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Orlando is known as The City Beautiful and known for being a place to have fun. It makes sense then that there are lots of fun things to do in Orlando at Christmas. From ice skating in shorts to gingerbread houses big enough you could actually walk inside, Christmas in Orlando is a special time of year.

Christmas in Orlando is the perfect winter escape if you are ready for sunshine and 70 degree temperatures (21 – 26C). If that sounds like something you would like, use this list to find all the best holiday activities Orlando and Central Florida have to offer this year. Thankfully there are things to do in Orlando for Christmas for every budget, from free to Disney.

In this guide from an Orlando native, you can find the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas in 2022 including dates, times, and prices. In addition, maps and addresses in this post make planning your Christmas in Orlando even easier. Also included are a few day trip options in case you want to see some of the best things to do in Florida at Christmas and not just in the Orlando area.

If you’re looking for more Orlando Christmas tips, don’t miss our guide to the best Orlando Christmas lights!

***Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra charge to you. 

MAP OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO AT CHRISTMAS IN ORLANDO & SURROUNDING AREAS

Feel free to click the star at the top of this map to save it to your maps for later. This map helps you see which of the Christmas activities are located close together to make your planning a little easier. Please note that some of these events take place only on certain days. Check the listings below to see when each event takes place.

Looking for a hotel in Orlando to explore our Christmas activities? Check current deals on Agoda and Booking.com.

WEATHER IN ORLANDO IN DECEMBER

December is one of my favorite months to live in Orlando. Not only do we have plenty of outdoor things to do in Orlando in December, but the weather is near perfect.

The average high for Orlando in December is 75F with the average low at 55F. Our rainy season and hurricane season are both over, so the chances of rain are much lower than in the summer.

Floridians will tell you it can get cold, but most people from cooler climates are still comfortable in shorts or short-sleeved shirts. Bring a light jacket just in case.

Check just before you arrive to make sure we are not getting a cold front. Even if we do get a cold front, the cold weather only lasts a day or two before it warms back up.

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING ORLANDO AT CHRISTMAS

Is Orlando busy at Christmas?

If you plan to visit Orlando in December, know that you are visiting in our high season. Because hurricane season is over and the weather is beautiful, we tend to get a lot more visitors in the winter.

While the theme parks will be extra busy during school holidays and on weekends, visiting some of the lesser known events on the list or visiting during the weekdays when school is in session makes it possible to experience Christmas in Orlando without all the crowds.

How to Get Around Orlando at Christmas

If you are flying in to visit Orlando in December, plan to rent a car. We do not have a good public transportation system, and using Uber or Lyft the entire time can get expensive.

Unless you are staying on Disney property and not leaving Disney the entire time, a rental car is your best option to get around.

Is Orlando a Good Place to Go for Christmas?

As an Orlando local, of course I’m going to say that Orlando is a good place to visit at Christmas. Given the number of people who visit Orlando at Christmas though, I’m not alone if feeling this way.

Orlando is the perfect warm winter destination to escape the cold and snow. With lower humidity and cooler temperatures, you’ll be able to enjoy outdoor Christmas events without needing to bundle up. Plus, with all of the special events for Christmas, you’ll find things to do for adults and kids.

THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO AT CHRISTMAS (& NEARBY)

Oftentimes, places are labeled as being in Orlando but are actually in one of the surrounding towns and cities. Orlando and these surrounding cities host quite a few holiday events in November and December leading up to Christmas.

Many of these events include food, music, and fun activities for all ages and are more of local things to do versus theme park things to do. Check out the best Christmas events Orlando and the surrounding cities have to offer this year.

FUN THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO IN DECEMBER OUTSIDE OF THE THEME PARKS

Some of these Orlando holiday events include free entry but have things you can pay for as well. Others require a ticket to enter. Overall, these are some of the fun things to do in Orlando at Christmas for the whole family.

OH, WHAT FUN IN LAKE NONA

Dates & Times: December 4 – December 24 (check calendar for times)
Cost: FREE but bring money for ice skating, food, and drinks
Location: Lake Nona Town Center

Oh, What Fun in Lake Nona is a more recent holiday event in Orlando featuring an ice skating rink, live entertainment, holiday movies, Santa Claus, and a mailbox for letters headed to the North Pole. Snow makes an appearance as well every hour on the hour.

Live performances pop up throughout the event, so make sure to check their website for the latest. There are a variety of other special events and fun activities planned, so check out their site for the full details.

Santa makes an appearance at Santa’s Cottage on special days for photos. While you can purchase a package to get photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, you can also take your own Insta-worthy photos or film your next TikTok there on certain days without them.

Get more details here.

NOW SNOWING IN CELEBRATION

Dates & Times: November 26 – December 31 with nightly snowfall hourly from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Cost: FREE ENTRY
Location: Celebration Town Center in Celebration, Florida

Celebration is located just minutes from Disney World making it convenient for those visiting the theme parks for the holidays.

Every night in December, snow falls in Celebration Town Center on the hour from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. It may be 70 degrees and you may be wearing flip flops, but you can still play in the Florida “snow” as Christmas music plays. Celebration also goes over the top with Christmas lights and decorations, but more about that later.

While entry into the area is free, some of the activities do have costs associated with them. The ice skating rink is open from 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. and costs $15 for 30 minutes including skate rentals. Carriage and sleigh rides are also available for $75 for up to four riders ($10 for each additional rider), and wagon rides are only $7 per person.

The celebration in Celebration is so popular that even Santa and Mrs. Claus stop by for pictures. The prices depend on the packages purchased, but Santa and Mrs. Claus stop by every day from 6 – 9 p.m. until December 24 (5:30 on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). They even pose with your pets on Wednesdays starting at 5 p.m. until close.

There are two special events this year at Now Snowing Celebration. On December 3, enjoy the Celebration Art Walk art festival. The following weekend, on December 10, Hearts of Reality featuring over 100 reality stars will take place to raise money for Give Kids the World.

Parking is free in open lots in Celebration, but parking laws are enforced during the event. If you park illegally, your car may be towed at your own expense, so make sure to check signs before parking.

WINTER PARK PARK AVENUE HOLIDAY MARKET

Date & Time: December 1, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Location: Winter Park Farmers’ Market, 200 West New England Avenue

The Winter Park Farmers’ Market is a favorite of locals all year long. At Christmas, they do a special holiday market on December 1 where you can check off some local items from your holiday wish list.

Support local businesses as you shop to holiday music. Santa even makes an appearance from 4 – 6 p.m.

WINTER PARK OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS CRUISE

Dates: Most evenings in December
Cost: $30 each for most tickets (over half off from most years!)
Location: 312 East Morse Boulevard, Winter Park, FL

Starting December 1, you can enjoy a nighttime cruise on the Winter Park chain of lakes to enjoy the lakeside Christmas lights. The tours last about 80 minutes and leave at 6:30 p.m.

Because they know that 2022 has been a tough year for many financially, they have discounted the Winter Park Christmas Cruise to only $30 a person this year (usually it is $65!).

While cruising through some of the prettiest lakes in central Florida, enjoy Christmas music and holiday trivia along with readings of T’Was the Night Before Christmas and The Christmas Story. You’ll also leave with a gift bag full of holiday treats. You can purchase tickets here.

OVIEDO WINTER FEST

Date & Time: December 10, 2022 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost: $20 in advance or $25 at the gate
Location: Oviedo on the Park, 321 E Mitchell Hammock Rd

The cost of Winter Fest covers the activities inside the event, but there is also a cash bar and food available for purchase.

Your ticket to Winter Fest includes the bounce house, trampoline, slides, face painting, holiday train ride, hot cocoa station, pictures with Santa and other activities.

CHRISTMAS AT GAYLORD PALMS ORLANDO

Dates: November 18, 2022 – January 1, 2023
Cost: Varies per activity (discounts for Florida residents and others; bundled tickets also available)
Location: Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, 6000 West Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee

Each year, Gaylord Palms Resort presents ICE!, a winter wonderland made of more than two million pounds of ice that is hand-carved into sculptures of all shapes and sizes. ICE! is back in 2022 featuring How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

ICE! was actually one of our dates when we were dating all the way back in 2008, so it holds a special place in our hearts. It’s fun for couples, but it is also one of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas with kids thanks to the variety of events.

Make sure to walk through the St. Augustine atrium to take in the 60-foot tall Christmas tree. The Shine light show features over 2 million choreographed lights that make the tree and atrium even more beautiful at 9:15 p.m. each evening. Check out the Christmas Tree Trail too for eight more Christmas trees, each with a different theme.

You can go ice tubing indoors and race down one of eight lanes in a single or double rider tube. Still not ready to leave the snow for the Florida sunshine? Grab a bucket of snowballs and test your aim at interactive targets made by Santa’s Elves at Santa’s Snow Throw.

Once you are snowed out, test your skills in the Naughty or Nice Escape Room where Jack Frost has added your name to the Naughty List. This is your one chance to erase your name from the Naughty List before Santa returns.

Make gingerbread cookies or a gingerbread house and take pictures with Cinnamon and Nutmeg, the Gaylord Palms’ gingerbread couple. Then join Santa’s elves in the Elf Training Academy to make creative keepsakes for your loved ones and earn your toy maker elf name on your elf hat before you go. Don’t forget to mail your wish list to Santa at the Reindeer Express Post Office before you go.

Mrs. Claus’ Christmas Traditions gives Mrs. Claus a chance to retell the classic “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” along with a sing-along filled with holiday songs. A freshly baked cookie and glass of cold milk are included.

The Gaylord Palms also presents a special Christmas show called Cirque: Spirit of Christmas. Watch breathlessly as stunning feats are performed high in the air and on the stage below in a 25-minute show about a Christmas dream. Tickets can be purchased here.

The Gaylord Palms also has a complimentary Christmas show. The Greatest Story Stage Show brings together six storytellers from around the world to share the story of Christmas and Jesus Christ. The show is free, but guaranteed seats can be purchased.

Get updated details on all of the events at Christmas at Gaylord Palms here.

SANTA’S TREE FARM

Dates & Times: November 19 – December 18, 2022, times vary (click here for more)
Cost: $7+ entry fee per person depending on day but additional activities cost extra
Location: Santa’s Christmas Tree Forest

There are lots of places to buy Christmas trees in Orlando, but Santa’s Tree Farm is more than just a lot with Christmas trees. This Christmas tree forest makes the list of the best things to do in Orlando for the holidays because it offers so many fun activities for the family.

Not only can you can come pick out a Christmas tree and see trees in all stages of growth, but you can also choose and cut down your own Christmas tree from the farm to take home with you (pre-cut trees are also available for less).

For an additional fee, Jolly Acres allows kids to play on Buddy’s Bounce Pillow, test their skills in the Elf Maze and Crazy Maze, enjoy barrel tram rides, slide down Comet’s Chase double barrel slide, try out the Shark Tooth Dig, race a rubber ducky in the duck race and more.

Adults enter for just the general admission price with a paying child. Add on a horse or pony ride and unlimited zip line rides for more fun. Single horse or pony rides can also be purchased.

If you are wanting to take family photos here (it makes for a great backdrop), be aware that no props, outfit changes, tripods, or professional equipment (such as reflectors or camera bags) is allowed on the weekends during general admission hours.

However, on weekdays, families can purchase a family photography pass. Professional photographers who are taking photos of one or multiple families must buy a professional photographer pass (each family still needs the family pass too).

COLORFUL CHRISTMAS AT CRAYOLA EXPERIENCE

Dates & Times: November 19, 2022 – January 3, 2023
Cost: Varies
Location: Crayola Experience at Florida Mall

The Crayola Experience is hosting Colorful Christmas in 2022 with a sing along hosted by Scarlet and her singing reindeer friends at Café Crayola, life-sized holiday animatronic characters sharing stories from the North Pole, and a holiday scavenger hunt.

Create a Christmas card, your own snowman ornament, or a reindeer you mold yourself. Need a refreshment after creating a holiday gift? Enjoy seasonal refreshments available only during this event.

More details here.

DAZZLING NIGHTS AT HARRY P. LEU GARDENS

Dates & Times: November 25, 2022 – January 1, 2023 (Closed on Christmas)
Cost: $12 – $200
Location: Harry P. Leu Gardens

Harry P. Leu Gardens is transforming into a winter wonderland in 2022 with a million lights for a new family friendly adventure that takes you on a three-quarter mile walk through an interactive holiday experience.

Start with a photo opportunity in front of a 30′ Christmas tree before taking a stroll through a forest of lights and fog. The entire event has been remade this year to feature new surprises. Enjoy an 8,000 square foot light maze and 185 candle lit hanging Moroccan lanterns as part of the new features.

Parking is available at Harry P. Leu Gardens for a fee. Otherwise you can park at Blue Jacket park (2501 General Rees Avenue) and take a free shuttle to Leu Gardens.

GIVE KIDS THE WORLD VILLAGE: NIGHT OF A MILLION LIGHTS

Dates & Times: November 12, 2022 – January 1, 2023
Cost: Varies ($30 – $40 for adults and $15 – $20 for kids)
Location: Give Kids the World Village

Returning for a third year, Give Kids the World Village is offering a walk-through, fully immersive Christmas light event. See what it looks like to have the Avenue of Angels lit up with over 3 million lights and enjoy holiday treats and accessible rides. These rides and attractions have brought joy to critically ill children for 35 years.

There are three types of tickets available depending on when you visit and a limited number of tickets available. Standard dates are $30 for adults and $15 for kids. Peak dates are $35 for adults and $18 for kids. Holiday dates are $40 for adults and $20 for kids. You’ll also need to choose a 2 hour window to visit when booking.

Buy your tickets here.

THE SANTA WORKSHOP EXPERIENCE AT ICON PARK

Dates & Times: November 1 – December 26
Cost: $20 – $60
Location: ICON Park

Stop in to visit Santa at ICON Park in Orlando where he will even give your child a personalized gift if you plan ahead.

You’ll also get to take a ride on The Wheel (formerly The Orlando Eye). Kids ride free with a Santa photo package and get a discount for additional riders.

Find out more here.

LIGHT UP UCF (CANCELED)

Dates & Times: Canceled for 2022
Cost: FREE entry but prices vary by activity (full list of prices here)
Location: Addition Financial Arena at the University of Central Florida

Light Up UCF features a free holiday light show with over 200,000 lights and Orlando’s largest outdoor skating rink in the middle of Orlando’s largest college campus (and my alma mater). Enjoy the free Holiday Film Festival on Fridays and Saturdays at 7 and 9:30 p.m. featuring family friendly Christmas titles.

Santa makes an appearance on the weekends, and you can find rare Florida snow here as well on select nights. Rides include a Ferris wheel, the Light Up Express, the Arctic Glide Ice Slide, and the Winter Whirl. Prices for activities range from $2 – $12 (photo packages with Santa cost more) and discounts are available for UCF students, military, and groups. For more information on the event including a calendar of events, check out the official site here.

CHRISTMAS IN COLOR DRIVE THRU LIGHT SHOW (CANCELED)

Dates & Times: Not coming to Orlando in 2022
Cost: $35 – $45 per vehicle (USE CODE LIVELOVE15 FOR 15% OFF)
Location: Island H20 Water Park

Enjoy a drive thru Christmas lights show just outside of Orlando at Island H20 Water Park. The drive goes for about a mile so you can see over a million lights synchronized to music.

Tickets are $35 for regular entry at a specified time or $45 for priority entry. Each ticket is good for the entire vehicle, so load up your family and friends and head to one of the best Orlando Christmas lights displays. Purchase tickets and see other locations here. Christmas in Color discount code for 15% off: LIVELOVE15.

OTHER ORLANDO HOLIDAY EVENTS IN NOVEMBER

The holiday events in Orlando get started early with several taking place in November. Here are some of the best things to do in November to celebrate Christmas in Orlando.

LIGHT UP WINDERMERE ON MAIN STREET

Date & Time: November 18, 2022 from 5 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Location: Windermere Town Hall, 520 Main Street

Held annually on the last Friday before Thanksgiving, Light Up Windermere takes place during the monthly Windermere food truck event. The lights turn on at 7 p.m., and there will be blacklight bubbles from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m.

Live entertainment and over 100,000 white lights add to the holiday feel while dining on local food truck cuisine. The choirs from Foundation Academy and First Baptist Church at Windermere perform along with other local groups.

FESTIVAL OF TREES AT ORLANDO MUSEUM OF ART

Date & Time: November 12 – 22, 2022 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Cost: $20 for adults, $12 for children ages 3 – 11, $12 for senior citizens (65+), military and first responders (with valid ID); parking is $7
Location: Orlando Museum of Art

Celebrating its 36th year, the Festival of Trees transforms the Orlando Museum of Art into a wonderland with sparkling trees and beautiful Christmas decor. The theme for 2022 is Gifts of the Season and kicks off with a glamorous gala night.

After the kickoff, each day includes musical performances and family-friendly entertainment. Come check out designer Christmas tress in all shapes and sizes, hand designed wreaths, a gingerbread village, and more.

This is an Orlando holiday event that I go to every year. It’s a girls day out where I always got to spend time with my mom and my grandma before she passed. We will continue the tradition and treasure the memories.

If you are interested, each piece is available for purchase. Tickets also include admission to the Orlando Museum of Art. Click here for more information.

IVANHOE VILLAGE JINGLE EVE

Date & Time: November 19, 2022 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Cost: FREE but bring money for purchases
Location: Ivanhoe Village

Ivanhoe Village represents Orlando’s indie side, and their Jingle Eve event is the kickoff to the Orlando Christmas season.

The event spans Orange Avenue and Virginia Drive as well as Gaston Edwards Park. Experience live music, arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, beer gardens, a children’s holiday village where kids can create cards for hospitalized children, and more.

At th end of the evening, don’t miss the fireworks display over Lake Ivanhoe.

The event is free except for the 12 Wines of Christmas walk, but you’ll want to bring money to spend on food, drinks, and gifts for others or yourself.

FREE THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO AT CHRISTMAS OTHER THAN THE THEME PARKS

The best things in life are free, or so they say. Orlando offers some pretty amazing free Christmas events throughout November and December and even into the first week of January. A few of these have upcharges but the majority are completely free.

CITY OF ORLANDO TREE LIGHTING CELEBRATION & LIGHT SHOW

Date & Time for Celebration: December 2, 2022, from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Dates & Times for Light Show: On display until the first weekend in January with synchronized music and light shows hourly starting at 5:45 and running until 9:45 p.m. each evening
Cost: FREE
Location: Lake Eola Park, 512 East Washington Street, Orlando, FL 32801

Every year, Downtown Orlando celebrates the start of the Christmas season with the annual Tree Lighting Celebration. In 2022, this event takes place on December 2. The event typically features the 72-foot Christmas tree covered in lights, live music and performances, The Daily City’s Food Truck Bazaar, and other vendor booths.

If you can’t make it to the tree lighting, that’s okay because the tree is on display until early January. Every night, there is an hourly light show with synchronized music. The first light show each night is at 5:45 p.m., and the last one each night is at 9:45 p.m.

Don’t just see the Christmas tree and leave though. Walk around Lake Eola and see the other Christmas decorations. Follow the nearly one mile path (.9 mi/1.4 km) around the lake to enjoy the rest of the decorations as well.

Santa also visits on weekends in December leading up to Christmas most years for photo ops at the Eola House.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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70TH ANNUAL WINTER PARK CHRISTMAS PARADE

Date & Time: December 3, 2022 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Cost: FREE
Location: Park Avenue in Winter Park between Cole Avenue and Lyman Avenue

Central Florida’s oldest continual holiday parade happens each year in Winter Park, Florida. The Winter Park Ye Olde Hometown Christmas parade goes down Park Avenue in the heart of Winter Park, starting at Canton Avenue and Park Avenue, continuing down Park Avenue to the south, and ending at Hannibal Square. The parade includes marching bands, local fire and police, and Santa.

The annual Pancake Breakfast by Leadership Winter Park takes place before and during the parade as well from 7 – 10 a.m. The Pancake Breakfast requires a ticket but includes pancakes, toppings, sausage, coffee, milk, and juice. The proceeds from the tickets go to leadership development programs for adults and youth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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WINTER PARK BOAT PARADE

Date & Time: December 10, 2022 at 6 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Location: Rollins College, Cornell Fine Arts Museum, and Dinky Dock

While the Ski Extravaganza part of the Winter Park Boat Parade is not happening again this year, nothing says Christmas in Orlando like a celebration on the water. The event is free but donations benefit local food pantries including the food pantry at Winter Park High School, my alma mater.

In the boat parade, locals decorate their boats with Christmas lights and other decorations. Many go all out as there are prizes involved for best boat, best Winter Park boat, and best Santa boat.

The best areas to view the parade include the lake side of the Cornell Fine Arts Museum where the judges watch, the beach areas at Rollins College, and Dinky Dock Park.

THE NUTCRACKER BALLET BY THE RUSSIAN BALLET OF ORLANDO

Dates & Times: December 17, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. (seats must be claimed by 6:30 p.m. or they will be released to the general public)
Cost: FREE
Location: Walt Disney Amphitheater at Lake Eola Park in Orlando

Each year the Russian Academy of Ballet gives a free performance of The Nutcracker in Downtown Orlando at the Walt Disney Amphitheater at Lake Eola. Because this event is free, make sure to arrive early if you want to get one of the limited number of seats available. You can prepurchase VIP tickets here.

This is a free Orlando Christmas event you don’t want to miss! Other shows also take place around Orlando throughout the month of December. Click here for dates and locations.

THE CITY OF OVIEDO CHRISTMAS PARADE

Date & Time: December 3, 2022 starting at 7 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Location: Oviedo on the Park, 321 E Mitchell Hammock Rd

This Christmas event starts with a parade through Oviedo. Line up along Center Lake Lane and Oviedo Boulevard to watch the parade. The parade starts from Oviedo Gym & Aquatics Center at 7 p.m.

There are vendors and food and drinks (including alcohol) available for purchase starting at 5 p.m. at Center Lake Park.

COLLEGE PARK’S HOLIDAY ON THE DRIVE

Date & Time: December 10, 2022 with parade beginning at 5 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Location: College Park’s Main Street

Each year, Edgewater Drive in College Park transforms into a winter wonderland. Santa comes with snow to welcome the holiday season and the parade starts at 5 p.m.

Shops, restaurants and businesses along Edgewater Drive are also open for holiday dining and shopping. You can get more details here.

Parking is available for the event; see a map of the designated parking areas here.

LIGHT UP WINTER GARDEN & WINTER GARDEN CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Dates & Times: December 2 & December 3 for main events, but lights are on through January
Cost: FREE (some purchases available)
Location: Downtown Winter Garden

Light Up Winter Garden kicks off the season with the lights turning on at 6:15 p.m. on December 2 on Plant Street. Stop by the Main Street Wonderland where you will find 22 tons of snow and a snow slide.

The next day on December 3, the Christmas Parade takes place starting at 10 a.m. This is followed by the Christmas Market on Plant Street when the road becomes pedestrian only. Later in the evening, the day is capped off with the Winter Garden Christmas Golf Cart Parade.

LIGHT UP MOUNT DORA & MOUNT DORA CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Dates & Times: November 26 – end of December
Cost: FREE (some purchases available)
Location: Downtown Mount Dora

Mount Dora makes the list for best things to do in Orlando at Christmas even though it is located about 45 minutes outside the city. Covered in over two million twinkling lights and known for its Polar Express train (canceled for 2022), Mount Dora knows how to do Christmas right.

While these are what Mount Dora is best known for at Christmas, there are plenty of other holiday activities that take place in Mount Dora throughout the season.

Christmas really gets into full swing on November 26 with the lighting of the Main Street Christmas tree. Light Up Mount Dora takes place from 3:30 to 9 p.m. with a firework display after dark and Santa arriving by boat.

The two million Christmas lights in Mount Dora will still be on for all to enjoy throughout the rest of November and all of December.

There is also the Mount Dora Christmas Parade on the first Saturday of December, the Mount Dora Lighted Boat Parade on December 3, and Snow in the Park on December 10. You can get the full lineup of events here for Mount Dora and Tavares.

LIGHT UP THE HOLIDAYS AT CRANES ROOST PARK IN ALTAMONTE SPRINGS

Date & Time: December 3 – first weekend in January starting at dusk
Cost: FREE
Location: Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte Springs

Celebrate the season with the City of Altamonte Springs at the annual Light Up the Holidays event at Cranes Roost Park. Along with live music and entertainment, train rides, kids activities and Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy one of the only Christmas fireworks displays in Orlando.

Don’t miss out on the 200,000 Christmas lights and the 60-foot tree that remain on display throughout the season. The main event takes place on December 3 from 5 – 9 p.m.

The Holiday Fountain Show happens hourly from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. each night with the water and lights synchronized with holiday music. There will also be live music on select dates.

More details on the events here.

CHRISTMAS IN CHRISTMAS, FLORIDA

Dates & Times: All Year
Cost: FREE
Location: Christmas, Florida

Yes, Christmas, Florida, is a real place where it is Christmas all year long. The town outside of Orlando has a Christmas tree up all year long at the intersection of State Road 50 and Fort Christmas Road.

It gets more popular at Christmas as some people like to mail their Christmas cards at the post office there to have their envelopes stamped with Christmas, Florida. The post office has holiday-related stamps you can use too. There is also a box for letters making their way to Santa in the post office.

If you make the drive out to Christmas, don’t miss Swampy, the world’s largest alligator. When you drive down SR 50 to Christmas from Orlando, you can’t miss him on the side of the road.

SANTA’S STORIES & MOVIE NIGHT AT WATERFORD LAKES

Dates & Times: December 9 at 6:30 p.m. (movie night) and December 16 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Location: Waterford Lakes (Behind The Porch by the Children’s Play Area, next to Regal Cinemas)

Santa’s Winter Wonderland Village at Waterford Lakes no longer happens, but Waterford Lakes does still host a free holiday movie night and Santa’s Stories.

On December 9, they will be showing The Santa Clause under the stars. The next week on December 16, Santa will come share his favorite stories. This is one of the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas with kids.

WINTER ON THE AVENUE IN WINTER PARK

Date & Time: December 2, 2022 from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Location: Central Park at the intersection of Garfield Avenue and Park Avenue

On the first Thursday of December each year, the Morse Museum lights up Tiffany windows in Central Park and presents a concert by the Bach Festival Choir and Brass Ensemble. The event showcases the Tiffany collection of windows in a public and informal setting.

The actual event takes place about a block away from the Morse Museum in Central Park at the intersection of Garfield Avenue and Park Avenue.

SANTA’S WONDERLAND AT BASS PRO SHOPS

Dates & Times: November 5 – December 24, 2022
Cost: FREE
Location: Bass Pro Shop in Orlando

Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shop gives you a chance to get FREE pictures with Santa. In addition, Bass Pro Shops offer free crafts as well as games and other activities. They even offer a free stuffed animal on certain days for the first 100 kids to take a picture with Santa.

Make sure to make your free reservation in advance as it is required in 2022. Show your confirmation at check-in and you are good to go. For hours and more information about special events at Santa’s Wonderland at Orlando’s Bass Pro Shop, click here.

DRIVE THRU NATIVITY AT FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF PINE CASTLE

Dates & Times: December 22 – 24, 2022, from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Location: First Baptist Church of Pine Castle

Enjoy live actors and animals presenting the story of the birth of Jesus as you follow the route through the church parking lot.

Instead of going inside the church for a Christmas performance, this unique Christmas activity near Downtown Orlando gives you a chance to experience the Christmas story from the comfort of your car.

THE DOWNTOWN ORLANDO CHRISTMAS PARADE

Date & Time: Saturday in mid-December (may be canceled again for 2022)
Cost: FREE
Location: The parade route runs down Orange Ave, Central Blvd, and Rosalind Avenue (see route here)

While the actual Christmas parade through Downtown Orlando starts at 4 p.m., the festivities for the event run from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The parade route starts at Robinson St. and Orange Ave. and continues down Orange Ave. to Central Blvd. At Central, the parade route turns left and continues to Rosalind Ave. where it makes another left. The parade ends at Rosalind Ave. and Robinson St.

FREE HOLIDAY MOVIES IN ORLANDO (OR NEARBY)

Dates & Times: Various dates and times depending on location (see below)
Cost: FREE
Location: Throughout Orlando (see below)

Several places in and around Orlando offer free holiday movies for families to enjoy. Most of the time these events take place outdoors in parks, so you may want to bring your own blankets or chairs. Snacks are typically available for purchase, but you may want to bring your own snacks as well.

In Lake Nona, holiday movies play on Friday nights at Oh, What Fun. The schedule for 2022 is available on their website.

Throughout the holiday season, Downtown Orlando offers free movies at the Walt Disney Amphitheater each week on Fridays in December at 7 p.m. The 2022 holiday lineup has not been announced as of mid-November.

Waterford Lakes is showing a free movie this holiday season on December 9.

THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO ON CHRISTMAS DAY

When it comes to things to do in Orlando on Christmas Day, you’ll find there are several options. Many of the Orlando Christmas events shut down for the day of Christmas to allow employees to celebrate with their families.

However, if you are looking for things to do in Orlando on Christmas, you can always check out some of the many Orlando Christmas lights. These include homes that go all out for Christmas as well as city displays like Orlando, Lake Nona, Winter Park, Oviedo, and Mount Dora.

Working off your Christmas dinner with a walk around Lake Eola is a great place to start. If Altamonte Springs is closer, you can walk around Cranes Roost Park instead. Then check out the Great Christmas Light Fight House or Jeater Bend in Celebration for more Christmas lights.

The Night of a Million Lights at Give Kids the World Village is open on Christmas. Now Snowing Celebration is also open.

THE BEST CHRISTMAS LIGHTS IN ORLANDO

Christmas in Orlando is not complete without seeing some of the over-the-top Christmas light displays. From personal homes to parks to businesses, Orlando knows how to decorate for Christmas.

Many of the activities mentioned above offer beautiful Christmas displays with thousands or even millions of sparkling lights. Because those events have already been covered, this list focuses on parks and properties not yet mentioned in this list that are known just for their Christmas light display.

For even more options, head to our full post on the best Christmas lights in Orlando.

THE GREAT CHRISTMAS LIGHT FIGHT HOUSE

Dates & Times: Open December 1 to December 31 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. nightly; back yard closes at 8:00 p.m. (back yard is closed for 2021)
Cost: FREE (donations are appreciated though) or $10 for the back yard
Location: 7849 Georgeann St., Winter Park, Florida

Also known as the Johanessen Lights, this house became famous when it was featured on the TV show, “The Great Christmas Light Fight.” Each year, this family takes months to decorate their home (and weeks to take everything back down).

The front and back yard are fully covered in over a quarter of a million lights. In addition to the house and yard being covered with decorations, “snow” (aka bubbles) falls regularly in the front yard each night. The back yard is not open in 2021.

Because this is in a neighborhood, parking is limited. Be prepared to park and walk, and make sure to park on the side opposite the homes. Please be respectful of the neighbor’s homes and yards; remember that this is a private residence and neighborhood while you are there. Be careful when coming and going as the road has many people walking to and from their cars in the dark.

GARDEN GROVE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

Dates & Times: Evenings in December
Cost: FREE (but donations are welcome)
Location: Garden Grove Circle, Winter Park, Florida

This neighborhood has been one of my favorite Christmas light displays for years. It started out with just a couple of houses going all out for Christmas, but now quite a few homes in the neighborhood get into it.

Parking is limited and some people choose to just drive the circular neighborhood. Your best bet is to find parking anywhere in the neighborhood and walk the short loop.

The main house is one of the first ones you see when you drive in. This house is completely covered and even features a display in the garage and in the windows. Several other houses in the neighborhood also go all out, so don’t just see this first house and leave.

Again, remember that this is a private neighborhood and private residences. Please be respectful of their property and the work they put into these displays.

CHRISTMAS WONDERS HOUSE IN KISSIMMEE

Dates & Times: Evenings in December (6:30 – 9:30 p.m. on Sundays – Thursdays and 6:30 – 11:00 p.m. on Fridays & Saturdays)
Cost: FREE
Location: 1642 Sunburst Way, Kissimmee, Florida

This house in Kissimmee earned a spot on the 2009 national top five list of holiday light displays from Reader’s Digest. Christmas music plays as you take in the thousands and thousands of lights covering the home. The lights stay up through New Year’s Day.

THE LIGHTS ON JEATER BEND IN CELEBRATION

Dates & Times: Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve from 6:00 – 9:30 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Location: 1027-1036 Jeater Bend Drive, Celebration, Florida 34747

Most neighborhood displays feature individual homes covered in lights. Celebration takes this to the next level. Rather than individuals all decorating their own homes, residents work together to present nearly a dozen homes in perfect synchronization with lights and music.

It isn’t just lights either. Some of the homes use projections or project movie clips and snow flurries even take place here.

While you can drive through, the better way to see this street is on foot. Park on Celebration Avenue and walk down Jeater Bend Drive to take your time enjoying the Christmas lights surrounding you. Taking time to walk down the street also makes it less likely that people are honking at you to keep moving. If past years are any indication, Santa will stop by on the Saturday before Christmas between 7:00 and 9:00 p.m.

If you have time, drive through some of the other streets and neighborhoods in Celebration. Because there are competitions and different themes each year, you can find lots of beautiful homes all decorated for Christmas.

CLEMWOOD STREET & CONWAY CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

Dates & Times: Evenings in December
Address: 2811 Clemwood Street

I grew up looking at Christmas lights in this area of Orlando, and it holds a special place in my heart. My grandparents live in this area, and every Christmas they would load us up and take us around to look at the best lights. I still go each year.

Some of my favorites are on Cullen Lake Shore Drive (near Gramont Ave especially) and on Oak Island Road. One of the best in the area started in 2020 by putting up a Christmas light to represent each person in the US who died that year from the pandemic.

2811 Clemwood Street has over 200,000 lights on a single family home. It is being featured in 2022 on The Great Christmas Light Fight, and it deserves this spot.

This one is located in a neighborhood and was already popular before it became nationally known. Please respect the homeowners and the neighborhood if you park, walk or drive through this area. Please also drive carefully as it stays busy.

While you are in the area, drive down Hoffner Avenue from Conway Road to Orange Avenue. Take a side trip down Cullen Lake Shore Drive and Summerwood Avenue for even more stunning displays.

If you want an interactive map of the area Christmas lights or even more specific addresses in the Conway area of Orlando for Christmast lights, check out my full post on the best Christmas lights in Orlando.

ORLANDO THEME PARK HOLIDAY EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

No list of the top things to do in Orlando at Christmas is complete without mentioning the theme parks. While the goal of this list is to provide you with other options as well, the theme parks cannot be ignored.

Believe it or not, there are some free holiday activities at the theme parks that do not require tickets. If you are looking to spend Christmas in one of Orlando’s many parks, here are the best things to do in Orlando at Christmas at the theme parks.

GRAND FLORIDIAN CHRISTMAS TREE & OTHER DISNEY RESORTS CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS

Dates & Times: Mid to late November through New Year’s
Cost: FREE
Location: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Christmas at Disney is a special treat, and some things are even free. At the holidays, Walt Disney World hotels and resorts go over the top in their decorations, and the Grand Floridian is no exception.

The entire resort is gorgeous anyways, but at Christmas the lobby takes on a whole new look. A massive Christmas tree fills the center of the lobby and 14-foot tall edible gingerbread house. The gingerbread house usually is up the second week of November while the tree usually goes up a week later. The gingerbread house is open from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., but expect a line in peak hours.

Be aware that parking at the resorts is extremely limited at the holidays. In order to park at the resort, you must be staying at the resort or have a reservation at the resort for a meal. Otherwise you have to find another way to get to the resorts.

We decided to get a reservation for breakfast to visit Grand Floridian early in the morning. It gets much more crowded later in the day, especially when Santa is in front of the tree for pictures.

In addition to the Grand Floridian, other popular Disney resorts to visit at Christmas also feature massive trees and impressive gingerbread creations. For more massive trees, check out Wilderness Lodge and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Resort.

For more incredible gingerbread creations, stop by Disney’s Contemporary Resort for its giant 18-foot tall Cinderella gingerbread castle, Disney’s Boardwalk Inn for its gingerbread academy allowing you to work alongside the experts, and Disney’s Beach Club Resort for its moving gingerbread carousel.

HOLIDAY HARBOR NIGHTS AT LOEWS PORTOFINO BAY HOTEL

Date & Time: November 25, 2022
Cost: $79+ plus tax
Location: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Celebrate the start of the holiday season in the Harbor Piazza at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. Your ticket includes gourmet food from each of the hotel’s restaurants as well as select wines and sparkling wines.

The food and wine stations are set up throughout the Piazza, and you can visit each station as often as you would like. Live music and dancing accompany the main event, the lighting of Portofino Bay’s Christmas tree.

Purchase tickets for the event and view the menu here.

EPCOT’S CANDLEIGHT PROCESSIONAL

Dates & Times: November 25 – December 30, 2022
Cost: Park admission required
Location: Epcot

Epcot’s Candlelight Processional presents the story of Christmas through celebrity narrators accompanied by a massed choir and 50-piece live orchestra. The celebrity narrators are only there for a few nights, so book it in plenty of time if your narrator is likely to be one of the more popular ones.

For the full narrator schedule and to purchase tickets, visit the official website for the Candlelight Processional.

MICKEY’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARTY AT DISNEY’S MAGIC KINGDOM

Dates & Times: Select nights from November 8 – December 22, 2022 from 7 p.m. until 12 a.m. (but you can enter as early as 4 p.m.)
Cost: $169+
Location: Magic Kingdom

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party returned in 2022 with entry as early as 4 p.m. for the event that runs on select nights in December from 7 p.m. until 12 a.m.

During the Disney Very Merry Christmas Party, there is a special parade and fireworks show. Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade brings snow to Main Street and features impressive lights and of course, Disney characters known and loved by all.

The parade does go on during the daytime during the week of Christmas and New Year’s, so it is possible to see the parade without a special ticket. However, during the daylight hours, the lights are not as impressive.

The Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks show includes the perimeter bursts during the Christmas party but again shows without the perimeter bursts during the week of Christmas to regular park guests.

Other special shows, events, and meet-and-greets are also available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. You’ll also find special food and drinks for sale as well as complimentary hot cocoa. For more information, visit the official event page.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Walt Disney World (@waltdisneyworld) on Nov 21, 2018 at 7:16am PST

SEAWORLD’S CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

Dates & Times: Select days from November 11, 2022 to January 3, 2023
Cost: Starting at $99.99 for a one day ticket
Location: SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration features special shows and meet-and-greets with Santa and Rudolph. The shows are what set apart Christmas at SeaWorld with several special Christmas themed shows. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the office event website.

The most popular show is O Wondrous Night. If you plan to see this show, arrive early as it does fill up quickly and has a limit to how many can fit in the room. The live nativity and 30 Christmas carols take viewers through the story of Jesus’ birth as told by the animals who witnessed the birth.

Once the sun sets, the Sea of Trees light show brings 100 trees to life with dancing lights reflecting on the water beneath them. Other holiday shows at SeaWorld include Winter Wonderland on Ice featuring talented singers and skaters, Clyde and Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas, Rudolph’s Movie Experience, and Shamu Christmas Miracles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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CHRISTMAS TREE STROLL AT DISNEY SPRINGS

Dates & Times: November 11 – December 30, 2022
Cost: FREE
Location: Disney Springs

Formerly the Christmas Tree Trail at Disney Springs, Disney changed it to a “stroll” in 2020 to allow for more social distancing. The stroll returns in 2022.

One of the few free holiday theme park activities in Orlando is the Christmas Tree Stroll. Unlike some of the theme park holiday activities, this one is still fairly new and improving each year.

The trail features 20 Christmas trees, each with their own theme. While some feature a character, others feature an entire movie. If you are going to be out at Disney Springs, take a walk through and see what themes were chosen for 2022.

GRINCHMAS & CHRISTMAS AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA

Dates & Times: November 12, 2022 – January 1, 2023
Cost: Included in your theme park admission
Location: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Universal Orlando Resort brings out some Christmas magic at each of their parks. From Harry Potter to the Grinch, the parks have something for everyone including special performances on select days by the Mannheim Steamrollers. Daigon Alley and Hogsmeade both get a Christmas makeover and seasonal food and drinks including hot Butterbeer.

Outside of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the Grinch takes over Universal’s Islands of Adventure for the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular. Grinchmas includes a live, musical stage show and a chance to meat the Grinch himself.

If you can’t get enough of the Grinch, enjoy The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast. This special breakfast does require reservations in addition to the regular park admission. Meanwhile, over at Universal Studios Florida, Santa, the Minions, and other Universal characters join together in Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s.

Get complete details and purchase tickets here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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LEGOLAND’S CHRISTMAS BRICKTACULAR

Dates & Times: Nov 25-27 & Dec 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 22-31
Cost: Included in park admission
Location: Legoland Florida Resort

The next place on our list of the best Orlando Christmas events is actually about an hour outside of Orlando. Legoland’s Christmas Bricktacular takes place on select days in November and December. Unlike many other theme parks, Legoland Christmas activities are included in park admission.

The centerpiece of the special holiday event is a 30-foot Christmas tree made up entirely of LEGO and DUPLO blocks. Kids can also take part in a holiday-themed scavenger hunt complete with prizes, meet LEGO characters, and enjoy building activities with Master Model Builders.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by LEGOLAND Florida Resort (@legolandflorida) on Dec 24, 2018 at 8:51am PST

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER HOLIDAYS IN SPACE

Dates & Times: December 16 – December 30, 2022
Cost: Included in admission
Location: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Experience the Pepsi Zero Sugar Holiday Village featuring a DJ and a chance to send a postcard to space. There are also live street performances throughout the day to enjoy.

Pick up a limited edition cup for the event and a complimentary pin for the event while supplies last.

For more information, click here.

CHRISTMAS CONCERTS IN ORLANDO

Christmas carols are a big part of Christmas celebrations, and a few places in Orlando celebrate with special musical events. While many churches feature Christmas specials, these are the main annual concert events put on by Orlando groups. This list does not include concerts that travel through Orlando at Christmas.

CENTRAL FLORIDA COMMUNITY ARTS CONCERTS & SHOWS

Dates & Times: Various dates in November and December (see below)
Cost: Tickets range from $5 – $50 depending on the show (see below)
Location: Different venue for each show (see below)

Orlando is blessed to have Central Florida Community Arts as a part of our community. CFCArts features four different holiday shows with CFCArts Theater, CFCArts Youth Theater Companies, and CFCArts Community Choir and Symphony Orchestra.

Each show takes place on different nights and in different venues around Orlando. Click here for the latest updates on shows and to purchase tickets.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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HOLIDAY-RELATED SPORTING EVENTS IN ORLANDO

While many people may not start their New Year’s Resolutions until New Year’s, there is no reason not to start now. Fortunately, Orlando is full of Christmas and holiday-themed 5Ks. In addition to getting involved in the sporting events, you can also enjoy them from the sidelines.

Every year Orlando hosts a couple of bowl games near the holidays. Before the games even start, the Citrus Bowl Parade takes center stage. Whether you want to watch from the sidelines or get involved, here are the best sporting events in Orlando at Christmas.

DULUTH TRADING CO CURE BOWL

Date & Time: December 16, 2022
Cost: Start at $20
Location: Camping World Stadium

The Duluth Trading Co Cure Bowl features teams from the American Athletic Conference and the Sun Belt Conference. However, this bowl game is more than a game because funds raised benefit breast cancer research. For more information, visit the official website.

CHEEZ-IT BOWL

Dates & Times: December 29, 2022
Cost: Start at $50
Location: Camping World Stadium

Each year, this bowl game features a team from the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and the Big 12. While teams won’t be decided for a while, tickets are available now.

The pep rally with coaches, players, bands, and cheerleaders from both teams takes place the day before at Pointe Orlando. The band and cheerleaders from both schools make appearances to pep up the crowd before the game.

The next day, December 29, at 11:00 a.m., the Parade of Bands takes place on Park Avenue in Winter Park.

Starting at 1:30 p.m. on game day, the pregame tailgate party takes place on Tinker Field. This event features live entertainment, interactive games, inflatables, face painters, and more with free admission. Food and beverages are available for purchase.

Get the full list of events here.

CITRUS BOWL

Dates & Times: January 2, 2023
Cost: Game tickets start at $51
Location: Camping World Stadium

Orlando’s biggest bowl game, the Citrus Bowl, features teams from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the Big Ten Conference. In addition to the game, the pep rally takes place at Pointe Orlando. The Big Ten team usually starts the pep rally at 4:00 p.m. with the SEC team pep rally following at 4:45 p.m.

The next day before the game is the official bowl game tailgate party starting at 9:00 a.m. Admission is free, but food and drinks are available for purchase. The tailgate party includes music, interactive games, inflatables, face painters, and more.

Get the full list of events here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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GREG WARMOTH REINDEER RUN

Date & Time: December 10, 2022 at 7:15 a.m.
Cost: $33 and up
Location: Usually at SeaWorld Orlando

Run 3 miles through SeaWorld Orlando with the Greg Warmoth Reindeer Run. While the first part of the race is in the parking lot, after that you run all through the SeaWorld park before it opens.

In addition to running through the park, each participant gets a long-sleeve tech shirt and a cookie cutter medal. On top of the medal and t-shirt, participants can purchase a single-day SeaWorld tickets for a 30% discount. Register for the race or find out more here.

OTHER HOLIDAY THEMED RACES

Enjoy a fun untimed 5K run in the Jingle Bell Run at Lake Baldwin Park also on December 10. After the race, enjoy a complimentary breakfast and lunch, beer, kid’s zone, live entertainment, and more. If you are feeling creative, take part in the costume contest.

This race benefits the Arthritis Foundation. All participants get a Jingle Bell Run shirt, finisher’s medal, and jingle bells. Register for the race or get more information here.

If you are looking for more holiday themed races in the Orlando area, here are a few more to consider. First up is the Candy Cane 5K takes place in Winter Springs, Florida. You can also run in the Santa’s Twilight 5K in Clermont.

Finally, the day before Christmas, release some stress with the Holiday Stress Buster 5K in Lake Helen and burn off those Christmas cookies before you eat them all the next day.

BEST CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN FLORIDA – DAY TRIPS FROM ORLANDO

With so many great options in the greater Orlando area, this list features only a few of the major holiday events near Orlando. These holiday events are popular day trips for Orlando locals during the holidays. While you may be content staying in Orlando for the holidays, if you choose to venture out, here are the best events you will find nearby.

ST. AUGUSTINE NIGHTS OF LIGHTS

Dates & Times: November 19, 2022 through January 31, 2023
Cost: FREE (unless you do a tour)
Location: St. Augustine, Florida

With over 3 million lights covering the city, St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights is a Florida must for Christmas. Located less than 2 hours from Orlando, it consistently ranks among the top ten holiday light displays in the world by National Geographic.

Take time to walk around the old city or take a tour to enjoy the lights covering the city for a couple of months each year. The nice thing about this event is that it goes for over a month after Christmas, so you can save it for a fun event in January after the holiday hussle and bustle is over. For more information and tour information, click here.

BOK TOWER GARDENS

Dates & Times: November 23, 2022 – January 6, 2023
Cost: Starts at $14
Location: Bok Tower Gardens

Each year at Bok Tower Gardens, the Pinewood Estate is decorated differently for Christmas. Children can enjoy the tour too while they search for the Pinewood Christmas Squirrels hiding throughout the estate. Located just over an hour from Orlando, making it to Bok Tower Gardens and back in a day is easily doable.

During the Holiday Home Tour, visitors will tour Pinewood Estate, a 20 room, 1932 Mediterranean-style mansion that’s decorated differently every year. Children will be entertained as well as they search for a family of Pinewood Christmas Squirrels hiding throughout the estate.

One night each year, the Bok Tower Gardens presents the annual Sunset & Symphony Concert featuring the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra on December 1, 2022. Tickets are required and start at $30 for adults. For more information on this event as the holidays get closer, check the official website.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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STETSON MANSION CHRISTMAS TOURS IN DELAND

Dates & Times: November 1, 2022 through January 21, 2023
Cost: $28 for adults and $15 for youth (plus tax)
Location: Stetson Mansion

Located less than an hour from Orlando, the Stetson Mansion Christmas Tour takes place from November to January several times a day. Reservations are required, and tours last 75 minutes. No high heels can be worn and no photography is allowed inside the house.

In 2019, the Stetson Mansion ranked #1 in Florida and #5 in the nation for holiday home tours by USA Today. Built in 1886, the mansion had one of the first Christmas trees with electric lights. The home is still privately owned and lived in but open to tours all year.

For reservations and more information, click here for the official website.

SKYDIVING SANTAS AT COCOA BEACH PIER (CANCELED)

Date & Time: Canceled for 2022
Cost: FREE!
Location: Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier

In this unique event, skydiving Santas jump from the famous WWII aircraft “Tico Belle” C4 and land on Cocoa Beach next to the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier. Enjoy watching high speed landings, accuracy landings, wing suit jumpers and Santas landing directly on an inflatable sleigh on the beach!

WHY VISIT ORLANDO AT CHRISTMAS

From this list, you can see that Christmas in Orlando is full of holiday-themed events. Because there are so many events throughout Orlando, there is something for everyone. Whether you love theme parks or would rather avoid them, you can find plenty to fill your holiday calendar.

As an Orlando local born and raised, some of these events have been part of my Christmas traditions for years. Hopefully they will give you lasting family memories like they have for me.

For even more Christmas fun, don’t miss out on even more options with the best holiday lights in Orlando.

While we may not have white Christmases here in Orlando (unless you spend it at one of our nearby white sand beaches), you may find you like spending Christmas in flip-flops.

Looking for a hotel in Orlando to explore the Christmas activities? Check current deals on Agoda and Booking.com.

If you are looking for other Florida vacation ideas, check out our reviews of Westgate River Ranch and Westgate Cocoa Beach Resort and Pier.

Looking for more Christmas inspiration? Check out this post on the best Christmas lights in London.

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