Christmas Events Orlando: Where to Celebrate the Holidays Around O-town in 2025
If twinkle lights, oversized ornaments, and theme park magic sound like your thing, Orlando’s holiday season hits different. From larger-than-life parades to jaw-dropping winter makeovers, Christmas in Orlando is anything but subtle.
Whether you’re hunting for snow flurries in Florida or hunting down the best Christmas events Orlando has to offer, 2025 has something for every kind of holiday-lover. With updated experiences at major theme parks and beloved local favorites returning, there’s no better time to start planning.
Think hot cocoa under palm trees, meet-and-greets with Santa, and a whole lot of fake-but-magical snow. So grab your calendar, your comfiest walking shoes, and keep reading—because the most festive fun of 2025 starts right here!
Which Theme Parks Offer Special Holiday Experiences During Christmas in Orlando?
From twinkling lights to snow-filled streets, Christmas in Orlando turns its world-famous theme parks into festive wonderlands. Walt Disney World features its beloved holidays at Walt Disney World celebration from November 14 to December 31, with events across all four parks.
Universal Orlando Resort goes all out with holidays at Universal Orlando, featuring the Grinch, Macy’s parade and magic in Hogsmeade. Families can enjoy SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, complete with dazzling ice shows, fireworks, and over 3 million lights.
At LEGOLAND, interactive shows, LEGO character meet-and-greets, and a towering brick-built tree create holiday magic for younger kids. Each park brings its own unique flavor to the festivities—read on to discover the highlights and can’t-miss moments!
Experience Holiday Magic at Walt Disney World
The beloved Walt Disney World event holidays at Walt Disney World returns from November 14 to December 31, 2025, filling all four parks with dazzling decor and themed entertainment. At Magic Kingdom, the Christmas tree on Main Street, U.S.A. sets the tone, surrounded by snowfall and festive projections on Cinderella Castle.
Join Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on select nights, complete with fireworks, cookies, and a holiday parade. Over at EPCOT, the International Festival of the Holidays features seasonal foods and performances from cultures around the world.
Meanwhile, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom offer limited-time shows, character meet-and-greets, and wintry backdrops, such as the Merry Menagerie and Sunset Seasons Greetings. While most entertainment is confirmed through Disney’s official site, additional 2025 announcements have not yet been released. Stay tuned for more festive updates!
Celebrate the Season at Universal Orlando Resort
At Universal Orlando Resort, the 2025 holidays at Universal Orlando celebration will run November 21 through December 31, spreading cheer across Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and the on-site hotels. The fan-favorite Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s brings massive larger than life balloons and characters, including the Minions, Shrek, and Santa to life in a show-stopping display.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter gets a magical makeover with seasonal décor in Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, plus the breathtaking Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle projection show. Families can enjoy Grinchmas, including the hilarious Who-liday Spectacular stage show and themed character encounters in Seuss Landing.
Even CityWalk and the hotels join the fun with holiday lights, special dining experiences, and exclusive entertainment. While the core 2025 dates and events are confirmed, additional schedules and surprise offerings have not been announced yet. Check back for the latest!
Explore Winter Wonders at SeaWorld
At SeaWorld, the beloved annual tradition known as SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration turns the park into one of Orlando’s most immersive winter wonderlands. Previous years featured millions of lights, towering Christmas trees, and interactive zones like Rudolph’s ChristmasTown.
Highlights have included the O’ Wondrous Night Nativity show, Winter Wonderland on Ice skating spectacular, and the colorful Sesame Street Christmas Parade. Guests also enjoyed holiday markets with over 40 food and drink options, plus snowfall zones and nightly fireworks.
Multicultural celebrations such as Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Three Kings Day extended the seasonal spirit into January. Official 2025 dates and full details have not yet been announced. Stay tuned for updates on this festive favorite!
Enjoy Festive Fun at the Crayola Experience
The Crayola Experience’s Colorful Christmas transforms this family-friendly attraction into a hands-on holiday wonderland packed with crafts and creativity. Past events included light shows, interactive storytelling, a scavenger hunt, and character meet-and-greets with holiday mascots like Randy the Reindeer.
Guests could design seasonal greeting cards, decorate holiday wreaths, and mold ornaments out of Model Magic. Special shows and sing-alongs kept the vibe lively, while Snow Globe photo ops created memorable snapshots.
Located at The Florida Mall, this immersive experience caters especially to families with younger children. Keep an eye out for exciting new additions as 2025 event details have not yet been announced.
See the Lights and Ride the ICON Park Wheel
Located along International Drive, Holiday Happenings at ICON Park offer festive fun from The Lawn to the top of The Orlando Eye. In previous years, Santa’s Workshop Experience included a photo session in the Sky Lounge and a 400-foot ride with Bluetooth-enabled holiday music.
Guests enjoyed nightly “snowfall” across the Lawn, as well as performances by the Charles Dickens Carolers on weekends and select holiday dates. Attractions like SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and Museum of Illusions joined in with seasonal theming and interactive adventures like Frostbite’s Winter Wonderland scavenger hunt.
Restaurants on-site also served up après-ski cocktails and hosted Christmas brunches with festive menus. While 2025’s programming sounds promising, official announcements and full schedules have yet to be released.
Build Holiday Memories at LEGOLAND
Past editions of holidays at LEGOLAND have made the park a must-visit for families celebrating Orlando Christmas with little ones. A 30-foot LEGO Christmas Tree lit up the park nightly with a music-and-light show surrounded by falling “snow.”
Visitors met life-sized LEGO characters, including our fave Christmas character, Santa, the Gingerbread Man, and holiday elves for photo ops throughout the day. Special performances included The Very Merry Mix-Up and the Holly Hype Dance Party, along with elf-training games and scavenger hunts.
From festive crafts to kids’ New Year’s eve fireworks, the whole park transformed into a hands-on holiday playground. Though, the details for 2025 have not yet been revealed as well.
What Are the Top Christmas Events Orlando Is Hosting in 2025?
From immersive lights to hometown parades, Christmas events in Orlando promise festive fun across every corner of the city. Lake Nona’s Oh, What Fun!® Holiday Festival returns with snowfall, Santa’s Cottage, and family-friendly performances throughout December.
In Winter Park, December 5 and 6 bring Winter On the Avenue and the Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade–both cherished Central Florida traditions. Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens lights up the holidays with glowing tunnels, candlelit forests, and nightly entertainment from November 28 to January 4.
The Orlando Ballet’s Nutcracker and Holiday Harmonies at the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra add cultural sparkle to the season. From parades to performances, these are just a few highlights—read on to discover even more holiday magic!
Experience the Magic of Oh, What Fun!® Holiday Festival
At Lake Nona Town Center, the beloved holiday event, Oh, What Fun!® Holiday Festival, brings nightly snowfalls and weekend performances every December. In past years, “Lake Snow-na” featured snow flurries, a 24-foot tree, and photo ops with Peppermint the Penguin.
The festival also included Santa’s Toy Box acrobat show on Fridays and Peppermint Square Snow Days on Saturdays. On Sundays, families enjoyed live performances from local school groups during Family Fun days.
Santa’s Cottage, the Evergreen Tree Trail, and sweet-treat pop-ups rounded out the magical experience. Dates and details for 2025 have not yet been announced.
Celebrate the Season With Winter Park’s Holiday Kickoff and Parade
Winter Park’s most festive tradition kicks off December 5, 2025, with Winter on the Avenue in Central Florida from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. The celebration includes a Christmas tree lighting in Central Park (251 S Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789) and a menorah lighting.
Enjoy snow slides, s’mores, live music, art contests, and Santa sightings throughout the evening. On December 6 at 9:00 a.m., the 73rd annual Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade marches down Park Avenue with over 80 local groups.
This is the oldest continuously running holiday parade in Central Florida, drawing families and visitors. Additional 2025 parade entertainment updates are still pending. Keep checking back for full event coverage!
Watch a Holiday Classic With Orlando Ballet’s The Nutcracker
One of the most anticipated things to do in Orlando in December is seeing Orlando Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker at Dr. Phillips Center. Performances for 2025 begin December 5 at Steinmetz Hall (445 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801), offering a fresh take on the holiday tradition.
Choreographed by Jorden Morris, this whimsical version combines classical elegance with imaginative flair. The production includes enchanting set design, elaborate costumes, and a full orchestra. It’s a seasonal staple for locals and visitors seeking timeless holiday magic on stage. Specific showtimes and dates beyond opening night have not yet been announced. Check back soon for the full schedule!
Enjoy Seasonal Sounds With Holiday Harmonies at Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra
For anyone asking what to do in Orlando in December, the Holiday Harmonies concert by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra offers a festive musical escape. Performed by the Brass Quintet, this family-friendly concert combines holiday classics, storytelling, and lively audience participation.
The 2025 shows will take place at The Plaza Live (425 N Bumby Ave, Orlando, FL 32803) on Saturday, December 7 at 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., and Sunday, December 8 at 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.. Kids are encouraged to dance, sing, and clap along with the musicians for a joyful, interactive experience.
The intimate format makes it easy for families with little ones to enjoy live music together. Tickets typically go quickly, so plan ahead and don’t miss this heartwarming holiday performance!
Walk Through the Wonder of Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens
Harry P. Leu Gardens (1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803) hosts Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens, an immersive light experience celebrating holiday traditions. The 2025 event is set for November 28 through January 4, with timed entry beginning nightly at 5:30 p.m.
Walk through tunnels of lights, glowing topiaries, and towering holiday trees while enjoying snowfall and festive drinks. Each year, new installations debut—like candlelit stained glass forests and a dazzling tunnel of stars.
The event is designed as both a family outing and date-night destination, complete with live entertainment and seasonal treats. More details for 2025 are coming soon.
Catch the Glow of Cranes Roost Park Holiday Lights
Every December, the holiday season shines bright at Cranes Roost Park Holiday Lights in Altamonte Springs (274 Cranes Roost Blvd, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701). The 2025 Light Up the Holidays event is set for December 6 from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., with fireworks at the lake.
A 60-foot tree, 200,000 lights, and festive performances transform the park into a family-friendly winter spectacle. Santa and Mrs. Claus appear alongside holiday concerts, kids’ activities, and themed displays.
Throughout the month, visitors can also attend movie nights and additional light-themed events. Additional December programming details for 2025 have not yet been announced. Check back for updates soon!
Are There Any Christmas Orlando Hotel Packages?
Yes, there are some seriously merry markdowns if you’re sleighing your way through Christmas in Orlando. Tripster offers exclusive holiday deals—up to 47% off—so you can splurge on hot cocoa, not hotel costs.
Planning a festive thrill ride? The Busch Gardens Tampa Hotel Package offers up to 47% off your stay and park admission—ideal for a holiday spin through Christmas Town. If SeaWorld is on your nice list, the SeaWorld Orlando Hotels Package also knocks up to 47% off select lodging and entry for their sparkling Christmas Celebration.
Looking for something colorful and kid-approved? The Crayola Experience Hotel Package offers up to 24% off, perfect for creative holiday magic. These jolly deals won’t last long—book early and keep more jingle in your wallet!
What Are The Christmas in Orlando FAQs?
What should I know about visiting Walt Disney World during the holidays?
Walt Disney World is a central part of Christmas in Orlando, offering festive events across all four parks. Highlights include Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom and the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays.
What can I experience at Universal Orlando Resort this Christmas?
Universal Orlando Resort brings bold holiday energy to Christmas in Orlando with themed lands and immersive entertainment. Guests can enjoy the Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, Grinchmas at Seuss Landing, and Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Is SeaWorld part of the Christmas celebration in Orlando?
SeaWorld is a major player during Christmas in Orlando, transforming into a winter wonderland with lights and live shows. Annual favorites include the Sea of Trees, O Wondrous Night, and Winter Wonderland on Ice.
Can I take my kids to Crayola Experience for Christmas fun?
Crayola Experience adds a colorful twist to Christmas in Orlando with interactive, holiday-themed crafts and creative activities. Past years included ornament-making, festive scavenger hunts, and light shows ideal for younger children.
What does ICON Park do for the holidays?
ICON Park enhances Christmas in Orlando with nightly snowfall, photo ops, and The Santa Workshop Experience at The Orlando Eye. Visitors can also enjoy carolers, themed attractions, and holiday cocktails at nearby restaurants.
Is LEGOLAND a good place to celebrate the holidays with kids?
LEGOLAND is a perfect holiday stop during Christmas in Orlando, especially for families with younger children. The park features a giant LEGO Christmas tree, holiday shows, character meet-and-greets, and seasonal scavenger hunts.
What kind of events can I expect from Christmas events Orlando this 2025?
Christmas events Orlando are broad in variety, ranging from theme park parades to immersive light shows and cultural performances. Visitors can attend the 73rd Annual Winter Park Christmas Parade, see the Nutcracker at Dr. Phillips Center, and explore Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens with its 70-foot light tunnel and candlelit forest.
What is the Oh, What Fun!® Holiday Festival and should my family go?
Oh, What Fun!® Holiday Festival is part of Christmas events Orlando, bringing snowfalls, weekend performances, and photo ops to Lake Nona. Families can visit Santa’s Cottage, stroll the Evergreen Tree Trail, and enjoy live music and crafts.
When is the Winter Park Christmas Parade and what can I expect?
Winter Park Holiday Kickoff and Christmas Parade is one of the longest-running traditions in Christmas events Orlando. Guests can enjoy Winter on the Avenue festivities December 5, followed by the Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade on December 6.
Should I see The Nutcracker while I’m in Orlando?
Orlando Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker is a cornerstone of Christmas events Orlando, offering a whimsical performance at Dr. Phillips Center. The show opens December 5 and combines classic ballet with reimagined choreography and magical sets.
Is Dazzling Nights worth it for a Christmas light experience?
Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens is a fan favorite among Christmas events Orlando, offering immersive holiday lighting and festive pathways. Visitors walk through glowing tunnels, candlelit forests, and towering decorated trees from November 28 to January 4.
What happens at Cranes Roost Park during the holidays?
Cranes Roost Park Holiday Lights is a scenic addition to Christmas events Orlando, hosted in Altamonte Springs. The “Light Up the Holidays” event on December 6 includes a 60-foot tree, live music, and fireworks.
Are there money-saving Christmas Orlando hotel packages?
Christmas Orlando hotel packages offer broad savings at family-friendly resorts and park-adjacent properties throughout the city. With Tripster, travelers can save up to 47% on select hotel stays bundled with attraction tickets.
What kind of Christmas Orlando vacation packages can I book for my trip?
Christmas Orlando vacation packages make trip planning easier by combining tickets, lodging, and top holiday attractions. Tripster offers savings up to 62% when bundling options like SeaWorld + Busch Gardens or Crayola Experience + hotel stays.
What Christmas Orlando Vacation Packages Are Available?
Wondering what Christmas Orlando vacation packages are out there? Tripster makes it joyfully easy to bundle top attractions and save big—up to 61% off big.
When you combine tickets to holiday favorites like theme parks and shows, the savings seriously add up. Bundle smart and give yourself the gift of a stress-free, memory-filled holiday getaway. Because no one wants to overspend during peppermint mocha season!
SeaWorld Orlando + Busch Gardens Tampa Tickets
Save up to 61% with the SeaWorld Orlando + Busch Gardens Tampa Tickets package for the ultimate combo of marine life and Christmas cheer. Book now to unwrap festive shows, sparkling lights, and double the holiday fun—without doubling your budget.
SeaWorld Orlando + Aquatica Orlando
Save up to 61% with the SeaWorld Orlando + Aquatica Orlando package and enjoy Christmas-themed entertainment by day and warm winter waves by afternoon. Dive into both parks for a holly jolly splash that keeps your spirit bright and your spending light.
Busch Gardens Tampa + Clearwater Marine Aquarium Combo
Save up to 49% with the Busch Gardens Tampa + Clearwater Marine Aquarium Combo and explore thrilling rides alongside real-life sea animal rescue stories. This festive two-for-one is perfect for families looking to mix heartwarming with high-energy this holiday season.
Why Travelers Love Booking with Tripster:
💥 Instant ticket confirmation
🚫 No promo code needed
💸 No surprise fees at checkout
📱 Mobile-friendly experience
🛎️ Bundle hotels + attractions
💼 Stress-free booking process
So, What’s My Next Move?
Now that you’ve got the scoop on Christmas in Orlando, it’s time to make this holiday season unforgettable. With so many Christmas events Orlando has to offer, you won’t want to wait until the last minute.
Start by planning your trip early to snag the best hotel rates, park tickets, and seasonal deals through Tripster. You can book attractions, shows, and vacation packages all in one place—saving time, stress, and serious cash.
Don’t forget to map out your itinerary so you’re not cramming light shows and theme parks into one day. Orlando is calling, and the holiday magic is too good to miss!
