter-themed shows, these theme park experiences are a must-see for visitors of all ages.
- Select Days thru Dec 20 | Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, Magic Kingdom
Celebrate the magic of Christmas with Mickey and friends at this exclusive, after-hours party. Enjoy a holiday parade, fireworks, seasonal treats, and limited-capacity access to select rides.
- Select Days thru Jan 2 | SeaWorld's Christmas Celebration, SeaWorld® Orlando
Dive into the holiday spirit with SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, where shimmering lights and a Sea of Trees light show await. This seasonal event includes festive food, live entertainment, and even encounters with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. - Select Days thru Dec 21 | Disney Jollywood Nights, Hollywood Studios
Experience a glamorous, vintage-inspired holiday evening with live entertainment and unique character appearances. Delight in holiday-themed treats, immersive decor, and dance to holiday tunes from the Hollywood Golden Age. - Daily Thru Dec 31 | Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios
Universal goes all-out with Grinchmas, holiday parades, and themed shows for an unforgettable holiday experience. See the streets of Universal decorated for the season, and watch as Macy’s Holiday Parade brings New York City magic to Orlando. - Daily Thru Dec 30 | EPCOT® Intl. Festival of the Holidays, EPCOT®
Celebrate diverse holiday traditions from around the world with live performances, holida
y kitchens, and a festive scavenger hunt. The Candlelight Processional is a seasonal highlight, featuring celebrity narrators and a live orchestra.
- Select Days Nov 29 - Dec 29 | Santa's Christmas Village, Dezerland Park
Discover a holiday village brimming with decorations, seasonal crafts, and holiday games for the family. Meet Santa Claus himself, and enjoy festive activities that bring the North Pole to Florida. - Select Nights Nov 21 - Dec 25 | Holinights Celebration, Promenade Sunset Walk
Stroll through the vibrant holiday lights at Promenade Sunset Walk, where live entertainment and family-friendly activities await. Seasonal vendors, festive foods, and special holiday events make this a great evening destination. - Select Days thru Jan 4 | ICE! Featuring Elf, Gaylord Palms
Step into a chilly wonderland with intricate ice sculptures inspired by scenes from "Elf." Gaylord Palms offers winter fun, including tubing, snowball fights, and holiday shows, making it an ideal family holiday destination.
Recurring Holiday Events
Orlando’s holiday season includes a fantastic lineup of recurring events that bring festive cheer all season long. From captivating light shows and unique lantern festivals to timeless holiday tales and winter wonderlands, these seasonal attractions are perfect for families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts of all ages.
- Select Nights thru Jan 19 | Dazzling Nights, Harry P. Leu Gardens
Enjoy an immersive holiday light display set among the beautiful gardens at Leu Gardens. Each step reveals stunning light installations, creative displays, and enchanting holiday scenes perfect for family photos. - Select Days thru Jan 19 | Asian Lantern Festival, Central Florida Zoo
Discover the beauty of traditional lantern art with this mesmerizing display featuring handmade Asian lanterns. Stroll through dozens of illuminated displays, enjoy unique holiday decorations, and experience Asian culture. - Select Days Dec 3 - 18 | The Historic Holiday Experience, Orange Co. Regional History Center
Step back in time to experience historic holiday celebrations, complete with vintage decor and exhibits. Learn about Orlando's history and enjoy seasonal displays, crafts, and family-friendly activities. - Daily Thru Dec 31 | Now Snowing, Downtown Celebration
Experience a magical snowfall every evening in Downtown Celebration, transforming the town into a winter wonderland. Enjoy caroling, holiday treats, and entertainment, making it a charming holiday outing for all. - Daily Thru Jan 5 | Christmas on Park, Winter Park
Explore the holiday spirit in Winter Park with decorated streets, seasonal displays, and holiday-themed events. Perfect for an evening stroll, Christmas on Park offers a festive atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Downtown Holiday Festivals & Events
Celebrate the holidays in the heart of Orlando and surrounding downtown areas, where holiday festivals bring communities together with lights, live music, unique holiday markets, and special events. From classic tree lightings to unique cultural festivities, these events are the perfect way to enjoy the season’s magic with friends and family.
- Dec 6 - 22 (Fri, Sat, Sun) | Downtown for the Holidays, Downtown Orlando
Join Downtown Orlando’s holiday celebrations with an array of family-friendly events and tree lightings. The festive atmosphere includes markets, performances, and unique holiday displays across the area. - Dec 6 - Jan 6 (Select Nights) | Tis the Season Events, Downtown Winter Garden
Winter Garden’s historic district comes alive with holiday events, seasonal markets, and cheerful decor. Wander through holiday-themed activities, enjoy live entertainment, and shop for unique gifts. - Dec 6 - 22 (Select Dates) | Oh What Fun! Holiday Festival, Lake Nona
This annual Lake Nona tradition features family activities, holiday decor, and festive entertainment. Enjoy seasonal treats, holiday lights, and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for all ages. - Dec 7 | Christmas at Hamlin, Hamlin Lake District
Celebrate lakeside with Christmas at Hamlin, featuring lights, music, and fun activities. This community event offers an evening of holiday joy with beautiful surroundings and festive fun. - Dec 8 | Krampusfest, The Plaza Live
Take part in an unusual holiday celebration inspired by European folklore, featuring Krampus-themed fun for adults. With a twist on holiday traditions, Krampusfest brings a spooky yet festive experience. - Dec 14 | Children’s Christmas in the Park with Snow, Mount Dora
Kids can experience real snow, holiday crafts, and play activities in Mount Dora’s Christmas park. This event is ideal for families, with plenty of photo opportunities and festive decorations. - Dec 14 - 15 | Christkindlmarkt, Luminary Green Park
Discover a traditional German holiday market with gifts, food, and seasonal treats. Enjoy live entertainment and shop for unique holiday items in a cozy European-style setting.
Light Up Events
Kick off the holiday season with “Light Up” celebrations across Central Florida! Each event offers a magical evening of holiday lights, festive decor, and community cheer. From classic tree lightings to special neighborhood displays, these events are sure to fill you with holiday spirit and light up your December evenings.
- Nov 22 | Light Up Windermere, Downtown Windermere
Witness the charming town of Windermere light up with holiday spirit at this annual event. Enjoy music, entertainment, and festive activities for all ages. - Nov 22 | I-Drive District Holiday Tree Lighting, ICON Park
Join the celebration at ICON Park with a spectacular tree lighting ceremony and holiday decor. This lively event includes entertainment, treats, and special holiday activities along I-Drive. - Nov 23 | Light Up Mount Dora, City of Mount Dora
Mount Dora’s picturesque downtown transforms with thousands of lights and festive displays. The entire town gathers for the lighting ceremony, marking the start of the holiday season. - Dec 6 | 2024 Tree Lighting Celebration, Lake Eola Park
Enjoy Lake Eola’s holiday tree lighting, complete with live music, entertainment, and festive fun. The tree lighting draws crowds for its beautiful display and holiday performances. - Dec 6 | Light Up Winter Garden 2024, Downtown Winter Garden
Winter Garden celebrates with its iconic tree lighting, music, and seasonal decorations. Families can enjoy a cheerful atmosphere with community activities, food, and holiday displays. - Dec 6 | Light Up Clermont, Downtown Clermont
Join Clermont’s holiday festivities as downtown comes alive with lights and joyful activities. This community event is filled with holiday cheer, entertainment, and local vendors.
Parades
Get ready for parades galore! Orlando’s holiday parades bring communities together for a festive display of floats, music, and performances. With several parades across the area, each offers a unique holiday charm and family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for making joyful memories together.
- Dec 7 | Winter Garden Christmas Parade 2024, Downtown Winter Garden
Watch festive floats and holiday performances in Winter Garden’s beloved Christmas parade. This cherished annual event brings the community together for a morning of holiday cheer. - Dec 7 | 72nd Annual Winter Park Christmas Parade, Winter Park
The Winter Park Christmas Parade is a local tradition with holiday-themed floats, marching bands, and fun characters. Bring the family for a morning of holiday excitement in downtown Winter Park. - Dec 7 | Clermont Christmas Parade, Downtown Clermont
Clermont’s Christmas Parade brings joy to the streets with colorful floats and festive music. Celebrate the season with family and friends at this annual holiday gathering. - Dec 7 | Mount Dora Christmas Parade, Mount Dora
Experience the spirit of Christmas in Mount Dora’s traditional holiday parade. With floats, performances, and a festive crowd, this parade is a highlight of the holiday season. - Dec 7 | Christmas Lighted Boat Parade, Mount Dora
Marvel at Mount Dora’s unique boat parade, featuring boats adorned with holiday lights and decorations. Watch as they sail across the water, creating a magical holiday scene. - Dec 7 | 61st Annual Christmas Parade, St. Cloud
St. Cloud’s beloved Christmas Parade is a local tradition filled with holiday spirit. Featuring festive floats, bands, and performers, this parade is perfect for all ages.
Orlando’s festive holiday events showcase the unique charm and community spirit that make Central Florida such a wonderful place to call home. From the magical lights and performances to spirited parades and joyful gatherings, each event reflects the warmth of the season and the welcoming atmosphere of Orlando’s neighborhoods. Whether you're exploring new traditions or creating family memories, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant area.
For those considering a move to Central Florida, the region’s rich calendar of events and family-friendly communities offer endless opportunities to get involved and feel at home. Interested in learning more about life in Orlando? Check out our Orlando Communities page for an in-depth look at local neighborhoods, or explore the team's Central Florida Real Estate Listings to find your perfect home. The Orlando lifestyle combines a strong sense of community with diverse amenities and attractions, making it a fantastic place to live and grow.
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